DE202017003569U1 - Arrangement for controlled, timely fluid intake - Google Patents

Abstract

Arrangement for supporting the timely fluid intake by persons, characterized in that it consists of a housing (B) formed basic module (G) with a control unit (1) for controlling, displaying and signaling time intervals for the timely fluid intake, wherein on the front the base module (G) at least 3 with the control unit (1) connected detection and display devices are arranged as at least one sensor vessel detection (2) for detecting a storage vessel for liquids (8), as an interval display (I) for the visual display of current drinking interval and as an optical signal display (3) or a display for status-related signaling of the drinking intervals are formed and that preferably at a side surface (C) of the basic module (G) a program control (4) for programming the procedures at the time intervals and a connection socket for the Stromversorgungsanschl USS (6) are arranged, which are also connected to the control unit (1).

Description

The invention relates to an arrangement for supporting the time and volume-appropriate fluid intake and their detection / documentation. Many people, especially the elderly, forget to drink regularly, which can lead to health problems, especially those related to dehydration. In older people is added that the feeling of thirst is no longer so pronounced. Supervised persons need a corresponding additional care. Generally, from a medical point of view, the daily fluid requirement is estimated at 2 liters.

State of the art

Solutions are known which enable a time control by means of a wake-up device, mobile devices (smartphones). However, these are not fully suitable for all persons and furthermore do not guarantee the proof of active actual fluid intake / quantity. Other solutions include measuring the fluid content of the skin or evaluating the movements of the arms to deduce their drinking behavior.

Out EP2291113 A1 a device for determining and / or monitoring the liquid content of the skin is known, wherein the liquid content of the skin is determined electrically, in particular by a resistance measurement. The article below "http://de.engadget.com/2014/06/10/kompakter-sensor-uberwacht-wasser-elektrolyt-haushalt-warnt-vor/ "Describes a sensor that monitors the tissue fluid between the skin cells using microneedles and warns against dehydration. Under " http://www.fr-online.de/campus/hochschule-frankfurt-bei-wassermangelleuchtet-das-amiband,4491992,28194588.html "Describes a method that concludes by evaluating user-specific drinking arm movement pattern to a certain amount of drinking.

DE 20 2015 000 452 U1 describes a drinking alarm, as an essay on a drinking bottle, where by its weight a movable pin triggers a time mechanism of 60 minutes and after this time an alarm of sounds or light takes place. This essay only allows use on a bottleneck, with its own weight triggers the functions of a pen. Other sensors are not provided. It is not possible to use other vessels of any shape and size, such as jars, bottles and carafes, which are placed on a coaster to activate the functions. The optical signal display is only monochrome and is active only at the end of the stored time interval, an interim display of the elapsed time by multi-colored signal displays is not available. Further functions and applications, such as remote control for programming and display, signal forwarding, alarm call to caregivers, decorative coasters or TV simulator are not provided.

Disclosure of the invention

The invention has for its object to provide the users information for time and volume-appropriate fluid intake. For this purpose, a coaster for drinking vessels with a program selection is provided according to the invention, which draws attention by optical color displays on the current drinking situation.

The object is achieved by the invention specified in the independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

Users should receive information on time and volume-based fluid intake. The liquids are used according to user requirements in a drinking vessel or storage vessel 8th kept ready. You can use water glasses, cups, beverage bottles or beverage jugs as containers. Transparent or semitransparent drinking vessels or storage vessels, such as, for example, the commercial beverage bottles for water, are advantageous since they likewise shine in the colors of the current drinking cycle and thus contribute to better recognition of the current situation. With a program selection and associated luminous colors the individual beverage needs are taken into account. The programs are based on time intervals. The time intervals are defined depending on the application and serve to control the optical and acoustic signals. The arrangement according to the invention consists of a basic module G with a control unit 1 , The condition is detected by a sensor for vessel detection 2 , the before or below the storage vessel 8th attached, for example in the form of a scale, ultrasonic sensor, light barrier, pushbutton or pressure-sensitive sensor. As an indicator for the program processes, the recording and settling of a vessel apply. The data acquired by the respective sensors are stored in the control unit 1 , preferably a micro-controller, rated. The block diagram ( 1 ) shows the basic module G and the control unit 1 with input and output ports. The control unit 1 assumes the program sequence control for the respective application. With the program control 4 , the program to be selected can be activated via infrared or Bluetooth. The programs are based on time intervals. The basis is the Beverage requirement of 1.5 liters per day, with any additional needs covered by additional standard drinks. The time intervals and the amount of beverage per time interval are defined as variable quantities. These are preferably provided for interval times of 1.0-1.5-2.0 hours and beverage quantities of 0.25-0.3 liters. This results in an interval time of 2 hours and amount of drink of 0.3 liters at the start of the start 12 Hours a day. For a test and familiarization with the application, an additional program with an interval time of 1 minute is integrated.

