CN111344033A

CN111344033A - Pressure reduction and sleep promotion system

Info

Publication number: CN111344033A
Application number: CN201880073899.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 托德·扬布拉德; 塔拉·扬布拉德
Original assignee: Youngblood IP Holdings LLC
Current assignee: Carroll Corporation
Priority date: 2017-09-15
Filing date: 2018-09-11
Publication date: 2020-06-26
Also published as: AU2018332812A1; WO2019055414A2; JP2020534118A; AU2018332812B2; WO2019055414A4; EP3681576A2; WO2019055414A3; EP3681576A4

Abstract

Systems, methods, and articles for stress reduction and sleep promotion are provided. A stress reduction and sleep facilitation system includes at least one remote device and an article for temperature adjustment of a surface. In other embodiments, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system comprises at least one body sensor, at least one remote server, and/or a pulsed electromagnetic frequency device.

Description

Pressure reduction and sleep promotion system

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application is related to and claims priority from the following U.S. patents and patent applications: 15/848,816, U.S. application No. 15/848,816, a partial continuation of 15/705,829, US application No. 15/705,829, US application No. 14/777,050, US application No. 357, 9, 15, 2017, US application No. 14/777,050, a national phase of international application No. PCT/US2014/030202, filed 2014 3, 17, the international application No. PCT/US2014/030202 claiming the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 61/800,768, filed 2013, 15. United states application No. 15/705,829 also claims the benefit of united states provisional application No. 62/398,257 filed on 9/22/2016. Each of the above applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Background

1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates generally and generally to articles, methods, and systems for stress reduction and sleep promotion.

2. Description of the related Art

Several studies have shown that stress may negatively impact health by causing disease or worsening existing conditions. Stress affects an individual at both the physiological and psychological level. In addition, stress may cause an individual to take health-damaging actions (e.g., smoking, drinking, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity). These physiological changes and health-impairing behaviors may cause diseases such as sleep disorders, impaired wound healing, increased infection, heart disease, diabetes, ulcers, pain, depression and obesity or weight gain.

Therefore, it is important to manage and manage stress to maintain health. However, many individuals are under increased stress due to modern lifestyles that leave less time for relaxation and sleep. Stress relief and lack of sleep lead to increased mental and physical stress.

Various methods of stress relief are known, including exercise, biofeedback and meditation. These systems often include physical devices that stimulate the body and/or senses. These systems may also protect users from external interference.

The prior art patent literature includes the following patents:

U.S. patent No. 4,858,609 to bright light mask (bright light mask) filed on 4/12/1987 and issued on 22/8/1989 for Cole, relates to a bright light mask system for illuminating high intensity light into the eyes of a subject at a preselected time period to modify the circadian rhythm. The system includes a mask adapted to be worn by the subject for covering the eyes of the subject regardless of body position. The mask includes at least one light entry aperture transparent to light energy. A light source is coupled to an aperture for generating and directing light into an eye of a subject. A light intensity of at least 2000LUX of light having a wavelength in the range of 500 to 600 nanometers is delivered to each eye of the subject. The controller specifies the intensity of the generated light and the timing during which the light is illuminated.

U.S. patent No. 5,304,112 to Mrklas et al, filed on 16/10/1991 and issued on 19/4/1994, about stress reduction systems and methods, relates to an integrated stress reduction system that detects stress levels in a subject and displays a light pattern reflecting the relationship between the stress levels and target levels in the subject. At the same time, the system provides relaxing visual, sound, tactile, environmental and other effects to help the subject reduce his or her stress level to a target level. In a preferred embodiment, the intensity, type and duration of the relaxation effect are controlled by the computer program in response to the measured stress level. The light pattern pressure level display uses a laser that is deflected in one axis by a measured pressure level signal and in a second axis perpendicular to the first axis by a target signal representing a target pressure level. The resulting pattern is more complex when the two signals do not coincide and becomes a less complex geometry when the subject's pressure level approaches the target.

U.S. publication No. 20020080035 to Youdenko on a system for waking a user (system for awaking a user), filed on 20.6.2001 and published on 27.6.2002, relates to an invention relating to alarm clock systems. The system according to the invention comprises sensor means for measuring an environmental parameter. In particular, a physical parameter of the user is monitored in order to determine in which sleep stage he is. The properties of the wake up stimulus, such as the volume of the stimulus or the moment of generation of the stimulus, are adjusted according to the inferred sleep stage.

U.S. patent No. 6,484,062 to Kim, filed on 30/11/1999 and issued on 19/11/2002, directed to a computer system for stress relief and a method of operating the same, relates to a computer system provided to relieve stress, such as fatigue, VDT syndrome, occupational disease or psychological illness that may be caused by prolonged computer use. This new computer system is able to convert the negative impact of a traditional computer into a positive impact by introducing aromatherapy. The new computer system provides not only data programs for setup, playback execution and control, but also stress relief programs including auditory, color, aroma and tactile therapies and stress perception programs. The pressure relief procedure is operated by the discharge device via the converter. The stress relief device is mounted on a peripheral device (e.g., speaker, keyboard or monitor) of the computer. The new concept of computer systems for stress relaxation stems from the combination of computer systems and natural therapies that apply human senses (such as vision, hearing, touch sensation, and smell). With this new computer system, computer users have the advantage of stress relief during computer operation.

Us publication No. 20040049132 to Barron et al regarding a device for body activity detection and processing, filed on 9/12/2002 and published on 11/3/2004, which relates to a method and a device for monitoring body activity. The device has an activity measurement sensor for measuring activity and a storage means for receiving data from the activity measurement sensor. The data is analyzed according to a method using a summation algorithm, in which a plurality of parameters related to an activity are summed to provide advisory information related to the activity. The analysis may include preprogrammed bias constants or user-provided bias constants.

U.S. patent No. 7,041,049 to Raniere, filed on 21/11/2003 and issued on 9/5/2006, for a sleep guidance system and related methods, relates to a sleep efficiency monitor and method for pacing and guiding a sleeper through an optimal sleep pattern. Embodiments of the invention include a physiological characteristic monitor for monitoring a sleep stage of a sleeper, a sensory stimulus generator for generating stimuli to affect the sleep stage of the sleeper, and a processor for determining in which sleep stage the sleeper is and what sensory stimuli are needed to move the sleeper to another sleep stage. A personalized sleep profile may also be established for the sleeper and sleep may be guided according to the profile parameters to optimize sleep sessions. By providing sensory stimuli to the sleeper, the sleeper may be guided through various sleep stages in an optimal mode, so that the sleeper wakes up refreshed even if sleep is interrupted during the night or the sleeper's assigned sleep periods are different from usual. Embodiments of the present invention also relate to calibration of a sleep guidance system for a particular sleeper.

Us publication No. 20060293602 to Clark, inventor 4/8, 2004 and publication 28/12/2006, which relates to a short sleep/nap management apparatus and method. The device has sensor means to detect one or more physiological parameters associated with a transition from hibernation in a sleep stage, processing means to process the parameters to determine when the transition is reached and start a timer to run for a predetermined period of time, and alarm means to actuate at the end of the predetermined period to wake up the user.

Us publication No. 20060293608 to Rothman et al, filed on 28.2.2005 and published on 28.12.2006, relating to an apparatus and method for predicting a sleep state of a user (device for and method of predicting an sleep's sleep state), relates to an apparatus and method for waking up a user in a desired sleep state. The device may predict the occurrence when the user will be in a desired sleep state (e.g., light sleep) and wake the user during this predicted occurrence. In one embodiment, the user may set a wake-up time representing the latest possible time the user wants to be woken up. The occurrence of wake-up times closest to when the user will be in light sleep can be predicted, allowing the user to sleep as long as possible while waking up in light sleep. To predict when a user will be in a desired sleep state, the user's sleep state may be monitored during the night or during a sleep experience, and the monitored information may be used in predicting when the user will be in the desired sleep state.

Inventors filed on 26/2/2004 and released on 24/7/2007

Us patent No. 7,248,915 on natural alarm clock (natual alarm clock) relates to a device with the ability to determine when a user should be stimulated towards an awake stateA mobile terminal. The terminal comprises a receiver for receiving a sleep descriptor signal indicative of at least one sleep characteristic of a user, and further comprises a signal processing module for processing the sleep descriptor signal. The signal processing module is arranged to provide a stimulus signal indicating that the user should be stimulated at least partly in response to the sleep descriptor signal. The mobile terminal may also be used for communication by a user in an awake state. The present invention also includes methods, systems, and monitors for use with a mobile terminal to stimulate a user toward an awake state.

Us patent No. 7,306,567 to Loree, filed on 10/2005 and issued on 11/12/2007, for easy wake watch, relates to a device that monitors a user's sleep cycle and operates to sound an alarm to wake the user at an optimal point within the sleep cycle. Once the alarm time is set and the alarm is activated, the device begins to monitor the wearer's sleep cycle by identifying the point in time when the wearer moves his or her limb. When the alert time is approached, the device may trigger the alert earlier if the wearer is at the optimal point in the sleep cycle, or even delay the triggering of the alert if the optimal point in the sleep cycle is expected to occur soon.

Us publication No. 20080234785 to Nakayama et al, entitled sleep control apparatus and method and computer program product thereof (sleep controlling apparatus and method, and computer program product of), filed on 13/9/2007 and published on 25/9/2008, relates to a sleep control apparatus including: a measurement unit that measures biological information of a subject; a first detection unit that detects a sleep state of the subject selected from the group consisting of a sleep-in state, a REM sleep state, a light non-REM sleep state, and a deep non-REM sleep state, based on the biological information measured by the measurement unit; a first stimulation unit that applies a first stimulation of an intensity lower than a predetermined threshold to the subject when the mild non-REM sleep state is detected by the first detection unit; and a second stimulation unit that applies a second stimulation having a higher intensity than the first stimulation after the first stimulation is applied to the subject.

U.S. patent No. 7,460,899 to Almen, filed 25/2/2005 and issued 2/12/2008, relating to an apparatus and method for monitoring heart rate variability (apparatus and method for monitoring heart rate variability), relates to a heart rate variability monitor on a wrist-worn or worn arm band. Heart rate variability ("HRV") refers to the variability of the time interval between heartbeats and is a reflection of the current health state of an individual. Over time, the individual may use the results of the HRV test to monitor the improvement or worsening of a particular health issue. Thus, one use of HRV testing is as a medical incentive. When an individual has poor HRV results, it is an indicator that they should consult their physician and make appropriate changes in the appropriate circumstances to improve their health. If an individual's HRV outcome deviates significantly from their normal HRV, they may be motivated to consult their physician. Furthermore, the inventive monitor is able to monitor sleep stages through changes in heart rate variability, and may record sleep (or rest) periods, with the resulting data being accessible by the user or other interested parties. Alternative embodiments of the present invention allow for assistance in the diagnosis and monitoring of various cardiovascular and sleep disordered breathing and/or diseases. Other embodiments allow communication with internal devices, such as a defibrillator or drug delivery mechanism. Still other embodiments analyze HRV data to help a user avoid sleep.

Us patent No. 7,524,279 to Auphan, filed on 29.12.2004 and published on 28.4.2009, for a sleep and environmental control method and system (sleep and environmental control method and system), relates to a sleep system comprising sensors capable of collecting sleep data and environmental data from a person during the sleep of the person. The processor executes instructions that analyze the data and control the sleep of the person and the environment surrounding the person. Generally, instructions are loaded in memory where they execute to generate an objective measure of sleep quality from sleep data from a person and collect environmental data during the person's sleep. Upon execution, the instructions receive a subjective measurement of sleep quality from the person after sleep, create a sleep quality index from the objective measurement of sleep quality and the subjective measurement of sleep quality, and associate the sleep quality index and the current sleep system setting with a historical sleep quality index and a corresponding historical sleep system setting. The instructions may then modify the current set of sleep system settings according to a correlation between the sleep quality index and the historical sleep quality index. These sleep system settings control and potentially change one or more different elements of the environment associated with the sleep system.

U.S. patent No. 7,608,041 to Sutton, filed on 20.4.2007 and issued on 27.10.2009, for monitoring and control of sleep cycles, relates to a system comprising: a monitor for monitoring a sleep cycle of a user; a processor that counts sleep cycles to provide a sleep cycle count and selects a wake-up time according to a decision algorithm that includes the sleep cycle count as an input; and an alarm for waking up the user at the wake-up time. Using the sleep cycle count as an input to the decision algorithm advantageously enables the user to more fully control and optimize his or her personal sleep behavior.

U.S. patent No. 7,699,785 to Nemoto, filed on 23/2/2005 and issued on 20/4/2010, for a method for determining sleep stages, relates to a method for determining sleep stages of a subject, comprising: the method includes detecting a signal of a subject with a bio-signal detector, calculating a signal intensity deviation value indicating a deviation of a signal intensity of the detected signal, and determining a sleep stage by using the signal intensity deviation value or a plurality of values based on the signal intensity deviation value as an indication value.

Skin temperature measurement in sleep and alertness monitoring and control (skin temperature measurement in monitoring and control of sleep and alertness) the inventor filed on 12.15.2008 and disclosed on 22.4.2010, U.S. publication No. 20100100004, relates to a method or apparatus for monitoring sleep in a subject by measuring skin temperature of a predetermined area of the subject's body over a specified time interval and a motion sensor for sensing the subject's motion, comparing the measured skin temperature of the predetermined area with a predetermined temperature threshold and classifying the subject as sleeping or awake based on whether the skin temperature of the predetermined area is above or below the temperature threshold and on the motion data. In alternative aspects, the invention relates to methods and apparatus for manipulating sleep and monitoring or manipulating alertness.

U.S. patent No. 7,868,757 to radiavojevic et al, filed on 29.2006 and issued 11.2011.1.78, for a method of monitoring sleep using an electronic device, relates to a method in which a sleep sensor signal is obtained from a sensor device to a mobile communication device. The mobile communication device checks the sleep sensor signal for sleep state transitions, determines a type of sleep state transition, forms a control signal based on the type of sleep state transition, and transmits the control signal to the at least one electronic device.

Us publication No. 20110015495 to Dothie et al, on a method and system for managing sleep of a user, filed on 16/2010 and disclosed on 20/2011, which is directed to a sleep management method and system for improving the quality of sleep of a user, which monitors one or more objective parameters related to the quality of sleep of the user while in bed and receives feedback from the user regarding objective test data on cognitive and/or psychomotor behavior from the user during waking hours through a portable device, such as a mobile phone.

Us publication No. 20110230790 to Kozlov, about a method and system for sleep detection, adjustment and planning, filed on 27/2010 and disclosed on 22/2011 9/2011, relates to a method for operating a sleep phase activity recorder synchronized alarm clock that communicates with a remote sleep database (e.g., an internet server database) and compares user physiological parameters, sleep settings and activity record data to a large database that may include data collected from a large number of other users with similar physiological parameters, sleep settings and activity record data. The remote server may use a "black box" analysis method by running a supervised learning algorithm to analyze the database, producing sleep phase correction data that can be uploaded to and used by the alarm clock to further improve its REM sleep phase prediction accuracy.

Us publication No. 20110267196 to Hu et al regarding a system and method for providing sleep quality feedback (system and method for providing sleep quality feedback), filed on 3/5/2011 and disclosed on 3/11/2011, relates to a system and method for providing sleep quality feedback, comprising: receiving an alert input from a user on a base device; the base device communicating alarm settings based on the alarm input to the individual sleeping device; an individual sleep device collects sleep data based on activity input by a user; the individual sleep device transmits the sleep data to the base device; the base device calculates sleep quality feedback from the sleep data; communicating sleep quality feedback to a user; and activating an alert by the individual sleep device, wherein activating the alert includes generating haptic feedback to the user according to the alert setting.

Us patent No. 8,096,960 to Loree et al, filed on 29.10.2007 and developed on 17.1.2012, relating to an easy wake device, relates to a device that monitors a user's sleep cycle and operates to sound an alarm to wake the user at an optimal point within the sleep cycle. Once the alarm time is set and the alarm is activated, the device begins to monitor the wearer's sleep cycle by identifying the point in time when the wearer moves his or her limb. When the alert time is approached, the device may trigger the alert earlier if the wearer is at the optimal point in the sleep cycle, or even delay the triggering of the alert if the optimal point in the sleep cycle is expected to occur soon. The device may be used to help a child wake up to prevent bed wetting, or to help a patient receive light therapy.

Us patent No. 8,179,270 to Rai et al, filed on 21/7/2009 and issued on 5/15/2012, relating to methods and systems for providing sleep conditions (methods and systems for providing sleep conditions), relates to a method of monitoring sleep conditions with a sleep scheduler, wherein the method comprises receiving sleep parameters through an input receiver on the sleep scheduler. The method also includes associating the sleep parameter with overall alertness and outputting the determined sleep condition based on the overall alertness. Also disclosed herein is a system for providing sleep conditions comprising a display, an input receiver operable to receive sleep parameters, and a processor in communication with the display. The processor is operable to determine an overall alertness associated with the sleep parameter, and wherein the processor is operable to output the determined sleep condition based on the overall alertness.

U.S. patent No. 8,290,596 to Wei et al, filed on 25/9/2008 and issued on 16/10/2012, relating to patient state-based therapy selection on patient state, relates to selecting a therapy based on patient state, wherein the patient state includes at least one of an exercise state, a sleep state, or a language state. In this way, the therapy delivery is tailored to the patient's state, which may include specific patient symptoms. The therapy program is selected from a plurality of stored therapy programs including therapy programs associated with a respective one of at least two of exercise, sleep and language states. Techniques for determining a patient state include receiving conscious patient input or detecting bio-signals generated in the patient's brain. The bio-signals are non-symptomatic and may be generated with motion, sleep and speech states or in response to conscious patient input.

Us patent No. 8,348,840 to Heit et al, filed on 4/2/2010 and issued on 8/1/2013, relating to an apparatus and method for monitoring, assessing and improving sleep quality, which relates to a medical sleep disorder device integrated into current diagnostic and treatment procedures to enable healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat multiple patients suffering from insomnia. The device may include environmental sensors and body-worn sensors that measure environmental conditions (environmental conditions) and the condition of the individual patient. Data may be collected and processed to automatically measure clinically relevant attributes of sleep quality. These automatically determined measurements, along with the raw sensor data, can be aggregated and shared remotely with the healthcare professional. The communication device enables the healthcare professional to remotely communicate with the patient and further evaluate the patient and subsequently administer the treatment. Thus, a more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment is provided, while reducing the required clinician time per patient for treatment delivery.

Us publication No. 20130060306 to Colbauch, filed on 25/4/2011 and published on 7/3/2013, for effective circadian rhythm and related system adjustment with a sleep mask with sleep mask, relates to providing light therapy to a subject through a sleep mask. The sleep mask is configured to deliver electromagnetic radiation to the closed eyelid of the subject within a defined optimal wavelength band that is therapeutically effective in regulating the subject's circadian rhythm and associated systems.

U.S. patent No. 8,529,457 to Devot et al, filed on 20/8/2010 and published on 10/9/2013, relating to a system and kit for stress and relaxation management, relates to a system and kit for stress and relaxation management. The cardiac activity sensor is for measuring a Heart Rate Variability (HRV) signal of the user, and the respiration sensor is for measuring a respiration signal of the user. The system comprises a user interaction device having an input unit for receiving user specific data and an output unit for providing an information output to a user. The processor is for estimating the stress level of the user by determining a user-related stress index. The processor is further adapted to monitor the user during the relaxation exercise by determining a relaxation index based on the measured HRV and the breathing signal, the relaxation index being continuously adapted to the input measured signal, and on the basis thereof the processor instructs the output unit to provide the biofeedback and support messages to the user. Finally, the processor uses the user-specific data as input to generate a first set of rules defining an improvement plan for self-management of stress and relaxation. The first set of rules is adapted to trigger a command instructing the output unit to provide the motivational-related message to the user. Further, at least a portion of the user-specific data is also used to define a second set of rules that indicate a personal goal of the user.

Us publication No. 20130234823 to Kahn et al, filed on 28.2.2013 and disclosed on 12.9.2013, related to a method and apparatus for providing an improved sleep experience by selecting an optimal next sleep state for a user (method and apparatus to provide a user with improved sleep experience by selecting an optimal sleep state) relates to a sleep sensing system comprising a sensor to obtain real-time information about a user, sleep state logic to determine a current sleep state of a user based on the real-time information. The system also includes a sleep stage selector that selects an optimal next sleep state for the user and a sound output system that outputs sound to lead the user from the current sleep state to the optimal next sleep state.

Us patent No. 8,617,044 to Pelgrim et al regarding stress reduction, filed on 5.6.2009 and issued on 31.12.12.2013, relates to a method and system for reducing pressure in a working environment. In the conditioning phase, a positive association of sensory stimuli such as smell, image and/or sound with a relaxing sensation is created. After the creation of this positive association, the "relaxing" stimulus will be used as a depressant in the use phase. That is, when a user is detected as having pressure, the "relaxing" stimulus is released to reduce the pressure.

