U.S. patent application number 11/715969 was filed with the patent office on 2007-10-18 for sensory stimulation device for child.
Invention is credited to William G. Stedman.
Application Number | 20070243791 11/715969 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38605378 |
Filed Date | 2007-10-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070243791 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stedman; William G. |
October 18, 2007 |
Sensory stimulation device for child
Abstract
The sensory stimulation device for a child is a crib-mounted
system that provides aural, visual and olfactory stimulation for a
child. The system includes a housing, which is adapted for mounting
within the crib. A front wall of the housing has a screen mounted
thereto, with the screen displaying a user-selectable image. The
system further includes a microphone and at least one speaker in
communication with a recording medium, allowing the user to
selectively record and play back audio for the child. Further, the
housing includes a scent chamber for receiving a scent producing
material. The scent producing material generates scented air, which
is pumped, under user control, through a port formed through the
housing for delivery to the child. The system may further include a
telephone interface, allowing for remote actuation and programming
of the system.
Inventors: |
Stedman; William G.;
(Lansdowne, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LITMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD.
P.O. BOX 15035, CRYSTAL CITY STATION
ARLINGTON
VA
22215
US
|
Family ID: |
38605378 |
Appl. No.: |
11/715969 |
Filed: |
March 9, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60791898 |
Apr 14, 2006 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
446/227 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 2200/00 20130101;
A63H 5/00 20130101; A63H 33/006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/227 |
International
Class: |
A63H 33/00 20060101
A63H033/00 |
Claims
1. A sensory stimulation device for a child, comprising: a housing
having a front wall and a rear wall, the front wall having an
opening and a scent port formed therethrough; a screen mounted to
the housing and positioned within the opening formed through the
front wall, the screen displaying a user-selectable image; means
for releasably securing the housing to a crib; at least one
microphone disposed in the housing; a recording medium for storing
user-selectable audio data, the recording medium being in
electrical communication with the at least one microphone; at least
one speaker electrically connected with the recording medium for
generating audio signals dependent upon the user-selectable audio
data; a scent chamber formed within the housing; a scent producing
material disposed within the scent chamber for producing scented
air; means for delivering the scented air to the child through the
scent port; means for delivering user-selective control signals to
the means for delivering the scented air and to the recording
medium; and a user interface in electrical communication with the
means for delivering user-selective control signals, the user
interface allowing the user to actuate and program the means for
delivering user-selected control signals.
2. The sensory stimulation device as recited in claim 1, wherein
said user interface comprises a telephone interface adapted for
connection to a telephone line, allowing the user to remotely
actuate and program said means for delivering user-selected control
signals.
3. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, wherein said screen has an upper end pivotally attached to said
housing.
4. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, further comprising a light source for selectively illuminating
said screen, the light source being electrically connected to said
means for delivering user-selected control signals.
5. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, wherein said means for releasably securing the housing to the
crib comprises a substantially L-shaped support member mounted to
an upper portion of the rear wall of said housing, the L-shaped
support member being adapted for releasable reception of a
horizontal rail of the crib.
6. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in-claim
5, wherein said means for releasably securing the housing to the
crib further comprises: a bolt mounted to a central portion of the
rear wall of the housing and projecting rearwardly therefrom, the
bolt being adapted for insertion between a pair of adjacent
vertical rails of the crib; and a nut for releasably securing the
bolt to the crib.
7. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, wherein said means for delivering the scented air to the child
through the scent port comprises a diaphragm slidably mounted
within said scent chamber, the diaphragm being selectively driven
to force the scented air through the scent port.
8. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
7, further comprising at least one rail mounted to an upper wall of
said scent chamber, the diaphragm having an upper end slidably
mounted to the at least one rail.
9. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
8, further comprising: a magnet mounted to the upper end of the
diaphragm; and an oscillating electromagnet mounted within said
housing above the upper wall of said scent chamber for driving the
diaphragm along an oscillating path, the oscillating electromagnet
being in communication with said means for delivering
user-selective control signals.
10. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, wherein said recording medium is further adapted for storing
user-selectable video data, said screen being a display adapted for
displaying the user-selectable video data.
11. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, further comprising a transparent window mounted in said housing,
the window covering the opening formed through the front wall
thereof.
12. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, further comprising a programmable timer in communication with
said user interface.
13. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, wherein said user interface comprises at least one
user-actuatable button mounted to the front wall of said
housing.
14. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, further comprising: a battery chamber formed within said
housing; and at least one battery received within the battery
chamber for providing electrical power to the sensory stimulation
device.
15. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
1, wherein said user interface comprises a telephone interface
adapted for connection to a telephone line, allowing the user to
remotely actuate and program said means for delivering
user-selected control signals, said housing having a telephone
chamber formed therein, the telephone interface being received
within the telephone chamber.
16. The sensory stimulation device for a child as recited in claim
15, wherein the telephone interface comprises a cellular telephone.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/791,898, filed Apr. 14, 2006.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to electronic audio-visual
devices, and particularly to a sensory stimulation device for a
child, which is a crib-mounted system for providing aural, visual
and olfactory stimulation for a child. Particularly, a sensory
stimulation routine may be programmed by the user, and may be
actuated remotely through a telephone line.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Sensory stimulation devices for infants and children
typically include a visual stimulus, often in the form of
illuminated lights or multi-colored objects, or an audio stimulus,
typically in the form of prerecorded audio clips. Such systems are
typically preprogrammed and generate light patterns following a
preprogrammed routine, or play audio clips or music repetitively.
Infant-and child stimulation systems typically do not provide for
user programmable audio or visual stimuli, thus preventing parents
or other caregivers from controlling the particular stimulus
delivered to the child. Further, children often respond in
favorable ways to the voice of a parent, or other caregiver, due to
the familiarity of the particular audio tones. Mass produced
stimulation systems providing prerecorded audio clips are not
capable of generating a similar reaction in a child or infant.
[0006] Further, such stimulation systems typically do not also
include olfactory stimulation, which the parent or other caregiver
may wish to provide to the child. It would be preferable to provide
a child stimulation device capable of stimulating the child's
senses beyond only audio and visual stimulation. Additionally, it
would be preferable to provide a programmable stimulation system,
allowing the user to control which types of stimulation the child
receives, and further control the time and duration of the
stimulation. Typical sensory stimulation systems are actuated by
the child, through pressing of a button or the like, mounted on the
system, and do not provide much programmable functionality or
variety.
[0007] Additionally, conventional sensory stimulation systems
typically include local interfaces, often in the form of a control
panel mounted directly to the system housing. Such systems do not
provide for remote actuation of the sensory stimulation device.
Further, children and infants are often soothed and comforted by
the voices of their parents. It would be desirable to provide a
remotely actuated system that could further transmit a voice from
the remotely located user to the crib-mounted system, in order to
soothe the child.
[0008] In addition to sensory stimulation and association
exercises, visual articles, such as mobiles, are often mounted
above an infant's crib in order to lull the infant to sleep.
However, such articles offer no association (visual, auditory or
otherwise) between the child and the child's parents. When absent,
parents may wish to further foster their child's association with
themselves, which is not possible with typical crib-mounted visual
articles.
[0009] Additionally, conventional infant stimulators, such as
decorative mobiles, are limited in use to children of a particular
age. It would be desirable to provide a multifunctional stimulation
system, which can both receive visual and auditory media which is
variable and dependent upon age and interest, and can further be
mounted to support surfaces external to a crib environment.
[0010] When a child is placed in a crib, and the parents leave the
room, the child may become restless and unable to sleep due to
separation anxiety. The parent may have left the child with a
babysitter, or may otherwise be unable to re-enter the room to
comfort the child. A device that is capable of presenting a
comforting or familiar image, together with the sound and scent of
the parent, that is capable of remote access, and that can be
mounted on the crib, may serve to stimulate and comfort the child
sufficiently to quiet the child and induce the child to sleep. No
such device is currently known. Thus, a sensory stimulation device
for a child solving the aforementioned problems is desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The sensory stimulation device for a child is a crib-mounted
system that provides aural, visual and olfactory stimulation for a
child. The system includes a housing, which is adapted for mounting
within the crib. A support is mounted to a rear wall of the housing
for supporting the housing on an upper horizontal rail of the crib.
The housing may, alternatively, be mounted exterior to the crib on
any suitable support surface.
[0012] A front wall of the housing has a screen mounted thereto,
with the screen displaying a user-selectable image. Preferably, the
screen is mounted within an opening formed through the front wall,
and is pivotally mounted thereto, allowing the screen to
selectively rock back and forth within the housing. The screen may
include an imprinted image or, alternatively, may be a flat panel
display screen capable of generating animated video. A light source
may be provided for selectively illuminating the screen.
