GB2622200A

GB2622200A - Apparatus, device and system relating to monitoring a condition of a child

Info

Publication number: GB2622200A
Application number: GB2212795.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Paul Wilding Senior Stephen; Stumey Tim; Ashton-Shaw Richard
Original assignee: Area 52 Ltd
Current assignee: Area 52 Ltd
Priority date: 2022-09-02
Filing date: 2022-09-02
Publication date: 2024-03-13
Also published as: GB202212795D0

Abstract

A system is composed of a plurality of apparatuses 200 for holding a child (e.g. pram, pushchair, cot, car seat, play gym) and an electronic device 100 to determine the condition of the child (e.g. ambient temp, location, body temperature, heart rate, asleep, awake, crying, posture etc.). Each of the plurality of apparatuses is configured to receive the electronic device 100. A fixation subsystem may be provided to attach the device 100 to the apparatus 200. The device 100 receives data from a sensor (e.g. timer, camera, microphone, pressure sensor, thermometer, GPS etc). The sensor may be included in the device 100. Feedback (such as a display, an alarm, an instruction to the user, map info, activating air conditioning etc) may be provided. The monitor 100 may be removably attached to the apparatus 200 via an arm system 500 attached to the apparatus 200. Data may be wirelessly transmitted to a remote device.

Description

APPARATUS, DEVICE AND SYSTEM RELATING TO MONITORING A CONDITION

OF A CHILD

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to improvements in and in relation to monitoring a condition of a child, and related apparatuses, devices and systems.

BACKGROUND

Monitoring a condition of a child is important to ensure that they are safe and well. However, continuously monitoring a child can be difficult and time consuming for a parent or guardian (i.e., a user). Further, depending on the activity in which the child is participating, it may not be possible for a parent or guardian of the child to simultaneously monitor a condition of the child and carry out necessary tasks. Moreover, even if the child can be straightforwardly monitored by the parent or guardian, human error, such as lapses in concentration may result in important information being missed or overlooked.

In a related problem, it can be difficult to monitor a condition of a child, when the child moves between different apparatuses. For example, a child might move from one apparatus to another apparatus, depending on what activities or actions are needed. Similarly, a child might move from one apparatus to another apparatus as they grow, for example over a period of months or years. For instance, a child might move from an apparatus suitable for a certain age to an apparatus suitable for an older age group. It can be complex or costly to monitor a child across short or longer terms transitions in use of one or more apparatuses.

Hence, there is a desire to provide a flexible means to monitor a condition of a child reliably and continuously that removes some of the burden from the child's parent or guardian. This might include or relate to improving user-apparatus interactions, reducing costs or improving safety.

SUM MARY

It is one aim of the present disclosure, amongst others, to provide one or more of a device, apparatus or system which at least partially obviates or mitigates at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art, whether identified herein or elsewhere, or to provide an alternative approach.

According to the present invention there is provided one or more of a device, apparatus or system, as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the description that follows.

According to a first aspect, there is provided an electronic device attachable to an apparatus for holding a child. The electronic device is configured to monitor a condition of the child. The electronic device comprises a hardware processor. The hardware processor is configured to retrieve electronic data, the electronic data based on information sensed by a sensor and describing the condition, process the electronic data and output, via a user interface, feedback based on the processed electronic data.

The electronic data may describe biometric information and/or environmental information.

The electronic device may further comprise a storage unit configured to store the electronic data.

The electronic device may further comprise the sensor. The sensor may comprise at least one of: a timer, a camera, a microphone, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor, a thermometer, a proximity sensor, a positioning sensor, an air flow meter, a weight transducer and a heart rate monitor.

The hardware processor may be configured to process the electronic data using artificial intelligence.

The hardware processor may be configured apply the electronic data to one or more machine learning algorithms.

The one or more machine learning algorithms may be trained to compare the electronic data with predetermined parameters associated with a desired condition of the child.

The feedback may be based on the comparison between the electronic data and the 25 predetermined parameters The electronic device may further comprise a transmitter configured to transmit the electronic data to an external device.

The electronic device may further comprise the user interface. The user interface may comprise at least one of: a display and a speaker.

The electronic device may further comprise at least one of: a sound alarm, a light source and an air conditioning system configured to activate based on the processed electronic data.

According to a second aspect, there is provided an apparatus for holding a child. The apparatus may comprise the device of the first aspect.

The apparatus may be at least one of: a pram, a basket, a pushchair, a car seat, a bassinet, a crib, a cot, a play gym and an activity apparatus.

