U.S. patent application number 14/573112 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-23 for sleep zone air treatment systems and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Elwha LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Elwha LLC. Invention is credited to Alistair K. Chan, Roderick A. Hyde, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, JR..
Application Number | 20160174723 14/573112 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56127428 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160174723 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chan; Alistair K. ; et
al. |
June 23, 2016 |
SLEEP ZONE AIR TREATMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
An air treatment system includes an air control device and a
processing circuit. The air control device is configured to
compositionally control air to be delivered to a region proximate
to an occupant of a bed, and deliver the compositionally controlled
air to the region proximate to the occupant of the bed. The
processing circuit is configured to control operation of the air
control device, wherein the air control device is configured to be
coupled to the bed.
Inventors: |
Chan; Alistair K.;
(Bainbridge Island, WA) ; Hyde; Roderick A.;
(Redmond, WA) ; Sweeney; Elizabeth A.; (Seattle,
WA) ; Wood, JR.; Lowell L.; (Bellevue, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Elwha LLC |
Bellevue |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Elwha LLC
Bellevue
WA
|
Family ID: |
56127428 |
Appl. No.: |
14/573112 |
Filed: |
December 17, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
454/339 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 21/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47C 21/00 20060101
A47C021/00 |
Claims
1. An air treatment system, comprising: an air control device
configured to: compositionally control air to be delivered to a
region proximate to an occupant of a bed; and deliver the
compositionally controlled air to the region proximate to the
occupant of the bed; and a processing circuit configured to control
operation of the air control device, wherein the air control device
is configured to be coupled to the bed.
2. The air treatment system of claim 1, wherein compositionally
controlling the air comprises altering an oxygen proportion of the
air.
3. The air treatment system of claim 2, wherein altering an oxygen
proportion of the air comprises obtaining oxygen-enriched air from
a reservoir.
4. The air treatment system of claim 2, wherein altering an oxygen
proportion of the air comprises selectively removing at least some
nitrogen from the air.
5. The air treatment system of claim 1, wherein compositionally
controlling the air comprises altering a carbon dioxide proportion
of the air, wherein altering a carbon dioxide proportion of the air
comprises selectively removing at least some carbon dioxide from
the air.
6. (canceled)
7. The air treatment system of claim 1, wherein the air control
device is further configured to control a temperature of the
compositionally controlled air.
8. (canceled)
9. The air treatment system of claim 1, wherein the air control
device is further configured to control an odor of the
compositionally controlled air.
10. (canceled)
11. The air treatment system of claim 1, wherein delivering the
compositionally controlled air comprises controlling an air flow
such that the delivered air is constrained via a gas curtain
effect.
12. (canceled)
13. The air treatment system of claim 1, wherein the air flow
comprises the compositionally controlled air and a peripheral
flow.
14. The air treatment system of claim 13, wherein the peripheral
flow is treated differently than the compositionally controlled
air.
15. The air treatment system of claim 14, wherein the peripheral
flow has a different velocity than the compositionally controlled
air.
16. The air treatment system of claim 14, wherein the peripheral
flow has a different temperature than the compositionally
controlled air.
17-82. (canceled)
83. An air treatment system, comprising: one or more sensors
configured to generate sensor data based on a position of an
occupant of a bed; an air control device configured to: control a
property of air to be delivered to the occupant; and deliver the
controlled air to the position of the occupant of a bed; and a
processing circuit configured to: determine, based on the sensor
data, the position of the occupant of the bed; and control, based
on the determined position, operation of the air control device,
wherein the air control device is configured to be coupled to the
bed.
84. The air treatment system of claim 83, wherein determining the
position of the occupant of the bed comprises determining an
orientation of the occupant.
85-94. (canceled)
95. The air treatment system of claim 83, wherein the air flow is
based on the determined position of the occupant.
96-100. (canceled)
101. The air treatment system of claim 83, wherein the processing
circuit is further configured to: determine, based on the sensor
data, a position of an additional occupant of the bed; and control,
based on the determined position of the additional occupant,
operation of the air control device such that the delivered air is
directed to the occupant and the additional occupant.
