WO2013083982A1

WO2013083982A1 - Prayer mat

Info

Publication number: WO2013083982A1
Application number: PCT/GB2012/053032
Authority: WO
Inventors: Munif Zia
Original assignee: Aslam, Norman
Priority date: 2011-12-06
Filing date: 2012-12-06
Publication date: 2013-06-13
Also published as: EP2811870A1; AU2012349835A1; CA2863334A1

Abstract

A prayer mat or rug including a portion of material suitable for use as a prayer mat, wherein said prayer mat includes at least one media device.

Description

Prayer Mat

This invention relates to improvements to prayer mats or rugs, particularly those used for prayer in the Muslim religion.

Although the following description refers to Muslim prayer mats, it will be appreciated by tho se skilled in the art that the present invention could be applied to other portions of material and/or fabric and is not limited to prayer mats per se, nor to prayer mats for the Muslim religion.

Muslims are required to perform five ritual prayers every day (five Daily Prayers), at prescribed times of the day. Each prayer has prescribed words, accompanying actions and must be completed a certain number of times (raka'ah) .

The prayers are usually performed on a prayer mat to keep the worshiper clean and comfortable whilst undertaking the five

Daily Prayers. The prayer mat is usually a piece of fabric material. The five Daily Prayers are:

Dhuhr (Noon) Prayer - four raka'ahs (cycles)

Asr (Mid-afternoon) Prayer - four raka'ahs

Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer - three raka'ahs

Isha'a (Nightfall) Prayer - four raka'ahs

Subh or Faj r (Dawn) Prayer - two raka'ahs

Remembering the precise words, actions and order of the same can be challenging, particularly for converts and non-Arabic speakers.

It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide an apparatus which can be used to address the abovementioned problem. In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a portion of material suitable for use as a prayer mat, wherein said portion of material includes at least one media device.

Preferably the portion of material is a prayer mat or rug. Typically the portion of material is a segment of substantially flexible fabric material.

In one embodiment the media device is capable of playing and/or displaying media content. Typically the media content includes sound or audio media, and/or visual media such as pictures, lights, images and/or the like.

Preferably the media device includes at least an audio means for playing sound media. Typically the audio means is an electronic audio means. Further typically the media device is capable of playing and/or storing digital audio data such as sounds recorded as MP3, AAC format and/or the like.

In one embodiment the media device includes a display means. Typically the display means includes on or more screens and/or monitors for displaying visual media. Further typically the visual media is related to the audio data stored and/or played through the media device.

In one embodiment the media device and/or at least the audio means includes storage means. Typically the storage means takes the form of digital memory and/or the like for storing the media content.

In one embodiment the storage means only includes one or more of the five Daily Prayers. In one embodiment the storage means includes other prayers in addition to the five Daily Prayers. Typically the audio means includes any one or any combination of audio players. For example the audio means can include any one or any combination of digital audio players such as MP3 players, mini-disc players, compact disc players, digital audio cassette player and/or analogue audio players such as audio cassette players and/or the like.

In one embodiment the media device includes output means . Typically the audio means includes the output means. Further typically the output means includes one or more speakers, headphones and/or the like and/or one or more socket means to which speakers, headphones and/or the like can be attached or connected to in use. Further typically the output means plays at least the audio of the media content stored in the audio means.

In one embodiment the audio means produces audio or sound output only.

In one embodiment the audio means includes one or more of the words of the five Daily Prayers. Typically the audio means includes the words of at least the five Daily Prayers. Further typically the storage means has sufficient capacity for at least the storage of the five Daily Prayers.

In one embodiment any one or any combination of the five Daily Prayers are read by a specific reader, reciter or person. Typically the reader of any one or any combination of the five Daily Prayers can be selected to be read by one or more readers. Preferably the order of the five Daily Prayers cannot be changed and/or the prayers cannot be skipped. Further preferably other prayers and/or combination of prayers can be predetermined or selected to be played between the five Daily Prayers. In one embodiment media device and/or at least the audio means includes instructions. Typically the instructions are audio and/or visual information regarding the positions and/or postures to be adopted when the content is recited. Further typically the display means displays information and/or indications regarding the positions and/or po stures to be adopted when reciting the media content.