U.S. patent No. 8,768,520 to Oexman et al, filed on 14/11/2008 and issued on 1/7/2014, directed to a system for controlling a bedroom environment and for providing sleep data, relates to a system for controlling a bedroom environment comprising: an environmental data collector configured to collect environmental data relating to a bedroom environment; a sleep data collector configured to collect sleep data related to a sleep state of a person; an analysis unit configured to analyze the collected environmental data and the collected sleep data and determine an adjustment of a bedroom environment that promotes sleep of the person; and a controller configured to effect adjustment of the bedroom environment. A method for controlling a bedroom environment comprising: collecting environmental data relating to a bedroom environment; collecting sleep data relating to a sleep state of a person; analyzing the collected environmental data and the collected sleep data; determining an adjustment to a bedroom environment that promotes sleep; and communicating the adjustment to a device that affects the bedroom environment.

Us patent No. 9,196,479 to franciscetti et al (methods and systems for human biological signals and controlling a bed device), filed on 5/6/2015 and issued on 17/11/2015, relating to a method and system for an adjustable bed device configured to: collecting bio-signals associated with a plurality of users, such as heart rate, respiration rate, or temperature; analyzing the collected human bio-signals; and heating or cooling the bed based on the analysis.

U.S. publication No. 20160151603 to Shouldice et al, filed 12/21/2015 and published 6/2/2016, for methods and systems for sleep management, relates to a processing system including a method of promoting sleep. The system may include a monitor, such as a non-contact motion sensor, from which sleep information may be determined. User sleep information, such as sleep stages, sleep patterns, sleep scores, mental charge scores, and body scores, may be recorded, evaluated, and/or displayed for the user. The system may also monitor the ambient environment and/or environmental conditions corresponding to the sleep session. Sleep advice may be generated based on sleep information from one or more sleep sessions, user queries, and/or environmental conditions. The communicated sleep advice may include content that promotes good sleep habits and/or detects dangerous sleep conditions. In some versions of the system, any one or more of a bedside unit sensor module, a smart processing device (e.g., a smart phone or smart device), and a web server may be implemented to perform the method of the system.

U.S. publication No. 20170053068, filed on 26/2016 and published on 23/2017 for a method for enhancing wellness associated with a residential environment, relates to controlling environmental characteristics of a habitable environment (e.g., hotel or motel rooms, spas, resorts, cruise cabins, offices, hospitals, and/or self-homes, apartments, or residences) to eliminate, reduce, or improve adverse or harmful aspects and introduce, increase, or enhance beneficial aspects so as to improve the perception of "wellness" or "happiness" provided by the environment. Control of the intensity and wavelength distribution of passive and active illumination addresses various problems, symptoms or syndromes, such as to maintain a circadian rhythm or cycle, to adjust for "jet lag" or seasonal mood disorders, and the like. Air quality and properties are controlled. The smell may diffuse. Noise is reduced and sound (e.g., masking, musical, natural) may be provided. Providing environmental and biometric feedback. Experiments and machine learning are used to improve health outcomes and health standards.

Summary of The Invention

The invention relates to articles, methods, and systems for stress reduction and sleep promotion.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system comprising at least one remote device and an article for adjusting a temperature of a surface, wherein the article further comprises: a first layer, wherein the first layer has an outer surface and an inner surface; a second layer, wherein the second layer has an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along the perimeter of the article; at least one interior chamber defined between the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer; at least one flexible fluid supply line for delivering fluid to the at least one interior chamber; at least one flexible fluid return line for removing fluid from the at least one interior chamber; and at least one control unit attached to the at least one flexible fluid supply line and the at least one flexible fluid return line, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to selectively cool or heat the fluid, and wherein the at least one control unit has at least one antenna and at least one processor, wherein the at least one remote device and the at least one control unit are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication, wherein the at least one internal chamber is constructed and arranged to hold the fluid without leakage, and wherein the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer are formed from at least one layer of waterproof material.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system comprising at least one body sensor; at least one remote device; at least one remote server; and an article for adjusting the temperature of the surface, wherein the article further comprises: a first layer, wherein the first layer has an outer surface and an inner surface; a second layer, wherein the second layer has an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along the perimeter of the article; at least one interior chamber defined between the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer; at least one flexible fluid supply line for delivering fluid to the at least one interior chamber; at least one flexible fluid return line for removing fluid from the at least one interior chamber; and at least one control unit attached to the at least one flexible fluid supply line and the at least one flexible fluid return line, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to selectively cool or heat the fluid, and wherein the at least one control unit has at least one antenna and at least one processor, wherein the at least one remote server and the at least one remote device are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication, wherein the at least one remote device and the at least one control unit are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication, wherein the at least one remote server is operable to determine optimization parameters for the item based on data from the at least one body sensor, wherein the at least one remote server is operable to transmit the optimization parameters for the item to the at least one remote device, wherein the at least one remote device is operable to transmit the optimization parameters for the item to the at least one control unit, wherein the at least one interior chamber is constructed and arranged to retain fluid without leakage, and wherein the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer are comprised of at least one layer of waterproof material.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system comprising at least one body sensor; at least one remote device; at least one remote server; a pulsed electromagnetic frequency device, wherein the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device further comprises: at least one induction coil; a power supply coupled to a circuit that generates an Alternating Current (AC) output or a Direct Current (DC) output that is transmitted to the at least one induction coil; at least one antenna; and at least one processor; and an article for adjusting the temperature of the surface, wherein the article further comprises: a first layer, wherein the first layer has an outer surface and an inner surface; a second layer, wherein the second layer has an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along the perimeter of the article; at least one interior chamber defined between the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer; at least one flexible fluid supply line for delivering fluid to the at least one interior chamber; at least one flexible fluid return line for removing fluid from the at least one interior chamber; and at least one control unit attached to the at least one flexible fluid supply line and the at least one flexible fluid return line, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to selectively cool or heat the fluid, and wherein the at least one control unit has at least one antenna and at least one processor, wherein the at least one remote server and the at least one remote device are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication, wherein the at least one remote device and the at least one control unit are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication, wherein the at least one remote server is operable to determine optimization parameters for the item based on data from the at least one body sensor, wherein the at least one remote server is operable to transmit the optimization parameters for the item to the at least one remote device, wherein the at least one remote device is operable to transmit the optimization parameters for the item to the at least one control unit, wherein the at least one interior chamber is constructed and arranged to retain fluid without leakage, and wherein the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer are comprised of at least one layer of waterproof material.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following description of the preferred embodiments, when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, as they support the claimed invention.

Brief Description of Drawings

Figure 1 shows the effect of a pressure source on the body.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an environment with a temperature conditioned mattress pad having two surface temperature zones connected to respective thermoelectric control units according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary control unit showing quick connect/disconnect of flexible fluid supply and return lines.

FIG. 5 is a side schematic view showing various internal components of an exemplary control unit fluidly connected to a mattress pad.

FIG. 6 is a top schematic view of an exemplary control unit;

fig. 7 shows the difference between structured water (structured water) and unstructured water (unstructured water).

Figure 8A shows an embodiment of a mattress pad with three separate temperature zones.

Figure 8B shows an embodiment of a double mattress with three separate temperature zones for two users.

Figure 8C shows an embodiment of a mattress pad having three separate temperature zones connected to at least one remote device.

Figure 9A shows a cross-section of a mattress pad with two layers of waterproof material.

Figure 9B shows a cross-section of a mattress pad having two layers of waterproof material and two layers of a second material.

Figure 9C shows a cross-section of a mattress pad with two layers of waterproof material and a spacer layer.

Figure 9D shows a cross-section of a mattress pad having two layers of waterproof material, two layers of a second material, and a spacer layer.

Fig. 10 is a view of a bedding hose elbow (mattress pad hose) according to an embodiment.

Fig. 11 is another view of the mattress hose elbow of fig. 10.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a single mattress pad.

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a single person mattress pad.

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of one end of a single person mattress pad.

FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of one end of a single person mattress pad.

Figure 16 is a top perspective view of a double mattress.

Figure 17 is an exploded view of a double mattress.

Figure 18 is another top perspective view of a double mattress.

Figure 19 is a view of a corner of a double mattress.

Figure 20 is another view of a corner of a double mattress.

Figure 21 is a view of another embodiment of a mattress pad.

Fig. 22A shows a graph of sleep cycles for a normal sleeper.

Fig. 22B shows a graph of sleep cycles for an unstable sleeper.

Fig. 22C shows a graph of sleep cycles for a temperature controlled sleeper.

Fig. 23 shows an embodiment of a PEMF device with three coils.

Fig. 24 shows the electromagnetic fields generated by the PEMF device of fig. 23.

Fig. 25 shows a table of frequencies and effects on tissue.

FIG. 26 illustrates selected acupresspoints (selected acupresssure points) located in the upper body.

Fig. 27 shows one embodiment of an integrated bed system.

Fig. 28 illustrates one embodiment of a headboard of an integrated bed system.

Fig. 29 illustrates one embodiment of a footboard of an integrated bed system.

Fig. 30 shows one embodiment of a red and/or near infrared illumination device of an integrated bed system.

Fig. 31 shows an embodiment of a combination mattress pad and red and/or near infrared illumination device.

FIG. 32 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a system architecture.

Fig. 33 is an illustration of a network of a stress reduction and sleep facilitation system.

Fig. 34 is a diagram illustrating an example process for monitoring a stress reduction and sleep facilitation system and updating a virtual model based on monitored data.

FIG. 35 illustrates a home screen of one embodiment of a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for a mobile application.

FIG. 36 illustrates a schedule screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 37 illustrates another schedule screen of an embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 38 illustrates a sleep screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application.

FIG. 39 illustrates a target setup screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 40 illustrates a progress screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application.

FIG. 41 illustrates a profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application.

FIG. 42 illustrates another profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 43 illustrates yet another profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 44 illustrates an add-sleep profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application.

FIG. 45 illustrates a dashboard screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 46 illustrates a profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application that allows segmented sleep.

FIG. 47 illustrates a dashboard screen of another embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 48 illustrates a treatment summary screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application.

FIG. 49 is a diagram illustrating an example process of a user interacting with a mobile application prior to a sleep period.

FIG. 50 is a diagram illustrating an example process of a user interacting with a mobile application after a sleep period.

FIG. 51 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the general components of a cloud-based computer system.

Detailed Description

The present invention generally relates to articles, methods, and systems for stress reduction and sleep promotion.

None of the prior art discloses an article for regulating the temperature of a surface formed by a first layer and a second layer, wherein the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along the perimeter of the article, and wherein at least one internal chamber constructed and arranged to hold a fluid without leakage is defined between an inner surface of the first layer and an inner surface of the second layer. Furthermore, none of the prior art discloses the use of such an article in a stress reduction and sleep promotion system to programmatically control a target temperature over time (e.g., during night sleep) using at least one remote device. Furthermore, none of the prior art discloses the use of such an article in a stress reduction and sleep promotion system having at least one body sensor, wherein the optimized parameters of the article are based on data from the at least one body sensor. Finally, none of the prior art discloses the use of such an article in a stress reduction and sleep promotion system having at least one body sensor and a pulsed electromagnetic frequency device.

Several studies have shown a link between stress and disease. Stress can cause physiological changes and cause an individual to take health damaging actions (e.g., smoking, drinking, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity). These physiological changes and health damaging behaviors may cause diseases such as sleep disorders, impaired wound healing, increased infections, heart disease, diabetes, ulcers, pain, depression and obesity or weight gain.

The body reacts to pressure through two systems: the autonomic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The autonomic nervous system, consisting of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, is responsible for reacting to short-term ("acute") stress. In response to short-term stress, the sympathetic nervous system activates a "combat or escape response" through the Sympathetic Adrenal Medulla (SAM) axis. This causes the adrenal medulla to secrete catecholamines (e.g., epinephrine and norepinephrine), which causes elevated blood glucose levels, vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. Blood is transferred from unnecessary organs to the heart and skeletal muscles, which results in reduced digestive system activity and reduced urine output. In addition, metabolic rate is increased and bronchiectasis. The parasympathetic nervous system then returns the body to homeostasis.

The HPA axis is responsible for reacting to long-term ("chronic") pressures. This causes the adrenal cortex to secrete steroid hormones (e.g., mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids). Mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone) cause sodium and water retention in the kidney, increased blood pressure, and increased blood volume. Glucocorticoids (e.g. cortisol) convert proteins and fats to glucose or are broken down for energy, increase of blood glucose and suppression of the immune system.

Thus, stress affects the body at the cellular level and is a precursor to many disease states. Therefore, it is important to manage and manage stress to maintain health. However, as a result of modern lifestyles, most people are busy, tired, and stressful. Most people also lack the time and effort to obtain treatment for minor illnesses or to prevent illnesses. What is needed is a convenient treatment that reduces stress and inflammation and promotes healing.

Energy medicine (e.g., bio-field therapy, bio-electromagnetic therapy, acupuncture, homeopathy) focuses on the following principles: repeated small changes over time can alter the body's dynamics and stimulate healing. The present invention utilizes this principle to reduce stress, promote sleep and stimulate healing. In addition, the present invention reduces stress and stimulates healing when the user is at rest or sleep, which is convenient for the user, and gives a concentrated time (e.g., 6-9 hours during a sleep session) to heal the user when the user is at home.

Referring now to the drawings in general, the illustrations are for the purpose of describing a preferred embodiment of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention thereto.

Figure 1 shows the effect of a pressure source on the body. The body releases catecholamines or steroid hormones as a physiological response to a stressful source. Stress may also cause an individual to take health-damaging actions (e.g., smoking, drinking, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity). This may lead to diseases such as sleep disorders, impaired wound healing, increased infection, heart disease, diabetes, ulcers, pain, depression, anxiety and/or obesity or weight gain. These diseases themselves can become a source of stress that triggers the cycle to continue and cause additional physical and mental problems.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system. The stress reduction and sleep facilitation system 700 includes a body sensor 702, an environmental sensor 704, a remote device 511 having local storage 706, a remote server 708, and system components 710. Body sensors 702 include respiration sensor 712, Electrooculogram (EOG) sensor 713, heart rate sensor 714, body weight sensor 715, movement sensor 716, Electromyography (EMG) sensor 717, brain wave sensor 718, body temperature sensor 720, analyte sensor 721, pulse oximeter sensor 722, Blood Pressure (BP) sensor 723, electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor 724, and/or body fat sensor 725.

The respiration sensor 712 measures the respiration rate. In one embodiment, the respiration sensor 712 is incorporated into a wearable device (e.g., a chest strap). In another embodiment, the respiration sensor 712 is incorporated into a patch or bandage. Alternatively, the respiration rate is estimated from an electrocardiogram, a photoplethysmograph (e.g., pulse oximeter), and/or an accelerometer. In yet another embodiment, the respiration sensor 712 uses a non-contact motion biological sensor (non-contact motion sensor) to monitor respiration.

An Electrooculogram (EOG) sensor 713 measures the corneal-retinal resting potential that exists between the anterior and posterior portions of the eye. The measurement of eye movement is done by placing electrode pairs above and below the eye or on the left and right sides of the eye. If the eye moves to a position away from the center and towards one of the electrodes, a potential difference occurs between the electrodes. The recorded potential is a measure of the position of the eye.

The heart rate sensor 714 is preferably incorporated into a wearable device (e.g.,

) In (1). Alternatively, the heart rate sensor 714 is attached to the user with a chest strap. In another embodiment, a heart rate sensor714 into a patch or bandage. In yet another embodiment, the heart rate sensor is incorporated into a sensor device on or under the mattress (e.g.,

QS^TM). Heart rate is determined using an electrocardiogram, pulse oximeter, ballistocardiography, or seismography. In one embodiment, heart rate sensor 714 measures Heart Rate Variability (HRV). HRV is a measure of the variation in the time interval between heartbeats. High HRV measurements indicate less pressure, while low HRV measurements indicate more pressure. Studies have linked abnormalities in HRV to diseases in which stress is a factor (e.g., diabetes, depression, congestive heart failure). In one embodiment, a poincare graph is generated to display the HRV on a device (e.g., a smartphone).

The weight sensor 715 is preferably a smart scale (e.g.,

Body+、

Index^TM、Under

Scale、Pivotal

Smart Scale、

core). Alternatively, the weight sensor 715 is at least one pressure sensor embedded in the mattress or mattress topper. In one embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system 700 is further operable to determine the height of the user using at least one pressure sensor embedded in the mattress or mattress topper. In another embodiment, the Body Mass Index (BMI) of the user is calculated using the weight of the user and the height of the user as measured by the at least one pressure sensor.

The movement sensor 716 is an accelerometer and/or a gyroscope. In one embodiment, an accelerometer and/or gyroscope is incorporated into a wearable device (e.g.,

activity recorders). In another embodiment, an accelerometer and/or gyroscope is incorporated into the smartphone. In an alternative embodiment, the movement sensor 716 is a non-contact sensor. In one embodiment, the movement sensor 716 is at least one piezoelectric sensor. In another embodiment, the movement sensor 716 is a pyroelectric infrared sensor (i.e., a "passive" infrared sensor). In yet another embodiment, the movement sensor 716 is at least one pressure sensor embedded in the mattress or mattress topper. Alternatively, the movement sensor 716 is incorporated into the smart fabric.

An Electromyography (EMG) sensor 717 records the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles. The pulses are recorded by attaching electrodes to the skin surface over the muscle. In a preferred embodiment, three electrodes are placed on the chin. One anterior and central and the other two inferior and superior to the jawbone. These electrodes exhibit muscle movement during sleep, which can be used to detect REM or NREM sleep. In another embodiment, two electrodes are placed on the inside of each gastrocnemius muscle, spaced about 2 to 4cm (about 0.8 to 1.6 inches) apart. In yet another embodiment, two electrodes are placed over the tibialis anterior of each leg. Electrodes on the leg may be used to detect movement of the leg during sleep, which may occur with restless leg syndrome or periodic limb movement of sleep.

The brain wave sensors 718 are preferably electroencephalograms (EEG) having at least one channel in a preferred embodiment, EEG has at least two channels A plurality of channels provide higher resolution data frequencies in EEG data indicate specific brain states the brain wave sensors 718 are preferably operable to detect delta, theta, α, β and gamma frequencies in another embodiment the brain wave sensors 718 are operable to identify cognitive and emotional metrics including concentration, stress, excitement, relaxation, interest and/or engagement in yet another embodiment the brain wave sensors 718 are operable to identify cognitive states reflecting overall levels of engagement, attention and concentration and/or workload reflecting cognitive processes (e.g., working memory, problem solving, analytic reasoning).

The energy field sensor 719 measures the energy field of the user. In one embodiment, the energy field sensor 719 is a Gas Discharge Visualization (GDV) device. Examples of GDV devices are disclosed in U.S. patent nos. 7,869,636 and 8,321,010 and U.S. publication No. 20100106424, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The GDV device utilizes the kirian effect to evaluate the energy field. In a preferred embodiment, the GDV device utilizes a high intensity electric field (e.g., 1024Hz, 10kV, rectangular pulse) that is input to an object (e.g., a human fingertip) on the electrified glass sheet. The high intensity electric field produces a visible gas discharge glow around an object, such as a fingertip. The visible gas discharge glow was detected by a charge coupled detector and analyzed by software on a computer. The software characterizes the pattern of light emitted (e.g., brightness, total area, fractal, density). In a preferred embodiment, the software utilizes the Su-Jok system of Mandel energy emission analysis and acupuncture to create images and representations of the body system. The energy field sensor 719 is preferably operable to measure pressure level, energy level, and/or balance between the left and right sides of the body.

The body temperature sensor 720 measures the core body temperature and/or the skin temperature. The body temperature sensor 720 is a thermistor, an infrared sensor, or a heat flux sensor. In one embodiment, the body temperature sensor 720 is incorporated into an armband or wristband. In another embodiment, body temperature sensor 720 is incorporated into a patch or bandage. In yet another embodiment, body temperature sensor 720 is an ingestible core body temperature sensor (e.g.,

). The body temperature sensor 720 is preferably wireless.

The analyte sensor 721 monitors the level of analyte in blood, sweat, or interstitial fluid. In one embodiment, the analyte is an electrolyte, a small molecule (molecular weight <900 daltons), a protein (e.g., C-reactive protein), and/or a metabolite. In another embodiment, the analyte is glucose, lactate, glutamate, oxygen, sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, ammonium, copper, magnesium, iron, zinc, creatinine, uric acid, oxalic acid, urea, ethanol, amino acids, hormones (e.g., cortisol, melatonin), steroids, neurotransmitters, catecholamines, cytokines, and/or interleukins (e.g., IL-6). The analyte sensor 721 is preferably non-invasive. Alternatively, the analyte sensor 721 is minimally invasive or implanted. In one embodiment, the analyte sensor 721 is incorporated into a wearable device. Alternatively, the analyte sensor 721 is incorporated into a patch or bandage.

The pulse oximeter sensor 722 monitors the blood oxygen saturation. In one embodiment, the pulse oximeter sensor 722 is worn on a finger, toe, or ear. In another embodiment, the pulse oximeter sensor 722 is incorporated into a patch or bandage. The pulse oximeter sensor 722 is preferably wireless. Alternatively, the pulse oximeter sensor 722 is wired. In one embodiment, the pulse oximeter sensor 722 is connected by wires to a wrist strap or band around the hand. In another embodiment, the pulse oximeter sensor 722 is combined with the heart rate sensor 714. In yet another embodiment, the pulse oximeter sensor 722 uses a camera lens on a smartphone or tablet.