According to a third aspect, there is provided a system comprising a plurality of apparatuses, each configured for holding a child, and an electronic device configured to retrieve electronic data describing a condition of the child. Each of the plurality of apparatuses is configured to receive the electronic device.

The plurality of apparatuses may comprise at least two of any one of: a pram, a basket, a pushchair, a car seat, a bassinet, a crib, a cot, a play gym and an activity apparatus.

The system may further comprise a controller. The controller may be configured to power off the electronic device when the electronic device is not being received by one of the plurality of apparatuses. The controller may be configured to power on the electronic device when the electronic device is being received by one of the plurality of apparatuses.

The system may further comprise a fixation subsystem configured to attach the electronic device to the plurality of apparatuses.

The fixation subsystem may comprise a cavity.

The fixation subsystem may comprise a male part configured to mate with a female part.

The fixation subsystem may comprise a clamp and/or a clip. The fixation subsystem may comprise a magnet.

The fixation subsystem may form a pivotable attachment.

The system may further comprise a sensor, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of: a timer, a camera, a microphone, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor, a thermometer, a proximity sensor, a positioning sensor, an air flow meter, a weight transducer and a heart rate monitor.

The electronic device may further comprise a storage unit configured to store information sensed by the sensor.

The electronic device may further comprise a power source configured to power the electronic device.

According to a fourth aspect there is provided an electronic device for use in the system of the third aspect. The electronic device may be configured to retrieve electronic data describing a condition of a child and configured to be received by each of the plurality of apparatuses.

According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a plurality of apparatuses for use in the system of the third aspect. Each apparatus may be configured for holding a child and configured to receive the electronic device.

According to a sixth aspect, there is provided an arm system arranged to be attachable to an apparatus for holding a child. The arm system comprises an arm and an attachment point configured to attach the arm to the apparatus The arm system is configured to receive an electronic device, the electronic device being configured to retrieve electronic information describing a condition of the child.

The arm system may further comprise a fixation subsystem configured to receive the electronic device.

The attachment point and/or fixation subsystem may comprise a cavity.

The attachment point and/or fixation subsystem may comprise a male part configured to mate with a female part.

The attachment point and/or fixation subsystem may comprise a clamp and/or a clip. The attachment point and/or fixation subsystem may comprise a magnet.

The attachment point and/or fixation subsystem may form a pivotable fixation or attachment The arm may be configured to be moved relative to the apparatus, optionally raised or lowered.

The arm system may further comprise a controller controllable to move the arm, optionally raising or lowering the arm.

The arm system may further comprise a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the arm in position The arm may be configured to lock in position based on information sensed by a sensor.

The arm system may further comprise a grip configured to be gripped by the child.

According to a seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus for holding a child. The apparatus comprises the arm system of the sixth aspect.

The apparatus may comprise a handle for use by the child or other user of the apparatus, the handle being separate to and distinct from the arm.

The apparatus may be any one of a pram, a basket, a pushchair, a car seat, a bassinet, a crib, a cot, a play gym and an activity apparatus.

As is made clear from the description that follows, the different aspects may be use in isolation, or in combination. For example, in one instance, a system of kit of parts might comprise one or more of the apparatuses for holding a child as described herein and/or an electronic device attachable to an apparatus for holding a child for monitoring that child and/or an arm system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how exemplary embodiments of the same may be brought into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying diagrammatic Figures, in which: Figure 1 schematically depicts an electronic device according to an exemplary 15 embodiment; Figure 2 schematically depicts apparatuses for holding a child according to an exemplary embodiment; and Figure 3 schematically depicts feedback outputted to a user interface according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 schematically depicts an electronic device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The electronic device 100 is configured to monitor a condition of a child. Child may mean a baby, a toddler, an infant or any non-adult.

The electronic device 100 is attachable to an apparatus for holding a child. Three examples of such an apparatus are schematically depicted in Figure 2 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2A shows a pram or stroller carrying or having a bassinet 200, Figure 2B shows a pram or stroller having or carrying car seat 300 and Figure 2C shows and pram or stroller with a seat 400. However, the apparatus is not limited to those shown in Figure 2. The apparatus may be a pram, a basket, a pushchair, a car seat, a bassinet, a crib, a cot, a play gym or an activity apparatus.

The electronic device 100 comprises a hardware processor 110. The hardware processor 110 is configured to retrieve electronic data. The electronic data is based on information sensed by a sensor and describes (e.g., defines or represents) the condition. The hardware processor 110 is configured to process the electronic data and output, via a user interface, feedback based on the processed electronic data.