The time intervals are defined depending on the application and serve to control the optical and acoustic signals. In addition, in the basic module G sensors 5 for the detection of the temperature and humidity and the brightness at the installation site are integrated, wherein in case of deviation of the measured values of standard values automatically adapted to the measured values program change via the control unit 1 he follows. The current drinking requirement situation is displayed via an optical signal display 3 , preferably 10 multicolor LEDs with the colors green, blue and red in addition, an indication can be realized via a display. If the end of the time interval is detected, the continuous signal previously displayed in red is switched to a flashing display. At the same time, an acoustic signal sounds. At this time, the storage vessel 8th for refilling from the scope of the sensor for vascular detection 2 be taken. This will extinguish previous signals. Will the storage vessel 8th then again from the sensor to the vessel detection 2 registered, there is a new time interval, with an interval display I indicates the next higher step. Already before the expiration of the interval, the storage vessel 8th Recorded and released, this is registered as a prematurely new interval. As a supplement to the acoustic signal, a radio transmitter can be used, which transmits the signal to a radio receiver used by the user. Radio transmission may be to hearing aids or equipment provided for reception, such as vibrating mode wristbands, also in combination and supplemented with nursing home facilities. When the assisted care device is used by care services in their own home or in homes, etc., an external signal E may be triggered after a grace period with red flashing displays. The signal is transmitted to a home emergency call system, preferably coupled by a relay for electrical isolation, or by radio. An unreleased or triggered signal is thus used in addition to the condition identification. When the signal is triggered, contact can be made with the person being cared for via the usual means of communication. For control purposes, the data can be stored for a longer time in a memory of the device combination and via a data interface 11 be read to use for a hydration log. Further embodiments provide for the connection to the Internet, the data being transmitted and evaluated via a platform provided specifically for this purpose and, moreover, being able to be made by authorized persons, also by means of a smartphone app, configuration settings of the device and control functions.

The device consists structurally of an arrangement with basic module G and control unit 1 , The basic module G is designed as a housing into which the assemblies according to the invention are integrated. It can have an angular or circular shape. The principle of action is described below with reference to a possible embodiment in which the storage vessel 8th is located on a surface which is arranged in front of the basic module G and firmly connected thereto. At the front of the basic module G are the LED indicators for the optical signals, optical signal display 3 , and the interval display I attached. The sensor for vessel detection 2 is located, depending on the design, on the front or below the top D of the basic module G. The storage vessel 8th is on a arranged at the front of the basic module G storage area 7 or positioned on the top D. The storage vessels 8th are or will be equipped with a quantity indicator. The LED indicator for the optical signal display 3 is placed in front of the storage area or under the storage area, so that the light shines through the vessel, even with bottles with labels, and the drinking requirement situation becomes visible from a further distance. Via a connection socket 12 , an additional flash unit or a speaker can be connected. The acoustic signal is generated by signal generators, such as piezo transducers or loudspeakers, and / or via a radio module, which is arranged inside the basic module G or outside via the connection socket 12 is connectable. The power supply is by means of plug-in power supply via a power supply connection 6 provided. The timed operation can either manually by the switch of a power strip, or automatically with one with the power supply 6 connected timer. The complete arrangement is designed so that it is protected against moisture.

The selection of program sequences and the sound adjustment is done by a program control 4 , by switch combination (dip switch, rotary coding switch) or remote control 9 or smartphone app 10 , A mobile use, as TrinkMelder in the vehicle, can by program setting in a variant without storage vessel 8th be done, with the power supply via a USB port of the on-board voltage is secured.

The solution according to the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to an embodiment.

1 shows a block diagram of the arrangement of the modules or the basic structure of the solution according to the invention.