The Blood Pressure (BP) sensor 723 is a sphygmomanometer. The sphygmomanometer is preferably wireless. Alternatively, the blood pressure sensor 723 estimates blood pressure without an inflatable cuff (e.g., Salu)^TMPulse +). In one embodiment, the blood pressure sensor 723 is incorporated into a wearable device.

The electrodermal activity sensor 724 measures sympathetic nervous system activity. Electrodermal activity is more likely to have high frequency peak patterns (i.e., "storms") during deep sleep. In one embodiment, the electrodermal activity sensor 724 is incorporated into a wearable device. Alternatively, the electrodermal activity sensor 724 is incorporated into a patch or bandage.

Body fatThe sensor 725 is preferably a bioelectrical impedance device. In one embodiment, the body fat sensor 725 is coupled to a smart scale (e.g.,

Body+、

Index^TM、Under

Scale、Pivotal

Smart Scale、

core). Alternatively, the body fat sensor 725 is a handheld device.

The environmental sensors 704 include an ambient temperature sensor 726, a humidity sensor 727, a noise sensor 728, an air quality sensor 730, a light sensor 732, a motion sensor 733, and/or an air pressure sensor 734. In one embodiment, the ambient temperature sensor 726, humidity sensor 727, noise sensor 728, air quality sensor 730, light sensor 732, motion sensor 733, and/or air pressure sensor 734 are incorporated into a home automation system (e.g.,

HomeKit^TM、

Home^TM、IF This Then

) In (1). Alternatively, the ambient temperature sensor 726, the humidity sensor 727, the noise sensor 728, and/or the light sensor 732 are incorporated into a smartphone or tablet computer. In one embodiment, noise sensor 728 is a microphone. In one embodiment, the air quality sensor 730 measures carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, particulates, and/or Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

The remote device 511 is preferably a smartphone or tablet computer. Alternatively, remote device 511 is a laptop or desktop computer. Remote device 511 includes a processor 760, an analysis engine 762, a control interface 764, and a user interface 766. Remote device 511 accepts data input from body sensor 702 and/or environmental sensor 704. The remote device also accepts data input from remote server 708. Remote device 511 stores data in local storage 706.

The local storage 706 on the remote device 511 includes user profiles 736, historical subjective data 738, predefined programs 740, customized programs 741, historical objective data 742, and historical environmental data 744. User profile 736 stores stress reduction and sleep facilitation system preferences and information about the user including, but not limited to, age, weight, height, gender, medical history (e.g., sleep conditions, medications, diseases), physical constitution (e.g., fitness level, fitness activity), sleep goals, stress levels, and/or occupational information (e.g., profession, shift information). The medical history includes caffeine consumption, alcohol consumption, tobacco consumption, use of prescribed sleep aids and/or other medications, blood pressure, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, headache, heart disease, sleep apnea, depression, stroke, diabetes, insomnia, anxiety or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and/or neurological disorders.

In one embodiment, the medical history incorporates information collected from Epworth Somnolence Scale (ESS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), generalized anxiety 7-term (GAD-7) scale, and/or patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) (assessment of depression). Johns MW (1991) incorporated herein by reference in its entirety "A new method for measuring daytime sleepiness:the Epworth sleepiness scaleESS is described in "(Sleep, 14(6): 540-5). ISI is described in "The institute sensitivity Index: Psychometric Indicators to Detect institute frequency and evaluation strategy" (Sleep,34(5):601-608) of Morin et al (2011), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. GAD-7 is described in "A brief measure for assisting with generating and experiencing apart from the GAD-7" (Arch Intern Med.,2006, month 5, day 22; 166(1):1092-7) by Spitzer et al, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. PHQ-9 is described in Kroenke et al, "The PHQ-9: Validity of a Brief suppression given in The United states Measure" (J.Gen. Intern. Med., 9.2001; 16(9): 606-.

In one embodiment, the user's weight is automatically uploaded from the third party application to the local storage device. In one embodiment, the third party application is accessed from a smart scale (e.g.,

Body+^TM、

Index^TM、Under

Scale、Pivotal

Smart Scale、

core) to obtain information. In another embodiment, the medical history includes information collected from a resting breath-hold test.

Historical objective data 742 includes information collected from body sensors 702. This includes information from respiration sensor 712, electro-oculogram sensor 713, heart rate sensor 714, movement sensor 716, electromyography sensor 717, brain wave sensor 718, energy field sensor 719, body temperature sensor 720, analyte sensor 721, pulse oximeter sensor 722, blood pressure sensor 723, and/or electrodermal activity sensor 724. In another embodiment, the historical objective data 742 includes information collected from a wakefulness maintenance test, a numerical symbol replacement test, and/or a psychomotor alertness test. The wakefulness maintenance test is described in "A positive study of the Maintenance of Wakefulness (MWT)" (Electroencephalogr. Clin. Neurophyllol., 11.1997; 103(5):554-562) by Doghramji et al, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Digital symbol substitution tests are described in the Wechsler Adult Intelligent Scale (third edition (WAIS-III), san Antonio, TX: Psychology Corporation), Wechsler, D. (1997), and the Wechsler Memory Scale (third edition (WMS-III), san Antonio, TX: Psychology Corporation), Wechsler, D. (1997), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The psychomotor alertness test is described in Basner et al, "maximum sensitivity of the Psychomotor Vision Test (PVT) to Sleep loss" (Sleep, 1/20115; 34(5):581-91), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The historical environmental data 744 includes information collected from the environmental sensors 704. This includes information from ambient temperature sensor 726, humidity sensor 727, noise sensor 728, air quality sensor 730, light sensor 732, and/or air pressure sensor 734.

The historical subjective data 738 includes information about sleep and/or stress. In one embodiment, information about sleep is collected from a manual sleep log (e.g., Pittsburgh sleep quality index). Manual sleep logs include, but are not limited to: time to first attempt to sleep, time to fall asleep, time to wake up, hours of sleep, number of times to wake up, length of wake up, perceived quality of sleep, use of drugs to aid sleep, difficulty in keeping awake and/or engorgement during the day, difficulty in temperature regulation at night (e.g., too hot, too cold), difficulty breathing at night (e.g., coughing, snoring), nightmare, waking up at or before the desired wake up time, twitching or cramping in the legs while sleeping, restlessness while sleeping, difficulty sleeping due to pain, and/or the need to use a bathroom in the middle of the night. Pittsburgh sleep quality index is described in "The Pittsburgh sleep quality index: A new energy for a psychiatric research and research" (Psychiatry research.28(2):193-213 (5. 1989)) by Buysse et al, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In another embodiment, the historical subjective data 738 includes information collected about sleepiness (e.g., Karolinska sleepiness scale, Stanford sleepiness scale, Epworth sleepiness scale). In that

The Karolinska somnolence scale is described in the "subject and object Sleep in the active induced device" (Int J Neurosc, 1990; 52:29-37) and in the "Driver Sleep-evaluation of action timing as a secondary task" of Baulk et al (Sleep, 2001; 24(6): 695-. In Hoddes E. (1972) "The maintenance and use of The Stanford Sleeping Scale (SSS)" (psychophysiology.9(150)) and Maclean et al (1992-03-01) "Psychometric evaluation of the Stanford Sleepiness ScaleThe Stanford hypersomnia scale is described in "(Journal of Sleep research.1(1):35-39), each article being incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In yet another embodiment, the historical subjective data 738 includes information collected from a scale of emotional states about stress or anxiety, depression or depression, anger or hostility, and/or fatigue or inertia. The scale of emotional States is described in the second edition, "the Profile of the motion States," published by Multi-Health Systems (2012), and "Short Form of the Profile of the motion States (POMS-SF) by Curran et al, Psychometric information (Psychological Association.7 (1):80-83(1995)), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In another embodiment, the historical subjective data 738 includes information collected from the Ford Insomnia stress response test (FIRST) that asks responders how likely they are to have difficulty sleeping in nine different situations. FIRST is described in "Vulnerability to related sheet distribution and hyper acoustic" (sheet, 2004; 27:285-91) by Drake et al and "Stress-related sheet distribution and systemic Stress to coffee" (sheet Med., 2006; 7:567-72) by Drake et al, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In yet another embodiment, the historical subjective data 738 includes information collected from the effects of events that assess the psychological impact of stressful life events. Subscale scores for intrusions, avoidances and/or hyperarousal were calculated. The effects of events are described in "The Impact of Event Scale-Revised" (Association viral column and PTSD, J.Wilson and T.M. Keane (Eds.), pp.399-411.New York: Guilford) "by Weiss, D.S. and Marmar, C.R. (1996), which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. In one embodiment, the historical subjective data 738 includes information collected from a social re-adaptation rating scale (SRRS). SRRS lists 52 stressful life events and assigns a point value based on how impulsive the event is determined by the sample population. SRRS are described in "The Social Readjustment rating Scale" (J.Psychosom. Res.11(2):213-8(1967)) of Holmes et al, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The predefined procedures 740 are general sleep settings for various conditions and/or body types (e.g., weight loss, comfort, motor rehabilitation, hot flashes, bedsores, depression, multiple sclerosis, alternating sleep cycles). In one embodiment, the weight loss pre-defined program sets the surface temperature at an extremely cold setting (e.g., 15.56-18.89 ℃ (60-66 ° F)) to increase the metabolic reaction, resulting in an increase in calories burned, which subsequently results in weight loss. The temperature setting is automatically adjusted to as cold as the user can tolerate after the start of the first sleep cycle to maximize caloric burn while minimizing impact on sleep quality. The core temperature of an overweight individual may fail to drop due to low metabolism. In one example, the surface temperature is 20 ℃ (68 ° F) at the beginning of the sleep session, 18.89 ℃ (66 ° F) during N1-N2 sleep, 18.33 ℃ (65 ° F) during N3 sleep, 19.44 ℃ (67 ° F) during REM sleep, and 20 ℃ (68 ° F) when waking the user.

In yet another embodiment, the temperature conditioning cycle is used to reduce insomnia. Insomnia may be caused by failure to drop the core body temperature or delay in the drop in core body temperature. In one example, the surface temperature is 20 ℃ (68 ° F) at the beginning of the sleep session, 17.78 ℃ (64 ° F) during N1-N2 sleep, 15.56 ℃ (60 ° F) during N3 sleep, 18.89 ℃ (66 ° F) during REM sleep, and 20 ℃ (68 ° F) when waking the user.

In yet another embodiment, the thermoregulation cycle is used to reduce sleep disruption due to Multiple Sclerosis (MS). In MS, core temperature and limit temperature management are not consistent. As a result, warm sleep and warm wake up are recommended. In one example, the surface temperature is 37.78 ℃ (100 ° F) at the beginning of the sleep session, 21.11 ℃ (70 ° F) during N1-N2 sleep,20 ℃ (68 ° F) during N3 sleep, 26.67 ℃ (80 ° F) during REM sleep, and 37.78 ℃ (100 ° F) when the user is awake.

In yet another embodiment, the temperature adjustment period is used to support users with alternating sleep periods. The alternating sleep periods are when the user changes to a multiple phase sleep cycle (e.g., bi-phasic, staged, multi-stage sleep) over a 24 hour period. In one example, the surface temperature is 21.11 ℃ (70 ° F) at the beginning of the sleep session, 17.78 ℃ (64 ° F) during N1-N2 sleep, 16.67 ℃ (62 ° F) during N3 sleep, 19.44 ℃ (67 ° F) during REM sleep, and 21.11 ℃ (70 ° F) when the user is woken up. This procedure can be repeated for a number of evenly spaced sleep blocks or used in longer blocks of 4-5 hours. For the short 30 minute block, the temperature drops (e.g., 0.278 ℃/minute (0.5 ° F/minute) or greater).

In one embodiment, the temperature conditioning cycle is used to reduce pressure sores. The temperature regulation cycle alternates cooling and heating based on the automatic collection of risk factors including temperature, surface area pressure, and moisture (e.g., sweat). In another embodiment, the thermoregulation period is specified by a sleep specialist or physician based on the user's particular health condition.

The customize program 741 is a sleep setting defined by the user. In one example, the user creates a custom program by modifying a predefined program (e.g., the weight loss program above) to a 1.11 ℃ (2 ° F) cooler during the N3 phase. In another example, the user creates a custom program by modifying a predefined program (e.g., the weight loss program above) to have a starting temperature of 37.78 ℃ (100 ° F). The customisation program 741 allows the user to save preferred sleep settings.

Remote server 708 includes global historical subjective data 746, global historical objective data 748, global historical environmental data 750, global profile data 752, global analysis engine 754, calibration engine 756, and simulation engine 758. Global historical subjective data 746, global historical objective data 748, global historical environmental data 750, and global profile data 752 include data from multiple users.

System components include a mattress pad 11 with adjustable temperature control, a mattress 768 with adjustable firmness, a mattress 770 with adjustable height, an alarm clock 772, a thermostat 774 to adjust room temperature, a lighting system 776, a fan 778, a humidifier 780, a dehumidifier 782, a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) device 784, a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device 785, a sound generator 786, an air purifier 788, a scent generator 790, a red and/or near infrared lighting device 792, a sunrise simulator 793, and/or a sunset simulator 794.

The body sensors 702, environmental sensors 704, remote devices 511 with local storage 706, remote servers 708, and system components 710 are designed to communicate data directly (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB) or equivalent) or wirelessly (e.g.,

) And (4) connecting. In a preferred embodiment, body sensor 702, environmental sensor 704, remote device 511 with local storage 706, remote server 708, and system components 710 are provided through

Communicate wirelessly. Advantageously, the first and/or second electrode means,

ratio of

And cellular signals emit lower electromagnetic fields (EMF).

Mattress pad

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep improvement system 700 includes a mattress pad 11 to alter the temperature of the sleep surface. Fig. 3 shows a thermoelectric control unit 10 according to the present invention. As shown, a pair of identical control units 10, 10' are attached by flexible conduits to a temperature regulated item, such as a mattress pad 11. The mattress pad 11 has two separate thermally regulated surface areas "a" and "B", each containing an internal flexible (e.g., silicon) tube 14 designed to circulate a heated or cooled fluid within the hydraulic circuit between the control unit 10 and the mattress pad 11. As best shown in fig. 3 and 4, the flexible conduit assembly of each control unit 10 includes separate fluid supply and return

lines

16, 17 connected to the tube 14 and a quick release female connector 18 for ready attachment and detachment with an external male connector 19 of the control unit 10. Advantageously, the mattress pad 11 allows a user to retrofit an existing mattress.

In one embodiment, the thermoelectric control unit 10 is operatively connected to the mattress (e.g., by a flexible conduit) such that the temperature regulating surface is embedded in the mattress itself. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the thermoelectric control unit 10 is operatively connected (e.g., by a flexible conduit) to any other temperature regulated item, such as a blanket or other bedding or comforter, seat cushion, sofa, chair, or the like.

As shown in fig. 5 and 6, the exemplary control unit 10 has an external housing 21 and a fluid reservoir 22 located inside the housing 21. The reservoir 22 has a fill opening 23, a fluid outlet 24 and a fluid return 25, the fill opening 23 being accessible through a removably capped opening 15 (fig. 4) in the housing 21. The fluid contained in the reservoir 22 is moved in a circuit through a conduit assembly formed by the housing inner tube 28, the flexible supply line 16 and return line 17, and the flexible silicone tube 14 within the temperature regulating mattress 11. The fluid is selectively cooled by cooperating first and

second heat exchangers

31, 32 and thermoelectric cooling modules 33A-33D, as described further below. The cooling modules 33A-33D are present at the electrified junction between the first heat exchanger 31 and the second heat exchanger 32 and function to regulate fluid temperature from cooling points as low as 7.78 ℃ (46 ° F) or colder. The housing 21 and reservoir 22 may be constructed separately or integrally from any suitable material, such as flame retardant ABS, polypropylene, or other molded polymer.

Referring to fig. 5 and 6, the first heat exchanger 31 is formed by pairs of oppositely oriented

internal heat sinks

41A, 42A and 41B, 42B that communicate with the interior of the reservoir 22 and cooperate with the thermoelectric cooling modules 33A-33D to cool the fluid inside the reservoir 22 to a selected (set) temperature. Each

heat sink

41A, 42A, 41B, 42B has a substantially flat metal base 44 adjacent to an outer sidewall of the reservoir 22 and a plurality of flat metal fins 45 substantially perpendicular to the base 44 and extending vertically inward toward a central region of the reservoir 22. In the exemplary embodiment, each pair of the

heat sinks

41A, 42A and 41B, 42B is formed of one 4-fin heat sink (4-fin sink) and one 5-fin heat sink (5-fin sink), arranged such that their respective fins 45 face and are staggered as shown in fig. 6. The exemplary cooling modules 33A-33D are operatively connected to the internal power/main control board 48 and are formed of respective thin peltier chips having opposed flat internal and external

major surfaces

51, 52. The interior major surface 51 of each cooling module 33A-33D is in direct thermal contact with the flat pedestals 44 of its

corresponding heat sink

41A, 42A, 41B, 42B. A thermal pad or compound (not shown) may also be present between each cooling module 33A-33D and the

heat sink

41A, 42A, 41B, 42B to promote thermal conduction from the base 44 outward across the fins 45.

The second heat exchanger 32 is formed by external heat sinks 61A-61D located outside the fluid reservoir 22 and arranged in a direction facing opposite to the respective

internal heat sinks

41A, 42A, 41B, 42B. Each external heat sink 61A-61D has a planar metal base 64 in direct thermal contact with the exterior major surface 52 of the associated adjacent cooling module 33A-33D and a plurality of planar metal fins 65 extending substantially perpendicular to the base 64 and horizontally outward away from the fluid reservoir 22. The heat generated by the cooling modules 33A-33D is conducted away from the modules 33A-33D by the external heat sinks 61A-61D and dissipated to the ambient environment outside of the fluid reservoir 22.

Motor case fans

71 and 72 may be operatively connected to the power/main control board 48 and mounted inside the housing 21 adjacent the

respective heat sinks

61A, 61B and 61C, 61D. The

example fans

71, 72 promote air flow outwardly from the control unit 10 over the heat sink fins 65 and through the exhaust holes 13 formed with the sides and bottom of the housing 21. In one embodiment, each external heat sink 61A-61D has a substantially larger base 64 (as compared to the 4-fin and 5-fin

internal heat sinks

41A, 42A, 41B, 42B) and a substantially larger number of fins 65 (e.g., 32 or more). Both the internal and external heat sinks may be active or passive and may be constructed of any suitable electrically conductive material, including aluminum, copper, and other metals. The heat sink may have a thermal conductivity of 400 watts per meter-kelvin (W/(m K)) or greater. The

chassis fans

71, 72 may be automatically turned on and off as needed.

The temperature regulated fluid exits from the reservoir 22 through an outlet 24 and enters a conduit assembly formed by an arrangement of Z-, L-, 7-and S-shaped tubes 28 (and fittings) within the housing. The pump 81 is operatively connected to the reservoir 22 and functions to circulate fluid through the control unit 10 in a circuit including the housing inner tube 28 (and fitting), the flexible fluid supply line 16, the silicone tubing 14, the fluid return line 17, and back into the reservoir 22 through the fluid return port 25. As shown in fig. 5, an insulated linear heat pipe 82 is located outside of the fluid reservoir 22 and inside the housing 21 and is in communication with the conduit assembly to selectively heat the fluid moving from the control unit 10 to the mattress pad 11. The example heat pipe 82 may heat fluid moving in the hydraulic circuit to a desired temperature that is up to 47.78 ℃ (118 ° F).

The control unit has at least one fluid reservoir. In one embodiment, the control unit comprises two fluid reservoirs. The first fluid reservoir is used to heat and/or cool the fluid circulated through the temperature regulating mattress. The first fluid reservoir includes at least one sensor to measure a level of the fluid. The second fluid reservoir is for storing a fluid. In a preferred embodiment, fluid from the second fluid reservoir is automatically used to fill the first fluid reservoir when the at least one sensor indicates that the level of fluid is below a minimum value. Advantageously, this optimizes the temperature in the first fluid reservoir, as only a small amount of stored fluid is introduced into the first fluid reservoir when needed. Furthermore, this embodiment reduces the refilling required of the control unit, saving time and effort for the user. In one embodiment, the at least one fluid reservoir is formed of a metal. In another embodiment, the metal of the at least one fluid reservoir is electrically connected to ground.

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit comprises at least one mechanism for forming structured water. Fig. 7 shows the difference between structured and unstructured water. In one embodiment, the control unit comprises at least one vortex to treat the fluid. The at least one vortex reduces bacteria, algae, and fungi in the fluid without using additional chemicals. In one embodiment, the at least one vortex includes at least one left spinning vortex and at least one right spinning vortex. The at least one left spinning vortex and the at least one right spinning vortex simulate the motion of water in nature. One example of treating a fluid using vortex technology is described in U.S. patent No. 7,238,289, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Alternatively, the fluid flows or tumbles over or through a series of balls and/or rocks. In one embodiment, the rocks are hexagonal in shape. The tumbling action or vortex aligns the molecules in the structured water to retain energy (i.e., cool or heat) for a longer period of time. Surprisingly, the aligned or structured water molecules produced a 20% increase in the heating and cooling capacity of the water.