102. The air treatment system of claim 101, wherein a first air
flow of the delivered air to the occupant is different than a
second air flow of the delivered air to the additional
occupant.
103-104. (canceled)
105. The air treatment system of claim 83, further comprising a
sensor configured to generate feedback related to the delivered
air, wherein the processing circuit is configured to: receive the
feedback related to the delivered air; and control the operation of
the air control device based on the feedback.
106. The air treatment system of claim 105, wherein the processing
circuit is configured to maintain, using the feedback, a target
value related to the delivered air.
107. The air treatment system of claim 106, wherein the target
value is based on a schedule.
108. The air treatment system of claim 106, wherein the target
value includes a constant value.
109. The air treatment system of claim 106, wherein the target
value includes a user preference.
110. The air treatment system of claim 106, wherein the target
value is based on a sensed condition.
111. The air treatment system of claim 110, wherein the sensed
condition comprises at least one of a sleep state of the occupant,
a physiological state of the occupant, and an environmental
condition.
112. The air treatment system of claim 83, wherein controlling the
operation of the air control device is triggered by at least one of
a presence of the occupant, a light level, and a schedule.
113-129. (canceled)
130. A method of air treatment, comprising: generating sensor data,
with one or more sensors, based on a position of an occupant of a
bed; controlling, with an air control device configured to be
coupled to a bed, a property of air to be delivered to the
occupant; determining, based on the sensor data, the position of
the occupant of the bed; controlling, with a processing circuit,
operation of the air control device based on the determined
position; and delivering the controlled air to the determined
position of the occupant of a bed.
131-158. (canceled)
159. The method of claim 130, further comprising triggering the
operation of the air control device by at least one of a presence
of the occupant, a light level, and a schedule.
160-161. (canceled)
162. The method of claim 130, wherein the air control device is at
least one of built-in to a bedframe of the bed, built-in to a
mattress of the bed, and an add-on unit for the bed.
163. (canceled)
164. The method of claim 130, wherein the one or more sensors
comprise at least one sensor mounted on the bed.
165-168. (canceled)
169. The method of claim 130, wherein controlling the air includes
adding an inhalable stimulant to the air.
170. (canceled)
171. The method of claim 130, wherein the controlled air includes
an inhalable medicament.
172. The method of claim 130, further comprising: receiving, from a
sensor, feedback related to the occupant; and controlling the
operation of the air control device based on the feedback.
173. The method of claim 172, further comprising altering the
controlled air based on the feedback.
174. The method of claim 173, wherein the feedback relates to SpO2
levels of the occupant, and wherein altering the compositionally
controlled air includes altering at least one of an oxygen
proportion of the controlled air, an air proportion of the
controlled air, a medicament proportion of the controlled air, a
relaxant proportion of the controlled air, and a stimulant
proportion of the controlled air.
175. The method of claim 173, wherein the feedback relates to at
least one of breathing patterns and breathing interruptions of the
occupant.
176-271. (canceled)
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, smoke particles, and
volatile organic compounds, among others, can be found as airborne
contaminants. In general, such airborne contaminants reduce the
quality of air inhaled and can also pose a health risk. In some
cases, such contaminants also act as allergens that trigger certain
allergies. Air purifiers can be used to reduce the concentration of
these airborne contaminants and thereby reduce the amount of
contaminants that are inhaled.
SUMMARY
[0002] One embodiment relates to an air treatment system comprising
an air control device and a processing circuit. The air control
device is configured to compositionally control air to be delivered
to a region proximate to an occupant of a bed, and deliver the
compositionally controlled air to the region proximate to the
occupant of the bed. The processing circuit is configured to
control operation of the air control device, wherein the air
control device is configured to be coupled to the bed.
[0003] Another embodiment relates to a method of air treatment. The
method comprises compositionally controlling, with an air control
device configured to be coupled to a bed, air to be delivered to a
region proximate to an occupant of the bed. The method further
comprises delivering the compositionally controlled air to the
region proximate to the occupant of the bed, and controlling, with
a processing circuit, operation of the air control device.
