FR3108851A1 - SENSORY STIMULI GENERATION DEVICE FOR NEWBORN AND CORRESPONDING STIMULI GENERATION METHOD - Google Patents

Abstract

TITLE: DEVICE FOR GENERATING SENSORY STIMULI FOR NEWBORNS AND METHOD FOR GENERATING CORRESPONDING STIMULI The present invention relates to a device for generating sensory stimuli for newborns, characterized in that it comprises at least three sources of stimulation: a light source to generate a visual stimulus, a sound source to generate a sound stimulus, and an odorous source to generate an olfactory stimulus. The invention also includes a method that can be implemented by such a device. Figure for abstract: Figure 1 FIGURES

Description

NEWBORN SENSORY STIMULI GENERATING DEVICE AND CORRESPONDING STIMULI GENERATING METHOD

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a device for generating sensory stimuli for a child, in particular a newborn.

In particular, the invention relates to such a device intended to simulate the presence of a reference person, preferably an adult, such as a parent, in the immediate vicinity of a premature newborn and thus to promote the reduction of his stress. , promote its development, improve the relaxation of a newborn, premature or not and positively influence its hospital stay by modifying the acoustic, olfactory, visual and tactile environment in a known innate context.

The invention also relates to a method for generating sensory stimuli that can be implemented by such a device and the use of the device according to the invention to reduce the stress of a newborn or a hospitalized child.

Prior art

Premature infants, because of their fragility and the care they require, are subject to numerous stress factors during their first months of life, such as adaptation to the environment, or visual, auditory, intense and new/unknown olfactory and tactile (Als, H. 1986. “A synactive model of neonatal behavioral organization: framework for the assessment of neurobehavioral development in the premature infant and for support of infants and parents in the neonatal intensive care environment. Special issue: the high-risk neonate: developmental therapy perspectives”, Physical and Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 6, (3/4), p. 3-55.).

Ambient noise, light, medical interventions, manipulations and care and hygiene procedures, as well as certain syndromes inherent in the baby's health, such as respiratory distress or ulcerative-necrotizing enterocolitis, are the source more or less intense stress experienced by premature babies.

In a medicalized environment, the newborn's close contact with the adults around him, and in particular with his mother, are necessarily limited in time.

However, so-called “developmental” care encourages and encourages the presence of reference persons, and in particular the mother, near the newborn.

The direct physical contact of the newborn, premature or not, with his mother, to whom he has already become accustomed to the heat, the smell, the voice, the movements and the beating of the heart is essential for him. this. In some cases, for health reasons, the newborn is placed in a medical environment, and therefore has limited contact with the adults around him, and in particular with his mother. It is however known that the presence of a reference adult in the immediate vicinity of the newborn, and mainly of its mother, is very useful for the psychic development, even physical, of this one. Such a presence is of particular importance in the case of premature newborns.

However, the conditions of hospitalization of newborns, the state of health of the child, and the duration of these hospitalizations, often do not allow parents to ensure a presence with the newborn as regularly as they would like, or to ensure direct carrying of the newborn (encouraged in NIDCAP programs) for as long as they would like and which is beneficial for the newborn.

It has also been observed that children born prematurely suffered, more often than average, from various disorders, in particular: stress, breathing difficulties, ocular immaturity, difficulty in regulating body temperature, or even the hearing.

Some of these hearing disorders could be caused by the exposure of premature newborns to unsuitable surrounding sound stresses in volume and frequency before their ear is fully formed. To avoid such hearing problems, it is generally recommended that adults speak softly when they are in close proximity to a premature newborn, and recommendations have been made to limit surrounding noise in hospital wards.

Regarding the stress of the newborn, the intensive care units for children born prematurely are organizing themselves towards peaceful living and development conditions but are still looking for solutions allowing them to tend even more towards the same living and development conditions. than the innate maternal or family or reference environment. During the first weeks of life, these children are exposed to many stress factors, such as invasive and painful care procedures or various manipulations for which they are not physically prepared at this stage of development. Early exposure to stressful life events can impact long-term newborn development, particularly in terms of psychological vulnerability.