[0013] The system further includes a microphone and at least one
speaker in communication with a recording medium, allowing the user
to selectively record and play back audio for the child. Further,
the housing includes a scent chamber for receiving a scent
producing material. The scent producing material generates scented
air, which is pumped, under user control, through a port formed
through the housing for delivery to the child. The system may
further include a telephone interface, allowing for remote
actuation and programming of the system. The telephone interface
and the audio, video and olfactory sub-systems are in electrical
communication with a controller, which is selectively user-actuated
and programmable.
[0014] These and other features of the present invention will
become readily apparent upon further review of the following
specification and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is an environmental, perspective view of a sensory
stimulation device for a child according to the present
invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the sensory
stimulation device for a child according to the present
invention.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic side view in section of the sensory
stimulation device for a child according to the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the sensory stimulation device
for a child according to the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic side view of an olfactory subsystem
of the sensory stimulation device for a child according to the
present invention.
[0020] Similar reference characters denote corresponding features
consistently throughout the attached drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0021] The present invention is directed towards a sensory
stimulation device 10, which provides a child or infant with
user-controlled and programmable aural, visual and olfactory
stimulation. As illustrated in FIG. 1, device 10 is adapted for
mounting within crib 12 in a manner that will be described in
greater detail below, with specific reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. It
should be understood that device 10 may be mounted exterior to the
crib, and may further be mounted on any suitable support surface,
including, for example, the floor, a wall, on a table or the like.
The lower wall of housing 36 may have an angled or beveled edge,
allowing the housing 36 to be supported on a horizontal surface in
a manner similar to a conventional picture frame when mounted
exterior to the crib. A separate releasable support may further be
provided for use in combination with housing 36, allowing housing
36 to be mounted on a horizontal surface, such as a tabletop.
Housing 36 may further be provided with actuated buttons, baby
toys, rattles, mirrors and other items to amuse an infant.
[0022] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the device 10 includes a housing
36, having a front wall and a rear wall. At least one support 14 is
mounted on the upper end of the rear wall of housing 36 for
supporting the device 10 on the upper rail of a crib, as shown in
FIG. 2. In the preferred embodiment, a pair of supports 14 are
provided on either side of the rear wall, and each support 14 has a
substantially L-shaped contour for engaging the crib rail 46, as
shown. It should be understood that supports 14 may be dimensioned
and configured as needed to accommodate the variation in thickness
and contour of commercially available crib rails. Supports 14 may
further be formed from a flexible yet resilient material, allowing
for adaptability to varying dimensions of crib rails. Further,
supports 14 may be adjustable, both horizontally and vertically,
with respect to housing 36, allowing for customized and adjustable
positioning of the system 10 on rail 46.
[0023] A secondary crib attachment mechanism may further be
provided, shown in FIG. 3 as a large threaded bolt 40 projecting
rearwardly from the rear wall of housing 36. The bolt 40 projects
through and between a pair of adjacent vertical rails 44 of the
crib 12, and a corresponding nut 42 engages the bolt 40 to
releasably secure the housing 36 to the crib 12. It should be
understood that any suitable releasable fastener may be utilized to
releasably secure the housing 36 to crib 12 or to any other
suitable support surface. Alternatively, the nut 42 may be in the
form of a conical cap to cover the projecting end of bolt 40.
Further, a separate protective cap may be provided for covering the
end of bolt 40. Bolt 40 may be pivotally joined to the housing 36
so that bolt 40 may be folded against the rear wall or,
alternatively, folded into a recess formed within the rear wall
during storage and transport of device 10. Alternatively, housing
36 may be adapted for mounting on a wall surface, or to a portable
surface, such as a car seat, for example.
[0024] Although shown as being sized and contoured for the mounting
of system 10 on a child's crib, in the preferred embodiment, it
should be understood that housing 36 may be dimensioned and
configured for mounting on any suitable surface, and for
functionality other than for crib-based sensory stimulation. As
will be described in greater detail below, the system 10 includes a
wide variety of sensory stimulation capability, including olfactory
stimulation. Housing 36 may be sized to function as, or to replace,
a plug-in type air freshener. Further, the system 10 may be adapted
for use in a wide variety of environments, such as vehicles, with
system 10 being powered by, for example, the vehicle's battery,
through interconnection with the vehicle cigarette lighter.