Advantageously, in this way, a user of the electronic device 100, typically a parent or guardian of the child, is updated, preferably in real-time, as to the condition of the child, facilitating comfort, health and safety of the child and reducing the parent on the parent or guardian. For example, the hardware processor 110 may retrieve electronic data describing an ambient temperature sensed by a thermometer (as the sensor), and the user interface may output feedback informing the parent or guardian of the ambient temperature. In this way, the parent or guardian is prompted to act to, for instance, avoid the child being exposed to high ambient temperatures for a prolonged period.

In addition to or as an alternative to the electronic data describing environmental information, as the example of the hardware processor 110 retrieving information describing ambient temperature, the electronic data may describe biometric information. Advantageously, use of biometric information may enable a medical condition of the child of the child to be monitored. For example, feedback may be provided relating to a body temperature of the child, a high body temperature being indicative of a fever, or a heart rate (e.g., heart rate variability) of the child.

As shown in Figure 1, the sensor 130 may be part of the electronic device 100. As alluded to, the sensor 130 may take a variety of forms. The sensor 130 may comprise one or more of each of a timer, a light sensor, a camera, a microphone, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor, a thermometer, a proximity sensor, a positioning sensor, an air flow meter, a weight transducer and a heart rate monitor.

The timer may be configured to determine how long the child has been held in the apparatus. Thus, feedback may be outputted informing the parent or guardian of the child needs a break from being in the apparatus, for example.

The camera may be configured to monitor the facial expressions of the child. Thus, feedback may be outputted informing the parent or guardian of the child is distressed or asleep/awake, for example.

The microphone may be configured to monitor noise made by child. Thus, feedback may be outputted informing the parent or guardian of the child is crying, for example.

The electronic device 100 may further comprise a satellite navigation device as a type of sensor. In this way, a parent or guardian of the child is able to monitor the distance they have travelled with the child held in the apparatus, which may be useful for the parent or guardian to track the calories they have expended. The gyroscope (accelerometer) may also be configured to monitor the distance travelled or other movement conditions.

As shown in Figure 1, the electronic device 100 may further comprise a storage unit configured to store the electronic data. Advantageously, the storge unit 140 may facilitate long-term monitoring of the child. For example, changes in the height and/or weight of the child can be monitored over months or years. In other words, the progress and/or development of the child can be tracked.

The hardware processor 110 may be configured to process the electronic data using artificial intelligence. Advantageously, use of artificial intelligence may improve the sensitivity or personalisation of the feedback outputted. For instance, use of artificial intelligence may facilitate assimilation of multiple data streams of sensed information and interpretation of these data streams into comprehensive insights.

In one example, the hardware processor 110 is configured apply the electronic data to one or more machine learning algorithms. The one or more machine learning algorithms may be trained to compare the electronic data with predetermined parameters associated with a desired condition of the child. For instance, the feedback may be based on the comparison between the electronic data and the predetermined parameters. Advantageously, in this way, feedback may be improved. For example, feedback may be provided when sensed information (e.g., ambient temperature) exceeds a threshold determined according to the predetermined parameters such that feedback is outputted efficiently and is relevant.

The electronic device 100 may further comprise a transmitter 150 configured to transmit the electronic data to an external device. Advantageously, transmitting the electronic data to an external device may enable storage and/or some processing of the electronic data to be performed remotely. Resulting, the electronic device 100 may require fewer components, meaning that it is lighter.

The electronic device 100 may further comprise or connect to a user interface 160. The user interface 160 may comprise a display and/or a speaker. Advantageously, outputting the feedback audibly as well as visually, for instance, means that the feedback can be received even if the recipient's view of the user interface 160 is impaired. The speaker may be configured to output music (e.g., soothing music to calm the child).

B

In one example, the user interface 160 forms part of the same unit as the device 100. In another example, the user interface 160 is on a remote device, for example a smartphone or tablet or other display apparatus of the user. Operation of the user interface 160 (or processing of the electronic data) may be implemented at least partially on the remote device, for example via an application installed on the remote a device.