In addition, repeated painful or invasive stimulation leads to an increase in the excitability of nociceptive neurons (pain neurons) which can lead to a phenomenon of hyperalgia, during which even non-painful tactile stimulation ends up exciting these neurons. Several researchers have also highlighted the long-term implications of a prolonged stay in neonatology, particularly on reactions to painful stimuli (Johnston, C. C.; Stevens, B. J.; Yang, F.; Horton, L. 1996 “Developmental changes in response to heelstick in preterm infants: a prospective cohort study”, Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 38, pp. 438-445.). This work tends to show that early painful events can register very hastily in neuronal form, which can lead to different sensoriality and neuroendocrine and behavioral reactivity.

To date, there is no device to improve and reduce stress to facilitate the development of newborns, compatible in particular with hospital conditions that generates at least three stimuli among the visual, sound, olfactory and tactile stimuli.

Objectives of the invention

The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks of the prior art.

The aim of the invention is in particular to encourage emotional comfort and to reduce stress in order to facilitate the development of newborns in good conditions, and particularly of premature newborns.

An objective of the invention is thus to provide a device allowing a newborn, and particularly a premature newborn, to modify his direct medical environment in order to have a reassuring feeling of the presence of an adult at his sides to reduce his stress and contribute to his good development, especially when he is in an incubator or in a medical environment.

A particular objective of the invention is to provide such a device which can be implemented without difficulty in a medical environment, such as a hospital.

A particular objective of the invention is to provide such a device which avoids any disturbance of the state of health of the newborn, even in the event of an error in the use of the device.

Another object of the invention is to provide such a device which is easy to configure and to use for adults.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a device, comprising one or more auditory, visual, olfactory or even tactile stimuli, aimed at simulating the presence of an adult in direct proximity to the newborn and at reducing his stress, which translates into significant benefits for it.

The sensory stimulation of the device according to the invention is adapted to the newborn baby depending on its state of stress and allows, depending on the duration of activation of these different stimuli, to reduce its impact, allow relaxation towards possible drowsiness and promote , eventually, its good development.

The device according to the invention has other advantages, in particular it makes it possible to provide a reliable, suitable and comparable substitute for direct contact with a reference person, in particular the mother or father of the newborn, which makes it possible to reassure him in an innate manner. .

In addition, the device according to the invention does not emit any electromagnetic waves and is fully compatible with the equipment used in neonatology and pediatrics, such as for example the related equipment of incubators and incubators in the hospital environment.

The device according to the invention does not influence or disturb the microclimate in the incubator, nor the electrical or heat control system thereof.

The device according to the invention does not generate noise or mechanical vibrations which can create an inappropriate acoustic environment.

The device according to the invention is very easy to clean and follows the same hygienization protocols as incubators/incubators. or required in the neonatal resuscitation unit

The elements entering into the design of the device according to the invention which comes into contact with the newborn does not contain toxic or allergenic elements for the latter.

These objectives, as well as others which will appear more clearly subsequently, are achieved using a device for generating sensory stimuli for newborns, characterized in that it comprises at least three sources of stimulation: a light source to generate a visual stimulus, a sound source to generate a sound stimulus, an odorous source to generate an olfactory stimulus.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the device further comprises a tactile source for stimulation of the touch.

Such a combination advantageously provides a soothing effect to the newborn.

Indeed, the combination of the sources of stimuli by a device and the method of generating stimuli according to the invention aims to allow global reassurance through several senses. Even if the senses of a premature or non-premature newborn are functional, they can be functional at different depths. The fetus perceives, from the last trimester of pregnancy, sounds of average intensity (Hiniker and Moreno, 1994), and is able to identify the voice of its mother, and to prepare the acquisition of language (Absence of neural speech discrimination in preterm infants at term-equivalent age – Group of researchers from the Medical University of Vienna – July 2019). Each child has a preferential mode of reassurance which is reinforced by the activation of neural reactions linked to the other senses.

Thanks to the device according to the invention, each axis proposed to the child induces a reduction in stress with most certainly one of them which will be preponderant. As it can be different for each child, it is the concomitance of the stimuli which will produce on the greatest number, beneficial results in terms of comfort, by activating the somatic activation of the brain in connection with the senses. The duration of the stimulation depends on the state of anxiety or the need for relaxation of the newborn, and it can be repeated by the health personnel or the reference person if he deems it necessary and if the awake state of the newborn allows it.

Advantageously, the activation of the stimulation sources is simultaneous.

