NL2028403B1 - Kangaroo Care device - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments in this disclosure relate to a device for soothing an infant comprising an at least partially resiliently pliant reservoir for containing a fluid, a support in contact with a top part of the reservoir, the support being dimensioned to support the infant, preferably in prone position, and an actuator arranged for exerting a time-varying force on the reservoir. The actuator exerting a force on the reservoir causes an up-and-down motion of at least part of the support.

Description

NL32990-Sv/TD Kangaroo Care device Field of the invention The invention relates to a device for soothing an infant and to a method for using such a device for soothing an infant. Background of the invention Every year, at least 25 million babies suffer from colic, which is associated with excessive crying with no clear cause. There are very limited effective remedies or preventative actions known. This condition is observed primarily in infants up to the age of six months, with a peak occurring around six weeks. The problem is more severe and common in preterm infants, with a prevalence of around 80%.

Crying is an inherent way an infant manifests discomfort, pain, distress, lack of attention, hunger or need for diaper change. The colicky cry, however, has some characteristic facial features and can be distinguished from the normal crying. For example, there is no clear cause for the crying, the crying is usually louder, much more intense and high pitched, and parents are unable to calm their infant down with standard methods.

The observable features accompanying the infant's inconsolable cry have led to close association of colic with abdominal (intestinal) discomfort, such as infant gas, a condition very typical for infants of that age and as tricky to treat as colic. Parents with colicky babies often experience frustration, stress, guilt, and sleep deprivation. In some cases, they seek professional help and pay several visits to the doctors, neonatal specialists or caretakers. This often poses a financial and temporal burden on the parents. Other consequences include disruption of the infant's eating and sleeping habits which reflects negatively in the physical and psychological development. These are connected to the well- being of the new-born. In the worst cases, the frustration of the parents can escalate and lead to vigorous shaking of the infant, causing permanent brain damage.

Current solutions for the abdominal discomfort are usually costly, ineffective and invasive or involve medication or the administration of probiotics. Some medication-free remedies on the market claim to provide relief through the insertion of a tube into the infant rectum for efficient passing of the gas. The risk of worsening the symptoms with such a solution has been reported, and some professionals often advise against the usage of such a device. On the other hand, there is no objective evidence which would support the positive results of massaging, herbal remedies or other alternative treatment methods.

The most effective technique to calm the babies down is Kangaroo Care (KC) a parental skin-to-skin technique, which has been proven to calm crying infants down and reduce colic. Kangaroo Care is clinically proven to improve the sleep-wake cycle, and to stabilize the heart rate and breathing patterns of crying babies. However, Kangaroo Care can be extremely time-consuming with sessions typically lasting several hours. This long duration can be a major hindrance to providing Kangaroo Care, especially for working parents, single parents, or parents with twins or triplets.

Thus, there is a need for devices that can provide, or at least simulate, Kangaroo Care for an infant without unduly burdening the parent or care-taker.

US 10 201 236 B1 describes an infant soothing system, which is a cushion or pillow that simulates the breathing and heartbeat patterns of a mother. The system comprises an air-filled bladder that inflates and deflates to simulate the breathing pattern, using an pressurized air source and inlet and outlet valves. One or more speakers located in the device generate a sound that simulates the heartbeat pattern.

However, due to the high pressures involved, such a system using pressurized air can be unsafe especially in the case of a malfunction. Moreover, integrated pneumatic/hydraulic cylinders/motors can contain lubricants and other harmful substances which can be emitted as gases causing allergies to infants or even accumulate in the infant's blood.

Furthermore, the device described in US 10 201 236 B1 is relatively complicated, requiring a pressure sensor, carefully synchronised valves, and so on. This complex nature makes the device more expensive to manufacture and more susceptible to errors.

Hence, from the above it follows that there is a need in the art for a reliable device for soothing infants. In particular, there is a need in the art for a safe and simple device for providing or simulating Kangaroo Care.

Summary of the invention In a first aspect, the invention may relate to a device for soothing an infant comprising an at least partly resiliently pliant reservoir for containing a fluid, a support in contact with a top part of the reservoir, the support being dimensioned to support the infant, preferably in prone position, and an actuator arranged for exerting a time-varying force on the reservoir. The actuator exerting a force on the reservoir causes an up-and-down motion of at least part of the support.