In 2 the base plate is shown with the corresponding components for a circular embodiment of the solution according to the invention.

3 shows the outer view of the embodiment according to 2 with drinking vessel 8th , alternative Power Bank F and remote controls 9 and 10

In 4 is a flow chart for the sequence with time intervals shown as example in 2 and 3 illustrated, the basic module G is preferably as a circular saucer for drinking vessels, storage vessels 8th , educated. The housing B of the basic module G consists of a base plate A, on which the essential electronic components or components are arranged. The arranged on the base plate A annular side surface C and the circular flat surface D, which serves as a storage area 7 for the storage vessel 8th is formed, preferably consist of a translucent milky material, through which the light both the flat top (D), as well as the storage vessel 8th radiates so that it also shines. As a result, the current state of the drinking cycle can be better recognized. As optical signal displays 3 are, as in 2 shown, preferably 10 Multicolor LED's annular outside and centrally arranged on the base plate A, which reflect the current color cycle in the respective color for the drinking process, the brightness can be adjusted. Inside the housing B is located on the base plate A, the control unit 1 , with a micro-controller. This is the interface to the periphery, such as sensor vessel detection 2 , Sensors for temperature, humidity and brightness 5 , and the modules for remote control infrared, Bluetooth 4 provided. With an external power supply via USB cable via the Micro USB socket, the power supply connection 6 realized. Other options include the connection via a USB cable to a personal computer / MAC or via a power bank F. The condition is detected by the sensor for vascular detection 2 for example, a scale / weight sensor, ultrasonic sensor, light barrier or pressure-sensitive sensor. In the embodiment, the state detection takes place via a pushbutton, which is arranged on the underside of the base plate A. As an indicator for the program processes, the recording and discontinuation of a storage vessel apply 8th , If designed as a push button sensor for vascular detection 2 by the weight of the stored storage vessel 8th , preferably from a total weight of the storage vessel 8th including contents of 250 grams, actuated, the power is supplied through the power supply connector 6 for the microcontroller and the installed modules. Upon first use and program changes, the desired program by means of infrared remote control, remote control with control functions 9 , or smartphone app with control and monitoring functions 10 activated. The acknowledgment for the stored program is indicated by a yellow flashing of the optical signal display, which corresponds to the program number 3 acknowledged. When used regularly, the stored program starts automatically. In the variant smartphone app with control and monitoring function 10 the communication takes place after the coupling with the radio module, preferably via the program control 4 with Bluetooth module in duplex mode, so that they interact synchronously. The Bluetooth module program control 4 , acts as master. With the smartphone app 10 the program can be selected and transmitted, as well as status information on the drinking cycle (intervals) and a warning tone or announcements and calls to caregivers are triggered.

After discontinuation of the storage vessel 8th on the shelf 7 receives the smartphone app 10 the corresponding status information via Bluetooth and starts the program, whereby this and the selected program to the control unit 1 be sent as a receipt. The smartphone app 10 then monitors the previously defined procedure. In the meantime, the storage vessel 8th recorded, the program restarts and registers the number of drinking cycles. If the warnings are not responded to after a drinking cycle and a pre-set waiting period have elapsed, a message such as a telephone call or text message is sent to pre-defined persons.

The current drinking requirement situation is displayed via the optical signal display 3 , an LED array, in the sequence with the colors green (half of the time interval), blue (one-third of the time interval) and red (the remaining interval time). If the end of the time interval is detected, the continuous signal previously displayed in red is switched to a flashing display. At the same time sounds when using a smartphone app 10 an acoustic signal. At this time, the storage vessel 8th for refilling the storage area 7 be taken, resulting in the triggering of the sensor for vascular detection 2 leads. This will extinguish the previous signals. Will the storage vessel 8th then again from the sensor to the vessel detection 2 registered, starts a new time interval, whereby when using the Smartphone App 10 an interval display I indicates the next higher step. Already before the expiration of the interval, the storage vessel 8th Recorded and released, this is registered as a prematurely new interval. As a supplement to the acoustic and visual signal, a combination with nursing care facilities can also take place. When the assisted care device is used by care services in its own home or in residences, etc., an external signal E may be triggered after a grace period with red flashing displays. The signal is transmitted to a home emergency call system, preferably coupled by a relay for electrical isolation, or by radio. An unreleased or triggered signal is thus used in addition to the condition identification. When the signal is triggered, contact can be made with the person being cared for via the usual means of communication. Further embodiments provide the connection to the Internet, as well as smart home systems, which are transmitted and evaluated via a specially provided for this platform, the data and beyond by authorized persons, including smartphone app, configuration settings of the smartphone app 10 the caregiver can be made.