Alternatively, system 10 may be sized and adapted for usage as a
handheld device.
[0025] Additionally, the upper portion, or rear wall, of the
housing 36 may include recesses for receiving child-related
articles, such as rattles and the like. Further, securement
devices, such as hooks, may be mounted on housing 36 for holding
the child-related articles, thus allowing rattles, pacifiers and
the like to be securely kept near the child in an organized
fashion.
[0026] Housing 36 includes opposing sidewalls with a projecting
member 20 being formed on one sidewall and a corresponding recess
21 being formed in the other sidewall. Multiple devices 10 may be
linked together through the releasable engagement of the projecting
member 20 of a first device 10 with the recess 21 of an adjacent
device 10. As will be described below, device 10 may be actuated
manually, automatically or remotely by a user. When multiple
devices 10 are linked together, each device 10 may be associated
with, and actuated by, a particular user; i.e., a first device 10
may be associated with (and, alternatively, have imprinted thereon)
"Mommy", for example, and a second device may be associated with
(and, alternatively, have imprinted thereon) "Daddy", with the
sensory stimulation being customized for each user. Alternatively,
projecting members 20 may be slidably mounted on housing 36,
allowing for selective height adjustment of each projecting member
20, so that devices 10 that are not vertically aligned may be
releasably joined together.
[0027] An opening 38 is formed through the front wall of housing
36. Although shown as being substantially rectangular in contour in
FIG. 2, it should be understood that opening 38 may have any
desired shape or size. In the preferred embodiment, however, the
opening 38 is substantially rectangular in contour, having a width
of approximately eight inches and a height of approximately ten
inches. A screen 22 is mounted to an interior surface of the front
wall of housing 36 so that an image 24 printed on screen 22 is
visible to the child through opening 38. FIG. 2 illustrates a
static image 24 imprinted on screen 22. However, screen 22 may be a
flat panel display screen, such as a liquid crystal display, for
example, allowing for animated video display. Screen 22 may further
be a touch screen, allowing for interactivity with system 10, in
addition to the actuation of buttons 28 (to be described in further
detail below). Additionally, in addition to screen 22, a visual
projector may be provided on housing 36, allowing for the
projection of visual images onto a suitable surface, such as the
ceiling above the child's crib.
[0028] Although shown as having a cartoon-type image 24, it should
be understood that any desired image may be imprinted on screen 22,
and that multiple screens 22 may be utilized, with the user
selectively choosing a desired such screen to be mounted on support
60. The parent, or other caregiver, may use images of himself or
herself in order to greater improve the child's visual association
with himself or herself, even when the parent or caregiver is
absent. As will be described in greater detail below, the image of
the parent or caregiver can be coupled with recorded audio
messages, or with real-time telephone conversations with the parent
or caregiver in order to provide a comforting presence to the child
in the absence of the actual parent or caregiver. Standard
photographs, such as typical 4''.times.6'' or 5''.times.7''
snapshot photographs, may be mounted on screen 22.
[0029] As best shown in FIG. 3, a window 58 is preferably mounted
to the front wall within opening 38 to transparently cover screen
22. Window 58 may be formed of clear or tinted transparent plastic,
and is preferably scratch-resistant. Window 58 may further cover
wording or other indicia etched or otherwise imprinted on housing
36 adjacent the opening 38, the indicia preferably being associated
with the particular image displayed on screen 22.
[0030] In the preferred embodiment, the screen 22 is mounted on a
support 60. The support 60 is preferably mounted at its upper end
to the front wall by a pivotal joint 56, as shown. Thus, the
support 60 and screen 22 may be rocked back and forth (indicated by
directional arrow 62) to provide additional visual stimulation to
the child. Alternatively, a powered rotational drive system, such
as a stepper motor, for example, may be added, allowing for driven
rotation of the screen 22. The rotational drive system would be in
electrical communication with controller 70 (to be described in
greater detail below, with specific reference to FIG. 4). As will
be described in greater detail below, the support 60 may also have
speakers 30 and scent chamber 34 mounted to a lower end thereof,
allowing for the selective rotation of the lower assembly of device
10. Thus, in addition to providing visual and tactile stimulation
from the rocking of support 60, the support 60 may be angled to
allow the child better visual, auditory and olfactory access to the
sensory stimulation. Alternatively, support 60 may be provided with
a pivotal interconnection formed along the lower end thereof,
rather than along the upper edge. It should be understood that
support 60 may further be locked into a desired angular
position.