In a preferred embodiment, the fluid is water. In one embodiment, the water is treated with an Ultraviolet (UV) purification system to kill microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, molds). The UV purification system includes at least one UV bulb to expose the microorganisms to UV radiation, which prevents the microorganisms from multiplying. This reduces the number of microorganisms in the water without using additional chemicals. In one embodiment, the at least one UV bulb is a UV-C Light Emitting Diode (LED). In another embodiment, the at least one UV bulb is a mercury vapor bulb.

Additionally or alternatively, the water is treated with at least one filter to remove contaminants and/or particulates. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one filter clarifies the water prior to exposure to the at least one UV bulb. The contaminants and/or particles in the water are larger than the microorganisms, and thus the contaminants and/or particles prevent the UV rays from reaching the microorganisms. In one embodiment, the at least one filter is a sediment filter, an activated carbon filter, a reverse osmosis filter, and/or a ceramic filter. In another embodiment, one or more of the at least one filter includes copper and/or silver (e.g., nanoparticles, ions, colloids) to inhibit the growth of microorganisms. The contaminants and/or particles removed from the water include sediment, rust, calcium carbonate, organic compounds, chlorine, and/or minerals.

The at least one filter preferably removes contaminants and/or particles having a diameter of greater than 0.3 μm. Alternatively, the at least one filter removes contaminants and/or particles having a diameter greater than 0.5 μm. In another embodiment, at least one filter removes contaminants and/or particles having a diameter greater than 0.05 μm. In another embodiment, at least one filter removes contaminants and/or particulates having a diameter greater than lnm.

In one embodiment, the water is treated with copper and/or silver ions. Copper and/or silver ions are positively charged and bind to negative sites (negative sites) on the cell wall of the microorganism. This may lead to the deactivation of the protein and ultimately to cell death. Copper and/or silver ions can also disrupt biofilms and mucus. In one embodiment, copper and/or silver ions are generated by electrolysis.

Alternatively, the water is treated with at least one chemical to inhibit the growth of bacteria and microorganisms or to remove lime and calcium buildup. In one embodiment, the water is treated with an iodine or chlorine containing compound. In another embodiment, the water is treated with a salt and/or peroxide solution. In yet another embodiment, the water is treated with citric acid.

The thermoelectric control unit may also include other features and electronics not shown. In one embodiment, the control unit comprises a touch control and display panel, an overheat protector, a level sensor, a thermostat, a further cabinet fan and/or at least one speaker. The control unit may also include an external power cord designed to plug into a standard household power outlet, or may be powered using rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. In one embodiment, the touch control and display panel includes a power button, a temperature selection button (e.g., up and down arrows), and/or an LCD that displays temperature. In another embodiment, the touch control and display panel includes a program selection menu.

The control unit preferably has at least one processor. By way of example, and not limitation, a processor may be a general purpose microprocessor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU)), a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), a controller, a state machine, gated or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any other suitable entity or combination thereof that can perform calculations, process instructions for execution, and/or other manipulations of information. In one embodiment, one or more of the at least one processor is operable to run a predefined program stored in the at least one memory of the control unit.

The control unit preferably includes at least one antenna that allows the control unit to receive and process input data (e.g., temperature setting, start and stop commands) from at least one remote device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop, remote). In a preferred embodiment, at least one remote device is in wireless network communication with the control unit. By way of example, and not limitation, the wireless communication is radio frequency,

Wireless local area network, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other similar commercially utilized standards. Alternatively, the at least one remote device is in wired communication with the control unit via USB or equivalent.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one remote device is operable to set a target temperature of the mattress pad. The at least one remote device preferably has a user interface (e.g., a mobile application for a smartphone or tablet computer, a button on a remote control) that allows the user to select a target temperature of the mattress pad or a separate area within the mattress pad. In one embodiment, the mattress pad includes a temperature probe in each zone that provides temperature data for that zone to at least one processor that compares a target temperature set using at least one device to the actual measured temperature to determine whether to heat or cool the fluid and to determine where to dispense the heated or cooled fluid in order to match the actual temperature to the target temperature.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that programmable control of the target temperature over time (e.g., during overnight sleep) is possible using at least one remote device. Because the target temperatures may be set at any time, those target temperatures may be manipulated throughout the sleep session to match user preferences or programs related to the user's sleep cycle to produce a deeper, more peaceful sleep.

Figure 8A shows an embodiment of a mattress pad with three separate temperature zones. The three

separate temperature zones

501, 502, 503 generally correspond to the head, body and legs, respectively, and feet of the user. Although only three zones are shown, it is equally possible to have one, two, four or more separate temperature zones. The wireless remote control 507 is used to set a target temperature for each

zone

501, 502, 503. Fluid is delivered from the control unit 10 to the mattress pad 11 via a fluid supply line 16, the fluid supply line 16 entering the continuous perimeter via an opening sized to sealingly receive the fluid supply line 16. Fluid is removed from the mattress pad 11 and returned to the control unit 10 via a fluid return line 17, which fluid return line 17 exits the continuous perimeter via an opening sized to sealingly receive the fluid return line 17.

The temperature probe 508 in each zone provides the control unit 10 with actual measured temperature data for that zone. The control unit 10 compares the target temperature set using the wireless remote control 507 with the actual measured temperature to determine whether to heat or cool the fluid, and to which conduit or circuit the heated or cooled fluid should be distributed in order to match the actual temperature with the target temperature.

In one embodiment, a greater number of temperature probes are in separate temperature zones corresponding to the core body area, while a smaller number of temperature probes are in separate temperature zones not corresponding to the core body area. In one example, region 501 contains three temperature probes, region 502 contains five temperature probes, and region 503 contains three temperature probes. This embodiment provides the advantage of more closely monitoring the temperature of the mattress in the core body zone, which is important because the core body temperature affects the sleep quality of the user.

In another embodiment, the independent temperature zones comprise three temperature probes. In one example, the area 501 contains a temperature probe in the center of the mattress pad 11, a temperature probe on the left side of the mattress pad 11, and a temperature probe on the right side of the mattress pad 11. Advantageously, this embodiment provides information about the left, center and right side of the mattress pad. In yet another embodiment, the independent temperature zones comprise at least three temperature probes.

The mattress pad includes padding 509 between the conduit loop and the stationary surface to enhance the comfort of the user and prevent the concentrated heat or cold of the conduit loop from being applied directly or semi-directly to the user's body. Instead, the conduit loop heats or cools the pad 509, which provides for gentler temperature regulation of the user's body.

Figure 8B shows an embodiment of a double mattress. The three

separate temperature zones

501A, 502A, 503A generally correspond to the head, body and legs, respectively, and feet of the first user utilizing surface zone "a". The three

separate temperature zones

501B, 502B, 503B generally correspond to the head, body and legs, respectively, and feet of the second user utilizing surface zone "B". Although only three zones are shown for each user, there may equally be one, two, four or more separate temperature zones. The first wireless remote control 507A is used to set a target temperature for each of the

areas

501A, 502A, 503A. The second wireless remote control 507B is used to set a target temperature for each of the

areas

501B, 502B, 503B. The temperature probe 508 in each zone provides the control unit 10 with actual measured temperature data for that zone. The control unit 10 compares the target temperature set using the wireless

remote control

507A, 507B with the actual measured temperature to determine whether to heat or cool the fluid and to which conduit or circuit the heated or cooled fluid should be distributed in order to match the actual temperature with the target temperature.

In this embodiment, a single control unit 10 is utilized to control the temperature of the fluid, despite the presence of two separate controllers. In another embodiment, the temperature of the fluid to the first user is controlled with a first control unit and the temperature of the fluid to the second user is controlled with a second control unit. Alternatively, each user has at least two control units to control the temperature of the fluid.

Fig. 8C shows an embodiment of a mattress pad with three separate temperature zones connected to at least one remote device 511. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one remote device is a smartphone or tablet computer. At least one remote device preferably has a mobile application that allows the control unit 10 to change the temperature of the mattress pad 11 according to a schedule of target temperatures selected to be associated with the user's sleep cycle. This arrangement promotes deeper, more restful sleep by changing the body temperature at key points.

Preferably, mattress pads are sized to fit standard mattress sizes, such as single bed (about 97cm by about 191cm (about 38 inches by about 75 inches)), queen bed (about 97cm by about 203cm (about 38 inches by about 80 inches)), twin bed (about 137cm by about 191cm (about 54 inches by about 75 inches)), queen bed (about 152cm by about 203cm (about 60 inches by about 80 inches)), emperor bed (about 193cm by about 203cm (about 76 inches by about 80 inches)), and california emperor bed (about 183cm by about 213cm (about 72 inches by about 84 inches)). In one embodiment, the mattress pad is about 76cm by about 203cm (about 30 inches by about 80 inches). This allows a single user in a two-size bed, queen-size bed or emperor-size bed to use the mattress without affecting the sleeping partner. In one embodiment, the mattress pad is sized to fit a baby mattress (about 71cm by about 132cm (about 28 inches by about 52 inches)). In a preferred embodiment, a single mattress pad (e.g., single bed, queen bed, larger bed sized to fit a single user, crib) is attached to one control unit, while a double mattress pad (e.g., twin bed, queen bed, emperor bed, Calif.) is attached to both control units.

In an alternative embodiment, the mattress pad comprises electrically conductive fibres which heat one part of the mattress pad and a water circulation which cools another part of the mattress pad. In one example, this allows the temperature of the main body or body core area to be lower than the temperature of the feet. The foot plays a positive role in the regulation of body temperature. The foot has a large surface area and specialized blood vessels that allow the foot to release heat from the body. If the foot becomes too cold, excess heat cannot be released from the body and the individual will not be able to fall asleep.

In one embodiment, mattress pads are placed on the ground, which provides the human body with conductive contact with the surface of the earth. Grounding is based on the following theory: the earth is a source of negatively charged free electrons, and the body can use these free electrons as antioxidants to neutralize free radicals within the body when in contact with the earth. Placing the body on the ground during sleep normalizes cortisol levels, improves sleep, and reduces pain and stress levels. In a preferred embodiment, the mattress pad has an electrically conductive material on at least one outer surface of the mattress pad. In one embodiment, the mattress pad is attached to an electrical wire that is electrically connected to the power outlet ground port. Alternatively, the mattress pad is attached to an electrical wire connected to a ground bar.

Mattress pads include at least two layers of waterproof material that are laminated, adhered to one another, attached to one another, secured to one another, or welded together to prevent separation or delamination of the layers. In a preferred embodiment, the water repellent material is an amino potassium acid ester or a mixture of an amino potassium acid ester and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). The first layer of waterproof material is permanently attached to the second layer of waterproof material. The first layer of water repellent material has an outer surface and an inner surface. The second layer of waterproof material has an outer surface and an inner surface. In a preferred embodiment, the first layer of waterproof material is welded (e.g., using high frequency/Radio Frequency (RF) welding or thermal welding) to the second layer of waterproof material along a continuous perimeter, creating at least one internal chamber that is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage between an inner surface of the first layer of waterproof material and an inner surface of the second layer of waterproof material. Fluid is delivered to the at least one interior chamber via a fluid supply line that enters the continuous perimeter via an opening sized to sealingly receive the fluid supply line. Fluid is removed from the at least one interior chamber via a fluid return line that exits the continuous perimeter via an opening sized to sealingly receive the fluid return line.

In a preferred embodiment, the waterproof material is covered on the outer surface with a interlock fabric or a knit fabric. The interlock or knit fabric on the outer surface of the mattress pad preferably contains copper or silver ion threads for antimicrobial protection. Alternatively, the antimicrobial agent may be applied with an antibacterial or antimicrobial agent (e.g.,

) A interlock or knit fabric treated on the outer surface of the mattress pad. In one embodiment, the waterproof material is covered with a moisture absorbent material on the outer surface.

In one embodiment, the mattress pad includes a spacer layer located in the interior chamber between the inner surface of the first layer of waterproof material and the inner surface of the second layer of waterproof material. The spacer layer provides separation between the first layer of waterproof material and the second layer of waterproof material, ensuring that fluid flows through the mattress pad when the body is on the mattress pad. The spacer layer advantageously provides structural support to maintain local channels through the internal chamber or fluid pathway, which is important to ensure constant and consistent fluid flow through the internal chamber in the case of heavy users on a firm mattress. In a preferred embodiment, the spacer layer is laminated, attached, adhered, attached, fixed or welded to the first layer of waterproof material and/or the second layer of waterproof material. The spacer layer is preferably made of a foam net or spacer fabric. In one embodiment, the spacer layer has antimicrobial properties.

Figure 9A shows a cross-section of a mattress pad with two layers of waterproof material. In this embodiment, a first layer of waterproof material 602 and a second layer of waterproof material 604 are attached or adhered together to form the interior chamber 600. The internal chamber 600 is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage. In a preferred embodiment, the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the second layer of waterproof material 604 are welded together (e.g., using high frequency/Radio Frequency (RF) welding or thermal welding).

Figure 9B shows a cross-section of a mattress pad having two layers of waterproof material and two layers of a second material. In this embodiment, a first layer of waterproof material 602 and a second layer of waterproof material 604 are attached or adhered together to form the interior chamber 600. The internal chamber 600 is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage. In a preferred embodiment, the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the second layer of waterproof material 604 are welded together (e.g., using high frequency/Radio Frequency (RF) welding or thermal welding). The first layer of second material 606 is on an outer surface of the first layer of waterproof material 602. A second layer of second material 608 is on the outer surface of the second layer of waterproof material 604. In a preferred embodiment, the second material is a knitted or interlock material. Alternatively, the second material is a woven or non-woven material. In yet another embodiment, the second material is formed of plastic.

Figure 9C shows a cross-section of a mattress pad with two layers of waterproof material and a spacer layer. In this embodiment, a first layer of waterproof material 602 and a second layer of waterproof material 604 are attached or adhered together to form the interior chamber 600. The internal chamber 600 is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage. In a preferred embodiment, the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the second layer of waterproof material 604 are welded together (e.g., using high frequency/Radio Frequency (RF) welding or thermal welding).

The spacer layer 610 is positioned within the interior chamber 600 between the inner surface of the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the inner surface of the second layer of waterproof material 604. The spacer layer 610 is configured to provide structural support to maintain a local channel of fluid flow through the interior chamber. In one embodiment, the fluid flows through the spacer layer. In a preferred embodiment, the spacer layer is laminated, attached, adhered, attached, fixed or welded to the first layer of waterproof material and/or the second layer of waterproof material. The spacer layer is preferably made of a foam net or spacer fabric. In one embodiment, the spacer layer has antimicrobial properties. In another embodiment, the spacer layer 610 is honeycomb shaped.

Figure 9D shows a cross-section of a mattress pad having two layers of waterproof material, two layers of a second material, and a spacer layer. In this embodiment, a first layer of waterproof material 602 and a second layer of waterproof material 604 are attached or adhered together to form the interior chamber 600. The internal chamber 600 is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage. In a preferred embodiment, the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the second layer of waterproof material 604 are welded together (e.g., using high frequency/Radio Frequency (RF) welding or thermal welding). The first layer of second material 606 is on an outer surface of the first layer of waterproof material 602. A second layer of second material 608 is on the outer surface of the second layer of waterproof material 604. In a preferred embodiment, the second material is a knitted or interlock material. Alternatively, the second material is a woven or non-woven material. In yet another embodiment, the second material is formed of plastic.

The spacer layer 610 is located within the interior chamber 600 between the inner surface of the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the inner surface of the second layer of waterproof material 604. The spacer layer 610 is configured to provide structural support to maintain a local channel of fluid flow through the interior chamber. In one embodiment, the fluid flows through the spacer layer. In a preferred embodiment, the spacer layer is laminated, attached, adhered or welded to the first layer of waterproof material and/or the second layer of waterproof material. The spacer layer is preferably made of a foam net or spacer fabric. In one embodiment, the spacer layer has antimicrobial properties.

Figure 10 is a view of a mattress tube elbow according to the preferred embodiment. The mattress pad 11 is placed on top of the mattress 102 and the box spring or foundation 104. The mattress pad 11 is connected to a control unit (not shown) by a flexible hose 106 containing flexible supply and return lines. The flexible hose is preferably formed of urethane. Alternatively, the flexible hose is formed from an extruded silicone double wall tube (extruded silicone double wall tube). In one embodiment, the flexible hose has a polyethylene foam or other insulating cover. Additionally or alternatively, the flexible hose is covered with a fabric (e.g., nylon, polyester, rayon).

The mattress hose elbow 108 is concentric around the flexible hose 106. The mattress hose elbow 108 secures the flexible hose 106 to the sides of the mattress 102 and box spring or foundation 104, which provides structural support to the flexible hose 106. The mattress hose elbow 108 is sized to fit closely around the flexible hose 106. In a preferred embodiment, the mattress hose elbow 108 is formed of silicone or rubber. Alternatively, the mattress hose elbow 108 is formed from plastic (e.g., Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam, polyethylene foam). In a preferred embodiment, the mattress hose elbow 108 is operable to slide over the flexible hose 106. In one embodiment, the mattress hose elbow 108 is adjustable.

The mattress pad 11 preferably includes a plurality of holes or openings 100 in the surface of the mattress pad 11. A plurality of holes or openings 100 direct the movement of fluid in the mattress. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of holes or openings 100 are in a preselected pattern to aid in manufacturing efficiency. Alternatively, the plurality of holes or openings 100 are in a random pattern. The plurality of holes or openings 100 are shown as hexagons in fig. 10. Alternatively, each of the plurality of apertures or openings 100 may be triangular, circular, rectangular, square, oval, diamond, pentagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nonagonal, decagonal, trapezoidal, parallelogram, rhomboid, cross, semicircular, crescent, heart-shaped, star-shaped, snowflake-shaped, or any other polygon in shape. In one embodiment, the voids created by the plurality of holes or openings 100 comprise at least 80% of the surface area of the mattress pad. In other embodiments, the voids created by the plurality of apertures or openings 100 comprise at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the surface area of the mattress pad.

The spacing and number of the plurality of holes or openings 100 may be varied to adjust the thermal properties of the mattress pad. For example, in one embodiment, the density of holes or openings is higher near the torso region than in the head and leg regions for providing more exposure to the torso region of the user for managing body temperature in that region and less exposure to the user's extremities. In one embodiment, the spacing between each of the plurality of holes or openings is at least 5mm (0.2 inches).

In a preferred embodiment, the mattress pad 11 contains at least one welded line 105 to help manage the flow of fluid in the interior chamber. At least one weld line 105 preferably directs fluid flow through the mattress from head to foot and returns the fluid to the control unit through a return line. The at least one welded line 105 allows fluid to flow across all areas of the mattress pad 11 to provide a substantially uniform temperature within the pad. In one embodiment, the at least one weld line is formed by the permanent attachment of a first layer of waterproof material and a second layer of waterproof material along the perimeter of the plurality of holes or openings.

Fig. 11 is another perspective view of the mattress hose elbow of fig. 10. The flexible hose 106 is positioned alongside the mattress 102 and box spring or foundation 104 using a mattress pad hose elbow 108. Advantageously, the mattress pad hose elbow 108 secures the flexible hose 106 to the sides of the mattress 102 and box spring or foundation 104, providing structural support to the flexible hose 106. Furthermore, the total height of the mattress, box spring or foundation and/or the bed frame is not uniform. The mattress pad hose elbow 108 provides customization for the height of the mattress, box spring or foundation and/or the bed frame.

In another embodiment, the flexible hose is positioned alongside the mattress using hook and loop tape. In yet another embodiment, elastic bands are used to position the flexible hose alongside the mattress. In yet another embodiment, the flexible hose is positioned alongside the mattress using at least one clasp (snap). Alternatively, the flexible hose is positioned alongside the mattress using at least one buckle.

Figure 12 is a top perspective view of an individual mattress pad. The top panel 110A is attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the top of the mattress pad 11 at attachment point 114A. The bottom panel 110B is attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the bottom of the mattress pad 11 at attachment point 114B. A non-slip piece (112A) is attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the top sheet 110A on a side opposite the attachment point 114A. Cleats 112B are attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to bottom panel 110B on a side opposite attachment points 114B. Preferably, the top and

bottom panels

110A, 110B are formed of the same material as the second material (e.g., a knitted fabric or a interlock fabric) on the outer surface of the mattress pad. In a preferred embodiment, cleats 112A, 112B are formed of foam. Alternatively, the

cleats

112A, 112B are formed of latex, silicon, or rubber. The

cleats

112A, 112B are preferably absorbent and/or antimicrobial. In one embodiment, the

cleats

112A, 112B are printed on the top sheet 110A and the bottom sheet 110B. In one embodiment, the top sheet 110A and the bottom sheet 110B are between about 18cm (about 7 inches) and about 76cm (about 30 inches) in length. In a preferred embodiment, the top sheet 110A and bottom sheet 110B are about 66cm (about 26 inches) in length.