In one embodiment of the invention, all of the stimuli are activated synchronously. In another embodiment of the invention, all of the stimuli are activated asynchronously.

In another preferred mode of the invention the sound stimulus is activated concomitantly with the visual stimulus.

In another embodiment of the invention, the duration of the stimuli is between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the duration of the stimuli is renewed for a new period of between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes. The sound volume of the track including the voice sound gradually decreases, while the heartbeat sound remains. Finally, for a final two-minute period, only the sound of heartbeats is played. Such a sound sequence is favorable to the gradual calming of the newborn.

In a preferred mode of the invention, the activation of the newborn's stimulation sources is immediate and simultaneous.

According to a preferred embodiment, the sound source is a sound processing and broadcasting device, characterized in that it comprises means for recording a sound, means for processing the recorded sound, able to limit the maximum volume of said recorded sound to a determined value and to reduce the components of said recorded sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency, and means for broadcasting said recorded sound, mixed with another sound recorded in said processing device and sound broadcasting.

It is thus possible to broadcast to a newborn by the device according to the invention sounds giving him the reassuring feeling of the presence of a reference person at his side, avoiding any risk that these sounds could be disturbing for the newborn, by their volume or tone.

Preferably, this other sound recorded in said sound processing and broadcasting device comprises a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the recorded sound processing means comprise at least one low-pass filter. Advantageously, this low-pass filter has a cut-off frequency of 400 Hz.

• un microphone,
• un haut-parleur,
• un composant de traitement du son.

According to a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a box containing at least:

• a microphone,
• a speaker,
• a sound processing component.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light source for generating a visual stimulus is a light-emitting diode.

Advantageously, the light-emitting diode emits at a wavelength comprised between 380 nm and 685 nm and preferably a wavelength of 600 and 625 nm. More preferably, the light-emitting diode emits at a wavelength of 595 nm.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus is a cover made of textile material capable of capturing the odors of the reference person.

Advantageously, the odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus is a cover made of textile material capable of picking up familiar odors.

This cover can advantageously be worn by the reference person, when it is removed from the case, and thus soak up its smell.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the textile material cover is impregnated with the odors of the reference person by direct contact on the skin for at least 4 hours.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the tactile source of stimulation of touch is a grip cord. Advantageously, the grip cord is made of elastomer.

• une étape d’enregistrement d’une voix,
• une première étape de traitement du son, consistant à ajuster le volume de l’enregistrement pour que son volume maximal ne dépasse pas une valeur déterminée,
• une seconde étape de traitement du son consistant à réduire, sur cet enregistrement, les composantes du son dont la fréquence est plus élevée qu’une fréquence déterminée,
• une étape de diffusion sonore, au cours de laquelle l’enregistrement précédemment effectué et traité est diffusé, mixé avec un autre enregistrement comprenant un son à basse fréquence imitant la perception des battements du cœur, et
• Une étape de diffusion lumineuse simultanément à l’étape de diffusion sonore.

The invention also relates to a method for generating stimuli intended for newborns, characterized in that comprises:

• a step of recording a voice,
• a first sound processing step, consisting in adjusting the volume of the recording so that its maximum volume does not exceed a determined value,
• a second sound processing step consisting in reducing, on this recording, the components of the sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency,
• a sound diffusion stage, during which the recording previously made and processed is diffused, mixed with another recording comprising a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats, and
• A light diffusion step simultaneously with the sound diffusion step.

Advantageously, the sound and light diffusion period of the method for generating stimuli according to the invention is between 1 minute and 1 hour, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes. Preferably, the stimulation period is 12 minutes.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the process for generating stimuli intended for newborns according to the invention is characterized in that it comprises the use of a device for generating sensory stimuli according to the invention.

The invention also relates to the use of a device according to the invention to reduce the stress of the newborn.

List of Figures

• [Fig. 1] la figure 1 est une représentation schématique d'un dispositif de génération de stimuli multi sensoriel comprenant plusieurs sources de génération de stimuli selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• [Fig. 2] la figure 2 est un diagramme montrant les étapes d'un procédé de génération de stimuli selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention.
• [Fig. 3] la figure 3 est une représentation d’un dispositif de génération de stimuli multi sensoriel selon l’invention comprenant un boitier avec une housse, une source lumineuse, une source d’enregistrement et de diffusion du son, des cordons de préhension et un système d’attache desdits cordons, selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention.