The reservoir may be placed in a holding space, for instance formed by a rigid frame. The holding space may be arranged to restrict motion of the reservoir in one or more directions. The actuator may comprise a motor. An up-and-down motion can be an essentially vertical motion, or a motion essentially normal to the surface of the support. The up-and-down motion preferably mimics the rising and falling motion of a chest of an adult during calm abdominal breathing.

In use, the reservoir is closed and does not need to comprise valves, increasing safety. The force exerted by the actuator propagates to the support resulting in a movement of the support simulating a breathing motion. The motor driving the actuator may produce a soothing sound. The periodical motion against the reservoir also may produce a soothing rhythmic sound which may mimic the sound in a womb, providing a familiar and hence soothing environment for the infant.

As used in this disclosure, the term infant may refer to a human child, for instance less than one year of age, or less than 10 kg of weight.

As used in this disclosure, when the reservoir is compared to human lungs, the top part of the reservoir may refer to the anterior side of the reservoir, and the bottom part of the reservoir may refer to the inferior side of the reservoir. Motion of the reservoir may be restricted in e.g. the superior, posterior, and lateral directions.

The fluid can be water, and the reservoir can be a hot-water bottle, preferably a rubber hot-water bottle, more preferably a medical grade hot-water bottle.

In an embodiment, the reservoir comprises a closable opening for filling and emptying the reservoir. Thus, the reservoir can be refilled, for example with warm water for providing warmth to the infant in an easy and economical fashion. Refilling or emptying can be done using e.g. a hose or tube. The reservoir may comprise a first closable opening, e.g. at an upper part, for filling the reservoir, and a second opening, e.g. at a lower part, for emptying the reservoir.

In an embodiment, the reservoir is removably positioned in a holding space of the device. This way, the reservoir can be taken out for easy emptying and refilling. In an embodiment with a closed (non-refillable) reservoir, the reservoir may be taken out of the device to be heated in e.g. a stove. This way, several reservoirs may be kept at a desired temperature and can be inserted in the device when needed.

By using a reservoir that can be filled with a warm fluid, or that can be removed from the device to be warmed, there is no need to include a separate heating element in the device, thus reducing its power consumption and increasing its battery life, and reducing health risks for the infant, due to e.g. overheating.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a rigid frame connected to the support, the frame being arranged to support the infant if the reservoir is not positioned in the holder space or if the reservoir is not filled. This way, the infant is still supported if the reservoir would e.g. leak and become empty unexpectedly.

The support may comprise a foam material, preferably a biocompatible foam material with a high shear-strength, such as a polyurethane foam. Such a foam may resist tearing when the reservoir is absent or empty while the infant is positioned on the device, providing support to the infant. The material should be sufficiently elastic to allow the up-and- down motion of the support. The support may comprise a plurality of layers, and one layer of this plurality may be made of the foam material.

The frame may be made of a biocompatible polymer, preferably a thermoplastic polymer, such as thermoplastic polylactic acid (PLA). Such polymers are free from chemicals such as Bisphenol A, lead, phthalate, or PVC, which are considered harmful for infants. Preferably, the frame comprises a material with a low thermal conductivity, to minimise warmth leaking from the reservoir to the environment. The use of biocompatible, non-toxic materials may render the device safe for use by infants.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a heating element for heating the fluid and a control system configured to control the heating element. By including a heating element, there is no need to have a refillable reservoir. Moreover, a desired temperature may be set more precisely and may be maintained for a longer period of time than when using a passive heating method such as a hot-water bottle.

In an embodiment, the reservoir has a capacity of at least 1 litre, preferably at least 1.5 litres, more preferable at least 2 litres. A larger reservoir can provide warmth for a longer period of time. Additionally, a larger reservoir can mimic abdominal breathing more realistically, increasing the effectiveness of the device.

In an embodiment, the actuator comprises a cam or a crank mechanism. The part of the actuator that exerts the time-varying force on the reservoir preferably has a domed shape. Such a shape may simulate the shape of the diaphragm.

In an embodiment, the device comprises a preloaded spring connected with a first end to the cam or crank mechanism and, preferably, with a second end to the frame, the spring being arranged to counteract a force exerted by the reservoir on the cam or crank mechanism. This way, power consumption may be reduced.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a control system configured to control the speed and/or the amplitude of the actuator. The speed is preferably comparable to the breathing speed of a human adult, e.g. 12-20 cycles per minute. The mimicked breathing rate may be optimised based on a reaction of the infant using the device.