In another embodiment, the top sheet 110A and the bottom sheet 110B act as non-slip surfaces. In one embodiment, the top sheet 110A and the bottom sheet 110B are made of a gripper (grip) or non-slip fabric. In this embodiment, the

cleats

112A and 112B are not required because the top sheet 110A and the bottom sheet 110B act as non-slip surfaces.

The individual mattress pad is preferably double-sided cloth (reversible) so that the mattress pad is operable when either exposed surface is facing up. Advantageously, this allows the flexible hose to exit on the left or right side of the bed. This double-sided nature eliminates the need for a single user of a double size bed, queen size bed or emperor size bed and/or a single user whose bed is positioned such that a particular configuration is desired (e.g., a bed positioned against a wall) to make a single mattress pad having either a "left" configuration or a "right" configuration.

Figure 13 is an exploded view of a single mattress pad. The mattress pad 11 is shown above a mattress 102 and a box spring or foundation 104. When in use, the mattress pad 11 is placed on top of the mattress 102. The ends of the mattress pad 11 are attached to the

sheet materials

110A, 110B. The

panels

110A, 110B are placed over the head and foot ends of the mattress 102 with the ends of the

panels

110A, 110B sandwiched between the mattress 102 and the box spring or foundation 104.

As previously mentioned, the mattress pad 11 preferably includes a plurality of holes or openings 100 in the surface of the mattress pad 11. The first layer having a plurality of apertures or openings is permanently attached to the second layer having a plurality of apertures or openings along the perimeter of the mattress pad and the perimeter of each of the plurality of apertures or openings. At least one internal chamber is defined between the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer. The at least one internal chamber is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage. The inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer are made of at least one layer of waterproof material.

In an alternative embodiment, the mattress pad does not comprise a plurality of holes or openings in the surface of the mattress pad. The first layer is permanently attached to the second layer along the perimeter of the mattress pad. In one embodiment, the waterproof material is stretchable. In a preferred embodiment, the stretch ratio of the water resistant material is equal to or greater than the stretch ratio of the surrounding material (e.g., mattress). Advantageously, this prevents the mattress pad from wrinkling and pleating under the user.

Figure 14 is an exploded view of one end of a single mattress pad. The mattress pad 11 is formed of at least two layers of waterproof material, as shown in fig. 9A to 9D. In one embodiment, the sheet 110 is permanently attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) between the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the second layer of waterproof material 604. On the opposite end of the sheet 110 from where it is attached to the mattress pad 11, the cleats 112 are permanently attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the sheet. In a preferred embodiment, cleats 112 are formed of foam. Alternatively, the cleats 112 are formed of latex, silicon, or rubber. The cleats 112 are preferably hygroscopic and/or antibacterial.

Figure 15 is a side perspective view of one end of a single mattress pad. The mattress pad 11 has a first layer of waterproof material 602 and a second layer of waterproof material 604. The first end of the sheet 110 is attached to a first layer of waterproof material 602 and a second layer of waterproof material 604. The sheet 110 is permanently attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) between the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the second layer of waterproof material 604. In a preferred embodiment, the outer surfaces of the first and second layers of

waterproof material

602, 604 are folded over for attachment to a first end of the sheet of material 110. The anti-slip member 112 is permanently attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the opposite end of the first end of the sheet 110. In a preferred embodiment, cleats 112 are formed of foam. Alternatively, the cleats 112 are formed of latex, silicon, or rubber. The cleats 112 are preferably hygroscopic and/or antibacterial.

In an alternative embodiment, the mattress pad comprises a interlock or knit fabric on the outer surface of the mattress pad. In other embodiments, the outer surface of the mattress pad is covered with a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, or a polymer film (e.g., urethane or Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)). Additionally or alternatively, the mattress pad includes a spacer layer between the inner surface of the first layer of waterproof material 602 and the inner surface of the second layer of waterproof material 604.

Figure 16 is a top perspective view of a double mattress. The mattress pad 11 has two separate thermally conditioned surface areas "A" and "B". The mattress pad 11 has a first flexible hose 106A and a second flexible hose 106B. In a preferred embodiment, the first flexible hose 106A is attached to a first control unit (not shown), and the second flexible hose 106B is attached to a second control unit (not shown). In a preferred embodiment, the center of the mattress pad 11 contains an area 124 without holes or openings. The area 124 without holes or openings contains a welded spacer 126 that provides a boundary between two separate thermally conditioned surface areas "a" and "B".

Figure 17 is another top perspective view of a double mattress. The mattress pad 11 has a top sheet 110A, a left side sheet 110B, a right side sheet 110C, and a bottom sheet 110D. The top sheet 110A, the left side sheet 110B, the right side sheet 110C and the bottom sheet 110D are preferably formed of a material having stretchability (e.g., interlock or knitting). In a preferred embodiment, each corner of the mattress pad 11 contains at least one anti-slip member. In one embodiment, a top and bottom skid is attached to each corner of the mattress pad 11. In the embodiment shown in fig. 17, there is a slip preventing member 130A at the corner between the top sheet 110A and the left side sheet 110B, a slip preventing member 130B at the corner between the top sheet 110B and the right side sheet 110C, a slip preventing member 130C at the corner between the left side sheet 110B and the bottom end sheet 110D, and a slip preventing member 130D at the corner between the right side sheet 110C and the bottom end sheet 110D.

The mattress pad 11 preferably contains at least one welded line or other partition to help manage the flow of fluid in the at least one internal chamber. At least one weld line 105 directs fluid flow through the mattress from head to foot and returns the fluid to the control unit through a return line. In fig. 17, the mattress pad has a first welded line 105A to help manage the flow of fluid in the interior chamber of zone "a" and a second welded line 105B to help manage the flow of fluid in the interior chamber of zone "B". Although only one weld line is shown for each individual temperature zone, two or more weld lines for each individual temperature zone are equally possible.

Figure 18 is an exploded view of a double mattress. The mattress pad 11 is shown above a mattress 102 and a box spring or foundation 104. The mattress pad 11 has a first flexible hose 106A and a second flexible hose 106B. In a preferred embodiment, the first flexible hose 106A is attached to a first control unit (not shown), and the second flexible hose 106B is attached to a second control unit (not shown). Alternatively, the first flexible hose 106A and the second flexible hose 106B are attached to the same control unit. The surface of the mattress pad 11 contains a plurality of holes or openings 100 in the surface of the mattress pad 11.

Figure 19 is an exploded view of the lower left corner of an embodiment of a double mattress pad before the mattress pad is secured to a bed. In a preferred embodiment, each corner of the mattress pad 11 contains a top cleat 130C and a bottom cleat 130C'. In fig. 19, top cleat 130C and bottom cleat 130C' are shown attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the corner formed between left side panel 110B and bottom end panel 110D. The left side sheet material 110B and the bottom end sheet material 110D are preferably formed of a material having stretchability (e.g., interlock or knitting). In one embodiment, elastic bands are attached (e.g., sewn, adhered, welded) to the bottom edge of the left side panel 110B and the bottom edge of the bottom end panel 110D. Alternatively, elastic bands are wrapped at the bottom edge of the left side panel 110B and the bottom edge of the bottom end panel 110D.

To secure the mattress pad 11 to the bed, the edges of the left side sheet 110B and the edges of the bottom sheet 110D are placed on top of the bottom skid 130C'. Top cleats 130 are then placed on top of left panel 110B, bottom panel 110D, and bottom cleats 130C'. Top cleats 130C and bottom cleats 130C' are preferably formed of non-slip foam. Alternatively, top cleat 130C and bottom cleat 130C' are formed of silicone, rubber, or latex. In one embodiment, the left side sheet 110B and the bottom sheet 110D are formed of a material having stretchability (e.g., interlock or knit). The top and

bottom cleats

130C and 130C' provide friction to hold the mattress pad in place.

Fig. 20 is a view of the lower left corner of a double mattress pad after the mattress pad is secured to a bed.

Figure 21 is a view of another embodiment of a mattress pad. The plurality of holes or openings 100 are shown in a circular shape in fig. 21. In this embodiment, the void created by the plurality of holes or openings 100 comprises at least 80% of the surface area of the mattress pad 11.

As previously described, the at least one remote device is operable to programmatically control the target temperature over time, for example during overnight sleep. Because the target temperatures may be set at any time, those target temperatures may be manipulated throughout the sleep session to match user preferences or programs related to the user's sleep cycle to produce a deeper, more peaceful sleep.

The following documents provide general information regarding sleep and sleep monitoring and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: (1) iber et al, The AASM management for The sequencing of Sleep and associated specifications, rules, tertiary and technical specifications, 1 st edition, West chester, I11, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2007. (2) Berry et al, The AASM Manual for The marking of Sleep and Associated Events, Rules, terminologies, and technical specificities, www.aasm.org, Darien, IL, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2015. (3) Orem et al (Eds.), Physiology in Sleep, New York: Elsevier, 2012. (4) SleepResearch Society, bases of Sleep Behavior, los Angeles, CA: UCLA and Sleep research Society, 1993. (5) Hishkowitz et al, The physics of sleep, in The Handbook of Clinical neurology-Clinical neurology of SleepDs of Guilleminault (Ed.), Philadelphia Elsevier, 2005; 3-20. (6) Avidian, Normal Sleep in Humans, Atlas of Clinical Sleep Medicine (second edition) by Kryger et al (Eds.), Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier, 2014; 70-97. (7) Consumer Technology Association, Definitions and pharmaceutical sciences for week Sleep Monitors, ANSI/CTA/NSF-2052.1, 2016, 9 months.

There are two main types of sleep: rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep and non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep. The sleep cycle typically lasts about 90 minutes, with REM sleep and non-REM sleep alternating within the sleep cycle. non-REM sleep is divided into three stages: stage 1 ("N1", drowsy), stage 2 ("N2", light sleep) and stage 3 ("N3", deep sleep).

Stage N1 is a transition stage between awake and sleep and is characterized as very light and easily disrupted sleep. During the N1 sleep, the breathing becomes more regular and the heart rate slows down. N1 sleep usually lasts less than 10 minutes and accounts for about 2-5% of the total sleep time. Stage N2 is the deeper stage of sleep. N2 sleep accounts for approximately 45-50% of the total sleep time because the sleeper passes through stages N2 multiple times throughout the night. Stage N3 is deep sleep. During N3 sleep, brain temperature, respiration rate, heart rate, and blood pressure were each at their lowest levels. Deep sleep is associated with repairing and regenerating tissues, building bones and muscles, and boosting the immune system.

REM sleep is a sleep stage associated with random movement of the eyes. REM sleep accounts for about 20-25% of total sleep time. The first phase of REM sleep begins about 90 minutes after sleep onset and lasts about 10 minutes. In addition, REM sleep is more prevalent in the second half of the sleep period, such that the last REM stage can last for up to about 60 minutes. Heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure increase during REM sleep. In addition, dreams are more prevalent in REM sleep due to high brain activity. REM is associated with maintaining memory and establishing neural communication.

Because deep sleep and REM sleep are the most regenerative parts of the sleep cycle, it is most beneficial to spend most of the sleep period in deep sleep and/or REM sleep. The target temperature of the mattress pad can be manipulated over time by programmed control using at least one remote device. Because the target temperatures may be manipulated using at least one remote device, those target temperatures may be manipulated throughout the sleep session to allow the user to spend more time in REM and/or deep sleep.

Fig. 22A shows a graph of a sleep cycle of a normal sleeper. The normal sleeper enters deep sleep for 3-5 times in a sleep period.

FIG. 22B shows a graph of sleep cycles for a restless sleeper. Restless sleep is characterized by little or no deep sleep. Furthermore, the sleep cycle is not uniform. A sleeper may wake up several times throughout the night and have difficulty falling asleep again. Further, the time of sleep may be delayed and/or the sleeper may wake up earlier, as shown in fig. 22B.

Fig. 22C shows a graph of sleep cycles of a temperature-manipulated sleeper. The mattress pad cools the user to induce a sleep cycle. When the user is in deep sleep, additional cooling may be applied to extend the time spent in deep sleep. A slight warming (e.g., 0.278 ℃/minute (0.5 ° F/minute)) may be applied during the sleep period to move the user from deep sleep to REM sleep at a faster rate so that less time is spent in N2 sleep. At the end of the last sleep period, the temperature is raised (e.g., 0.278 ℃/minute (0.5 ° F/minute)) to gently wake up the user. Advantageously, gently waking up the user by increasing the temperature may prevent sleep inertia (sleep inertia). Sleep inertia is characterized by impaired cognitive and motor functions after waking up. Recovery from sleep inertia can take several hours, presenting a danger to individuals who need to make important decisions or perform tasks safely (e.g., driving).

PEMF equipment

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) device. PEMF therapy has many applications, including healing fractures, improving sleep, and treating migraine and depression. The PEMF device includes a power source coupled to a circuit that produces an AC output or a DC output that is transmitted to the at least one induction coil. The induction coil is formed of a coil winding wound around a coil body having an open center or core. The induction coil emits an electromagnetic field (EMF) in response to an output from the circuit. In a preferred embodiment, the induction coil is formed of copper.

The circuit produces a pulsed or time-varying output, such as a square wave, sawtooth wave, rectangular wave, triangular wave, trapezoidal wave, sinusoidal wave, or pulse. The pulsed or time-varying output may be at any voltage and/or frequency. The pulsed or time-varying output results in a pulsed or time-varying PEMF produced by the induction coil. If the circuit produces an AC output, the positions of the north and south poles of the electromagnetic field change with each cycle. If the circuit produces a DC output, the positions of the north and south poles of the electromagnetic field remain unchanged.

The PEMF device includes at least one coil. In one embodiment, the PEMF device includes at least two coils per user. In a preferred embodiment, the PEMF device includes a pair of coils corresponding to a first zone (e.g., head and neck), a pair of coils corresponding to a second zone (e.g., torso and buttocks), and a pair of coils corresponding to a third zone (e.g., legs and feet). In one example, the PEMF device includes six coils for a single user and twelve coils for two users (six coils per user). In other examples, the PEMF device includes two coils per user, three coils per user, four coils per user, five coils per user, seven coils per user, or eight coils per user.

In one embodiment, the PEMF device generates a magnetic field greater than about 10 gauss. In a preferred embodiment, the PEMF device generates a magnetic field of between about 80 and about 100 gauss. In yet another preferred embodiment, the PEMF device generates a square wave. In another embodiment, the strength of the electromagnetic field is greater near the legs and feet and weaker near the head and neck.

Fig. 23 shows an embodiment of a PEMF device with three coils. In this embodiment, PEMF device 784 is a mat having three coils. The PEMF device 784 includes a first coil 2302 corresponding to a first region (e.g., head and neck), a second coil 2304 corresponding to a second region (e.g., torso and buttocks), and a third coil 2306 corresponding to a third region (e.g., legs and feet). The third coil 2306 generates a stronger electromagnetic field than the second coil 2304, and the second coil 2304 generates a stronger electromagnetic field than the first coil 2302.

Fig. 24 shows the electromagnetic fields generated by the PEMF device of fig. 23. In this embodiment, the user 2400 is positioned so that the user's back rests against the cushion. The three coils generate a first electromagnetic field 2402 corresponding to a first region (e.g., head and neck), a second electromagnetic field 2404 corresponding to a second region (e.g., torso and buttocks), and a third electromagnetic field 2406 corresponding to a third region (e.g., legs and feet). In a preferred embodiment, third electromagnetic field 2406 is stronger than second electromagnetic field 2404, and second electromagnetic field 2404 is stronger than first electromagnetic field 2402. Alternatively,

electromagnetic fields

2402, 2404, and 2406 have the same strength.

FIG. 25 illustrates a table of frequencies and effects on tissue in one embodiment, a PEMF device produces frequencies between about 0Hz and about 100Hz in a preferred embodiment, a PEMF device produces frequencies of about 10Hz in another preferred embodiment, a PEMF device produces frequencies between about 7Hz and about 8Hz in yet another preferred embodiment, a PEMF device produces frequencies of about 2Hz, about 15Hz, and/or about 20Hz advantageously, frequencies between about 0Hz and about 30Hz correspond to delta (0-4Hz), theta (4-8Hz), α (8-12Hz), and β (12-40Hz) brain waves.

Fig. 26 shows a selected pressure point located in the upper body. In one embodiment, the PEMF device includes at least one coil corresponding to a region including the pinch points B10, GV16 and/or GB 20. Compression point B10 is an important compression point for reducing insomnia, stress and fatigue. The pressure point GV16 is useful for treating insomnia and sleep disorder caused by stress and anxiety. Compression point GB20 provides relief from insomnia, fatigue, low energy and headache. Additionally or alternatively, the PEMF device includes at least one coil corresponding to a region including the nip point B38. In one embodiment, the PEMF device includes one coil centered between the pinch points B38. In another embodiment, the PEMF device includes two coils corresponding to pinch point B38 (i.e., one coil per pinch point B38). Compression point B38 is an important compression point for treating sleep disorders and promoting restful sleep. The stimulus B38 helps balance negative emotions that interfere with sleep (e.g., stress, anxiety, sadness, fear). In another embodiment, the PEMF device generates a magnetic field that is located on at least one meridian used in traditional chinese medicine. In yet another embodiment, the PEMF device generates a magnetic field that is isolated from a particular region.

In one embodiment, the PEMF device is incorporated into a mattress. In another embodiment, the PEMF device is operable to be placed under a box spring or foundation (e.g., on a floor). In yet another embodiment, the PEMF device is a mattress placed on top of a mattress. In yet another embodiment, the PEMF device is incorporated into a pillow. Alternatively, the PEMF device is a ring. Advantageously, the ring allows for local treatment (e.g. neck, arms, legs).

The PEMF device preferably has at least one processor. By way of example, and not limitation, a processor may be a general purpose microprocessor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU)), a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), a controller, a state machine, gated or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any other suitable entity or combination thereof that may perform calculations, process instructions and/or other manipulations of information for execution. In one embodiment, one or more of the at least one processor is operable to execute a predefined program stored in at least one memory of the PEMF device.

The PEMF device preferably includes at least one antenna that allows the PEMF device to receive and process input data (e.g., temperature settings, start and stop commands) from at least one remote device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop, remote control). In a preferred embodiment, at least one remote device is in wireless network communication with the PEMF device. By way of example, and not limitation, the wireless communication is radio frequency,

Wireless local area network, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other similar commercially used standards. Alternatively, at least one remote device is in wired communication with the PEMF device via USB or equivalent.

PEMF devices are operable to be used prior to a sleep session to promote sleep, during a sleep session to remain asleep, and after a sleep session to wake a user. In a preferred embodiment, different frequencies, modes and field lines (field lines) are provided in the programmable options. In one embodiment, the PEMF device includes settings for various conditions and/or body types (e.g., joint pain, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare, back pain, multiple sclerosis, pinched nerves, asthma, swelling and inflammation, tissue repair, cell growth).

In one example, PEMF devices are used to help users sleep during a sleep session of approximately 8 hours. The PEMF device starts in recovery mode at a frequency of 9.6 Hz. After 15 minutes at 9.6Hz, the frequency dropped to 3Hz and four cycles between 3Hz and 1Hz in 7.25 hours. The polarity changes from north to south every approximately 30 minutes. During the last 15 minutes of the sleep period, the frequency is increased to 12Hz and then 14.1Hz to ensure that the user wakes up.

In another example, PEMF devices are used to help users sleep during a sleep session of approximately 8 hours. The PEMF device starts in recovery mode at a frequency of 9.6 Hz. After 15 minutes at 9.6Hz, the frequency dropped from 9.6Hz to 1Hz over a 30 minute period. The frequency was then cycled between 5Hz and 1Hz four times over 7.25 hours. The polarity changes from north to south every approximately 30 minutes. During the last 15 minutes of the sleep period, the frequency is increased to 12Hz and then 14.1Hz to ensure that the user wakes up.

In yet another example, the PEMF device is used to help a user sleep during a sleep session of approximately 8 hours. The PEMF device starts in recovery mode at a frequency of 9.6 Hz. After 15 minutes at 9.6Hz, the frequency dropped from 9.6Hz to 1Hz over a 30 minute period. The frequency was then cycled between 5Hz and 1Hz six times over 7.25 hours. The polarity changes from north to south every approximately 30 minutes. During the last 15 minutes of the sleep period, the frequency is increased to 12Hz and then 14.1Hz to ensure that the user wakes up.

In yet another example, PEMF devices are used to help users struggle to fall asleep. The PEMF device starts at a frequency of 3 Hz. The frequency was cycled between 3Hz and 1Hz four times in 7.25 hours. The polarity changes from north to south every approximately 30 minutes. During the last 15 minutes of the sleep period, the frequency is increased to 12Hz and then 14.1Hz to ensure that the user wakes up.

In one example, PEMF devices are used to help users struggle to fall asleep. The PEMF device starts at a frequency of 1 Hz. The polarity changes from north to south every approximately 30 minutes. During the last 15 minutes of the sleep period, the frequency is increased to 14.1Hz to ensure that the user wakes up.

In another example, the PEMF device is used to help the user a little time. The PEMF device maintains the 9.6Hz frequency for about 15 minutes to about 30 minutes.