In addition, on the base plate A sensors for detecting the temperature of the humidity and the brightness 5 are arranged, which also with the control unit 1 are connected. These sensors can be used to record the corresponding data at the installation site and to the smartphone app 10 be transmitted.

If the measured values deviate from the standard values that underlie the drinking cycles, the data will be taken from the control unit 1 and module for program control 4 for example via Bluetooth, to the smartphone app 10 transfer. A program routine compares the measured values with the standard values and then makes an adjustment of the time intervals, which are sent back to the control unit 1 is transmitted. Messages about extreme weather conditions, such as heat, are made with the smartphone app 10 from external sources, such as weather services, and also used to program change the time interval. With the remote control 9 or the smartphone app 10 Other functions, such as the brightness control of the optical signal display 3 and programs for using the device as a decoration object and TV simulator provided. The menus of the remote control 9 and smartphone app 10 have at least buttons for program selection, brightness control, programs for using the device as a decoration object 9a -D, with selection of the permanent display of colors and color change, as well as a TV simulator 9e f. When using the arrangement according to the invention as a TV simulator allows a multi-color display, which is modeled on the TV picture, the presence simulation. These are intervals, preferably 6 hours and continuous, depending on the brightness sensor 5 available. The sensor for brightness 5 is also located on the base plate A. The start takes place in each case with 10 s simulation display regardless of the brightness as a test. If the query "Dark" results, the simulation program starts. If the query "Bright" results, the simulation program remains switched off until "Dark" is measured again. A sequence of the simulation program lasts 5-20 min. Thereafter, the LEDs are turned off to measure the brightness and restart accordingly.

Corresponding flow chart 4 the procedure is based on the example of a supervised person for a given interval time of 2 hours for a first drinking interval and a storage vessel 8th shown to be taken amount of 0.3 liters per drinking interval, wherein the storage vessel designed as a storage bottle 8th for a liquid volume of 1.5 liters, so a total of 5 drinking intervals is designed. Preparation is by means of remote control, preferably with infrared transmission 9 , or smartphone app 10 (Bluetooth), via the program control 4 the program is selected, with the LED array confirming 4 yellow lights up. Others, such as brightness, volume, are adjustable. Via an upstream timer for the power supply connection 6 the arrangement according to the invention is turned on in the morning at 07.00 clock. Is a storage vessel 8th set up, the time interval of 2 hours begins, using the optical signal display 3 first a green display is made. To 60 Minutes via the optical signal display 3 a color change from green to blue. After another 40 minutes, the color changes from blue to red, prompting you to drink. After another 15 minutes, ie at 08.55, the continuous signal turns red by a red flashing signal with additional sound when using the smartphone app 10 , replaced, which calls for compelling drinking. Within the next minute the water glass is emptied, refilled and the storage bottle, storage vessel 8th , set up again, the signals go out and the interval display I switches when using the smartphone app 10 from 0 to 1. There are thus another 4 time intervals of 2 hours each. Is drunk within the intervals water, so the storage vessel 8th recorded, a new interval time begins. If, within one of these intervals, you do not react to the signals after 2 hours, a message will be sent to the supervising house emergency service after a waiting period of 10 minutes. This takes telephone contact with the caregiver and reminds of the fluid intake. Will the storage vessel 8th emptied according to the predetermined amount of liquid and so the sensor for vascular detection 2 re-enabled, turns off when using the smartphone app 10 the interval display I automatically continues. After expiry of the 5 intervals and taking into account the time delay, the program is terminated at 19.15 clock. The timer programmed until 9 pm switches the power supply 6 for the arrangement.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