In an embodiment, the device may comprise one or more sensors, for example for detecting the presence of an infant on the device, for detecting whether the infant is awake or asleep, for determining a breathing rate of the infant, for determining a temperature, and so on. A temperature sensor is especially relevant for embodiments comprising a heating element. In such embodiments, the control system may control the heating element in response to a signal from the temperature sensor and/or from an external device.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises communication means communicatively connected to the control system. The communication means may be configured to receive a signal for configuring the controller, for example, for causing the control system to adjust the speed and/or amplitude of the actuator. The communications 5 means may also provide information, e.g. as obtained by the one or more sensors.

In an embodiment, the support comprises a top layer comprising silicon, e.g. silicon rubber. A silicon top-layer simulates a skin-feel. A silicon top-layer may also improve friction or grip for preventing the infant from slipping or falling from the device. A silicon top- layer is moreover easily cleaned, increasing hygiene.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a sling and/or a blanket for securing an infant positioned on the support. This further increases security of the device.

In an embodiment, the support is shaped like the chest of a human adult, optionally a female human adult. The support may comprise material simulating mammary glands, which may be sized to mimic e.g. a male or female chest. The simulated mammary glands may be included in the (foam) support layer and/or in the (silicon) top layer.

In an embodiment, the support is inclined at an angle of 25-45°, preferably at an angle of 25-35°, more preferably an angle of about 30°, the angle being determined relative to the horizontal plane. This way, the experience of lying on a parent's, for instance mother’s, belly is improved.

In a second aspect, the invention may relate to a device for soothing an infant comprising a holding space for receiving a resiliently pliant reservoir for containing a fluid, a support dimensioned to support the infant, preferably in prone position, and an actuator, wherein, when the reservoir is positioned in the holding space, the support is in contact with a top part of the reservoir and the actuator is arranged for exerting, when in use, a time- varying force on the reservoir. The actuator exerting a force on the reservoir causes an up- and-down motion of at least part of the support.

The embodiments and alternatives discussed above with respect to the first aspect of the invention apply, mutatis mutandis, to the invention in this second aspect, unless clearly not applicable.

The invention may also relate to a kit of parts comprising such a device and a resiliently pliant reservoir configured to be placed in the holding space.

In a further aspect, the invention may relate to a method for soothing an infant using a device or kit of parts as described above, the method comprising filling the reservoir with a warm fluid, preferably warm water, optionally placing the reservoir in the holding space, positioning the infant on the support, and activating the device to cause an up-and- down motion of the infant.

Filling the reservoir with a warm fluid may comprise heating a prefilled reservoir. Preferably, the reservoir is filled for approximately two-thirds with a liquid, such as water, the remain space being filled with a gas, such as air. The volume percentage of liquid may be selected between 50% and 90%, preferably between 60% and 85%, more preferably between 65% and 75%. The invention will be further illustrated with reference to the attached drawings, which schematically will show embodiments according to the invention. It will be understood that the invention is not in any way restricted to these specific embodiments. Identical reference signs refer to identical, or at least similar elements. Brief description of the drawings Fig. 1A and 1B depict two cross-sections of a device for soothing an infant according to a first embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2A and 2B depict an actuator in a first state, respectively a second state, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3 depicts a barrel-based actuator with a variable amplitude for use in an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4 depicts a crank-based actuator for use in an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5A and 5B depict two exemplary barrel shapes for use in embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary data processing system that may be used for executing methods and software products described in this application. Detailed description The embodiments in this disclosure relate to a device for soothing an infant according to a first embodiment of the invention. The device may mimic a parent or other caretaker providing so-called kangaroo care, and may be referred to as a kangaroo care device. In particular, the device may mimic the warmth, breathing motion, preferably abdominal breathing motion, and, optionally, skin-feel of an adult chest. The device may do so in a safe, reliable, and/or economical manner.

Fig. 1A and 1B schematically depict two cross-sections of a device for soothing an infant according to a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. 1B depicts the cross section along line BB' in Fig. 1A, and Fig. 1A depicts the cross section along line AA’ in Fig.