TENS device

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system comprises a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device. TENS is a form of therapy that uses electrical stimulation for pain relief. Examples of TENS devices include U.S. patent nos. 8,948,876, 9,675,801, and 9,731,126 and U.S. publication nos. 20140296935, 20140309709, and 20170056643, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The TENS device preferably has a monophasic, symmetrical biphasic or asymmetrical biphasic waveform. In one embodiment, the TENS device has a pulse amplitude between about 1mA and about 50 mA. In another embodiment, the TENS device has a pulse duration between about 50 microseconds and about 500 microseconds. In yet another embodiment, the TENS device has a frequency between about 1Hz and about 200 Hz. In yet another embodiment, the TENS device has a continuous pulse mode or a narrow pulse mode (burst pattern). The TENS device preferably has a single or dual channel.

In one example, a TENS device is used to activate the a- δ fiber. In this example, the TENS device uses a pulse frequency between about 60Hz and about 100Hz, with the pulse duration less than 300 microseconds. The pulse frequency is preferably 80 Hz. The pulse duration is preferably between about 60 microseconds and about 100 microseconds. The duration of treatment lasts between about 30 minutes and about 24 hours.

In another example, a TENS device is used to release β -endorphin in this example, the TENS device uses a pulse frequency of less than 10Hz and a pulse width between about 150 microseconds and about 300 microseconds, the pulse frequency is preferably between about 1Hz and about 5Hz, the pulse duration is preferably between about 200 microseconds and about 300 microseconds, the treatment duration is between about 20 minutes and about 40 minutes.

In yet another example, TENS devices are used to stimulate active C-fibers. In this example, the TENS device uses a pulse frequency between about 60Hz and about 100Hz, with a pulse duration between about 200 microseconds and about 1000 microseconds. The pulse frequency is preferably 100 Hz. The pulse duration is preferably 200 microseconds. The duration of treatment lasts between about 15 minutes and about 30 minutes.

Sound generator

In a preferred embodiment, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system comprises a sound generator. Sound can positively affect sleep, relieve pain, manage stress, and promote health. The sound may cause the individual to fall asleep, move between sleep stages, or wake up. Sounds including, but not limited to, white noise, heart beat, or environmental sounds (e.g., rain, sea waves, thunderstorms, rainforests, wind, birds, rivers, waterfalls, city noise) can help a user fall and remain asleep.

The sound generator is preferably operable to generate sounds within and outside the audible range of a human being. In one embodiment, the sound generator is operable to generate low frequency sound (i.e., below 20 Hz). These low frequency sounds accelerate healing and enhance immune function. In another embodiment, the sound generator is operable to play at least one sound during a sleep session. In yet another embodiment, the sound generator is operable to weaken at least one sound to silence.

In one embodiment, the sound generator is operable to play binaural beats. Binaural beats occur when two pure tone sinusoids of different frequencies are simultaneously transmitted to the left and right ears. As a result, the brain perceives a third sound based on the difference between the two frequencies. The two pure tone sine waves each have a frequency below 1500Hz and differ in frequency by less than 40 Hz. In a preferred embodiment, the two pure tone sine waves each have a frequency below 1000Hz and differ in frequency by less than 30 Hz. For example, if a 500Hz tone is presented to the left ear and a 510Hz tone is presented to the right ear, the listener perceives a third tone (i.e., binaural beat) that is associated with a frequency of 10 Hz. Binaural beats may help induce mental states including relaxation, meditation and creativity.

In another embodiment, the sound generator is operable to play the guided meditation for the user. In one embodiment, the guided meditation includes exhalation cues and inhalation cues to reduce stress and/or promote sleep. In another embodiment, the guided meditation includes guided imagery (e.g., beach, grass) to reduce stress and/or promote sleep. In yet another embodiment, the guided meditation includes the physical direction of the user (e.g., allowing the chin to fall, swinging the toes, opening the hands).

In one embodiment, the sound generator is incorporated into the control unit of the mattress pad. Alternatively, the sound generator is incorporated into an alarm clock, a sunrise simulator and/or a sunset simulator. In another embodiment, the sound generator is incorporated into the remote device.

Air purification

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes an air purification system. An air purification system removes air pollutants and allergens from a sleeping environment. The air purification system is a high efficiency particulate capture (HEPA) filter, an activated carbon filter, a photocatalytic (e.g., titanium dioxide) filter, a polarized media electronic air cleaner, an anion generator or ionizer, a germicidal UV lamp, a heat sterilizer, a size exclusion filter, and/or an electrostatic precipitator. In one embodiment, the air purification system is operable to provide a user with information via a third party system and/or a home automation system (e.g.,

HomeKit^TM、

Home^TM、IF This Then

) To change settings (e.g., on/off).

Smell generator

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes a scent generator to trigger relaxation and sleep and/or wake states. Some odors (e.g., lavender, vetiver, chamomile, ylang-ylang, bergamot, sandalwood, marjoram, cedar, jasmine, vanilla, geranium, rose) trigger relaxation and sleep. Other odors (e.g., coffee, lemon, cinnamon, mint, orange, grapefruit, rosemary) trigger the wake state.

In one embodiment, the scent generator includes at least one scent cartridge that is activated by temperature. In a preferred embodiment, at least one scent cartridge includes a scent that triggers relaxation and sleep and a scent that triggers a wake state. Examples of scent generators that include at least one scent cartridge include U.S. patent nos. 6,581,915, 6,834,847, 7,160,515, 7,223,361, 7,691,336, 7,981,367, 8,016,207, 8,061,628, 8,119,064, 8,210,448, 8,349,251, 8,651,395, and 8,721,962, and U.S. publication nos. 20140377130, 20150048178, 20170070845, and 20170076403, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In an alternative embodiment, the odor generator is at least one diffuser. In one embodiment, at least one diffuser is incorporated into the control unit of the mattress pad. Alternatively, the at least one diffuser is incorporated into an alarm clock, a sunrise simulator and/or a sunset simulator. In yet another embodiment, at least one diffuser is incorporated into the headboard. Examples of diffusers include U.S. Pat. nos. 5,805,768, 7,878,418, 9,126,215, 9,358,557, 9,421,295, 9,511,166, 9,517,286, and 9,527,094, and U.S. publication No. 20160243576, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In another embodiment, the housing of the control unit is infused with a scent to trigger relaxation and sleep. A method of injecting a plastic with an odor is described in U.S. patent No. 7,741,266, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Alternatively, mattress pads, mattresses or bedding (e.g., sheets, comforters, pillow cases) are infused with scents to trigger relaxation and sleep. In yet another embodiment, the scent generator is incorporated into the humidifier and/or dehumidifier.

Illumination device

The stress reduction and sleep facilitation system is operable to control lighting in a room and/or house. In one embodiment, the illumination includes at least oneA smart light bulb (e.g.,

Hue^TM、

C by

). In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system is operable to vary the color and/or intensity of the illumination. In one example, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system includes blue light to wake the individual in the morning and reduce the blue light in the evening to facilitate sleep. In another example, the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system dims the lighting at night and increases the intensity of the lighting in the morning. In one embodiment, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system is integrated with an external application and/or a home automation system (e.g.,

HomeKit^TM、

Home^TM、IF This Then

) Integrated to control lighting.

In one embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system includes a red and/or near infrared illumination device. The red and/or near infrared lighting device comprises at least one red lamp and/or at least one near infrared lamp. Red light therapy stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, reduces inflammation and joint pain, improves the appearance of wrinkles and white lines (stretch marks), reduces acne and eczema, enhances circulation, and improves wound and injury healing. In addition, red or near infrared light at night may contribute to melatonin production and promote sleep.

In one embodiment, the at least one red light and/or the at least one near infrared light is a Light Emitting Diode (LED). In another embodiment, the red and/or near infrared lighting device emits light at a wavelength between about 600nm and about 1000nm, and more preferably between about 660nm and about 670nm and/or between about 830nm and about 850 nm. Alternatively, the red and/or near infrared illumination device emits light at wavelengths of about 1400nm and about 1600nm (e.g., 1450nm, 1550 nm). The red and/or near infrared illumination devices generate continuous or pulsed waves. In one embodiment, the red and/or near infrared illumination device generates pulsed waves having a frequency between about 10Hz and about 40 Hz.

The light also helps the body to synchronize to 24 hours a day. In one embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system includes a sunrise simulator comprised of light that is gradually increased in brightness to wake up the user. The bright light can increase the level of alertness and stimulate mood. In one embodiment, the sunrise simulator may be operable to take about 15 minutes, about 30 minutes, about 45 minutes, about 60 minutes, or about 90 minutes to reach full brightness. In one example, the sunrise simulator may be operable to take approximately 30 minutes to increase light from 0% of full brightness (i.e., light-off) to 100% of full brightness. In another embodiment, the sunrise simulator is incorporated into an alarm clock.

Additionally or alternatively, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes a sunset simulator that gradually decreases in brightness to relax the user and promote sleep. In one embodiment, the sunset simulator may be operable to take about 15 minutes, about 30 minutes, about 45 minutes, about 60 minutes, or about 90 minutes to reach complete darkness. In one example, the sunset simulator may be operable to take approximately 30 minutes to reduce light from 100% of full brightness to 0% of full brightness (i.e., turn off). In another embodiment, the sunset simulator is incorporated into an alarm clock.

Environmental control

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system is operable to control room temperature, a fan, a humidifier and/or a dehumidifierSettings (e.g., on/off, warm up, cool down). In one embodiment, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system is operable to facilitate sleep quality by a third party system and/or a home automation system (e.g.,

HomeKit^TM、

Home^TM、IF This Then

) To change the settings.

Alarm clock

In a preferred embodiment, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system comprises an alarm clock. In one embodiment, the alarm clock is incorporated into the remote device. In another embodiment, the alarm clock includes a sunrise simulator and/or a sunset simulator.

Correcting EMF

In one embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system includes a device that emits a correction signal to a target electromagnetic field (EMF). EMF is radiation associated with the use of electricity and different forms of illumination (e.g., natural, artificial). These EMF's can cause stress to the body, which triggers a drop in energy and an immune response. In addition, EMF may reduce melatonin production in the body. Symptoms of exposure to EMF may include headache, fatigue, irritability, depression, insomnia, poor memory and/or shortness of breath.

In a preferred embodiment, the correction signal is a harmonic resonance that interacts with the EMF. In one embodiment, the device transmits the correction resonance through an electronic device inserted into the circuitry of a bedroom, home or office. In another embodiment, the device is worn on the body of the user (e.g., a necklace).

Static magnetic therapy

In one embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes a device for generating a static magnetic field. Static magnets are often used in bracelets, insoles, necklaces and bedding to acutely affect the tissue that comes into contact with the magnet and its static magnetic field. The static magnetic field does not exhibit a change in flux density or intensity over the time interval of use or measurement. Static magnetic fields can improve pain and contribute to sleep disorders. In a preferred embodiment, a static magnetic field is used to stimulate the user's body along the acupuncture meridians.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus for generating a static magnetic field comprises a plurality of magnets to produce a negative magnetic field directed toward the sleep surface and a positive magnetic field directed away from the sleep surface. The device for generating a static magnetic field is located above the mattress or between the mattress and a spring mattress or foundation. One example for generating a static magnetic field is described in U.S. patent No. 6,702,730, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In one embodiment, the plurality of magnets are formed of ceramic or neodymium magnets. In another embodiment, the plurality of magnets are formed of electromagnets.

The apparatus for generating a static magnetic field is operable to generate a magnetic field greater than about 0.5 gauss. The earth's magnetic field averages 0.5 gauss and penetrates completely through the body, so static magnets with field strengths below 0.5 gauss are not expected to be active. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus for generating a static magnetic field is operable to generate a magnetic field of between about 300 gauss to about 3000 gauss.

Grounding/earth (earth)

In a preferred embodiment, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system comprises a device for grounding or earthing the body of the user. Grounding or earthed ground is a common practice whereby an individual walks outdoors through bare feet or connects itself electrostatically to the earth through the use of grounded conductive pads, bed sheets or body straps when used indoors. Grounding is based on the following theory: the earth is a source of negatively charged free electrons, and the body can use these free electrons as antioxidants to neutralize free radicals within the body when in contact with the earth. Studies published over the past decade have reported various health-related outcomes including improved sleep, reduced pain, normalization of the effects on cortisol, reduction and/or normalization of stress, reduced muscle damage caused by delayed muscle soreness, reduction in the main indicators of osteoporosis, improved glucose regulation, and enhanced immune function. In one embodiment, the body-contacting surface (e.g., mattress pad, bed sheet) is attached to an electrical cord that is electrically connected to an electrical socket ground port. Alternatively, the surface in contact with the body is attached to a wire connected to a ground rod. Examples of devices for grounding the body are described in U.S. patent nos. 6,683,779, 7,212,392, and 7,724,491, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Far infrared reflection

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes far infrared reflection technology (e.g.,

). Far infrared reflection technology absorbs body heat and converts the body heat into Infrared (IR) energy, which increases blood flow to muscles and tissues in the body. Far infrared reflection technology from polyethylene terephthalate fibers (e.g. polyethylene terephthalate fibers)

) Forming or bonding bioceramics (e.g. of

). In one embodiment, the far infrared reflection technology is included in a set of sheets, bed covers (e.g., comforters, duvets, duvet covers), or mattress covers. In another embodiment, far infrared reflection technology is included in the pajamas.

Electromagnetic field blocking

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system includes electromagnetic field blocking. Electromagnetic fields (EMF) exist in modern day life due to wireless technology (e.g., Wi-Fi), power lines, cellular telephones and cellular telephone towers, cordless telephones, electrical wiring in homes and businesses, appliances (e.g., televisions, microwaves), computers, radios, smart meters, and lighting fixtures. Some researchers argue to shield EMF, especially while sleeping, as this is when the body repairs itself. Electromagnetic fields may interfere with the production of melatonin, which is responsible for regulating daily sleep/wake cycles. This may lead to long term health effects, including suppression of the immune system.

In one embodiment, the faraday cage blocks the EMF. The faraday cage includes at least one shielding fabric to protect the bed or sleeping space from EMF. The at least one shielding fabric is composed of at least one base material and at least one metal. At least one of the base materials is polyester, cotton, rayon, silk, bamboo and/or nylon. At least one metal is silver, copper, nickel, cobalt and/or tin. In a preferred embodiment, a first screen fabric is placed under the bed or mattress and a second screen fabric is placed over the bed as a canopy around the bed.

The faraday cage can block wireless transmission of data from the at least one body sensor. In one embodiment, the at least one body sensor obtains measurements before or after a sleep session. In another embodiment, at least one body sensor collects and stores data during a sleep session. The at least one body sensor is operable to transmit data to the at least one remote device after a sleep session.

Integrated bed system

Fig. 27 shows one embodiment of an integrated bed system 2700. The integrated bed system 2700 includes a headboard 2702, a footboard 2704, and a bed frame 2706 to support the mattress 102 and box spring or foundation 104. In one embodiment, the headboard 2702, footboard 2704, and/or bed frame 2706 include EMF shielding and/or positive ion shielding.

In a preferred embodiment, the headboard 2702 includes at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792. The at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 is preferably folded away from the headboard 2702, either manually and/or automatically (e.g., on a timer). The at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 includes at least one hinge, at least one spring, at least one piston, and/or at least one motor to reposition the at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792. Alternatively, at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 is permanently attached to the headboard 2702 facing the sleep surface. In one example, the at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 is two red and/or near infrared lighting devices. Advantageously, this allows each user of the twin bed to independently operate the red and/or near infrared lighting 792. In another embodiment, at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 is located above the sleeping surface (e.g., on the ceiling). In one embodiment, the at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 includes at least one fan. The at least one fan cools the user from heat generated by the at least one red and/or near infrared lighting device 792.

In a preferred embodiment, mattress 102 includes PEMF device 784 embedded in mattress 102. In the example shown in fig. 27, PEMF device 784 has a first coil 2302 corresponding to a first region (e.g., head and neck), a second coil 2304 corresponding to a second region (e.g., torso and buttocks), and a third coil 2306 corresponding to a third region (e.g., legs and feet). In an alternative embodiment, PEMF device 784 is embedded in a spring mattress or foundation 104. In yet another embodiment, PEMF device 784 is placed under box spring or foundation 104 (e.g., on the floor, between box spring or foundation 104 and bedframe 2706).

In the example shown in fig. 27, the integrated bed system 2700 includes a combination mattress pad and red and/or near infrared lighting device 2710. The combined mattress pad and red and/or near infrared lighting device 2710 includes a mattress pad and red and/or near infrared lighting device 792. Alternatively, the integrated bed system 2700 includes bedding and/or red and/or near infrared lighting 792. In one embodiment, the mattress pad and/or red and/or near infrared lighting 792 is located on the sleep surface (e.g., mattress 102). In another embodiment, mattress pads and/or red and/or near infrared lighting are embedded in mattress 102.

Control box 2708 controls the electronic components of integrated bed system 2700. The control box 2708 preferably has at least one processor. By way of example, and not limitation, a processor may be a general purpose microprocessor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU)), a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), a controller, a state machine, gated or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any other suitable entity or combination thereof that may perform calculations, process instructions and/or other manipulations of information for execution. In one embodiment, one or more of the at least one processor is operable to execute a predefined program stored in the at least one memory of the control box 2708.

Control box 2708 preferably includes at least one antenna that allows control box 2708 to receive and process input data (e.g., temperature settings, start and stop commands) from at least one remote device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop, remote control). In a preferred embodiment, at least one remote device is in wireless network communication with control box 2708. By way of example, and not limitation, the wireless communication is radio frequency,

Wireless local area network, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other similar commercially utilized standards. Alternatively, at least one remote device is in wired communication with the control box 2708 via USB or equivalent.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one remote device is operable to adjust settings (e.g., therapy on/off, temperature settings, PEMF settings) of the components of integrated bed system 2700. The at least one remote device preferably has a user interface (e.g., a mobile application of a smartphone or tablet computer, a button on a remote control) that allows a user to select a target therapy using the integrated bed system 2700.

Control box 2708 may also include other features and electronics not shown. In one embodiment, control box 2708 includes features of the control unit of the mattress pad (e.g., at least one fluid reservoir for forming at least one mechanism for structured water). In another embodiment, the control box 2708 includes a touch control and display panel, an over-temperature protector, a level sensor, a thermostat, an additional chassis fan, and/or at least one speaker. Control box 2708 may also include an external power cord designed to plug into a standard household electrical outlet, or may be powered using rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. In one embodiment, the touch control and display panel includes a power button, a temperature selection button (e.g., up and down arrows), and/or an LCD that displays temperature. In another embodiment, the touch control and display panel includes a program selection menu.

Fig. 28 illustrates one embodiment of a headboard of an integrated bed system. The headboard 2702 includes red and/or near infrared lighting 792. Red and/or near infrared lighting 792. In the example shown in fig. 28, headboard 2702 includes integrated speakers 2800 for a sound generator. The integrated speaker 2800 is also operable to function as an alarm clock to audibly wake up a user.

Fig. 29 illustrates one embodiment of a footboard of an integrated bed system. In the example shown in fig. 29, the bed tail 2704 includes an integrated speaker 2800 for a sound generator. The integrated speaker 2800 is also operable to function as an alarm clock to audibly wake up a user.

Fig. 30 illustrates one embodiment of a red and/or near infrared lighting 792 of an integrated bed system. In the example shown in fig. 30, the red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 includes at least one lamp 3002 that emits a first wavelength and at least one lamp 3004 that emits a second wavelength. In one example, the at least one lamp 3002 emitting a first wavelength has a wavelength between about 660nm and about 670nm, and the at least one lamp 3004 emitting a second wavelength has a wavelength between about 830nm and about 850 nm. Although an equal number of at least one lamp 3002 emitting a first wavelength and at least one lamp 3004 emitting a second wavelength are shown in fig. 30, alternative ratios are compatible with the present invention. Further, although a total of 106 lamps are shown in FIG. 30, an alternative number of lamps is compatible with the present invention. In one embodiment, the red and/or near infrared lighting device 792 includes at least one fan 3006. The at least one fan 3006 cools the user from heat generated by the red and/or near infrared lighting 792.

Fig. 31 shows an embodiment of a combination mattress pad and red and/or near infrared illumination device. The combination mattress pad and red and/or near infrared illumination device 2710 includes a mattress pad 11 and a red and/or near infrared illumination device. The red and/or near infrared lighting device comprises at least one lamp 3002 emitting a first wavelength and at least one lamp 3004 emitting a second wavelength. Advantageously, the combination mattress pad and red and/or near infrared lighting 2710 uses the mattress pad 11 portion to cool the user from heat generated by the red and/or near infrared lighting portion.

FIG. 32 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a system architecture. The remote device has a mobile application that communicates wirelessly with the body sensor 702 and/or the environmental sensor 704, preferably on a smartphone. The mobile application may operate as a communication device with a third-party system (e.g.,

HomeKit^TM、

Home^TM、IF This Then

) And a system component 710. The body sensor 702 and/or the environmental sensor 704 may communicate information to the mobile application through a third party system. The system component 710 can communicate information to the mobile application through a third party system. The mobile application communicates with a remote server 708 over a network.

In one embodiment, the optimized values include, but are not limited to, sleep stages (e.g., awake, stage N1, stage N2, stage N3, REM sleep), respiration rate, heart rate, brain waves (e.g., β waves, α waves, theta waves, delta waves), blood oxygen rate, body temperature, and/or settings for the system component 710.