Figure 3 schematically depicts feedback outputted to the user interface 160 according to an exemplary embodiment. In Figure 3A, in the case of the sensor 130 including a thermometer, the electronic data describes low ambient temperatures (which is environmental information), meaning that that feedback outputted to the user interface is to "add another layer." In Figure 33, in the case of the sensor 130 including a satellite navigation device, the user interface 160 displays a map, and the feedback outputted indicates locations that may be "baby-friendly" on route. In Figure 3C, in the case of the sensor 130 including a positioning sensor and weight transducer, the electronic data describes the size of the child (which is biometric information), and the feedback outputted to the user interface 160 is that it may be necessary to change the size of the car seat, because the child is growing.

The electronic device 100 may further comprise at least one of a sound alarm, a light source and an air conditioning system configured to activate based on the processed electronic data. Advantageously, these features enable a desired condition of the child to be efficiently maintained. For example, referring again to the example of an ambient temperature exceeding a threshold, the air conditioning system may activate when the ambient temperature exceeds the threshold. Activation of the air conditioning system may be accompanied by activation of the sound alarm so that parent or guardian of the child is alerted to the activation of the air conditioning system. In another example, based on processed information sensed by the proximity sensor and/or pressure sensor and/or positioning sensor that the child is not seated in the apparatus for holding, the child the sound alarm may activate. In another example, based on processed information sensed by the light sensor that it is dark, the light source may activate. The light source may comprise an LED. "Positioning" may include the child being present or absent or may include a location or orientation of the child when in the apparatus. Thus, the positioning sensor may allow a user to monitor if the child is one or more of upright, slumped, suitably located and unsuitably located.

A plurality of the apparatuses configured to hold a child, such as those described in relation to Figure 2, may form a system with an electronic device configured to retrieve electronic data describing a condition of the child, such as the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1. Each of the plurality of apparatuses is configured to receive the electronic device 100. The system comprises at least any two of the aforementioned apparatuses for holding a child, including two of the same apparatuses for holding a child (e.g., two prams; a pram, a bassinet and a play gym, etc.). Advantageously, the condition of the child can be monitored in a plethora of circumstances. In other words, the electronic device 100 can be used flexibly with different types of apparatus such that the condition of the child can be monitored constantly (e.g., when the child is in the pram, in the bassinet and in the play gym). The electronic device 100 can be moved between such apparatuses as required, for example, as the child uses different apparatuses due to growing. Thus, there is no need to buy or use more than one electronic device 100, saving resources and cost.

The system may further comprise a controller. The controller may be configured to power off the electronic device when the electronic device 100 is not being received by one of the plurality of apparatuses. The controller may be configured to power on the electronic device 100 when the electronic device 100 is being received by one of the plurality of apparatuses. Advantageously, in this way, the system is energy efficient.

Relatedly, the system may further comprise a power source configured to power the electronic device 100. The system (e.g., the electronic device 100) may include a power management system so that the electronic device is energy efficient.

The system may further comprise a fixation subsystem configured to attach the electronic device 100 to the plurality of apparatuses. The fixation subsystem may be termed a dock.

The substation subsystem may take a number of forms. The fixation subsystem may comprise a cavity or a male part configured to mate with a female part, both of which advantageously provide a straightforward and intuitive means of attaching the electronic device 100 to the plurality of apparatuses. For example, the cavity may be configured to engage with any protrusion of a complementary geometrical form. The fixation subsystem may comprise a clamp and/or a clip, which advantageously provides a flexible and easily replaceable means of attaching the electronic device 100 to the plurality of apparatuses. The fixation subsystem may comprise a magnet, which can advantageously be used with any ferromagnetic material. The fixation subsystem may form a pivotable attachment. Advantageously, a pivotable attachment may enable the position the sensor 130 to be adjusted to maximise its reliability.

The apparatuses for holding a child in Figure 2 may each include an attachable arm system. In the case of the apparatuses 200, 300, 400 shown in Figure 2, each includes an arm system 500. The arm system 500 is dedicated for receiving the electronic device 100 and is separate and distinct from any handle 260, 360, 460 of the apparatus that may be present, which is typically used for steering the apparatus (although, as above, the apparatus may be an apparatus that is not steered such as a play gym), and/or any handle that extends across the area or region in which the child sits. By being dedicated, this means that the arm system 500 and the electronic device 100 can be positioned easily and effectively, without impacting on other aspects of the apparatus 200, 300, 400.

The arm system 500 may be formed integrally with a given apparatus for holding a child or may be removable (e.g., detachable using tools). Advantageously, the arm system 500 is moveable between apparatuses for holding a child. Therefore, it is not necessary to have multiple arm systems in order to continuously monitor the condition of the child.

The arm system 500 can simply be transferred between the apparatuses.