1B. In the depicted embodiment, the device 100 comprises a resiliently pliant reservoir 102 for containing a fluid. The fluid can be water, preferably warm water. The reservoir can be, for example, a rubber hot-water bottle, preferably a medical-grade rubber hot-water bottle. The reservoir can be a commercially available hot-water bottle, or it can be a specifically designed reservoir. The reservoir has a volume of at least one litre, preferably at least 1.5 litres, more preferably about two litres. The reservoir can comprise an opening 104 that is configured to be repeatably opened and closed, so that the reservoir can be emptied and refilled. Such closures are well-known in the art. In some embodiments, the reservoir may have two openings, one for filling {for example, at or near the top) and one for emptying (for example, at or near the bottom). A reservoir with two openings may be especially practical for a reservoir that cannot be removed from the device.

In an embodiment, the reservoir comprises a closable opening for filling and emptying the reservoir. Thus, the reservoir can be refilled, for example with warm water for providing warmth to the infant in an easy and economical fashion. Refilling or emptying can be done using e.g. a hose or tube.

When in use, the reservoir 102 is preferably filled for about two-thirds with a liquid, for instance water, and for the remaining about one-third with a gas, for instance air. The reservoir may comprise an indicator to facilitate filling the reservoir to the desired level with the liquid. The volume percentage of liquid may be selected between 50% and 90%, preferably between 60% and 85%, more preferably between 65% and 75%; for, e.g., a two- litre reservoir, this may correspond to between 1000-1800 ml of water, preferably between 1200-1700 ml, more preferably between 1300-1500 ml.

When in use, the reservoir 102 is preferably filled with a warm liquid, e.g.

hand-warm water, to provide warmth to the infant. This way, there is no need to include a separate heating element, increasing safety of the device and reducing power requirements. Reducing power requirements may be especially relevant for battery-powered devices. The reservoir may mimic the lungs of a kangaroo-care provider.

The device 100 further comprises a support 106. The support is dimensioned to support the infant to be soothed. The infant is preferably positioned on the device in prone position. The support may have a shape based on the shape of a human chest, and may include parts simulating mammary glands.

The support 106 may comprise several layers. For example, the support may comprise a bottom layer 122 to provide support and transfer warmth. This layer may comprise a foam with a high shear strength, e.g., polyurethane foam. Preferably, a non-toxic, biocompatible material is used. The support may also comprise a top layer 124 to mimic the feel of bare skin. The top layer is biocompatible and may comprise, e.g., silicone rubber. A silicon top-layer may also improve friction or grip for preventing the infant from slipping or falling from the device. A silicon top-layer is moreover easily cleaned, increasing hygiene.

The support 106 may be inclined at an angle ¢ of 25-45°, preferably at an angle of 25-35°, more preferably at an angle of about 30°, relative to the horizontal plane. This way, the experience of lying on a parent’s, in particular mother’s, belly is improved. Additionally, by placing the infant's head higher than its stomach, reflux may be reduced. The inclination angle should be sufficiently shallow to reduce the risk of the infant gliding off the device. Alternatively or additionally, the support may comprise a saddle to provide additional support to the infant and/or to prevent the infant from gliding off the device.

When in use, the support 106 is in contact with a top part 105 of the reservoir 102, at least most of the time. In this context, top part refers to the part corresponding to the anterior part of the chest. This way, when the top part of the reservoir moves, the support moves in a similar way, providing the sensation of a breathing adult to the infant placed upon the device.

The device 100 further comprises an actuator 108 arranged for exerting a time-varying force on the reservoir 102. The actuator exerting a force on the reservoir causes a deformation of the reservoir leading to an up-and-down motion of the top part of the reservoir and, consequently, an up-and-down motion of at least part of the support 106. An up-and-down motion can be an essentially vertical motion, or a motion essentially normal to the surface of the support, or something in-between. The amplitude of the vertical motion may vary over the surface of the support. The maximum amplitude can be similar to the amplitude of chest motion of a calmly breathing human adult, for instance in the range of 2— 10 mm, preferably in the range 3-6 mm.

The actuator 108 may comprise a motor 110. In the depicted embodiment, the motor drives a shaft 112 to which an approximately cylindrical barrel 114 is attached in an eccentric manner. The barrel is in contact with a lever 116. Together, these may form a cam and follower mechanism, the barrel being used as a cam and the lever as a cam follower. In this example, the barrel bulges slightly in the middle, to reduce friction between the barrel and the lever, but other embodiments may use a cylindrical barrel. Thus, when the motor causes the shaft to rotate, the barrel pushes the lever up and down.