[0004] Another embodiment relates to an air treatment system
comprising one or more sensors, an air control device, and a
processing circuit. The one or more sensors are configured to
generate sensor data based on a position of an occupant of a bed.
The air control device is configured to control a property of air
to be delivered to the occupant, and deliver the controlled air to
the position of the occupant of a bed. The processing circuit is
configured to determine, based on the sensor data, the position of
the occupant of the bed, and control, based on the determined
position, operation of the air control device, wherein the air
control device is configured to be coupled to the bed.
[0005] Another embodiment relates to a method of air treatment. The
method comprises generating sensor data, with one or more sensors,
based on a position of an occupant of a bed. The method further
comprises controlling, with an air control device configured to be
coupled to a bed, a property of air to be delivered to the
occupant. The method further comprises determining, based on the
sensor data, the position of the occupant of the bed. The method
further comprises controlling, with a processing circuit, operation
of the air control device based on the determined position, and
delivering the controlled air to the determined position of the
occupant of a bed.
[0006] Another embodiment relates to an air treatment system
comprising one or more sensor devices, an air control device, and a
processing circuit. The one or more sensor devices are configured
to generate sensor data based on a condition of an occupant of a
bed. The air control device configured to control a property of air
to be delivered to a region proximate to an occupant of a bed, and
deliver the controlled air to the region proximate to the occupant
of the bed. The processing circuit is configured to determine the
condition based on the sensor data, and control, based on the
determined condition, operation of the air control device, wherein
the air control device is configured to be coupled to the bed.
[0007] Another embodiment relates to a method of air treatment. The
method comprises generating, with one or more sensor devices,
sensor data based on a condition of an occupant of a bed. The
method further comprises determining, with a processing circuit,
the condition based on the sensor data. The method further
comprises controlling, using an air control device configured to be
coupled to the bed, a property of air to be delivered to a region
proximate to an occupant of a bed. The method further comprises
controlling, with the processing circuit, operation of the air
control device based on the determined condition, and delivering
the controlled air to the region proximate to the occupant of the
bed.
[0008] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not
intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative
aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further
aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by
reference to the drawings and the following detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an air treatment system,
according to one embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an air treatment system,
according to one embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an air treatment system,
according to one embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a processing circuit of an air
treatment system, according to one embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an air treatment system,
according to one embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a process for air treatment
using an air treatment system, according to one embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a process for air treatment
using an air treatment system, according to one embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a process for air treatment
using an air treatment system, according to one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments
described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not
meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other
changes may be made, without departing from the scope of the
subject matter presented here.
[0018] Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments of
systems, methods, and computer readable media for sleep zone air
treatment are shown and described. Various airborne contaminants
(e.g., dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, smoke particles,
volatile organic compounds, etc.) reduce the quality of air
inhaled. Based on a recommended average amount of sleep-per-day
required for adults (e.g., 7-9 hours), adults spend approximately a
third of their time relatively stationary (e.g., in a bed) while
sleeping. By utilizing the air control devices and processing
circuits as described herein, air inhaled by an individual may be
"polished" (i.e. treated) to regulate and alter the air's
composition such that higher quality air is delivered as the
individual sleeps. In this manner, the individual can inhale an
increased percentage of higher quality air. Because a bed (or
couch, chair, other sleeping/sitting zone, etc.) is typically a
relatively small and stationary target environment, polished air
may be directed to the area of air-intake of the individual. In
addition to being compositionally controlled, such polished air may
also be temperature-controlled, humidity-controlled, and otherwise
filtered. Although discussed herein as having embodiments related
to beds, in other embodiments, the disclosed air treatment systems
and methods may be configured according to other types of
furniture/sleep zones (e.g., chairs, couches, etc.).