D escription détaillée de mode s de réalisation de l’invention The invention will be better understood on reading the following description of preferred embodiments, given by way of a simple figurative and non-limiting example, and accompanied by the figures among which:

• [Fig. 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a device for generating multi-sensory stimuli comprising several sources for generating stimuli according to one embodiment of the invention;
• [Fig. 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the steps of a method for generating stimuli according to one embodiment of the invention.
• [Fig. 3] FIG. 3 is a representation of a device for generating multi-sensory stimuli according to the invention comprising a box with a cover, a light source, a source for recording and broadcasting sound, grip cords and a attachment system for said cords, according to one embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

A device for generating sensory stimuli for a newborn emanating from a reference person comprises at least three sources for generating these stimuli, choosing from visual, sound, olfactory or even tactile means.

According to the present invention "a reference person" is preferably a relative of the newborn such as the biological mother, the biological father, the adoptive father, the stepfather, the foster mother, the foster father, or the grandparents of this one. However, the reference person can also be a sibling (especially if significantly older) or another reference person. This includes a newborn or young child or a child of any age with a pronounced emotional relationship with a reference person, for example a child whose mental and/or emotional development is delayed due to illness or disability.

According to the present invention, the term “newborn child” or “newborn child” designates a child who is less than 28 days old. A premature or preterm newborn is a child who is born before 8.5 months of pregnancy (37 weeks of amenorrhea).

The devices and methods according to the invention are both suitable for newborns, and for premature newborns, and for children whose terms are used in an equivalent and substitutable manner in the present application.

FIG. 1 schematically represents a device for generating sensory stimuli according to one embodiment of the invention. This device comprises a housing 1, in which the various electronic components are contained.

This box 1 notably contains batteries 3, a loudspeaker 4 and an electronic card 5, connected together. The electronic card 5 notably carries a microcontroller 51, a sound processing component 52, a microphone 53, a light source 54, a power socket 55 and a control button 56.

• une fonctionnalité d’enregistrement, mise en œuvre notamment par le microcontrôleur 51, le composant de traitement du son 52 et le microphone 53,
• une fonctionnalité de diffusion sonore, mise en œuvre notamment par le microcontrôleur 51, le composant de traitement du son 52 et le haut-parleur 4,
• une fonctionnalité de diffusion lumineuse, mise en œuvre notamment par le microcontrôleur 51 et la diode électroluminescente 54,
• une fonctionnalité de chargement des batteries, mise en œuvre notamment par le microcontrôleur 51, la prise d’alimentation 55 et les batteries 3.

The microcontroller 51 ensures in particular the control of all the other components, so that the device can implement several functionalities, among which the following functionalities:

• a recording functionality, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51, the sound processing component 52 and the microphone 53,
• a sound diffusion functionality, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51, the sound processing component 52 and the loudspeaker 4,
• a light diffusion functionality, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51 and the light-emitting diode 54,
• a battery charging functionality, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51, the power socket 55 and the batteries 3.

The microcontroller advantageously makes it possible to assign the device according to the invention to one or other of the functionalities indicated above. Preferably, these functionalities are not implemented simultaneously.

The microcontroller allows the device to be placed in different distinct states. Among these states:

a recording state, in which the recording functionality allows the recording and processing of sounds,

a sound broadcasting state, during which the sound broadcasting functionality enables the broadcasting of sounds, which may include one or more previously recorded sound tracks,

a battery charging state, during which the sound processing and delivery device is connected to a power source, and the battery charging functionality is active.

When the power socket 55 is not connected to a power supply, the presses of a user on the control button 56 make it possible to transmit to the microcontroller the instructions to put the device in one of the recording states or sound diffusion or light diffusion.

Advantageously, the microcontroller 51 is capable of detecting the connection of an electrical power supply to the power supply socket 55. In this case, it places the device according to the invention in the battery charging state, by interrupting, if applicable, the recording state, the sound diffusion state or the light diffusion state. Such interruption of the sound, recording and light diffusion functionalities, when the device is connected to an electrical power supply, advantageously makes it possible to avoid any risk of accident of electrical origin.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the sound source or the sound system includes several features

In the recording state, the recording functionality of the sound processing and broadcasting device is activated. This recording functionality is implemented by the electronic components which have the functionality of recording the surrounding sounds and of processing the sounds with a view to their broadcasting, and in particular the microphone 53 and the sound processing component 52.