[0031] Support 60 preferably includes a recess for releasably
securing the screen 22 therein. In the non-pivoted configuration,
screen 22 is sandwiched between support 60 and window 58.
Preferably, support 60 is formed from plastic or any other suitable
material. If window 58 is formed from a tinted transparent plastic
material, support 60 is also preferably formed from a dark
material, thus enhancing contrast with the image printed on screen
22.
[0032] A light source 26, which may be at least one light bulb,
light emitting diode, or the like, is mounted to the inner surface
of the front wall of housing 36 adjacent the lower end of opening
38 as shown. The light source 26 selectively illuminates the screen
22 and is preferably in communication with controller 70 for manual
user and programmable control thereof. Preferably, the light source
26 illuminates the entirety of screen 22. Preferably, light source
26 is positioned so that light from light source 26 will project
through and along the plane of the window 58, thus providing
enhanced visual effects, particularly along the outer perimeter of
window 58. Alternatively, a separate light source, such as a
night-light, may be mounted on the rear of housing 36, allowing the
user to operate system 10 after the ambient room light has been
extinguished, for example, after the child has been put to bed.
[0033] A pair of speakers 30 are mounted to the housing 36,
preferably positioned below the opening 38, as shown. It should be
understood, however, that speakers 30 may be mounted in any
suitable location on or adjacent to housing 36. Although shown as
having two speakers 30, it should be understood that any desired
number of speakers may be added. As will be described in greater
detail below, speakers 30 selectively play prerecorded or live,
remotely transmitted audio clips and messages for the child.
[0034] A chamber 18 is formed in the upper portion of housing 36
and holds a microphone 54, which may further include a protective
microphone cover 52. Microphone cover 52 may be a conventional
microphone cover designed to filter ambient noise and improve the
quality of the intended recorded audio signal. Microphone 54 is in
electrical communication with controller 70, an audio controller 72
(including a recording medium, such as random access memory, for
example), and speakers 30, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The user may
record audio messages through use of microphone 54 for selective
playback to the child through speakers 30. Further, the audio
controller 72 may be coupled with other forms of audio storage and
playback, such as cassette tape players and recorders, compact disc
players, MP3 players and recorders, and CD-ROM storage devices. If
screen 22 is replaced with a liquid crystal display, such as that
described above, or any: other flat panel display, the audio
content of prerecorded movies or other video clips may be played
through speakers 30. Also, a radio receiver may be provided for
receiving conventional radio content to be played to the child
through speakers 30. Other wireless content, such as that generated
by a parent in the household, may also be received by the unit.
[0035] An additional microphone may be provided in the lower
portion of housing 36, allowing the user to better hear the sounds
generated by the infant when the infant is lying in the crib.
Further, openings may be formed through the front wall of housing
36 adjacent the microphones for providing enhanced sound
transmission thereto.
[0036] A battery chamber 16 is formed within housing 36 adjacent
the chamber 18, as shown, for receiving a battery 68 for powering
device 10. Battery chamber 16 may receive conventional batteries,
such as AAA batteries or, alternatively, device 10 may be connected
to a standard household electrical power supply, or to any other
suitable power supply. A door may be formed in housing 36,
providing the user with selective access to chamber 16.
[0037] A scent chamber 34 is formed in the lower portion of housing
36, for housing the scent delivery subsystem, illustrated in FIG.
5. Housing 36 preferably has a door formed therein adjacent scent
chamber 34, providing the user with access to the chamber 34. A
scent source 110 is received within scent chamber 34 for producing
scented air. Scent source 110 may be the garment of a parent or any
other material that creates a pleasing scent for the infant.
Alternatively, a cage may be provided either within the chamber, or
positioned adjacent the chamber on the exterior of the housing, for
receiving the scent source 110. The cage includes a door or other
access, allowing the user to easily remove or replace the scent
source 110 therein.
[0038] A diaphragm 98 is mounted to extend vertically between an
upper rail 92 upon which the diaphragm 98 is slidably mounted and
the floor of the chamber 34. Diaphragm 98 has an opening formed
therethrough, allowing the passage of air therethrough, so that
when the diaphragm 98 is moved back and forth in a horizontal
direction, air is drawn from the environment through a port 100
formed in the rear wall of housing 36 and through the opening
formed through the diaphragm 98. Forward motion of the diaphragm 98
forces scented air generated by scent source 110 through a forward
port 32 formed through the front wall of housing 36.