[0019] In some embodiments, an air control device may be mounted to
a bed in order to deliver compositionally controlled air to an
occupant of the bed. A processing circuit can control the operation
the air control device. For example, the processing circuit can
generate the signals required to activate/deactivate the air
control device, control fan speeds or directions of air flows
generated by the device, adjust air temperature and other settings,
etc. In some embodiments, sensors may be utilized to detect the
position and/or orientation of the occupant, and treated air may be
directed at the occupant based on the detected position and/or
orientation of the occupant. In some embodiments, sensors may be
used to detect conditions related to the occupant, and air may be
treated and delivered based on the conditions. For example, a
physiological state (e.g., temperature, sweat, respiration,
heartbeat, oxygen saturation (SpO2), carbon dioxide exhalation
amounts, etc.) of the occupant may be monitored, and the processing
circuit may control delivery of air based on the occupant's
physiological state. The various air control devices and
configurations of such air treatment systems will be described in
further detail below.
[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, a block diagram of an air treatment
system 100 is shown, according to one embodiment. Air treatment
system 100 includes air control device 102 and processing circuit
104. Air treatment system 100 may be configured to be coupled to a
bed. In one embodiment, air treatment system 100 is mounted to a
headboard, sideboard, baseboard, or bedframe of the bed. For
example, air treatment system 100 may include various mounting
features, such as clamps, hooks, bolts, etc., used to couple air
treatment system 100 to the bed. In another embodiment, air
treatment system 100 is integrated into the bed (e.g., within the
headboard or throughout the bedframe). For example, a bed can be
manufactured to include the air treatment system as described
herein. Air control device 102 generally includes the components
necessary to control a composition of air and deliver
compositionally controlled air. For example, air control device 102
may include oxygen concentration devices, reservoirs for storage of
gases fully or partially enriched with oxygen, carbon dioxide
filtration devices, PSA (pressure swing adsorption) devices for
nitrogen removal, etc. In one embodiment, air control device 102
includes one or more adsorptive materials (e.g., zeolites,
activated carbon, molecular sieves, etc.) used to separate one or
more target gas species. Air control device 102 may also filter
air, adjust the temperature of air, add (e.g., for aromatherapy) or
remove odorants and adjust the humidity of air. For example, air
control device 102 may include one or more fans, filters,
heating/cooling devices, humidifiers/dehumidifiers, piping, ducts,
valves, compressors, an array of nozzles, etc. In some embodiments,
air control device 102 may be configured to control the composition
of air by adding additives to the air. For example, in one
embodiment, air control device 102 may be configured to add
inhalable stimulants, relaxants, or medicaments to the
compositionally controlled air. Inhalable medicaments can include
COPD treatments (e.g., Perforomist from Dey, AZD5423 from
AstraZeneca, etc.), cough suppressants, a corticosteroid,
bronchodilator, beta-blocker, anti-histamine, or other agents.
Medicaments may be prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs,
neutraceuticals, or other agents. Inhalable medicaments may be
delivered within the air as gas, as aerosols, or as powders. For
example, inhalable stimulants may include caffeine, ammonia,
Sports-Boost (available from Inhalex), Insufflalex HLE, or the
like. Inhalable relaxants may be used as sedatives to help induce
sleep, as muscle relaxants (e.g., for COPD, asthma, sleep apnea,
environmental sensitivities, allergies, or other conditions), or
the like. Inhalable sedatives, for example, may include any of
those disclosed in German Patent Application No. DE 10130449,
entitled "Inhalable sedative and hypnotic medicaments, e.g.