This sound processing component 52 can be an electronic component dedicated to sound processing. It can also be, in other embodiments, a software audio driver, operating for example on the microcontroller 51.

According to a preferred embodiment, when the microcontroller 51 activates the recording functionality, the microphone 53 records a sound, preferably a sound in which the voice of the reference person appears in a privileged manner. The recording functionality thus allows recordings from a few seconds to a few minutes.

It is also recommended that the reference person make this recording of his voice by placing the box 1 against his chest. On the occasion of the recording, the microphone 53 can thus pick up, in addition to the voice, a weak signal representative of the heart rate of the reference person.

After having recorded sounds, the sound processing component 52 performs several specific processing operations on these sounds.

Thus, the sound processing component 52 processes the recorded sounds to limit the maximum sound volume to a determined value. This processing can for example consist of reducing the volume of the whole of the recording, so that the whole of the recording has a volume lower than the predetermined value. It may also consist, in another embodiment, of a greater reduction in the recording volume of the recording portions having too high a volume. In this case, this limitation of the maximum sound volume leads to a smoothing of the sound volume of the recording.

The sound processing component 52 also performs, according to the invention, a processing of the recorded sounds to specifically reduce the volume of the sounds having the highest frequencies. This processing may consist of frequency filtering intended to strongly limit the highest frequencies. Thus, in the embodiment shown, this processing is carried out by a first-order low-pass filter with a cut-off frequency of 400 Hz, which attenuates frequencies above 400 Hz at a rate of 20 dB per decade.

Such sound processing makes it possible, when the sound is subsequently broadcast near a newborn child, to greatly limit the impact on the newborn's ears of high-pitched or strident sounds, such as a burst of high-pitched voice, which could stress the newborn and/or impair their hearing, especially in the case of a premature newborn whose auditory functions are not fully formed.

In the sound broadcasting state, the sound broadcasting functionality of the sound processing and broadcasting device is activated. This sound diffusion functionality is implemented in particular by the electronic components which have the function of diffusing sounds, and in particular by the loudspeaker 4 and the sound processing component 52, under the control of the microcontroller 51.

The sound processing component 52 can thus broadcast, via the loudspeaker 4, selected sounds. Advantageously, this sound broadcasting functionality allows the device according to the invention to broadcast sounds from at least two distinct sound tracks. At least one of these tracks is constituted by a voice sound, which has been previously recorded and processed by the device according to the invention, within the framework of the recording functionality.

Preferably, another of these tracks consists of a recording of low frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats. This recording can, in an advantageous embodiment, have a rhythm and a sound volume, possibly variable over time, specifically chosen to obtain a soothing effect.

In a particular embodiment, the rhythm of this recording of sound imitating the perception of heartbeats can be modulated, from information linked to the weak signal representative of the heart rhythm of the reference person, which was picked up previously by the recording functionality.

When it implements this sound broadcasting functionality, the device according to the invention can mix these sound tracks, or broadcast one or the other, in functionality of a predefined sequence.

In the embodiment shown, the sound sequence that can be broadcast is as follows: for a period of eight minutes, a sound track comprising the sound of the voice of the person whose presence is to be simulated is accompanied by a sound track of heart beats. Then, for another two-minute period, the sound volume of the track including the sound of the voice gradually decreases, while the sound of heartbeats persists. Finally, for a final two-minute period, only the sound of heartbeats is played. Such a sound sequence is favorable to the gradual calming of the newborn.

Of course, other sound sequences can be broadcast to adapt to different needs.

The box 1 according to the invention can be made of any material compatible with medical use and preferably has bacteriostatic, bactericidal, virucidal, virucidal and/or other germicidal properties. In addition, the box 1 can take any shape so that it is visually pleasing, such as the shape of an animal, a heart, a fruit or vegetable, an imaginary or legendary animal, a character story, a known or famous character or any other reassuring form for the newborn.

In the embodiment shown, this casing 1 is made of thermoplastic elastomer and has a heart shape. This case can however, in other embodiments, have different shapes, and be made of any suitable material known to those skilled in the art.