[0039] The delivery of the scented air through forward port 32 to
the child is under user control and, preferably, may be programmed
through controller 70. Any suitable oscillating drive system may be
utilized for the delivery of the scented air. However, in the
preferred embodiment, an oscillator circuit 90 receiving power
through line 66 drives an electromagnetic coil 88 to create an
alternating magnetic field. Power may be provided to the
electromagnetic coil 88 in direct response to audio input from the
user, either through the microphone 54 or through the telephone 50.
A sliding arm 96 is mounted below the rail 92, as shown, with the
diaphragm 98 being mounted to arm 96, and extending downwardly
therefrom, and a magnet 94 being further mounted thereon. The
oscillating magnetic field generates an oscillating magnetic force
on fixed magnet 94, thus driving the diaphragm 98 in oscillating
horizontal directions.
[0040] Alternatively, a pre-packaged scent cartridge may be
provided, allowing the user to select a particular scent for
insertion into chamber 34. A reservoir may further be formed within
scent chamber 34 for receiving a liquid scented material, such as
perfume or the like. Also, a fan may be mounted to the housing 36
to aid in the delivery of the scented air to the child.
Alternatively, housing 36 may be formed without an integral scent
chamber 34. An auxiliary housing containing scent chamber 34 could
be selectively added and removed from the housing 36.
[0041] It should be understood that any suitable scent delivery
means may be utilized in system 10. For example, rather than the
magnetically driven system described above, a passive scent
diffusion system may be mounted within chamber 34. Alternatively, a
fan or the like may be provided within chamber 34 for delivering
the scented air to the child.
[0042] The chamber 18 further receives a telephone interface, which
may be a conventional land telephone connection or, preferably, a
port for interconnection with a cellular telephone 50, as shown in
FIG. 3. Cellular telephone 50 is connected, via interface line 48
to controller 70 and to audio controller 72. A door may be formed
in housing 36 adjacent chamber 18, providing the user with
accessibility to the telephone 50 stored therein. As described
above, the user may record audio messages through use of the
microphone 54. Alternatively, the user may remotely access the
device 10 through use of the telephone 50. The microphone 54 is in
communication with the audio controller 70 via line 54, which feeds
into the main control line 60. The telephone 50 is in communication
with main control line 60 via interface 48 and may be utilized to
generate real-time audio messages, generated by a remote user, to
be played on speakers 30. Alternatively, the user may remotely
record audio messages for later playback. Interface 48 preferably
connects to telephone 50 through the cellular telephone's headphone
port. Alternatively, the unit may have a built-in cellular
telephone circuit or may be connected directly to a household
telephone line, without the need for an additional telephone
installed within the system.
[0043] Chamber 18 preferably prevents the telephone 50 from being
seen by the infant, thus allowing the child to associate the voice
or other audio signal with the image 24 or the scented air.
Further, securing the telephone 50 from the infant's grasp prevents
accidental dislodging and activation or deactivation of the
telephone by the child, and further limits the exposure of the
child to possibly dangerous levels of radio-frequency
electromagnetic radiation. Additionally, chamber 18 may be lined
with metal walls, for example, in order to prevent leakage of
potentially harmful electromagnetic radiation. Also, the
combination of the microphone 54 and telephone 50 allows the user
to remotely monitor the sounds generated by the infant in a manner
similar to localized baby monitors.
[0044] Further, through the telephonic interface, the user may
remotely control the playback of prerecorded audio messages,
illuminate light source 26, or operate the scent subsystem 120
through the remote generation of control signals, which are
received and interpreted by controller 70. Also, the user may
converse with the child through microphone 54 and speakers 30 in a
manner similar to a conventional speakerphone, or program a
particular sequence of sensory stimulation for the child.
Alternatively, control and programming of device 10 may be actuated
through an interface, which may be in the form of buttons or
controls 28 mounted on the housing 36. Button 28 may be actuated by
the child for simple control of the system, such as turning the
system on and off, with more complex control, such as programming
of a sensory stimulation sequence or actuation of a particular
sensory stimulation device, being controlled by the user. Further,
pre-set routines or sequences of sensory stimulation may be
actuated by the child through actuation of button 28 or the like.
Controller 70 may include a learning subroutine, allowing for the
system to record the child's preference and play back the child's
preferred sensory routine or routines.
