AU2018101088A4 - Dead device medic alert relay - Google Patents

Abstract

A wearable networked medic alert device and system whereby both the user's interaction with the device and the device itself is subject to a deadman's switch vigilance whereby a non-event and lack of response by either the user or the device will trigger the alert. The device works in conjunction with an automatic programmable interface, communications network and reliability circuit providing a systematic relay for reliable monitoring of both users activities and the device itself. Start FIGURE 6 Device Worn by User DeviicE Checked _NoDeientO by API, Device OK Device REchecked by API. Device OK Yes Communicate No No Answer, Notidy 2" channel, Receiver se r A n sw e rs> Yes 6 4 No Begin Alarm No REspunsefrmUe User ResponsE Yes Notify Receiver and/or Emergency service Disarms Alarmr in tire End

Description

TITLE

Dead device medic alert relay

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The subject matter of the present invention is part of the field of wearable emergency devices. These devices alert others at distant locations of an emergency for the person wearing the device. In particular, the invention is targeted towards people who are living relatively independently; who live with some freedom of movement and activitity. Another use case within the same broad field is people living alone or a lone user suffering a misadventure and consequently needing aid or supplies to avert a medical condition. The call for help (the “signal”) may be to a doctor, caretaker, friends and family (hereafter “receivers”). Such devices generally require the user to be conscious and free of medical conditions affecting the nervous system, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] A variety of communication devices are available; for example, a telephone, beeper or a dedicated devices that relay a signal for help.

However, users might be incapacitated and physically unable to operate a device.

[0003] Further, there is a problem inherent in leaving independently-minded people to ask for help. Some people are not in a position to assess their own medical condition and illness, which breeds a lack of action and willpower. Some people will not ask for help, and insist on waiting for definitive conclusions and completely true evidence that the condition warrants asking for help before taking a position, by which time it might be too late.

[0004] There is a partial solution to these problems in the use of a “fall detector” that will autonomously signal for help when a wearable device detects that the user has fallen over. However, this is relevant only to select incidents of falling over, where there is an antecedent action required to trigger the alert. For example, it does not cater to someone losing consciousness while lying in bed.

[0005] A problem with such devices is that they can fail for inadvertent reasons; for example, the batteries on a mobile phone or any device might go flat, or for other reasons the device might stop working. The challenge then lies in making the device and the user’s operation of the device failsafe.

[0006] The narrowing of the parameters about what can fail centers on a) The user’s capability b) The working condition of the device [0007] There are vigilant solutions where these problem areas are circumvented by personal monitoring.

[0008] There are a variety of devices for monitoring the medical condition of a patient, as seen in hospitals with visual display units. However, these devices and displays tend to be specific to a particular environment and condition, and ideally operate in a tightly controlled environment. They are not suitable for the quest for independent living. Outside a controlled environment, these tools might lead to human failure and the abandonment of due process.

[0009] There are portable solutions that resemble monitoring with the kind of detail that a hospital provides, in the form of a wearable harness. For example, US Patent Pub No. US 2012/0112903A1, but these solutions have disadvantages in the sense that they might not suit some users’ sense of comfort and everyday practicality when showering, sleeping, etc.

[0010] The Australian Redcross organisation operates a “Telecross” service whereby volunteers provide a personal good morning call to a list of recipients to ensure that they are alive and OK. However, this is a labour and timeintensive process. This level of vigilance suggests a need to deduce a solution in logic.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Looking outside the medical field and focusing on the field of engineering, a “dead man's switch” is a switch that is designed to be activated whenever the user is incapacitated; a variant of this theme is a dead man's vigilance device where the user is required to go through timed intervals. These solutions will be seen as relevant to the current invention because they address the problem of the user being incapacitated and a "non-event" triggering a signal.

[0012] However, this solution does not directly address the problem of the device becoming inoperative for any reason. The solution to this problem is found by applying the same principle of dead man's vigilance to the device itself.

[0013] In this scenario, there are several wearable devices being looked at. Each user and their individual wearable device is centrally monitored to ensure they have the fitness for the given purpose. If they do not, it sets off an alarm to indicate this.