containing benzodiazepine active agent, having high bioavailability
and rapid action," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety. Inhalable muscle relaxants, for example, may include any
of those disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 7,507,397, entitled "Delivery
of Muscle Relaxants Through an Inhalation Route," which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0021] Processing circuit 104 controls the operation of air control
device 102. Processing circuit 104 generates the signals necessary
to cause air control device 102 to alter the composition of air
delivered by air control device 102. For example, processing
circuit may receive data related to a composition of source air
(e.g., percentages of gases comprising the source air), and may
determine adjustment amounts to be applied to the source air. Such
data can be provided by sensors configured to detect components of
air. As another example, processing circuit can monitor the
temperature or humidity of source air, and may determine
adjustments to be applied to the source air. In general, processing
circuit 104 generates the signals required to interface with the
various components of air control device 102 in order to control
its operation.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 2, a block diagram of an air treatment
system 200 is shown, according to one embodiment. Air treatment
system 200 includes air control device 202 (which may be configured
as air control device 102), processing circuit 204, and one or more
position detection sensors 206. Air treatment system 200 may be
configured to be coupled to a bed. In one embodiment, air treatment
system 200 is mounted to a headboard, sideboard, footboard, or
bedframe of the bed. In another embodiment, air treatment system
200 is integrated into the bed (e.g., within the headboard,
sideboard, footboard, or frame). Air control device 202 generally
includes the components necessary to control a property (e.g.,
composition, temperature, humidity, odor, filtration, etc.) of air
and deliver the controlled air. Processing circuit 204 controls the
operation of air control device 202 and causes the controlled air
to be directed based on a detected position and/or orientation of
an occupant of the bed. Processing circuit 204 can receive data
from position detection sensors 206 (e.g., one or more cameras,
wide-field-of-view cameras, RFID sensors, infrared devices, optical
links, micro-impulse radars, ultrasonic sensors, mattress
pressure/deflection sensors, temperature sensors, etc.), which are
generally configured to provide data related to the position of an
occupant of the bed. Accordingly, the occupant may be detected
through analyzing the data provided by position detection sensors
206, which are able to sense the position of the occupant within
the bed. Processing circuit 204 may determine a precise location
and orientation of the occupant based on the data. In some
embodiments, the orientation of an occupant may be estimated or
inferred based on knowledge of human anatomy. For example, in an
embodiment utilizing pressure/deflection sensors, different parts
of the body produce different characteristics with respect to the
pressure induced on the mattress of the bed, and by comparing
various pressure points, the orientation of an occupant (e.g., the
position of an occupant's legs, arms, back, etc.) can be determined
Processing circuit 204 may also compare the sensor data to skeletal
models and estimate an orientation of an occupant. Based on the
determined position and/or orientation of an occupant, processing
circuit 204 can adjust the positioning or output direction of air
flow from air control device 202 (e.g., by adjusting fan
positioning, nozzle positioning, fan speed, etc.) so that the air
is directed at the occupant's general position (or more
specifically toward the position of the occupant's head).
[0023] Referring to FIG. 3, a block diagram of an air treatment
system 300 is shown, according to one embodiment. Air treatment
system 300 includes air control device 302 (which may be configured
as air control device 102), processing circuit 304, and one or more
sensor devices 306. Air treatment system 300 may be configured to
be coupled to a bed. In one embodiment, air treatment system 300 is
mounted to a headboard, sideboard, footboard, or bedframe of the
bed. In another embodiment, air treatment system 300 is integrated
into the bed (e.g., within the headboard, sideboard, footboard, or
bedframe). Air control device 302 generally includes the components
necessary to control a property (e.g., composition, temperature,
humidity, odor, filtration, etc.) of air and deliver the controlled
air. Processing circuit 304 controls the operation of air control
device 302 and causes the controlled air to be directed based on
sensed conditions of the occupant of the bed. Processing circuit
304 can receive data from sensor devices 306 (e.g., one or more
cameras, wide-field-of-view cameras, infrared devices,
thermometers, gas detectors, functional near-infrared spectroscopy
(fNIR) devices, electroencephalography (EEG) devices, Fluorescence
spectroscopy devices, pulse oximeters, a pupillometer, an
electromagnetic sensor, an electrical potential sensor,
micro-impulse radars, light sensors, laser devices, and
microphones, etc.), which are generally configured to provide data
related to a condition of the occupant. Physiological sensors may
include jewelry-embedded sensors, furniture-embedded sensors, as
well as area-effect systems that use electromagnetic signals.
Sensors used, for example, may include any of those disclosed in
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0058694 entitled
"Electrodynamic sensors and applications thereof," U.S. Pat. No.
7,245,956 entitled "Unobtrusive measurement system for bioelectric
signals," U.S. Pat. No. 7,272,431 entitled "Remote-sensing method
and device," and U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2008/0045832 entitled "Remote-sensing method and device," and C. J.