The arm system 500 comprises an arm and an attachment point. The attachment point is configured to attach the arm system 500 to the apparatus. The arm system 500 is configured to receive an electronic device 100 as shown in Figure 2. The arm system 500 may further comprise the fixation subsystem configured to receive the electronic device 100 that is described above. The arm system 500 may also include another attachment point, for example at another end of the arm, to extend across or bridge the apparatus. This feature may improve stability or manipulation or movement of the arm.

The attachment point may comprise the features described above in relation to the fixation subsystem, these features having analogous advantages in respect of the attachment point as for the fixation subsystem. In other words, the attachment point may also comprise one or more of: a cavity, a male part configured to mate with a female part, a clamp and/or clip and a magnet. Like that fixation subsystem, the attachment point may form a pivotable attachment.

The arm may be configured to be moved relative to the apparatus. Typically, the arm is configured to be raised or lowered. The arm system 500 may further comprise a controller controllable to move the arm, for example raising or lowering the arm. The arm may be moveable manually by a user. Alternatively or additionally, movement of the arm may be in response to an electronic signal. The facility to move the arm advantageously means that the child can more easily be placed in the apparatus, because the arm can be moved out the way.

The arm system 500 may further comprise a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the arm in position. The arm may be configured to lock in position based 5 on information sensed by the sensor 130. For example, the arm may be locked in position based on sensed information indicative of the child being present.

The arm system may further comprise a grip configured to be gripped by the child. The grip may comprise one or more additional sensors (e.g., temperature sensors) in communication with the electronic device 100 to provide further information on the condition of the child.

In an embodiment without an arm, the electronic device 100 may be attached to the apparatus in another manner, for example by one or more of the approaches described above (e.g., dock, etc). The apparatus may receive the electronic device 100 in a handle or on part of a standard frame. However, use of the arm is advantageous.

In summary, the present disclosure has described a flexible means to monitor a condition of a child reliably and continuously that removes some of the burden from the child's parent or guardian. This present disclosure has described means that may include or relate to improving user-apparatus interactions, reducing costs, improving safety and more. These improvements are especially realised when the one or more of the aspects and embodiments are combined.

Although preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

Throughout this specification, the term "comprising" or "comprises" means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term "consisting essentially of' or "consists essentially of' means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention, such as colourants, and the like.

The term "consisting of" or "consists of" means including the components specified but excluding other components.

Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term "comprises" or "comprising" may also be taken to include the meaning "consists essentially of" or "consisting essentially of', and also may also be taken to include the meaning "consists of" or "consisting of'.

The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention, as set out herein are also applicable to all other aspects or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different aspects and exemplary embodiments.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings) may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at most some of such features steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings).

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system comprising: a plurality of apparatuses, each configured for holding a child; and an electronic device configured to retrieve electronic data describing a condition of the child, wherein each of the plurality of apparatuses is configured to receive the electronic device.
2. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of apparatuses comprises at least two of any one of: a pram, a basket, a pushchair, a car seat, a bassinet, a crib, a cot, a play gym and an activity apparatus.
3. The system of any preceding claim further comprising: a controller, wherein the controller is configured to power off the electronic device when the electronic device is not being received by one of the plurality of apparatuses, and wherein the controller is configured to power on the electronic device when the electronic device is being received by one of the plurality of apparatuses.
4. The system of any preceding claim, further comprising: a fixation subsystem configured to attach the electronic device to the plurality of apparatuses.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the fixation subsystem comprises a cavity.
6. The system of claim 4 or 5, wherein the fixation subsystem comprises a male part configured to mate with a female part.
7. The system of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the fixation subsystem comprises a clamp and/or a clip.
8. The system of any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the fixation subsystem comprises a 5 magnet.
9. The system of any of one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the fixation subsystem forms a pivotable attachment.
10. The system of any preceding claim, further comprising: a sensor, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of: a timer, a light sensor, a camera, a microphone, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor, a thermometer, a proximity sensor, a positioning sensor, an air flow meter, a weight transducer and a heart rate monitor.
11 The system of claim 10, wherein the electronic device further comprises: a storage unit configured to store information sensed by the sensor.
12. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the electronic device further comprises: a power source configured to power the device.
13. An electronic device for use in the system of any preceding claim, the electronic device configured to retrieve electronic data describing a condition of a child and configured to be received by each of the plurality of apparatuses.
14. A plurality of apparatuses for use in the system of any preceding claim, each apparatus configured for holding a child and configured to receive the electronic device.