[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 4, controller 70, which may be a
microprocessor, computer or any suitable programmable control
system, may be coupled with timer circuits 86, 74, allowing for
programming of a sequence of sensory stimulation to be actuated at
a particular time or at particular time intervals. As will be
described in further detail below, controller 70 may be
interconnected with external computer devices, including hardware
and peripherals. Preferably, controller 70 is a computer controller
which is compatible with commercial operating systems, such as
Microsoft.RTM. Windows.RTM., for example.
[0046] The left "record" path in the system diagram of FIG. 4
allows the user to record audio messages through either the
microphone 54 or through the telephone 50, which are recorded in
the memory of audio controller 72. Timer 86 allows the user to
program either a specific time, or a specific time interval, for
the playback of the audio message to the child. The central dashed
line illustrates a direct connection between telephone 50 and the
audio controller 72, allowing for real-time conversation with the
child, as described above. The timer circuits may further be
utilized for actuation of units 10, particularly when multiple
systems 10 are provided. Individual ones of multiple systems 10 may
be actuated according to a pre-set time sequence.
[0047] The right "play" path of the system diagram of FIG. 4
illustrates the controlled playback of either the audio message
described above, or actuation of the light source 26 and the scent
subsystem 120. As noted above, the screen 22 may alternatively be a
flat panel display or the like. In this alternative embodiment,
controller 70 controls the visual playback on the display. Timer
74, coupled with controller 70 and audio controller 72, allows for
a user-programmed sequence of sensory stimulation to be actuated at
a specific time, or at specific time intervals. Alternatively, the
user may remotely activate one or more of the sensory stimulation
subsystems by generating control signals, through use of telephone
50.
[0048] In addition to the button or control 28, shown within the
grasp of the infant, a separate set of user interfaces may be
mounted on the upper wall or rear wall of the housing, allowing the
user to program and control device 10, out of reach of the child.
Button 28 may activate a simple subsystem, such as the illumination
of light source 26, with more complex functions being controlled by
the user-accessible or remote interfaces. Alternatively, in
addition to wireless actuation through cellular telephone 50, a
separate remote control device may be utilized for actuation and
programming of device 10.
[0049] Audio playback may be further customized, for example,
including sounds simulating the sounds internal to a mother's womb,
which would be particularly soothing to a newborn infant. A volume
control may be further added, along with a variable intensity
control, allowing the sound and light intensity to vary over time,
either through manual control or following a programmed routine.
Gradual dimming of light and lowering of volume may be utilized to
aid in the inducement of sleep. Further, the system can be
programmed to produce a light intensity proportional to a volume
level of ambient sound recorded by microphone 54.
[0050] Further, the activation of light source 26 or of scent
subsystem 120 may be responsive to speech, either through direct
voice activation via sound pickup through microphone 54, or through
transmitted speech, via telephone 50. Controller 70 may further be
programmed with a set volume threshold, so that light source 26
and/or scent subsystem 120 are activated only when the ambient
noise level, or the volume of speech directed at the system, reach
a preset threshold.
[0051] Also, referring to FIG. 3, support 60 is shown as being
pivotally joined to the housing 36, thus allowing the rotation of
screen 22 therewith. Alternatively, light source 26, button 28,
speakers 30 and scent chamber 34 may all be joined to the lower
portion of support 60, thus allowing for the selective pivotal
rotation of these components along with screen 22. This
configuration would allow the child to push the lower portion of
the system, including the speakers and scent chamber, to generate
the rocking thereof. Thus, in this configuration, the visual, audio
and olfactory stimulation would be coupled with tactile stimulation
as well.
[0052] The remote actuation of system 10 allows for parents to
maintain contact with, and engage in activities with, their
children, even when the parents are at work, traveling or otherwise
not physically available. Despite physical absence, system 10
allows the child to form sensory associations with the parent or
other caregiver through remote actuation of the system, and through
real-time communication through the telephone line. The system 10
may further be used as a telephone by the child, with actuation of
the telephone being performed through actuation of one or more
buttons 28.
[0053] Also, the selective actuation of device 10, as opposed to an
automatic system, which is operative dependent upon hearing a
baby's cry, for example, allows the parents or other caregivers to
control the appropriate sensory stimulation, rather than having the
child learn through Pavlovian techniques how to manipulate the
actuation of the device.