In one embodiment the media device includes one or more input means. Typically the input means is one or more sockets through which data can be loaded to the media device and/or the storage means. Further typically the input means includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) socket, or mini-USB or micro-USB and/ or the like.

In one embodiment the media device includes one or more control means. Typically the control means allows the user to select, pause, rewind and/or replay the media content and/or one or more of the five Daily Prayers and/or parts of the same. Preferably the control means includes a touch screen interface.

Typically the touch screen interface allows the combination of the control means and the display means such that the user can select to pause, rewind and/or replay the media content and/or display one or more instructions to the user as part of the media content or while the media content is playing.

In one embodiment the control means and/or the display means includes a 'reciter' button, key or portion. Typically pressing this button allows the user to pick different reciters of the prayer recited. Further typically the prayer content is the same for each prayer regardless of the reciter. Preferably there are between 4- 10 reciters in total. In one embodiment the mat includes power means. Typically the power means provides power to run the one or more audio means.

In one embodiment the power means includes one or more batteries. Typically the batteries are rechargeable batteries. Further typically the batteries can be recharged via the input means such as a USB socket and preferably a micro-USB socket. In one embodiment the batteries are rechargeable Li-Ion batteries.

In one embodiment the power means includes one or more photovoltaic cells (solar panels) . Typically the photovoltaic cells can provide power directly to the media device and/or at least the audio means and/or the power generated from the photovoltaic cells is stored in one or more batteries.

In one embodiment the power means includes one or more generator means. Typically the generator means includes one or more handles or cranks where turning the same generates current to power the media device and/or at least the audio means. The power generated can be dis sipated relatively slowly and/or stored in the batteries.

In one embodiment the mat includes indication means, whereby an indication is given to the user to change position and/or prostration. Typically the indication means is one or more vibrating portions. Further typically the vibrating portion is a vibrating pad or mat.

In one embodiment the mat includes direction means. Typically the direction means is a compass and/or the like. Further typically the direction means indicates the direction to Mecca so that the mat can be orientated correctly. In one embodiment the mat includes global positioning means (GPS) which uses global positioning satellites to identify the location of the user. Typically the global positioning means provides information concerning the direction from the user's location to Mecca so that the mat can be orientated or aligned correctly for use.

In one embodiment any one or any combination of the indication means, direction means and/or global positioning means includes one or more visual indications such as lights and/ or the like.

In a second aspect of the invention there is provided a portion of material suitable for use as a prayer mat, wherein said portion of material includes at least one audio means.

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a portion of sheet material suitable for use as a prayer mat, said material including location means.

Typically the location means is suitable for the location o f and/or engagement with a media device.

In one embodiment the media device is retrofitted to the prayer mat. Typically the media device is an audio means.

In one embodiment the location means provides one or more areas on which and/or to which at least one audio means may be located.

In one embodiment the location means includes on or more formations for the attachment of one or more audio means. In a further aspect of the invention there is a provided a teaching aid suitable for the teaching of the five Daily Prayers, said teaching aid including a media means for playing media content and a mat means.

In one embodiment the media means includes and audio output means. Typically the audio output means are one or more speakers.

In one embodiment the media means includes a visual output means. Typically the visual output means is one or more o f lights, light emitting diodes, display screens and/or the like.

In one embodiment the mat means includes one or more speakers and/or the like.

In one embodiment the media means is attached to and/or integral with the mat means.

In an alternative embodiment the media means is located remote from the mat means.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using a teaching aid, said teaching aid including an audio means and a mat means, said method including the steps o f positioning said mat means on a surface in use and actuating said audio means.

Specific embodiments of the invention are now described with reference to the following figures, wherein:

Figures l a and l b show prayer mats in accordance with embodiments of the invention; Figure 2 shows a prayer mat in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 shows control means interface in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of an interface for a control means in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 5 shows a yet further embodiment of the invention.

The present invention relates to a prayer mat which can play the audio recitation of the contents of the five obligatory Islamic prayers. The audio recitation can be heard through one or more speakers and/or through headphones.

Turning firstly to figure l a where there is shown a prayer mat or rug 2 which has been unfolded and placed on the ground ready for prayer. The mat 2 includes an audio means 4 in the form of an electronic audio data player, in this example an MP3 player. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the MP3 audio means could be replaced by an analogue tape player or any such audio player. The audio means 4 in this example includes a speaker 6 through which the audio data held in the audio means 4 can be played. The audio means 4, speakers 6 and/or the control means 8 for the same are located at a position where they do not obstruct the user during use of the mat and in particular worship and prayers.