As shown in fig. 32, in one embodiment, remote server 708 hosts global analysis engine 754, calibration engine 756, simulation engine 758, and

databases

796, 797, 798, and 799. Although four databases are shown, any number of databases greater than one is equally possible. The global analysis engine 754 uses a virtual model of the real-time data-based pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system to generate predicted values for the monitored pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system. The calibration engine 756 modifies and updates the virtual model based on the real-time data. Any operating parameters of the virtual model may be modified by the calibration engine 756 so long as the resulting modifications are operable to be processed by the virtual model.

The global analysis engine 754 analyzes differences between predicted and optimized values. If the difference between the optimized and predicted values is greater than a threshold, simulation engine 758 determines optimized values for the monitored pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system based on real-time data and user preferences. Global analysis engine 754 determines whether changes in parameters of system component 710 are necessary to optimize sleep based on the output of simulation engine 758. If a change in the parameters is necessary, the new parameters are transmitted to the mobile application on the remote device and then to the system component 710. The calibration engine 756 then updates the virtual model with the new parameters. Thus, the system autonomously optimizes the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system (e.g., surface temperature) without requiring input from the user.

Fig. 33 is an illustration of a network of a stress reduction and sleep facilitation system. Data from multiple users may be stored on remote server 708. The remote server 708 is connected to a plurality of remote devices 511 through a network and a cloud computing system. Each of the plurality of remote devices 511 is connected to body sensors 702 and/or environmental sensors 704 and system components 710. Although only one remote server is shown, any number of remote servers greater than one is equally possible. The user may choose to send their data to remote server 708, which is stored in at least one database on remote server 708. The emulation engine on remote server 708 is operable to use data from multiple users to determine customized and optimized sleep settings for the user based on personal preferences (e.g., target hours of sleep, preferred sleep time, preferred wake time, faster time to fall asleep, less wake during sleep session, more REM sleep, deeper sleep, and/or greater sleep efficiency) or physical conditions (e.g., weight loss, comfort, exercise recovery, hot flashes, bed sores, depression). In one example, the temperature setting for a user with hot flashes (hot flashes) is automatically determined by the simulation engine examining data obtained from other users with hot flashes and temperature adjusted mattresses stored in a database of a remote server.

The stress reduction and sleep promotion system includes a virtual model of the stress reduction and sleep promotion system. The virtual model is initialized based on the selected program. The virtual model of the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system is dynamic, changing in real-time or near real-time to reflect the state of the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system. The virtual model includes information from body sensors and environmental sensors. Based on data from the body sensors and the environmental sensors, the virtual model generates predicted values for the stress reduction and sleep promotion system. The sleep stages of the user (e.g., awake, stage N1, stage N2, stage N3, REM sleep) are determined from the data from the body sensors.

The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system is monitored to determine whether there is a change in the state of the body sensor (e.g., a change in body temperature), a change in the state of the environmental sensor (e.g., a change in room temperature), a change in the state of a system component (e.g., a change in the temperature of mattress pads), or a change in the sleep stage of the user. If there is a change in state, the virtual model is updated to reflect the change in state. Predictive values are generated for the stress reduction and sleep promotion systems. If the difference between the optimized and predicted values is greater than a threshold, a simulation is run on the simulation engine to optimize the pressure reduction and sleep promotion system based on the real-time data. The simulation engine uses information, including but not limited to global historical subjective data, global historical objective data, global historical environmental data, and/or global profile data, to determine whether changes in parameters are necessary to optimize the stress reduction and sleep promotion system. In one example, the temperature of the mattress pad is lowered to keep the user in stage N3 sleep for a longer period of time.

Fig. 34 is a diagram illustrating an example process for monitoring a stress reduction and sleep facilitation system and updating a virtual model based on monitored data. First, in step 2202, a program that controls a pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system is loaded onto a remote device. In a preferred embodiment, the program is a predefined program or a customized program based on user preferences. In step 2204, optimized values from the program (including but not limited to sleep states, parameters of system components, and/or time of change) are loaded onto the global analysis engine. In step 2206, the real-time data is received by the remote server through the remote device. In step 2208, the real-time data is used to monitor the state of the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system. As described above, the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system includes a body sensor, an environmental sensor, a remote device having local storage, a remote server, and system components. Thus, in step 2208, the status of the body sensors, environmental sensors and system components and the sleep status of the user are monitored. In step 2210, a determination is made as to whether there is a change in the state and/or sleep state of the monitored device. If there is a change, the virtual model is updated by the calibration engine to reflect the change in state in step 2212, i.e., the corresponding virtual component data is updated to reflect the actual state of the various monitored equipment.

In step 2214, a predicted value for the monitored stress reduction and sleep facilitation system is generated based on the current real-time state of the monitored system. In one embodiment, the predicted values include, but are not limited to, sleep stages (e.g., awake, stage N1, stage N2, stage N3, REM sleep). In step 2216, the optimized values loaded in step 2204 are compared to the predicted values obtained in step 2214.

Thus, in step 2214, meaningful predictions are generated based on the monitored pressure reduction and the actual condition of the sleep facilitation system. These predicted values are then used in step 2216 to determine whether additional actions should be taken based on the results of the comparison. For example, if it is determined in step 2218 that the difference between the predicted value and the optimized value is less than or equal to the threshold value, then a no calibration instruction is issued in step 2220. If the difference between the real-time data and the predicted value is greater than the threshold, as determined in step 2218, a launch simulation command is generated in step 2222.

In step 2224, a function call to the emulation engine is generated in response to the launch emulation command. In step 2226, the simulation engine selects optimized values for the stress reduction and sleep promotion system. In step 2204, the optimization values are updated on the global analysis engine. Based on the output of the simulation engine, the global analysis engine determines whether the optimized values require a pressure reduction and a change in a parameter of the sleep facilitation system (e.g., temperature of mattress pad, room temperature, lighting, mattress firmness, mattress height) in step 2228. In a preferred embodiment, the simulation engine uses global historical subjective data, global historical objective data, global historical environmental data, and global profile data to determine whether a change in a parameter is necessary. If a change in the parameter is not necessary, a no calibration instruction is issued in step 2230. If a change in the parameter is necessary, the new parameter is transmitted to the remote device in step 2232. In step 2234, the remote device transmits the new parameters to the system component.

In step 2212, the calibration engine updates the virtual model based on the real-time data and the new parameters. A prediction value is then generated in step 2214. In this manner, the predicted values generated in step 2214 are updated to reflect not only the actual state of the monitored stress reduction and sleep facilitation system, but they are also updated to reflect natural changes in the monitored system as the user moves through the sleep cycle. Accordingly, a predicted value of reality may be generated in step 2214.

As mentioned previously, the at least one remote device preferably has a user interface (e.g., a mobile application of a smartphone or tablet computer) that allows the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system to adjust parameters of the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system. Parameters of the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system (e.g., target temperature of the mattress) can be manipulated throughout the sleep session using a customized or predefined program based on user preferences to produce a deeper, more restful sleep.

Because the target temperatures may be set at any time, those target temperatures may be manipulated throughout sleep to match user preferences or programs related to the user's sleep cycle to produce deeper, more peaceful sleep.

In one embodiment, the mobile application measures the time when the user starts trying to sleep (TATS), TATS start time, TATS end time, Time In Bed (TIB), TIB start time and/or TIB end time. The mobile application calculates the total TATS duration based on the TATS start time and the TATS end time. The mobile application also calculates a total TIB duration based on the TIB start time and the TIB end time. In one embodiment, the TATS start time, TATS end time, TIB start time, and/or TIB end time are indicated by the user (e.g., by pressing a button in the mobile application). Alternatively, the TATS start time, TATS end time, TIB start time and/or TIB end time are determined by sensors. In one example, the TATS start time is determined by the user closing the eyes while in bed. In another example, the TATS end time is determined by increased motion and/or opening of the eye as measured by a movement sensor. In yet another example, the TIB start time is determined by a sensor indicating that the user is level and/or a bed sensor or room sensor indicating that the user is in a bed. In yet another example, the TIB end time is determined by a sensor indicating that the user is not level and/or a bed sensor or room sensor indicating that the user is not in bed.

The wakefulness state (i.e., "asleep") is characterized by loss of alertness and/or consciousness, lack of response to environmental cues, responsiveness to environmental cues, sustained motion detected by a motion sensor, β waves and/or α waves detected by an EEG, increased heart rate, increased respiration, increased blood pressure, increased electrodermal activity, increased body temperature, open eyes, voluntary eye movement, and/or increased EEG at chin the sleep state (i.e., "asleep") is characterized by a lack of alertness and/or consciousness, lack of response to environmental cues, lack of motion, reduction in α waves detected by an EEG, increased theta and delta waves detected by an EEG, reduced heart rate, reduced respiration, reduced blood pressure, reduced body temperature, closed eyes, eye twitching, and/or reduced oxygen saturation of blood.

In a preferred embodiment, the mobile application is operable to measure an initial sleep start time (initial sleep time) and/or a final wake-up time. The initial sleep onset time is the first occurrence of sleep after the TATS onset time. The final wake-up time is the time immediately after the last occurrence of sleep before the TATS end time. In one embodiment, the mobile application calculates the latency to sleep onset (latency to sleep offset) as the duration of the time interval between the TATS start time to the initial sleep start time. In another embodiment, the mobile application calculates the latency to getting up (latency to getting) as the duration of the time interval between the final wake-up time to the TATS end time. In a preferred embodiment, the mobile application is operable to calculate a sleep efficiency percentage. In one embodiment, the sleep efficiency percentage is defined as the total sleep time divided by the total TATS duration. In an alternative embodiment, the sleep efficiency percentage is defined as the total sleep time divided by the total TIB duration.

In one embodiment, the mobile application is operable to determine a total sleep cycle duration, a total sleep time, a sleep maintenance percentage, a total wake duration, a wake duration after an initial sleep initiation, a total number of awakenings, a wake per hour rate, and/or a sleep fragmentation rate.

In another embodiment, the mobile application is operable to determine REM sleep, N1 sleep, N2 sleep and/or N3 sleep, REM sleep is characterized by a low voltage, mixed frequency EEG activity with α activity less than 15 seconds, sawtooth wave theta EEG activity, rapid eye movement and/or reduced or absent EMG activity on chin N1 sleep is characterized by a low voltage, mixed frequency EEG activity with α activity less than 15 seconds within a period of 30 seconds, no sleep spindle wave or K-complex, possibly slow rolling eye movement and/or reduced EMG activity on chin N2 sleep is characterized by high amplitude (e.g., greater than 75 μ V peak-to-peak value) and/or activity of K-complex, lack of eye movement, and/or reduced EMG activity on chin 3 sleep is characterized by a high latency self-sleep onset percentage, sleep latency percentage, sleep onset percentage, sleep latency percentage, and latency percentage, sleep latency percentage.

Alternatively, the sleep state calculations and determinations described above are determined over a network on a remote server. In one embodiment, the calculation and determination of the sleep state is then transmitted to at least one remote device.

FIG. 35 illustrates a home screen of one embodiment of a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for a mobile application. The bottom navigation bar allows the user to quickly switch between destinations in a mobile application. In fig. 35, the bottom navigation bar includes icons for a main screen, a schedule screen, a sleep screen, a progress screen, and a target setting screen (in order from left to right).

The home screen includes a graph of the number of hours the user is asleep versus the date. In this example, the graph provides the number of hours the user was asleep for the first 10 days. In one embodiment, the number of hours the user is asleep for a day is determined from the wearable device (e.g.,

UP、Misfit^TM、Apple

Steel、

go). Alternatively, the user manually enters the time the user falls asleep and the time the user wakes up.

The home screen also provides a current snapshot of the user's daily health information. The user's daily health information includes, but is not limited to, the number of steps the user has taken, the percentage of fitness goals achieved, the number of calories consumed by the user, and the amount of water consumed by the user. This information is preferably updated by the mobile application in real-time or near real-time. In one embodiment, this information is manually entered into the mobile application. Alternatively, the information may be provided from a third party application (e.g.,

Misfit^TM、

Health、

health Mate).

The home screen allows the user to set up intelligent alerts (e.g., 6:10 AM). The smart alarm raises the surface temperature of the mattress pad sufficiently over a period of time to allow the user to come out of the last sleep cycle. The speed of waking up is based on the sleep cycle information. The rate of temperature rise is faster (e.g., 0.278 c/min (0.5F/min)) if a new cycle is just started. If the user just comes out of the bottom of the sleep cycle, the rate of temperature rise is slow (e.g., 0.056 deg.C/min (0.1 deg.F/min)). In one embodiment, the mobile application uses active data collection of vital signs of the user (including but not limited to heart rate, respiration rate, blood oxygen level, brain waves, and/or skin temperature) to determine the speed of arousal.

FIG. 36 illustrates a schedule screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. The mobile application allows the user to select a temperature schedule. In FIG. 36, the temperature varied between 10PM and 6AM between 10-18.33 deg.C (50-65 deg.F). The schedule screen displays a graph of temperature versus time.

FIG. 37 illustrates another schedule screen of an embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. Mobile applications allow a user to select sleep and wake times.

FIG. 38 illustrates a sleep screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application. The sleep screen displays a graph of time versus temperature for the previous day. The sleep screen displays the starting temperature and wake-up time during the sleep session. The user may select the "start sleep" button to manually track the sleep cycle.

The sleep screen also has a button for a smart alarm. This allows the mobile application to adjust the settings of the mattress pad to wake the user at the optimal time within the sleep cycle. As previously mentioned, gently waking up the user by increasing the temperature may prevent sleep inertia. The sleep screen also has buttons for tracking the user's movements. In addition, the sleep screen also has buttons for tracking the user's voice.

FIG. 39 illustrates a target setup screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. The goal setting screen allows the user to turn on or off the bed time reminder and select a target number of hours (e.g., 8 hours) to sleep. The target setting screen also allows the user to select a preferred sleep time (e.g., 10:00PM) and a preferred wake-up time (e.g., 6:00 AM). The target setting screen also allows the user to set a target weight, a target amount of water to be consumed, and a target number of calories to be consumed. Other goals include, but are not limited to, faster time to sleep, less arousals during sleep sessions, more REM sleep, deeper sleep (e.g., N3 sleep), and/or greater sleep efficiency.

FIG. 40 illustrates a progress screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application. The progress screen includes a graph of the number of hours the user is asleep versus the date. In this example, the graph provides the number of hours the user was asleep for the first 10 days. The progress screen displays the current sleep efficiency (e.g., 80%). The progress screen lists the current date, sleep time, wake-up time, and number of hours of sleep. The "manual record" button allows the user to manually record sleep. The progress screen also includes a graph of depth of sleep (e.g., light or deep) versus date. In this example, the graph provides the depth of sleep for the first 10 days. The progress screen displays the time spent in deep sleep (e.g., 5.30hrs) and the time spent in light sleep (e.g., 3.15 hrs).

FIG. 41 illustrates a profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. In this embodiment, the mobile application includes a social composition. The mobile application allows the user to upload photos. Mobile applications also allow users to focus on other users. In this example, the user has 863 followers. The notification shows that the user has 4 new followers. In addition, mobile applications allow users to enjoy status updates and photos of other users. In this example, the user posts 2471 photos and has 1593 likes. The notification shows that the user has 7 new likes. In addition, the GUI displays statistics of likes, followers, and the number of photographs over several months.

FIG. 42 illustrates another profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. In this example, the mobile application is operable to send messages between users.

FIG. 43 illustrates yet another profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. In this example, the profile screen displays a 10PM weekday sleep time and a 6AM weekday wake-up time. The profile screen also displays a weekend sleep time of 10PM and a weekend wake-up time of 6 AM. The profile screen includes buttons to add sleep profiles. The bottom navigation bar allows the user to quickly switch between destinations in a mobile application. In fig. 43, the bottom navigation bar includes (in order from left to right) icons of a temperature screen, a sleep screen, an alarm screen, a notification screen, and a setting screen.

FIG. 44 illustrates an add-sleep profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI of a mobile application. The mobile application is operable to allow a user to set sleep and wake times. Further, the mobile application is operable to allow a user to select a temperature of the mattress pad during the sleep period. In this example, the temperature was set at 17.22 ℃ (63 ° F) at 10PM, 26.11 ℃ (79 ° F) at 11PM, 33.89 ℃ (93 ° F) at 12AM, 26.67 ℃ (80 ° F) at 1AM, 47.78 ℃ (118 ° F) at 2AM, 40.56 ℃ (105 ° F) at 3AM, 37.22 ℃ (99 ° F) at 4AM, 32.22 ℃ (90 ° F) at 5AM, and 26.11 ℃ (79 ° F) at 6 AM. Further, mobile applications allow the user to select a gentle wake-up that warms the user slowly (e.g., 0.278 ℃/minute (0.5 ° F/minute)) to wake the user up.

FIG. 45 illustrates a dashboard screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. In this embodiment, the mobile application is operable to allow a user to check the water level of at least one reservoir in the control unit. In a preferred embodiment, the mobile application notifies the user when the water level is below a threshold. Further, mobile applications allow the user to display sleep efficiency.

In another embodiment, the mobile application notifies the user that water treatment or decontamination is desired. In another embodiment, the mobile application automatically schedules water treatment or decontamination at specified time intervals (e.g., automatically turns on a UV lamp for water treatment).

Most individuals adopt a monophasic sleep pattern (e.g., 6-8 hours of sleep once). Non-monophasic sleep occurs when an individual adopts a biphasic or multiphasic sleep pattern. The bi-phasic sleep mode is when an individual sleeps twice a day. Typically, this consists of a shorter rest during the day (e.g., "afternoon nap") and a longer sleep period during the night. Multiphasic sleep patterns (e.g., Everyman, Uberman, Dymaxion, Dual Core) consist of multiple sleeps throughout the day, typically ranging from 4 to 6 cycles of sleep per day.

FIG. 46 illustrates a profile screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application that allows bi-phasic sleep. In this example, the user sleeps from 1PM to 3PM and 11PM to 5AM on weekdays. The user also sleeps from 1PM to 3PM and 2AM to 9AM on weekends.

Although fig. 43 and 46 show weekday and weekend sleep schedules, the mobile application is operable to allow the user to set a specific sleep schedule for each day of the week. In one example, the mobile application allows the user to set different sleep schedules for monday through thursday (e.g., weekdays of compressed weekdays), friday, saturday, and sunday.

In a preferred embodiment, the mobile application is operable to provide reminders to the user. In one example, the mobile application alerts the user to gain additional sleep (e.g., due to physical activity). In another example, the mobile application alerts the user to go to sleep. In one embodiment, the mobile application is operable to provide treatment recommendations based on the user profile. In one example, the mobile application provides guided meditation to relieve stress. In another example, mobile applications suggest treatment with TENS devices to reduce pain.

In another embodiment, the mobile application is operable to analyze trends over time. In one example, the mobile application determines that the heart rate of the user has increased by 15 beats per minute over a period of one year. The mobile application suggests to the user to contact the healthcare provider as this may be a symptom of a heart disease. In another example, the mobile application determines that the blood oxygen level of the user as measured by a pulse oximeter is decreasing during the night. The mobile application advises the user to contact the healthcare provider as this may be a symptom of sleep apnea.

The mobile application preferably allows users to download their information (e.g., in Comma Separated Value (CSV) files). Additionally or alternatively, the mobile application allows users to share their information with healthcare providers and/or caregivers.

FIG. 47 illustrates a dashboard screen of another embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. In this embodiment, the dashboard screen displays the personal health score of the user. In a preferred embodiment, the personal health score is calculated using the sleep quality score and the sleep volume score. In one embodiment, the personal health score is calculated by weighting a sleep quality score higher than the sleep volume score. In one example, a ratio of the sleep quality score to the sleep volume score of 9:7 is used to calculate the personal health score.

The height and weight of the user are displayed on the dashboard screen. While height and weight are displayed in metric units (cm and kg, respectively), the mobile application is operable to display alternative units (e.g., feet, pounds). In one embodiment, the audio signal is output from a smart scale (e.g.,

Body+^TM、

Index^TM、Under

Scale、Pivotal

Smart Scale、

core) and/or body weight obtained by a third party application. Alternatively, the height and/or weight is manually entered by the user. The user's fat percentage is displayed on the dashboard screen. In one embodiment, the fat percentage is derived from a smart scale and/or by a third party application using bioelectrical impedance. In another embodiment, the fat percentage is manually entered by the user. Alternatively, the dashboard displays the body mass index of the user. The body mass index is calculated using the weight and height of the user. The heart rate of the user is displayed on the dashboard screen. The heart rate is preferably obtained from a heart rate sensor.

The dashboard screen allows the user to display an accessory (e.g.,

UP、Misfit^TM、Apple

Steel、

Go、smart scale) to a mobile application. The body hydration level is displayed for the user on the dashboard screen. In one embodiment, the body hydration level is expressed as a percentage. In one embodiment, the body hydration level is calculated based on the number of cups of water for a day. In one example, the user consumes 4 cups of water a day, with the goal being 8 cups of water a day, resulting in a body hydration level of 50%. Alternatively, the body hydration level is calculated based on ounces of water. In one example, the user consumes 1.5 liters of water a day, with the goal being 3 liters of water a day, resulting in a body hydration level of 50%. In a preferred embodiment, the screen displays today, yesterday and/or ensemble averaged body hydration levels.