In Figure 1, this box 1 is shown open, so as to show the components it contains.

According to an advantageous characteristic, the device generating sensory stimuli comprises an odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus.

Indeed, the olfactory overstimulation generated by a medicalized environment is substituted, with the device according to the invention, by a known, innate, familiar, reassuring odor to promote the sense of smell, and ultimately the development of the sucking reflex. .

The fabric cover can also be used as a support for diffusing the milky odor in order to encourage the sucking reflex through the stimulation of the sense of smell. According to a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a cover 2 made of textile material, surrounding the case 1. This cover 2 is advantageously removable, and can be removed from the device to generate an olfactory stimulus while being worn by the reference person whose wants to simulate the presence near a child, in order to impregnate itself with its odor. Thus, when the cover 2 is replaced on the box 1, it diffuses the smell of the reference person. The fabric cover can also be used as a support for diffusing the milky odor in order to encourage the sucking reflex through the stimulation of the sense of smell.

This cover thus makes it possible to obtain an olfactory stimulus by impregnating the smell of the reference person, such as the mother, the father or any other person in the family.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover is made of textile material allowing the impregnation of the smell of the reference parent for the newborn.

As a non-limiting example, we can mention natural materials such as cotton or linen, or made of synthetic material such as cotton added with polyester or elastane. We can also mention cotton, poplin, jersey, cretonne, cotton piqué, brushed cotton, sponge or cotton terry, terry cloth, flannel, velvet, cotton voile, denim , Chambray, Madras, Panama canvas, English embroidery, Wool and cashmere.

In a preferred embodiment, the textile material of the odorant source 2 is cotton.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the mother positions the cover 2 on the front side or on the back, directly in contact with her skin for a period of time. This contact is between 2 hours and 12 hours, preferably 4 hours so that the smell can impregnate the material. This impregnation can be done at night to be sure that the cover is impregnated with the requested smell.

Thus, when the cover 2 is replaced on the box 1, it diffuses the smell of the person whose presence is to be simulated. It is also possible for the presence simulation device to be supplied with several covers, so that the reference person whose presence is to be simulated can wear one to impregnate him with his scent, while the other is placed on the box 1. In Figure 1, only the contours of the cover 2 are shown in dotted lines, so that the box 1 and the contents thereof remain visible in the figure.

According to the present invention, any object serving as a source of odor can be used. Mention may be made, for example, of a towel, a wipe, in all the forms allowing it to be used on the device of the invention, such as, for example, non-limiting, square, rectangular, round, strip, composed of one or more textile materials alone or in combination allowing the impregnation of an odor.

By placing an odor source, familiar environmental conditions can be created for the child, also in terms of olfactory perception.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises one or more tactile sources or means, in addition to the cover, which allow a tactile stimulus in order to reassure him.

The shape must have a particular geometry and texture to allow the child to recognize a known element (intubation for example), to linger on it and not generate unpleasant, negative or stressful memories related to this texture.

Indeed, the palm of the hand is capable of recognizing shapes and textures (Greatness and Miseries of the infant's manual perceptual system. Arlette Streri. NecPlus. 2020/A n°1 pages 35-37, https://www. cairn.info/revue-enfance2-2012-1-page-35.htm). Promoting the sense of touch is related to brain development. The grasping of forms reminiscent of contacts of medical equipment, close to solicitations experienced by the child, allows him to conceptualize the forms and to concentrate on them, and thus avoid tearing off his medical equipment.

Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a device for generating multi-sensory stimuli for newborns comprising sound, visual, tactile and olfactory means. The box 1 comprises a cover 2 serving as an olfactory source, a light source 54 and a sound source 4 which is contained in the box 1, and one or more gripping cords 31 generating a tactile stimulus, inducing a gripping reflex and a conceptualization reassuring somatic.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, these grip cords 31 can be removable.

The tactile means according to the invention can be attached to the device in any way. Figure 3 shows a non-limiting example where the textile medium hangs on a button 32, itself part of an embodiment of the box 1.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the button 32 allowing the attachment of the tactile means on the box 1 is made of the same material as the latter.

These grip cords 31 can be made up of one or more elastomer straps whose material has been chosen to allow good grip and tactile contact with the newborn, intubated or equipped with an oxygen mask for example.