[0014] Therefore, the vigilance of the user is subordinated to the vigilance of his or her device. If there is no response from the user or their wearable device, it triggers a signal and then messages are sent. In other words, either an unresponsive user or an unresponsive device will trigger an emergency signal. This approach is good for when the user is too incapable of disarming the device, or if the device is not responding. That way, a signal can be sent to indicate this.

[0015] Essentially, the invention’s propositional logic is of double negation, a proposition is equivalent to the falsehood of its negation: A = ~(~A) where = expresses logical equivalence, and ~ expresses negation.

Let A = an armed alert

Then, the user not disarming an alert = not (not arming alert) = An armed alert [0016] Similar logic is used in respect to the devices’ operation. If it does not respond to a remotely controlled check, then an alert is sent.

[0017] The invention envisages multiple wearable devices but one central monitoring system. This is like the way that a telephone network encompasses one network but many individual telephones. The invention is based on the use of multiple devices and the benefits of large-scale use which justify the thoroughness and reliability of central monitoring.

[0018] In this process, the reliability checks of all the individual devices are externalized to a centralized monitoring mechanism that provides vigilant reliability checks on all individual devices within a specific geographic region.

[0019] The need for external monitoring infers the need for 3 broad logical components, each of which covers a large number and wide range of subjects. They include: a) An automatic programmable interface (API) to check the device. b) A Communications Network to interconnect the API from a server to the device and a secondary communications channel.

Because the reliability of all individual devices is subordinated to the reliability of an API and a Communications Network, this infers the need for a reliability circuit. c) Reliability Circuit [0020] The three components, or their equivalents, are a continuation of the logic of the invention (as opposed to being auxiliary business logic).

Therefore, a good reason exists to consider these components as being integral to the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 shows a problem to be overcome with many medic alert devices. There is no signal sent from an unresponsive user because the user is not in a state to operate the device.

[0022] Figure. 2 shows a device sending a signal from an unresponsive user using a countdown timer [0023] Figure. 3 shows a user disarming a device so that the signal is not sent from the device.

[0024] Figure. 4 shows consequences of an unresponsive device, the user and receivers are notified.

[0025] Figure. 5 shows a signal from a device transmitted via a server to receivers with important information such as GPS location and heart rate.

[0026] Figure. 6 is a schematic flow diagram that outlines the steps in a flow of data in the communications network

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A: DEVICE AND USER OPERATIONS

[0027] The device works in conjunction with an automatic programmable interface, communications network and reliability circuit providing a systematic relay for reliable monitoring of both users activities and the device itself.

[0028] Figure 1 shows a problem to be overcome with many medic alert devices, no signal is sent from an unresponsive user. User, 31 is in an unresponsive state and does not press the button to activate and send a signal from the device, 33.

[0029] In contrast to the above scenario, figure 2 shows the device sending a signal as a result of a lack of response from the user. In the drawing, the user, 31, is incapable and lying down and does not press the button, 32 to disarm the device, 33 by the end of the countdown period, 34. And in consequence, a signal, 36 is sent at the end of the countdown period. In the preferable embodiment of the invention the device is wearable.

[0030] A signal is sent from the device at a predetermined time unless the user disarms the alarm within a given warning time. If the timer period is allowed to expire a visual and audible warning is given by the device. If the user fails to acknowledge the warning then the signal is sent [0031] Figure. 3 Shows a user disarming a device so that the signal is not sent from the device. In the drawing, the user, 31 presses a button, 32 on the device, 33, within a countdown period, 34. And in consequence of this action NO signal, 35 is sent.