The energy burned by the user is displayed on the dashboard screen. The energy of combustion is preferably displayed as the number of calories burned. In a preferred embodiment, the wearable device (e.g.,

UP、Misfit^TM、Apple

Steel、

go) to obtain the energy of combustion. In another embodiment, the energy of combustion is obtained from a smartphone or a third party application. Alternatively, the energy of combustion is manually input by the user. In a preferred embodiment, the screen displays today, yesterday and/or ensemble averaged combustion energy levels.

The dashboard screen also displays PEMF health scores. The PEMF health score is preferably displayed as a percentage. In a preferred embodiment, the PEMF health score is based on user input. In one example, the PEMF health score is based on answers to survey questions. The survey questions ask the user to assess pain 1 hour after treatment, during physical activity, 24 hours after treatment, 2 days after treatment, 5 days after treatment, and/or 1 week after treatment. Survey questions ask the user to assess mobility and mobility at 1 hour after treatment, during physical activity, 24 hours after treatment, 2 days after treatment, 5 days after treatment, and/or 1 week after treatment. Answers to the survey questions determine the level of treatment and PEMF health score required. In one example, a serious problem is given a PEMF health score of between about 0% and about 35%, a persistent problem is given a PEMF health score of between about 35% and about 65%, and a managed problem requiring intensive therapy (e.g., monthly intensive therapy) is given a PEMF health score of between about 65% and about 95%.

The nutritional health score is displayed for the user on a dashboard screen. The nutritional health score is preferably displayed as a percentage. In a preferred embodiment, the nutritional health score is based on user input. In one embodiment, the nutritional health score is based on a target number of calories. In one example, the user consumes 1000 calories a day, with a goal of 2000 calories a day, resulting in a nutritional health score of 50%. In another embodiment, the nutritional health score is based on a target percentage of fat, a target percentage of carbohydrates, and/or a target percentage of proteins. Alternatively, the nutritional health score is based on a target total amount of fat, a target total amount of carbohydrates, and/or a target total amount of proteins. In one example, the user consumes 50 grams of protein a day, with a target of 100 grams of protein, resulting in a nutritional health score of 50%. In yet another embodiment, the nutritional health score includes nutritional supplements (e.g., vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics) consumed by the user.

The dashboard screen also displays the time of day (e.g., 6:15), location, date, and/or weather forecast for the location. In one embodiment, the weather forecast for the location includes temperature and/or conditions (e.g., cloudy, sunny).

The blood oxygen level of the user is displayed on the dashboard screen. The blood oxygen level of the user is obtained from a pulse oximeter sensor. The dashboard screen includes buttons that prompt scanning using the energy field sensors. In a preferred embodiment, the energy field sensor is a GDV device. In one embodiment, the GDV device scans at least one hand and/or at least one finger of the user to measure the energy field of the user.

FIG. 48 illustrates a treatment summary screen of one embodiment of a GUI for a mobile application. The treatment summary screen displays the number of minutes of treatment within a month for the user. In this embodiment, the treatment summary screen displays the number of minutes the user has been treated with infrared, TENS and PEMF during a month. In a preferred embodiment, the number of minutes of treatment by the user within a month is displayed as a bar graph, with each treatment (e.g., infrared, TENS, PEMF) displayed in a different color. The day of the month (e.g., 1,3, 6,9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27) is preferably displayed at the number of minutes the user is treated.

FIG. 49 is a diagram illustrating an example process for a user interacting with a mobile application prior to a sleep session. First, in step 4902, the mobile application asks the user how they feel. In one embodiment, the mobile application requests that the user provide a numerical score (e.g., 1-10) that assesses how they feel. In one example, a numerical score corresponding to 1-7 is considered negative and a numerical score corresponding to 8-10 is considered positive. Alternatively, mobile applications provide a description (e.g., help needed, not good, but also, better, excellent) to the user about how they feel to make a selection. In one example, the need for assistance, not being good, and may also be better considered negative, and excellent is considered positive. In another embodiment, the mobile application requests the user to rate a health issue (e.g., shoulder pain rated 5, knee pain rated 7, back pain rated 8). If the user feels positive, the mobile application proceeds to step 4912. If the user feels negative, the mobile application prompts the user to scan their energy field with an energy field sensor in step 4904. In step 4906, the mobile application obtains a biometric input. The biometric input is from a body sensor and/or a third party application (e.g.,

Misfit^TM、

Health、

health Mate). In step 4908, the mobile application asks the user if they want to update their profile. In one example, the mobile application asks the user if the user wants to update their profile due to pain or other symptoms and/or if the user has any changes to their medical history (e.g., under the treatment of a doctor, a newly diagnosed disease such as diabetes). If the user wants to update their profile, the user provides input in step 4910 and the mobile application proceeds to step 4912. If the user does not want their profile updated, the mobile application proceeds to step 4912.

In step 4912, the mobile application queries the user about today and/or tomorrow. In one example, the mobile application queries the user about today's physical activity, nutrition, hydration, stress, sleep (e.g., nap), and/or bedtime. Alternatively, the mobile application obtains information from third party applications and/or body sensors. In another example, the mobile application asks the user about tomorrow's plans (e.g., cognitive tasks such as testing or important meetings, physical activities such as marathon, stress or emotional problems such as family members with health issues). The user provides an input in step 4914.

In step 4916, the mobile application asks the user whether the user wants to see the current settings of the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system. If the user does not want to view the current settings, the mobile application proceeds to step 4924. If the user does want to view the current settings, the mobile application lists the current settings in step 4918. In step 4920, the mobile application asks the user if they want to change the settings of the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system. If the user does not want to change the settings, the mobile application proceeds to step 4924. If the user does want to change the settings, the settings are updated in step 4922 and the mobile application proceeds to step 4924. In step 4924, the mobile application asks the user if they want to recover now (i.e., begin treatment). The treatment utilizes system components (e.g., temperature-regulated mattress pads, PEMF devices, TENS devices, red and/or near-infrared illumination devices) to reduce stress and promote sleep.

FIG. 50 is a diagram illustrating an example process for a user interacting with a mobile application after a sleep period. First, in step 5002, the mobile application asks the user how they feel. In one embodiment, the mobile application requests that the user provide a numerical score (e.g., 1-10) that assesses how they feel. In one example, a numerical score corresponding to 1-7 is considered negative and a numerical score corresponding to 8-10 is considered positive. Alternatively, mobile applications provide a description (e.g., help needed, not good, but also, better, excellent) to the user about how they feel to make a selection. In one example, help is needed, not good, but also better can be considered negative, and excellent is considered positive. In another embodiment, the mobile application requests the user to rate a health issue (e.g., shoulder pain rated 5, knee pain rated 7, back pain rated 8). If the user feels positive, the mobile application proceeds to step 5012. If the user feels negative, the mobile application prompts the user to scan their energy field with the energy field sensor in step 5004. In step 5006, the mobile application obtains biometric input. The biometric input is from a body sensor and/or a third party application (e.g.,

Misfit^TM、

Health、

health Mate). In step 5008, the mobile application asks the user whether they want to update their profile. In one example, the mobile application asks the user if the user wants to update their profile due to pain or other symptoms and/or if the user has any changes to their medical history (e.g., under the treatment of a doctor, a newly diagnosed disease such as diabetes). If the user wants to update their profile, the user provides input in step 5010 and the mobile application proceeds to step 5012. If the user does not want their profile updated, the mobile application proceeds to step 5012.

In step 5012, the mobile application asks the user if their condition improves. Alternatively, the mobile application determines whether their condition has improved based on the condition score prior to the sleep period. In one example, shoulder pain is rated 5 before the sleep period and 3 after the sleep period, representing an improvement in shoulder condition.

In step 5014, the mobile application asks the user if the user wants to see the current settings of the stress reduction and sleep facilitation system. If the user does not want to view the current settings, the mobile application proceeds to step 5022. If the user does want to view the current settings, the mobile application lists the current settings in step 5016. In step 5018, the mobile application asks the user if the user wants to change the settings of the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system. If the user does not want to change the settings, the mobile application proceeds to step 5022. If the user does want to change the settings, the settings are updated in step 5020 and the mobile application proceeds to step 5022. In step 5022, the mobile application asks the user if they want to recover now (i.e., begin treatment). The treatment utilizes system components (e.g., a temperature-regulated mattress, PEMF device, TENS device, red and/or near-infrared illumination device) to reduce stress and promote sleep. If the user wants to begin treatment, the recovery procedure begins in step 5024. The mobile application selects an appropriate recovery procedure based on the time of day and/or user preferences. In one example, the user wants to start treatment after a sleep session and the mobile application chooses to treat using the PEMF device to reduce stress.

In another embodiment, the mobile application uses at least one photographic impact meter (PAM) to determine the mood of the user. The mobile application displays a plurality of photos and the user selects the photo that best corresponds to the user's mood. An example of PAM is described in Pollak, J.P., Adams, P., Gay, G. (2011) "PAM: A photopic Africance meter for frequency, in situ measurement of effect" (in the Proceedings of the ACM Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI 2011), Vancouver, BC, Canada, 5 months 5-12 days, pp.725-734), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the system is a distributed platform utilizing block-chain technology. The decentralized platform is operable to store information about the health, sleep and stress levels of the user. In one embodiment, the blocks of data within the chain are encrypted using cryptography. An individual user may authorize access to their data by providing a private password or key to another individual (e.g., a healthcare provider). A blockchain based decentralized platform provides security for peer-to-peer sharing of medical information by preventing unauthorized access to a user's private medical information.

FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the invention of a computer system, generally depicted as 800, having a network 810, a plurality of

computing devices

820, 830, 840, a server 850, and a database 870.

The server 850 is constructed, arranged, and coupled to enable communication with a plurality of

computing devices

820, 830, 840 over the network 810. The server 850 includes a processing unit 851 with an operating system 852. An operating system 852 enables the server 850 to communicate with remote distributed user devices over the network 810. The database 870 may house an operating system 872, memory 874, and programs 876.

In one embodiment of the invention, the system 800 includes a cloud-based network 810 for distributed communication via a wireless communication antenna 812 and processing by at least one mobile communication computing device 830. In another embodiment of the invention, the system 800 is a virtualized computing system capable of executing any or all aspects of the software and/or application components presented herein on the

computing devices

820, 830, 840. In certain aspects, the computer system 800 may be implemented using hardware or a combination of software and hardware, in a special purpose computing device or integrated into another entity or distributed among multiple entities or computing devices.

By way of example, and not limitation,

computing devices

820, 830, 840 are intended to represent various forms of

digital computers

820, 840, 850 and mobile device 830, such as servers, blade servers, mainframes, mobile phones, individual digital assistants (PDAs), smartphones, desktop computers, netbook computers, tablet computers, workstations, laptop computers, and other similar computing devices. The components shown here, their connections and relationships, and their functions, are meant to be exemplary only, and are not meant to limit implementations of the inventions described and/or claimed in this document.

In one embodiment, the computing device 820 includes components such as a processor 860, a system memory 862 having a Random Access Memory (RAM)864 and a read-only memory (ROM)866, and a system bus 868 that couples the memory 862 to the processor 860. In another embodiment, the computing device 830 may additionally include components such as a storage device 890 for storing an operating system 892 and one or more application programs 894, a network interface unit 896, and/or an input/output controller 898. Each of the components may be coupled to each other by at least one bus 868. The input/output controller 898 may receive and process input from, or provide output to, a number of other devices 899, including, but not limited to, an alphanumeric input device, a mouse, an electronic pen, a display unit, a touch screen, a signal-generating device (e.g., speakers), or a printer.

By way of example, and not limitation, processor 860 may be a general purpose microprocessor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU)), a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), a controller, a state machine, gated or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any other suitable entity or combination thereof that may perform calculations, process instructions and/or other manipulations of information for execution.

In another embodiment, shown as 840 in fig. 51, multiple processors 860 and/or multiple buses 868, along with multiple memories 862 of various types may be used as appropriate (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core).

In addition, multiple computing devices may be connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system). Alternatively, some steps or methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given function.

According to various embodiments, the computer system 800 may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to local and/or

remote computing devices

820, 830, 840, 850 over a network 810. Computing device 830 may connect to network 810 through a network interface unit 896 connected to bus 868. The computing device may communicate the communication media over a wired network, a direct wired connection, or wirelessly (e.g., acoustic, RF, or infrared), through an antenna 897 that communicates with a network antenna 812 and a network interface unit 896, which network interface unit 896 may include digital signal processing circuitry as necessary. The network interface unit 896 may provide communication under various modes or protocols.

In one or more exemplary aspects, the instructions may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. A computer-readable medium may provide volatile or non-volatile storage for one or more sets of instructions (e.g., an operating system, a data structure, a program module, an application, or other data embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein). The computer-readable medium may include the memory 862, the processor 860, and/or the storage medium 890, and may be a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed computer system) that stores one or more sets of instructions 900. Non-transitory computer readable media includes all computer readable media, with the only exception being the transitory propagating signal itself. The instructions 900 may further be transmitted or received over a network 810 as a communication medium that may include a modulated data signal (e.g., a carrier wave or other transport mechanism) via the network interface unit 896, and includes any transmission medium. The term "modulated data signal" means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal.

Storage 890 and memory 862 include, but are not limited to, volatile and non-volatile media, such as cache, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other solid state memory technology; a disk (e.g., Digital Versatile Disk (DVD), HD-DVD, BLU-RAY, Compact Disk (CD), or CD-ROM) or other optical storage device; magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage devices, floppy disks or other magnetic storage devices; or any other medium which can be used to store computer-readable instructions and which can be accessed by computer system 800.

It is also contemplated that computer system 800 may not include all of the components shown in FIG. 51, may include other components not explicitly shown in FIG. 51, or may utilize an architecture that is completely different from that shown in FIG. 51. The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, elements, circuits, and algorithms described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application (e.g., in different orders or divided by different means), but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present invention.

The above-mentioned embodiments are provided for the purpose of clarifying aspects of the present invention, and they are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. As an example, the temperature regulated item may be a mattress pad, sleeping bag, mat, or blanket. The above-mentioned examples are only some of the many configurations that the noted components may take. All such modifications and improvements are herein deleted for the sake of brevity and readability but are properly within the scope of the present invention.

The claims (modification according to treaty clause 19)

1. A stress reduction and sleep promotion system, comprising:

at least one remote device; and

an article for regulating the temperature of a surface, wherein the article further comprises:

a first layer, wherein the first layer has an outer surface and an inner surface;

a second layer, wherein the second layer has an outer surface and an inner surface, and wherein the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along the perimeter of the article;

at least one internal chamber defined between an inner surface of the first layer and an inner surface of the second layer;

at least one flexible fluid supply line for delivering fluid to the at least one interior chamber;

at least one flexible fluid return line for removing the fluid from the at least one interior chamber; and

at least one control unit attached to the at least one flexible fluid supply line and the at least one flexible fluid return line, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to selectively cool or heat the fluid, and wherein the at least one control unit has at least one antenna and at least one processor,

wherein the at least one remote device and the at least one control unit are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication;

wherein the at least one internal chamber is constructed and arranged to hold the fluid without leakage;

wherein the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer are comprised of at least one layer of waterproof material;

wherein the first layer has a plurality of openings;

wherein the second layer has a corresponding plurality of openings; and

wherein the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along a perimeter of each of the plurality of openings.

2. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, further comprising at least one remote server in real-time or near real-time bi-directional communication with the at least one remote device.

3. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, further comprising at least one body sensor, wherein the at least one body sensor is a respiration sensor, an electro-oculogram sensor, a heart rate sensor, a weight sensor, a movement sensor, an electromyography sensor, a brain wave sensor, a body temperature sensor, an analyte sensor, a pulse oximeter sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a electrodermal activity sensor, and/or a body fat sensor.

4. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, further comprising at least one environmental sensor, wherein the environmental sensor is a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a noise sensor, an air quality sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and/or an air pressure sensor.

5. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to receive parameters from the at least one remote device to modify a temperature of the surface.

6. The stress reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 5, wherein the at least one remote device wirelessly transmits the parameters via Bluetooth, radio frequency, ZIGBEE, WI-FI, or near field communication.

7. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, wherein the temperature of the surface is optimized based on a virtual model comprising predicted values of the pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system, data from at least one body sensor, and/or data from at least one environmental sensor.

8. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, further comprising a mattress having an adjustable firmness and/or height, an alarm clock, a humidifier, a dehumidifier, a pulsed electromagnetic field device, a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device, a sound generator, an air purifier, an odor generator, a red and/or near infrared lighting device, a sunrise simulator, and/or a sunset simulator.

9. The stress reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 1, further comprising a home automation system, wherein the at least one remote device is operable to transmit commands to the home automation system to adjust environmental conditions.

10. The pressure reduction and sleep promotion system of claim 1 wherein the fluid is water.

11. A stress reduction and sleep promotion system, comprising:

at least one body sensor;

at least one remote device;

at least one remote server; and

at least one control unit attached to the at least one flexible fluid supply line and the at least one flexible fluid return line, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to selectively cool or heat the fluid, and wherein the at least one control unit has at least one antenna and at least one processor;

wherein the at least one remote server and the at least one remote device are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication;

wherein the at least one remote server is operable to autonomously determine optimized parameters for the item based on data from the at least one body sensor, wherein a sleep stage of a user is determined based on the data from the at least one body sensor;

wherein the at least one remote server is operable to transmit the optimization parameters for the item to the at least one remote device;

wherein the at least one remote device is operable to transmit the optimized parameters for the item to the at least one control unit;

wherein the at least one internal chamber is constructed and arranged to hold the fluid without leakage; and

wherein the inner surface of the first layer and the inner surface of the second layer are comprised of at least one layer of waterproof material.

12. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, wherein the at least one body sensor is a respiration sensor, an electro-oculogram sensor, a heart rate sensor, a weight sensor, a movement sensor, an electromyogram sensor, a brain wave sensor, a body temperature sensor, an analyte sensor, a pulse oximeter sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a electrodermal activity sensor, and/or a body fat sensor.

13. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, wherein the at least one control unit is operable to receive parameters from the at least one remote device to modify a temperature of the surface.

14. The stress reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, wherein the at least one remote device wirelessly transmits the parameters via bluetooth, radio frequency, ZIGBEE, WI-FI, or near field communication.

15. The pressure reduction and sleep promotion system of claim 11 wherein:

the first layer has a plurality of openings;

the second layer having a corresponding plurality of openings; and

the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer along a perimeter of each of the plurality of openings.

16. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, further comprising a mattress having an adjustable firmness and/or height, an alarm clock, a humidifier, a dehumidifier, a pulsed electromagnetic field device, a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device, a sound generator, an air purifier, an odor generator, a red and/or near infrared lighting device, a sunrise simulator, and/or a sunset simulator.

17. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, further comprising at least one environmental sensor, wherein the environmental sensor is a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a noise sensor, an air quality sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and/or an air pressure sensor.

18. The stress reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, further comprising a home automation system, wherein the at least one remote device is operable to transmit commands to the home automation system to adjust environmental conditions.

19. The pressure reduction and sleep facilitation system of claim 11, wherein the at least one body sensor and the at least one remote device are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication.

20. A stress reduction and sleep promotion system, comprising:

at least one body sensor;

at least one remote device;

at least one remote server;

a pulsed electromagnetic frequency device, wherein the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device further comprises:

at least one induction coil;

a power supply coupled to a circuit that generates an Alternating Current (AC) output or a Direct Current (DC) output that is transmitted to the at least one induction coil;

at least one antenna; and

at least one processor; and

wherein the at least one body sensor and the at least one remote device are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication;

wherein the at least one remote device and the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device are in real-time or near real-time two-way communication;

wherein the at least one remote server is operable to autonomously determine optimization parameters of the item and/or the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device based on data from the at least one body sensor;

wherein the at least one remote server is operable to transmit the optimization parameters of the item and/or the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device to the at least one remote device;

wherein the at least one remote device is operable to transmit the optimized parameter of the item to the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device;

wherein the at least one interior chamber is constructed and arranged to hold fluid without leakage; and

Claims

1. A stress reduction and sleep promotion system, comprising:

at least one remote device; and

7. The pressure reduction and sleep promotion system of claim 1 wherein:

the first layer has a plurality of openings;

the second layer having a corresponding plurality of openings; and

11. A stress reduction and sleep promotion system, comprising:

at least one body sensor;

at least one remote device;

at least one remote server; and

wherein the at least one remote server is operable to determine optimization parameters for the item based on data from the at least one body sensor;

15. The pressure reduction and sleep promotion system of claim 11 wherein:

the first layer has a plurality of openings;

the second layer having a corresponding plurality of openings; and

20. A stress reduction and sleep promotion system, comprising:

at least one body sensor;

at least one remote device;

at least one remote server;

at least one induction coil;

at least one antenna; and

at least one processor; and

wherein the at least one remote server is operable to determine optimization parameters of the item and/or the pulsed electromagnetic frequency device based on data from the at least one body sensor;