The length of the straps must be made in such a way that it does not constitute any danger or a source of stress for the newborn and that the length does not entail any danger during use.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the tactile means consisting of one or more strips of elastomeric material compatible with hygiene protocols at a size which does not exceed the size of the newborn at birth.

The size of a newborn can vary according to its number of weeks and its sex. This usually ranges from 23 to 60 centimeters, on average around 54 centimeters. According to one embodiment of the invention, the tactile strips have a size of between 10 and 60 centimeters, preferably 16 centimeters.

All textures and types of elastomeric material allowing tactile interaction with the newborn can be used according to the invention. Preferably, the elastomeric material is a polymeric elastomeric material, such as for example a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, providing substantial elastic resilience in compression and/or in tension. Especially. In a preferred example of the invention, the elastomeric material is a food contact grade TPE.

In other non-limiting embodiments, one can use other elastomers, polymers, composites, natural or synthetic rubber, or other materials known to those skilled in the art offering an appropriate degree of elastic deformation, resistant to plastic deformation and compatible with newborn and hospital medical use.

According to other embodiments, a single grip cord or any other shape may constitute the tactile means or means. These can be made of any suitable material known to those skilled in the art.

Advantageously, the box 1 also comprises light means or even a light source 54. This light source is preferably chosen from among a light-emitting diode, an incandescent light source having a wavelength filter, a source fluorescent light, backlit LCD panel, or other light source configured to provide the newborn with light at a desired and predetermined wavelength or range of wavelengths.

Preferably, the light source 54 is a light-emitting diode.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is equipped with a light-emitting diode 54 which participates in the stimulation by continuously diffusing light of low intensity, in a wavelength chosen to soothe the new -born.

To this end, the light may be intended for therapeutic purposes and may have appropriate properties (in particular the wavelength, the intensity, or resulting from work on the chromatic treatment of spaces).

Advantageously, the wavelength emitted by the light source 54 makes it possible to soothe and reduce the stress of the newborn. The light source 54 has a wavelength comprised between 380 nm and 685 nm and preferably a wavelength of 600 to 625 nm. According to a preferred embodiment, the wavelength is 595 nm.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the light source is contained in the box 1 in order to avoid any direct radiation.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the light source of the device can be either always on or adaptable to the situation and can be modulated between a high stimulus, where it is activated at its maximum, no visual stimulus or the light source is not activated.

In another embodiment, the light source can be programmed to provide a light output that alternates between a high light level (a high stimulus) and a lower light level (a low stimulus).

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the light emitting diode 54, may also give indications to the user using the device. This diode can in particular, for example by its flashing or its color, indicate the state in which the device is located, the state of charge of its battery, etc.

Particularly advantageously, the components of the device according to the invention are chosen so as not to emit electromagnetic waves at frequencies or at intensities likely to disturb neighboring electronic equipment.

The use of the device according to the invention in a hospital context, close to medical electronic equipment, in fact prohibits any risk of disturbance of this medical equipment. For this, the multi-sensory device according to the embodiment represented in particular does not include any radio communication interface.

Furthermore, the limitation of electromagnetic wave emissions makes it possible to prevent the newborn placed in the vicinity of the device according to the invention from receiving such waves, and therefore to eliminate any risk that such waves have a detrimental impact. on his health.

Figure 2 schematically represents the steps of a process for generating stimuli intended for newborns.

This method comprises, with regard to the sound, a step 61 of recording a voice, more precisely the voice of the reference person. This recording step 61 is followed by two sound processing steps.

A first sound processing step 62 consists in adjusting the volume of the recording so that its maximum volume does not exceed a determined value. A second sound processing step 63, high frequency reduction, consists in reducing or eliminating, on this recording, the components of the sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency, in the spectrum of audible frequencies.

These two sound processing steps 62 and 63 can be carried out simultaneously or successively. If they are carried out successively, the first sound processing step 62 can either be carried out before or after the second sound processing step 63.

The method includes a step 64 of sound broadcasting, during which the recording previously made and processed is broadcast, preferably mixed with another recording comprising a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats.

Finally, the method includes a step 65 of light diffusion, during which all the sensory stimuli of the device are generated simultaneously, to help reduce stress and improve the relaxation of the newborn through different somatic responses.