The audio means 4 in Figures l a and l b are integrally formed with the mat 2. However, in figure l b the speakers 6', 6" are not part of the mat or integral with the audio means, they are positioned remotely from the same, although they are connected to the audio means.

Instructions and the words for the prayers are played from the audio means through the speakers so the worshipper using the mat know what to say and the actions that accompany the prayer verse. Both mats shown in figures l a and l b have control means 8 which controls the volume of the instruction, and can also be used to select the prayer to be recited by playing, pausing, stopping, fast forwarding and/or rewinding the audio stored on the audio means. The audio means 4 in each example also includes an audio socket into which additional speakers and/or headphones can be plugged.

Turning now to figure 2 where an alternative embodiment is show in that the audio means 4 is not formed integrally with the mat 2. In this example the speaker 6 is formed within the mat 2 and although the audio means 4 is attached to the speaker, the audio means is located inside a housing separate to the mat. The audio means could be a separate media device such as an iPod Touch and/or the like. Nevertheless the audio means is associated with the mat. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the mat may include an additional speaker and/or headphone socket in addition to, or in replacement of, speaker 6.

Figure 3 shows a front view of a membrane keypad 10 which is used to control the device via the control means 8. When the Electronic Prayer Mat or device is turned on, the prayer time button LEDs 14 will be slowly flashing. This is a prompt for the user to select the prayer time. The different prayer times are labelled on the buttons 12a-f. In some embodiments there is a button for the Jumah or Friday Prayer. Once the user has selected the prayer time, the appropriate prayer time LED s 14 will light solid to show the selection. The LED s above the prayer buttons 1 6 on a selected row will now light according to the specification, lighting in green, yellow or red as appropriate; red being a compulsory prayer, amber/yellow desirable prayer to recite and green for an optional prayer. At this time the user can select the prayer they wish, however the control unit 8 will obey the neces sary logic to ensure that compulsory prayers are used and that prayers may only be selected in the correct order. Prayer buttons will be disabled appropriately to ensure this. The selection will be shown by illuminating the top LED above the selection.

Once the prayer has been selected, there will be a short delay of around ten seconds to allow the user to prepare themselves for prayer. All LED s on the control pad 10 will be extinguished around one second before playback starts, this will act as a visual indication that playback is about to start, and will also conserve battery power and minimise distraction of the user during prayer.

When the playback has finished, the prayer time LED 14 will light and the remaining available prayer options will light also . The user can now select the next prayer.

The unit in this example automatically times out after five minutes of inactivity (non-playback), or once the final prayer has been completed.

In this example, if an incorrect selection is made or the wrong prayer time was accidentally selected the user can change the selection simply by pres sing the button for the correct prayer time. This can only be done before a prayer 1 6 is selected. Once a prayer has been selected the minimum sequence must be completed, the only way to avoid this feature, if present, would be to turn the unit off.

Additional features would be made available using the function button or key 18. In this example the function key 1 8 must be held down during these operations. Releasing the function key 18 exits Function Mode and returns the control unit to Playback Mode. Once the function button 18 is held the battery status and current playback speed are indicated on the appropriate LED s 20a-b, 22a-c. The volume can be adjusted by holding 'Function' 18 and pres sing the 'Down' or 'Up' buttons 24a, 24b to allow adjustment of the Volume. If maximum volume is achieved the LED above the 'Up' label lights, if the minimum volume is achieved then the LED above the 'Down' label lights.

While holding 'Function' 18, pressing the 'Slow' or 'Fast' buttons allows the playback speed to be selected. If 'Fast' is selected the LED above or next to the 'Fast' label lights, if 'Slow' is selected then the LED next to the 'Slow' label lights.

Battery status is typically shown indicated on a Red, Yellow/Amber and Green LED and shows the user the current battery status, ranging from 'Low' to 'Good'. If the battery gets extremely low the 'Low' labelled LED (Red) will flash rapidly, and no other operation will be possible until the device battery is charged. In one embodiment the control means determines whether the battery has enough charge to complete a full sequence of prayers before allowing selection of the first prayer in the sequence.