The lever 116 preferably has a gently domed shape, mimicking the shape of the diaphragm. The lever is preferably in contact with a bottom-part of the reservoir, for instance an inferior part of the reservoir. The up-and-down motion may be understood as a mainly superior-inferior motion. The up-and-down motion can be a linear motion or a rotational notion, for instance when the lever is connected to a frame using hinges. This way, the motion of the support may resemble abdominal breathing, which may also be referred to as diaphragmatic breathing. Abdominal breathing is associated with being calm.

Optionally, the lever 116 is connected to one or more preloaded springs

1184.2. These springs may provide a force counteracting at least in part the force exerted by the reservoir on the lever, thus reducing the power-consumption of the device. Other embodiments may use different barrel shapes, as discussed more extensively below with reference to Fig. 5A,B. Other embodiments may use different actuator types, for example as described below with reference to Fig. 4. Some actuators may include a mechanically or electronically adjustable amplitude.

Thus, as is also discussed in more detail with reference to Fig. 2A,B, the device 100 may move between a first state, resembling full exhalation, wherein the lever 116 is positioned at its bottom-most position (anatomically, the most inferior position}, and a second state, resembling full inhalation, wherein the lever is positioned in a top-most position (anatomically, the most superior position).

The device 100 may further comprise a frame 120. The frame can be a rigid frame connected to the support. The frame may be configured to support the infant if the reservoir is not positioned in the holder space or if the reservoir is not filled. This way, the infant is still supported if the reservoir would e.g. leak and become empty unexpectedly.

The 120 frame may define or comprise a holding space 121 for holding the reservoir 102. The holding space may restrict or prevent motion of the reservoir in one or more directions, for instance the posterior, superior, and/or lateral directions. This way, the deformation caused by actuator may more efficiently be propagated to the top part (anterior part). Additionally or alternatively, the reservoir may comprise structural elements to restrict or prevent motion in one or more directions. e.g. a rigid border along the side of the reservoir.

The reservoir 102 can be removably positioned in the holding space 121 of the device 100. This way, the reservoir can be taken out for easy emptying and refilling. In an embodiment with a closed (non-refillable) reservoir, the reservoir may be taken out to be heated in e.g. a stove, preferably held at a predefined temperature. This can be practical when no reliable source for warm water is nearby.

The device 100 may further comprise a sling and/or a blanket {not shown) for securing the infant to the support 106. The sling or blanket may be attachable to the frame

120. This further increases security of the device.

The device may further comprise a power supply. The power supply may comprise a power cord and/or socket for connecting the device to the mains. Such a power- supply may keep the device relatively light-weight and economical. Moreover, the device can function constantly, without needing to charge or replace batteries. Additionally or alternatively, the device may comprise a cell or battery, for example a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. Batteries allow more flexibility in placement of the device compared to a wired device. Additionally, a battery-powered device may be safer, due to absence of high voltages.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a control system, as described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 6. The control system may be configured to control the speed and/or the amplitude of the actuator. The speed is preferably comparable to the breathing speed of a human adult, e.g. about 12 cycles per minute. The speed may be optimised based on the reaction of the infant.

In an embodiment, the device may comprise one or more sensors, for example for detecting the presence of an infant on the device, for detecting whether the infant is awake or asleep, for determining a breathing rate of the infant, for determining a temperature, and so on. A temperature sensor is especially relevant for embodiments comprising a heating element. Such embodiments may further comprise a control system in order to control the heating element in response to a signal from the temperature sensor.

In an embodiment, the device may comprise a communication channel, preferably a wireless communication channel, for example based on WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, or LoRa. The device may be configured to communicatively connect to an external device, for instance a (dedicated) monitoring device and/or a general purpose device such as a mobile phone.

The motor driving the actuator may produce a soothing sound. The periodical motion against the reservoir also may produce a soothing rhythmic sound which may mimic the sound in a womb, providing a familiar and hence soothing environment for the infant. In an embodiment, the device may comprise one or more speakers, for example to allow a caretaker to communicate with the infant or to producing (further) soothing sounds.

In an embodiment, the device further comprises a heating element for heating the fluid and a control system configured to control the heating element. By including a heating element, the fluid in the reservoir may be kept at a constant temperature; and in some embodiments with sufficient heating power, there may be no need to have a refillable reservoir.