[0032] The device item is wearable or mobile with independent wireless internet facilities and includes a) A display a countdown timer warning and b) an easy means to disarm the watch’s emergency transmission with one or two swipes or a press of a button c) The user can also manually send a signal. d) The device can transmit information relevant to the users condition including the presence of heart beat, GPS location and relevant medical information. e) the device optionally provides telephonic means for direct voice to voice communications with the user and wireless transmitter capable of sending a wireless alert [0033] The device comprises: a) Microphone b) Video camera; c) Transceiver d) Screen e) Speaker f) Power Source g) Heart Rate Sensor h) GPS Unit i) Memory

j) Logic Board I CPU k) Memory (RAM and ROM) l) SIM card m) Antenna n) Buzzer/Alarm

The precise circuitry and functional interrelation between the device components are subject to many modifications and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

B: COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK

[0034] In Figure 5, a signal from a device is transmitted via a server to receivers with important information such as GPS location and heart rate. Signal is sent, 36 from a device 33 to a server, 51 and re-transmitted, 52 to multiple receivers, 49. The message includes heart rate information, 56 GPS location, 57 audit log 58 and medical information, 59 [0035] The device exists within a communications network comprising: a) the device b) Secondary communications channel, eg a telephone c) Server — A computer for storing and sending data over the internet d) Settings dashboard (an internet web application) e) Internet, telephone and SMS messaging System f) receiver(s) — a listing of message recipients and their electronic addresses g) API — An automatic programmable interface that operates in the background

Summary of Transmissions [0036] Ultimately, messages or signals transmit: a) from sender to server, b) from server to receiver c) from server to secondary communications channel (when the device is unresponsive). API monitoring information goes to and from the server and the device [0037] More Detailed Explanation of the Communications Network. a) The device: The device sends information to the server and indicates a responsive state and sends signals in the event of no response from the user. b) Secondary communications channel — If one device is not working then the API will communicate this concern to the user on a Secondary communications channel, for example a voice message on a mobile phone to point out the lack of responsiveness of the device. c) The server stores information from the API and transmits messages to receivers with GPS location data and heartbeat rate along with preloaded medical information. The server provides load balancing to ensure access to a backup server. d) The device works in conjunction with a dashboard for configuring the device and its transmission. The portal for configuration comprising means for configuring i) the receivers electronic addresses ii) the package of information to be accompanied by the emergency signal iii) the characteristics of the deployment of the signal of the device, for example when the signal is to be sent, how often, duration of the warning time and so on. e) Internet, telephone and SMS messaging System: these are commonly available internet services, that the signals and messages are transmitted upon. f) receiver(s) — a listing of message recipients and their communication addresses, email addresses and text and telephone numbers

C: An API, AUTOMATIC PROGRAMMABLE INTERFACE

[0038] All the components of the communications network is interconnected with an API, An automatic programmable interface. The API works in the background and is programmed with unambiguous specification, an algorithm for automated reasoning tasks, or a set of rules. For example, when to take action by way of sending messages.

[0039] Figure 4, shows an automatic program, 41 that communications wirelessly, 42 with the device, 33 to check if the device 44 is responsive. In this case the device is NOT responsive, 45 due to a hardware malfunction its memory failed. The automatic program communicates, 46 to a secondary device, 47 and if there is no response from the secondary device then it transmits, 48 a message to multiple receivers, 49 [0040] Essentially, the API functions to a) Sign into and out of the device and confirms that it is responsive. b) Gather information from the devices, such as user activity on the device, device activity, heartbeat and GPS location information. The API detects and alerts vital signs that fall outside of preset parameters c) Create and stores an audit log of activity d) Works in conjunction with an intelligent rule based program system to conduct automated reasoning tasks to follow through with communications. The API can communicate with a users personal digital assistant e) The API provides access to a web portal that comprises a settings panel for configuring user preferences for example timing of alarms to be disabled and their properties, who and how to contact in the event of a signal and medical information.

The best way to monitor the API

[0041] The best way to use the API system is to provide for personal monitoring of the API by reducing all data where possible to a single aggregate metric, being an emergency level calculated from a plurality of metrics based on data received from the various sensors of the device and the automated reasoning of the API. The aggregate metric is displayed on a colour-coded logarithmic scale and is accompanied by alarms.

D: RELIABILITY CIRCUIT

[0042] Figure 6 shows a schematic flow diagram that outlining the steps in a flow of data in the communications network. The flowchart shows the core items of automated reasoning being the diamond shaped decision boxes.

Box 61 shows the device being checked via the API to ensure its in good working order, this happens continuously throughout the day. In the event of the device not being OK then its is rechecked, 62 and failing a response the user is notified on the phone, 63 and unless there is an answer receivers are notified. Otherwise, a countdown begins, 64 and unless the user responds the receivers are notified.