Harland et al., 2003 Meas. Sci. Technol. 14 923-928, entitled "High
resolution ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring using
wrist-mounted electric potential sensors," which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety. Sensors 206 may be
attached to the bed, worn by the occupant, or mounted elsewhere in
the room. For example, sensor devices 306 may provide data related
to a physiological condition of the occupant. In another example,
sensor devices 306 may provide data related the SpO2 levels of the
occupant. As another example, sensor devices 306 may provide data
related to a sleep-state of the occupant. In another example,
sensor devices 306 may monitor the breathing patterns or
interruptions of the occupant. Accordingly, processing circuit 304
may analyze the data provided by sensor devices 306 and manage the
delivery of controlled air by air control device 302 based on a
determined occupant condition. In some embodiments, based on the
data provided by sensors devices 306, air control device 302 may
deliver more or less air, oxygen, or other medicaments, relaxants,
or stimulants to the occupant. For example, air control device 302
may deliver more oxygen to the occupant if SpO2 levels drop below
85%.
[0024] Referring to FIG. 4, a detailed block diagram of processing
circuit 400 for completing the systems and methods of the present
disclosure is shown according to one embodiment. Processing circuit
400 may be processing circuit 104 of FIG. 1, processing circuit 204
of FIG. 2, or processing circuit 304 of FIG. 3. Processing circuit
400 is generally configured to control the operation of an air
control device (e.g., device 102, device 202, or device 302), and
processing circuit 400 may be the processing components of the air
control device. For example, processing circuit 400 can generate
the signals required to activate or deactivate the air control
device and manage delivery of air. As another example, processing
circuit 400 may generate the signals to communicate with components
of the air control device in order to manage a composition of air
to be delivered. Processing circuit 400 is further configured to
receive sensor data and configuration and preference data. Input
data may be accepted continuously or periodically. Processing
circuit 400 may analyze the input data to determine the position
and orientation of an occupant of a bed such that air may be
directed toward the occupant. Processing circuit 400 may also
analyze the input data to determine a condition of an occupant of a
bed such that air may be delivered in response to stimuli related
to the condition of the occupant. In controlling the operation of
an air control device, in detecting the positioning of an occupant,
and in determining a condition of an occupant, processing circuit
400 may make use of machine learning, artificial intelligence,
interactions with local and/or remote databases and database table
lookups, pattern recognition and logging, intelligent control,
neural networks, fuzzy logic, etc.
[0025] According to one embodiment, processing circuit 400 includes
processor 406. Processor 406 may be implemented as a
general-purpose processor, an application specific integrated
circuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs),
a digital-signal-processor (DSP), a group of processing components,
or other suitable electronic processing components. Processor 406
may be implemented as any commercially available processor.
Processing circuit 400 also includes memory 408. Memory 408 is one
or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage,
etc.) for storing data and/or computer code for facilitating the
various processes described herein. Memory 408 may be or include
non-transient volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Memory 408
may include database components, object code components, script
components, or any other type of information structure for
supporting the various activities and information structures
described herein. Memory 408 may be communicably connected to
processor 406 and include computer code or instructions for
executing the processes described herein.
[0026] Memory 408 includes memory buffer 410. Memory buffer 410 is
configured to receive a data stream (e.g. from sensors 206 or 306,
from a user input device, etc.) through input 402. For example, the
data may include a real-time stream of sensor data, etc. The data
received through input 402 may be stored in memory buffer 410 until
memory buffer 410 is accessed for data by the various modules of
memory 408. For example, air control module 414 can access the data
that is stored in memory buffer 410.
[0027] Memory 408 further includes configuration data 412.
Configuration data 412 includes data related to processing circuit
400. For example, configuration data 412 may include information
related to interfacing with other components (e.g., sensors of
systems 200 or 300, a user input device, etc.) and can include data
required to configure communication between the various components
of processing circuit 400. This may include the command set needed
to interface with a computer system used transfer user settings or
otherwise set up the system. This may further include the command
set needed to generate graphical user interface (GUI) controls,
menus, warning information, feedback, and visual information. As
another example, configuration data 412 may include the command set
needed to interface with communication components (e.g., a
universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, an
Ethernet interface, etc.). Processing circuit 400 may format data
for output via output 404 to allow a user to configure the systems
as described herein. Processing circuit may also format visual
information to be output for display on a display device.