The placing of the cover 2 on the box 1 and of the grip cords 31 on the cover 2 can be done before or after the steps of the process for generating stimuli.

Preferably, the cover 2 is positioned on the box 1 after the step of recording a voice 61. The grip cords 31 hook onto the cover 2 in order to have all the stimuli on the device .

This activation of the stimuli is preferably carried out synchronously so that all of the newborn's senses can be stimulated and solicited in a calibrated and complementary manner. This activation is carried out for a determined period of time, which is between 10 minutes and 12 hours, preferably between 1 hour and 8 hours and more preferably between 3 and 4 hours. Even more preferably, 4 hours.

In a preferred embodiment, the stimulation of the newborn by the device is, for sound and visual stimulation, between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes and, for olfactory and/or tactile stimulation, between 12 hours and 48 hours, preferably 24 hours.

In the method and device according to the invention, providing at least three or more auditory, visual and/or tactile and olfactory stimuli simultaneously can provide improved advantages compared to the provision of a single auditory, visual or separately. The three or more auditory, visual and/or olfactory stimuli may thus combine to provide the enhanced benefits, for example (i.e. the three or more auditory, visual and/or tactile stimuli synergize to provide improved results compared to providing three of the stimuli individually). The use of the method allows the reduction of stress, an overall reassurance for the newborn and which thus improves his relaxation by finding innate landmarks.

Although examples of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that these examples are given by way of illustration only. Many variations, modifications and substitutions can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention.

It should be understood that the invention includes all the different combinations contained herein.

Claims (19)

Device for generating sensory stimuli for newborns, characterized in that it comprises at least three sources of stimulation:
- a light source to generate a visual stimulus,
- a sound source to generate a sound stimulus,
- an odorous source to generate an olfactory stimulus. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device further comprises a tactile source for stimulation of the touch. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the activation of the stimulation sources is simultaneous. Device according to Claim 3, characterized in that the sound source is a sound processing and diffusion device, characterized in that it comprises:
- means for recording a sound,
- means for processing the recorded sound, able to limit the maximum volume of said recorded sound to a determined value and to reduce the components of said recorded sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency, and
- Means for broadcasting said recorded sound, mixed with another sound recorded in said sound processing and broadcasting device. Device according to Claim 4, characterized in that the said other sound recorded in the said sound processing and diffusion device comprises a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats. Device according to Claim 5, characterized in that the said means for processing the recorded sound comprise at least one low-pass filter. Device according to Claim 6, characterized in that the said low-pass filter has a cut-off frequency of 400 Hz. Device according to Claim 7, characterized in that it comprises a casing (1) containing at least:
- a microphone (53),
- a loudspeaker (4),
- a sound processing component (52). Device according to Claim 8, characterized in that the light source for generating a visual stimulus is a light-emitting diode (54). Device according to Claim 9, characterized in that the light-emitting diode (54) emits at a wavelength comprised between 380 nm and 685 nm and preferably a wavelength of 600 and 625 nm. Device according to Claim 10, characterized in that the light-emitting diode (54) emits at a wavelength of 595 nm. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus is a cover (2) made of textile material capable of capturing the odors of the reference person. Device according to Claim 12, characterized in that the cover (2) made of textile material is impregnated with the odors of the reference person by direct contact on the skin for at least 4 hours. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tactile source of stimulation of touch is a grip cord (31). Device according to Claim 14, characterized in that the grip cord (31) is made of elastomer. Method for generating stimuli intended for newborns by a device according to claims 1 to 15, characterized in that comprises:
- a voice recording step (61),
- a first sound processing step (62), consisting in adjusting the volume of the recording so that its maximum volume does not exceed a determined value,
- a second sound processing step (63) consisting in reducing, on this recording, the components of the sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency,
- a sound broadcasting step (64), during which the recording previously made and processed is broadcast, mixed with another recording comprising a low frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats, and
- a light diffusion step (65) simultaneously with the sound diffusion step (64). Method for generating stimuli intended for newborns according to claim 16, characterized in that the period of sound and light diffusion is between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes. A method of generating stimuli for neonates according to claim 17, characterized in that the stimulation period is 12 minutes. Use of a device according to any one of claims 1 to 15 to reduce newborn stress.