The device can be charged by inserting a jack, such as a USB plug into the 'Charge In' socket 26. Adjacent to socket 26 is an audio socket 28 where external speakers or headphones can be plugged in. Turning to figure 4 where an example is shown wherein the control means 8 is an iPhone® or other such smartphone. The person skilled in the art will appreciate that tablet devices, such as the iPad® or similar is the control device. The display 30 is very similar to that of control pad shown in figure 3, having a prayer time buttons 12a-f and the individual prayer functions 16. The function button has been replaced with a volume key 32 wherein the output from the iPhone control device can be adjusted as required. The battery indicator is also not required as the control device usually includes such an indication. The headphone output from the control device can be provided to headphones and/or one or more speakers.

Figure 5 shows an example wherein the control means 8 is located acro ss the front or leading edge of the mat 2 in the form of a touch screen interface similar to an iPad®. The screen displays several buttons or keys which relate to the time of day 12a-f followed by the prayers 1 6 which can be recited for that particular time of day. The buttons are also as sociated with lights 14 which are red if the prayer is obligatory, such as the Fard and Witr prayers. In this example, different speakers or reciters can be selected to read particular prayers. This can be achieved by pres sing the prayer button before or as the prayer is about to start. In addition, in some examples a Reciter button is displayed on the interface. This reciter button allows the user to pick different reciters of the prayer recited, usually 4- 10 reciters in total, but prayer content is the same for each prayer. The selection of reciters is identified by pressing the reciter key and the selected reciter being identified by the illuminating of a light as sociated with audio 1 , audio 2 etc. The skilled person will appreciate that the present invention provides a prayer mat combined with a media device such that instructions and prayers can be provided to the user.

Claims

1. A prayer mat or rug including a portion of material suitable for use as a prayer mat, wherein said prayer mat includes at least one media device.

2. A prayer mat according to claim 1 wherein the media device is capable of playing and/or displaying media content.

3. A prayer mat according to claim 2 wherein the media device includes an audio means for playing audio media.

4. A prayer mat according to claim 2 or 3 wherein the media device includes a display means for displaying visual media.

5. A prayer mat according to claim 4 wherein the visual media is related to the audio media.

6. A prayer mat according to any preceding claim wherein the media device includes storage means for storing the media content.

7. A prayer mat according to claim 6 wherein the storage means only includes one or more of the five Daily Prayers.

8. A prayer mat according to any of claims 3-7 wherein the audio means includes output means.

9. A prayer mat according to claim 8 wherein the output means includes one or more speakers, headphones and/or the like and/or one or more socket means to which speakers, headphones and/or the like can be attached or connected to in use.

10. A prayer mat according to any of claims 4-9 wherein the display means displays information and/or indications regarding the positions and/or po stures to be adopted when the audio content.

1 1. A prayer mat according to any preceding claim wherein the media device includes one or more input means.

12. A prayer mat according to claim 1 1 wherein the input means is one or more sockets through which data can be loaded to the media device and/or the storage means.

13. A prayer mat according to any preceding claim wherein the media device includes one or more control means.

14. A prayer mat according to claim 13 wherein the control means allows the user to select, pause, rewind and/or replay the media content.

15. A prayer mat according to claim 14 wherein the media content includes the Islamic Five Daily Prayers, said Prayers only playable in a predetermined sequence such that the Prayers cannot be played out of sequence.

16. A prayer mat according to claim 15 wherein other media and/or prayers can be played and/or inserted between the Five Daily Prayers.

17. A prayer mat according to any preceding claim wherein the mat includes one or more power means in the form of one or more rechargeable batteries.

18. A prayer mat according to any to any preceding claim wherein the mat includes one or more photovoltaic cells to power the media device.

19. A prayer mat according to claims 1 7 and 1 8 wherein the power generated by the photovoltaic cells is stored in one or more rechargeable batteries.

20. A prayer mat according to any preceding claim wherein the mat includes indication means to indicate to the user when to change position and/or prostration.

21. A prayer mat according to claim 20 wherein the indication means includes one or more lights and/or vibrating pads.

22. A prayer mat according to any preceding claim wherein the mat includes direction means such that the mat can be orientated towards Mecca.

23. A prayer mat including a portion of sheet material, said material including location means for the location of and/or engagement with a media device.