[0043] To ensure reliability, multiple parallel channels are used with redundancy where ever feasible. For example, multiple device signals, to multiple servers, communicating on mu tuple communication channels (text, phone and email) to multiple recipients and so on.

[0044] Other reliability measures, and which form part of a Continuous Improvement System include: a) Expected behaviors are modeled against actual behaviour (for example, comparing the reconfigured warning times entered into the dashboard against the actual warning times etc). b) Secondary communication devices are used for the benefit of communicating any faults to the user and optionally, to receivers. c) Secondary Notifications are sent to the user as well as some receivers when device settings are changed. d) The device is continuously checked by the API on a regular basis to provide an early warning system [0045] The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed, modifications and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiment, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0046] The flowcharts and drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or drawing may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s).

[0047] Industrial Applicability

In respect of industrial applicability, a current solution used by many users requiring medic alerts is to rely on a telephone service, for example from friends and family or the Red Cross ” telecross” service mentioned in the background of the application. Within industry, it appears that alternatives present more problems than solutions because of their technical complexity, reliability or other concerns regarding applicability. The present invention has industrial applicability because it is too easy to operate as the user does not have to do anything to send the signal. A dead user could send a signal on a broken device. The invention can be produced using standardised parts and operating processes understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

Therefore, it is reasonable to expect the solution can be readily applied in industry. Substantial contributions to existing solutions are sought because demographic trends mean age care costs impose an unsustainable economic burden on a variety of nations.

Claims (5)

1. The claims defining the invention are as follows:

   1. A device for transmitting a signal between a user of the device and several receivers of the signal, comprising: a) a display on the device that warns the user when an action is required wherein the absence of the action will result in transmission of the signal b) transmission of the signal in the event of a non-responsive user to indicate a medical emergency c) an Automatic Programmable Interface operated from a remote database server that signals when the device is non responsive d) transmission of the signal in the event of a specific action made on the device by the user to indicate a medical emergency e) a wireless transmitter for transmission of the signal on the internet using wireless or mobile telephone services f) transmission of information comprising heart rate, GPS location data and medical information of the user. g) a substantially shockproof and water-resistant bracelet or watch.
2. 2. A data communications network comprised of an automatic programmable interface, remote database server and a secondary messaging tool for voicemails, text and email messages that work in conjunction with the device claimed in claim one that is further comprised of: a) communications between the device and the server b) communication between the server and the secondary messaging tool that occurs when the device is non responsive c) communication between the server to receivers when the device is non responsive d) the server’s transmission of the signal from the device to receivers through a variety of text, email and voice messages, presented in an orderly and clean fashion, accompanied by text information, hyperlinks, attachments, audit logs, map, and heart rate chart. e) a receivers’ list comprised of one or more electronic addresses and means for communications between receivers and the server
3. 3. A means for remotely controlling the elements of the data communications network claimed in claim 2 through an automatic programmable interface comprising the steps for: a) a web-based data input mechanisms enabling a user to use the displayed information to update the automatic programmable interface b) providing an audit log of vital signs and activities from the user and of the device’s activities c) automated reasoning tasks to determine the communication necessary to inform receivers about the status of the device or the status of the user whereby the communication will advise of unsatisfactory performance of the device or the user d) transmission of the communication to receivers and the user
4. 4. A method of operating the device and the transmissions of signals and messages from the device as claimed in claim 1 thru a reliability circuit comprising redundancies in: a) use of multiple servers b) multiple signals sent thru Multiple modes of communication (text, email, and voicemail) c) multiple signals sent thru multiple bandwidth channels d) multiple signals sent thru multiple telecom providers e) multiple signals sent to multiple recipients f) matching the performance of the device, the user, and transmitted signals to the expectations of the system g) communication to the user through both the device and through secondary messaging tools i) notifications to the user and receivers when device settings are changed.
5. 5. The device as claimed in claim 3 where the operation of the device comprises a means for the user to easily disarm the signal with one or two touches, buttons or swipes of the device.