[0054] Further, as noted above, screen 22 may be a flat panel
display, capable of displaying movies, television, movie clips or
other animated video. The system 10 may be coupled with a DVD
player, television receiver, computer or other source of video
signals. Further, the system may be used to selectively display
digital photographs, which may be displayed according to a
programmable routine. Selected video images may be programmed to be
displayed along with related or accompanying selected audio and/or
olfactory stimulation. The system may be provided with a universal
serial bus (USB) port, or other standard port for connecting system
10 to a computer, digital camera or the like. In addition to visual
playback and accompanying audio playback, the system 10 may further
include a radio receiver, allowing the child to listen to radio
transmissions through system 10.
[0055] A content filter may be provided with controller 70,
allowing for parental control over the media content delivered to
the child, such as the pornography and violence filters typically
provided with both programmable television sets and Internet
connections. Similarly, television-related hardware and/or
programming could be provided with system 10 and interconnected
with controller 70, such as, for example, digital recording devices
or video game systems.
[0056] In addition to the connection of a digital camera or the
like to the system 10 through the USB port (or similar interface),
the digital camera or any other suitable video recording means may
be interconnected with system 10 and controlled by controller 70 to
record or transmit video images. Alternatively, cellular telephone
50 could be a camera-type cellular telephone, incorporating a
digital camera. In addition to the recording and transmission of
audio data, system 10 could record and transmit complementary video
data to the user. A separate display screen may be mounted on the
housing, and interconnected with the video source, allowing the
user to aim and focus the video source.
[0057] System 10 may further be utilized as an educational toy. For
example, animal imagery may be imprinted on one or more buttons 28,
and by depressing the appropriate button, the audio subsystem will
play a noise associated with the animal. The system 10,
particularly when coupled with a flat panel display 22, could
further be coupled with a computer and/or to the Internet, allowing
the child limited educational exposure to computer networks and
systems. Educational and other functional modules or kits could be
produced and provided for a variety of topics and/or age groups.
Interconnection with the Internet may be through the telephone
connection or may be accomplished through use of a separate modem
or router, or through use with a wireless router. Further, Internet
features, such as instant and text messaging or Internet telephone
communication, for example, may be provided, particularly for use
by older children. The unit may include cost effective, or free,
Internet communication technology, such as, for example,
voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP), such that communication, both
to and from the child, is cost effective or free, without requiring
the child or parent to use the standard telephone line or the
cellular telephone.
[0058] These kits or modules would be specialized for a particular
age group or for a particular educational topic. The kits or
modules would include memory interconnectable to controller 70,
through the USB port or the like, allowing system 10 to be
programmed for particular functionality, such as utilizing the
display screen for a simulation of finger painting, for example, or
adding a computer peripheral, such as an electronic instrument, to
be coupled with the audio subsystem for musical educational
purposes. Further, the buttons 28 may be customized, with removable
indicia, for example, allowing the child to interact with
customized programmable audio and/or video.
[0059] For example, images of animals could be provided for use
with buttons 28, and the child would depress the particular button
with an image of a chicken, for example, when the image of a
chicken is displayed on screen 22, or when the audio system plays a
reproduction of a chicken clucking. Additionally, non-educational
programming instructions could be provided, allowing for set
routines, as described above with regard to the user programming
system 10, to be downloaded to controller 70. Alternatively,
electronic textbooks or the like may be stored in the memory for
display to the child, or for audio playback to the child through
the audio subsystem.
[0060] The kits or modules may include removable memory devices,
such as smart cards, for example, which may further be used for the
transfer of data between system 10 and related computer hardware.
Similarly, computer hardware and peripherals may be interconnected
directly with system 10 through the USB port or other suitable
interfaces. In addition to the USB or similar interface, a wireless
interface may further be provided, allowing for interconnection
with wireless peripherals, such as wireless keyboards, musical
instruments and the like. Data may also be transmitted, through the
wireless connection, to other data devices, such as personal
digital assistants, for example.
[0061] Further, in addition to providing the user with audio and
visual feedback, any suitable desired sensors may additionally be
mounted to the housing. For example, a temperature sensor may be
mounted to the housing, allowing the user to either locally or
remotely monitor the environmental temperature in the child's
locale. The local temperature and other data, such as the time or
date, may further be displayed on screen 22 or on other suitable
display devices.
[0062] It is to be understood that the present invention is not
limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses any and
all embodiments within the scope of the following claims.
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