Fig. 2A and 2B depict an actuator in a first state, respectively a second state, according to an embodiment of the invention. The actuator may be used as a breathing simulator for a device for soothing an infant. In particular, Fig. 2A depicts the actuator in a first state, resembling full exhalation, and Fig. 2B depicts the actuator in a second state, resembling full inhalation.

As can be seen in Fig. 2A, in the first state, the lever 202 is positioned at its bottom-most position. The lever may have a domed top surface 204, resembling the shape of a diaphragm. The top surface may be in contact with a bottom part of the resiliently pliant reservoir 206, here depicted as a rubber hot-water bottle.

The lever 202 may be connected to one or more preloaded springs 2084.2, partially counteracting the force exerted on the lever by the reservoir 206. The force exerted by the reservoir may depend on the weight of an infant positioned on the device. In some embodiments, the preloaded force of the springs can be adjusted, either manually or automatically, based on a detected weight of the infant. The preloaded springs may reduce the energy consumption of the breathing simulator.

As can be seen in Fig. 2B, in the second state, the lever 202 is positioned in a top-most position. The lever may be driven by a barrel 210. In the depicted example, the barrel has a cylindrical shape and is eccentrically connected to a shaft driven by, e.g., a motor.

Fig. 3 depicts a barrel-based actuator with a variable amplitude for use in an embodiment of the invention. In the depicted example, a tapered barrel 302 is used which can be moved relative to the lever 304. When the wide part of the tapered barrel (depicted as the right side of the barrel) acts on the lever, the lever moves with a relatively large amplitude. When the small part of the tapered barrel (depicted as the left side of the barrel) acts on the lever, the lever moves with a relatively small amplitude. The barrel may be moved e.g. mechanically or electronically relative to the lever.

Fig. 4 depicts a crank-based actuator for use in an embodiment of the invention. The crank-based actuator may be used as an alternative to the barrel-based actuator. In this example, the orientation of the shaft relative to the lever 402 has been changed, but the skilled person will understand that regardless of the specific type of actuator used, any orientation that fits within a chosen frame, is feasible.

A motor may cause a disk 404 or arm to rotate, which is converted into a reciprocal motion by a crank 406. A preloaded spring 408 may again be used for static balancing of the load, similar to what was described with reference to Fig. 2A,B. The force exerted by the spring may be adjusted, manually or automatically, based on the weight of the infant.

Other alternatives to drive a reciprocal motion of the lever are known in the art, and may similarly be used in embodiments of the invention.

In a typical embodiment, the breathing motion is created by a continuous rotation of a motor. In such an embodiment, breathing speed is typically proportional to a rotational speed of the motor. The rotational speed may be proportional to a voltage supplied to the motor, and can thus easily be regulated. These embodiments are typically simple, reliable, and economical. In other embodiments, the breathing motion may be created by a back-and-forth motion of a motor, e.g., a servo-motor. It is an advantage of such embodiments that in principle, almost arbitrary breathing patterns can be simulated.

Fig. 5A and 5B depict two exemplary barrel shapes for use in embodiments of the invention. Fig. 5A depicts a cylindrical barrel 502 arranged to rotate around an off-centre positioned shaft 504. This results in a sinusoidal breathing pattern 506. Here, the graph may represent the reciprocal motion of the ‘diaphragm’, or the up-and-down motion of the support. In this example, the breathing pattern has a period of 4 s, corresponding to a breathing rate of 15 breaths per minute. The breathing has an amplitude of 5 mm. It should be noted that the amplitude of the lever motion may be different from the amplitude of the support.

However, it has been found that for a typical resting adult, the inhalation phase is actually longer than the exhalation phase. Consequently, Fig. 5B depicts an adjusted barrel shape 512, again arranged to rotate around an off-centre positioned shaft 514. This barrel shape leads to a breathing pattern 516 with relatively long inhalations and relatively short exhalations. A more realistic breathing pattern may have a stronger soothing effect.

Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary data processing system that may be used for executing methods and software products described in this application. The data processing system 600 comprises a processor 601, preferably a microprocessor, connected to a memory 603. The memory may store instructions to cause the processor to implement one or more method steps described in this application. The processor may be configured to adjust the breathing pattern, for instance by controlling the motor 605. Controlling the motor may comprise regulating the speed of the motor, for example by adjusting the voltage supplied to the motor.