A

baseplate

B

casing

C

annular side surface

D

flat top

e

Output external signal

F

Power Bank

G

basic module

H

brightness control

I

interval display

1

Control unit / control module

2

Sensor vessel detection

3

optical signal display

4

Program control / infrared, Bluetooth

5

Sensor temperature / humidity / brightness

6

Power connector

7

Shelf flat top

8th

Storage jar

9

Remote control with control functions

9a

Single color green

9b

Single color blue

9c

Single color red

9d

color change

9e

TV simulation 6 hours

9f

TV simulation continuous operation

10

Smartphone app with control and monitoring functions

11

Data Interface

12

socket

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 2291113 A1 [0003]
• DE 202015000452 U1 [0004]

Cited non-patent literature

• "Http://en.engadget.com/2014/06/10/compact-sensor-monitoring-water-electrolyte-household-warning-before/ [0003]
• http://www.fr-online.de/campus/hochschule-frankfurt-bei-wassermangelleuchtet-das-amiband,4491992,28194588.html [0003]

Claims (14)

Arrangement for supporting the timely intake of liquids by persons, characterized in that it consists of a basic module (G) designed as a housing (B) with a control unit ( 1 ) for controlling, displaying and signaling time intervals for the timely fluid intake, wherein at the front of the basic module (G) at least 3 with the control unit ( 1 ) associated detection and display devices are arranged as at least one sensor vascular detection ( 2 ) for detecting a storage vessel for liquids ( 8th ), as an interval display (I) for the visual display of the current drinking interval and as an optical signal display ( 3 ) or a display for state-related signaling of the drinking intervals are formed and that preferably on a side surface (C) of the basic module (G) a program control ( 4 ) for programming the procedures at the time intervals and a connection socket for the power supply connection ( 6 ), which are likewise connected to the control unit ( 1 ) are connected. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the basic module (G) consists of a housing (B) with a circular base plate (A), a circular base surrounding the annular side surface (C) and on the annular side surface (C) flat top (D) is used as a storage area ( 7 ) for the storage vessel ( 8th ), wherein both the annular side surface (C), and the flat top (D) of a translucent, preferably milky translucent material, consist, - that on the base plate (A), the control unit ( 1 ) is arranged, firstly with the sensor for the vascular detection ( 2 ), which is designed as a pushbutton, which is positioned centrally on the underside of the base plate (A) of the base module (G), the second with the consisting of individual multicolor LEDs optical signal display ( 3 ), wherein the individual LEDs circular as an inner circle around the sensor for vascular detection ( 2 ) and are arranged as an outer circle on the outer edge of the base plate (A), and the third with the program control module remote control ( 4 ), either for infrared or Bluetooth, and the power supply connection ( 6 ) connected is. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the base plate (A) additionally sensors for the temperature, the humidity and the brightness ( 5 ), which are likewise connected to the control unit ( 1 ) are connected. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the program control ( 4 ), with the remote control ( 9 ), realized via infrared. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the program control ( 4 ) via Bluetooth with a smartphone app ( 10 ) is connected, via which the control functions of the arrangement as well as the signal output to the users takes place. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply for the assemblies of the base plate (A) via the power supply connection ( 6 ) with a USB interface, which can be connected to a charger via a USB cable. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply for the assemblies of the base plate (A) via a power bank (F), which is connected to the power supply connection ( 6 ) of the basic module (G) via a plug connection is connectable. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply ( 6 ) is connectable to a personal computer or Apple Computer via the USB cable connector. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply ( 6 ) is connectable via the USB interface with a car adapter. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the remote control ( 9 ) and the smartphone app ( 10 ) Program selection buttons (1, 60, 90 and 120 minutes), function selection as a decoration object ( 9a -D), for the function selection as a TV simulator ( 9e -F) and for the brightness control (H) are arranged. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for the optical signal display ( 3 ) 10 Multicolor LED with the colors green, blue red and yellow are arranged on the base plate (A), whereby 6 Multicolor LED at regular intervals from each other as outer ring at the outer edge of the base plate (A) and 4 Multicolor LED as inner ring on the Base plate (A) are arranged. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the expiration of a time interval via the control unit ( 1 ) in the context of a transmitter on the Base plate (A) or to the external output (E) is connected, in conjunction with radio receivers of the user, such as hearing aids or bracelets with vibration mode, an audible or haptic signal is output to the user. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when triggering an external signal to a home emergency call system, the coupling with the house emergency call system is carried out by a relay for electrical isolation. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data stored in the device combination via a data interface ( 11 ) to an Internet platform and provided for a hydration record.

Images