In some embodiments, adjusting the breathing patterns may comprise adjusting the amplitude and/or other breathing parameters. For example, the device may comprise a barrel with a dynamically adjustable barrel shape, and the processor may be configured to adjust the barrel shape, possibly in response to user input and/or sensor input.

The processor may receive input from one or more sensors 607. The sensors may detect e.g. the presence of an infant on the device, the weight of the infant, the sleeping or waking state of the infant, a breathing rate of the infant, a heart rate of the infant, and/or other (physiological) parameters. The sensors may also comprise a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, and/or other sensors, for example for safety concerns or to warn a parent when the infant has wetted the device. In other embodiments, the device may not comprise any sensors, reducing cost. Alternatively or additionally, the device may comprise one or more sensors that are not connected to the controller.

The system may further comprise input/output means 609, for example an antenna for wireless communication for WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, LoRa or other wireless communication protocols. Alternatively or additionally, the system may comprise one or more wired I/O connectors, e.g. a USB connector or ethernet connector. This way, the device may communicate with an external device, for example to receive instructions for setting or changing a breathing pattern, or for transmitting data based on a sensor signal.

In embodiments with a heating element, the processor may also control the heating element, optionally in response to a signal from one or more temperature sensors. A predetermined temperature may be defined and, optionally, stored in the memory 603. The predetermined temperature can be time-dependent, e.g. relatively high, for instance 35- 37 °C when a kangaroo care session is started, and lower, e.g. 30-35 °C after a predetermined amount of time has passed, to prevent overheating of the infant. Preferably, the selected temperature range corresponds to a human skin temperature range. Therefore, the risk of overheating the infant is minimised.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises"

and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims (17)

CONCLUSIONS A device for soothing an infant comprising: - an at least partially resilient compliant reservoir for containing a liquid; - a support contacting an upper part of the reservoir, the support being configured to support the infant; and - an actuator arranged for exerting a time-varying force on the reservoir; wherein the actuator applying a force to the reservoir causes an up and down movement of at least a portion of the support. The device of claim 1, wherein the reservoir comprises a closable opening for filling and emptying the reservoir. The device according to the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir is removably positioned in a storage space of the device. The device according to the preceding claims, further comprising: a rigid framework connected to the support, the framework adapted to support the infant when the reservoir is not positioned in the holding space or when the reservoir is not filled. The device according to the preceding claims, further comprising: a heating element for heating the liquid; and a control system adapted to control the heating element. The device according to the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir has a capacity of at least 1 litre, preferably at least 1.5 litres, more preferably at least 2 litres. The device according to the preceding claims, wherein the actuator comprises a cam or a crankshaft mechanism. The device of claim 7, further comprising a biased spring connected to the cam or crank mechanism, the spring adapted to neutralize a force exerted by the reservoir on the cam or crank mechanism. The device according to the preceding claims, further comprising: a control system adapted to control the speed and/or the amplitude of the actuator. The apparatus according to the preceding claims, further comprising communication means communicatively connected to the control system, the communication means being adapted to receive a signal for causing the control system to adjust the speed and/or amplitude of the actuator. The device according to the preceding claims, wherein the support comprises a top layer comprising silicone. The device according to the preceding claims, further comprising a sling and/or a blanket for securing an infant positioned on the support. The device according to the preceding claims, wherein the support is shaped like the breast of an adult human, preferably a female adult human, and/or wherein the support is inclined at an angle of 25-45°, preferably at an angle of 25-35°, more preferably with an angle of about 30°, relative to the horizontal plane. The device according to the preceding claims, further comprising a sensor for detecting a physiological signal from the infant, preferably a breathing rate and/or a heartbeat. A device for soothing an infant, comprising a holding space for receiving a resiliently flexible reservoir for containing a liquid, a support configured to support the infant, preferably in the prone position, and an actuator, wherein when the reservoir is positioned in the holding space, the support contacts an upper part of the reservoir and the actuator is arranged to apply, when in use, a time-varying force to the reservoir resulting in an up and down movement of at least part of the support. A kit of parts comprising the device of claim 15 and a resiliently flexible container adapted to be placed in the holding space. A method of soothing an infant using a device or kit of parts according to the preceding claims, the method comprising: filling the reservoir with a warm liquid, preferably warm water; placing the reservoir in the storage space; positioning the infant on the support; and, activating the device to cause an up and down movement of the infant.