Processing circuit may also generate commands necessary to drive
fans, compressors, motors, actuators, and other components of an
air control device. Configuration data 412 may also include
information as to how often input should be accepted from a sensor.
Configuration data 412 may include default values required to
initiate the air control device and initiate communication with
sensors or other peripheral systems.
[0028] Processing circuit 400 further includes input 402 and output
404. Input 402 is configured to receive a data stream (e.g., a
stream of data from sensors), configuration information, and
preference information. Output 404 is configured to provide an
output to an external system (e.g., a remote computer), an air
control device, or other components of the systems as described
herein.
[0029] Memory 408 further includes module 414 for executing the
systems and methods described herein. Module 414 may access
received sensor data, configuration information, user preference
data, and other data as provided by processing circuit 400. Module
414 is generally configured to analyze the sensor data, detect a
position and orientation of one or more occupants of a bed (or
other furniture such as a couch, chair, etc.), determine a
condition of one or more occupants, and control the operation of an
air control device such that controlled air is delivered to the
occupants. Module 414 may be further configured to operate
according to a user's preferences. In this manner, air delivery
characteristics may be adjusted according to a user's desires or a
manufacturer's settings.
[0030] In one embodiment, processing circuit 400 is configured to
control a bed mounted air control device in order to deliver air to
an occupant of the bed. The air can be compositionally controlled
in order to create a mixture containing certain percentages of
gases. For example, the oxygen and carbon dioxide fractions of the
air may be adjusted. These percentages may be based on user
settings or configuration settings. The delivered air may be
directed toward the head region of the occupant. For example, fans
or output ports of air control device may be aimed at the head
region of the occupant. In this manner, a direct, but unconstrained
air flow may be provided. In one embodiment, the air is also
filtered to remove particulate matter or other contaminants. In
another embodiment, the air is also humidified or dehumidified in
order to obtain a certain moisture level of the air. In another
embodiment, the air is also heated or cooled in order to obtain a
certain temperature of the delivered air.
[0031] In one embodiment, processing circuit 400 controls the air
control device such that air flow delivered by the device is
virtually constrained. For example, an output air flow may be
configured to induce a gas curtain effect. Such an output can also
include a differentiated peripheral flow of gas. The peripheral air
flow may be treated in the same manner or in a different manner as
a main air flow. Additionally, the peripheral flow may have a
different velocity (e.g., higher or lower) and different direction
than the main air flow. For example, the peripheral flow may be
directed away from the area to which the main controlled air is
directed (e.g., the peripheral flow may be directed such that it
flows into ambient air). In one embodiment, to achieve such
differentiated flow, the main and peripheral flows may be directed
through different output components of the air control device. In
another embodiment, a single output may be used that is configured
to produce one or more differentiated air flows. Processing circuit
400 may also simultaneously control flow regulating components of
the air control device in order to implement such a
configuration.
[0032] In one embodiment, the air control device is configured to
provide an air flow in a primarily vertical direction (i.e.,
downward) or in a primarily horizontal direction (i.e. parallel)
with respect to the occupant. For example, the air flow may be from
the head-side of the occupant towards the feet of the occupant. As
another example, the air flow may be side to side (e.g., left to
right, or right to left) over the occupant. In another embodiment,
the air flow may be from the feet of the occupant toward the head
of the occupant. Depending on the particular configuration of the
system including the air control device, air may be delivered from
various locations. The system may be built-in or may be an add-on
unit. In one embodiment, air flow is delivered from the bedframe.
For example, air delivery device (fans, piping, nozzles, etc.) may
be embedded within the bedframe, mattress, suspension, or may be
coupled to the bedframe. In this manner, air flow may be delivered
from the headboard, sideboards, footboard, etc. In one embodiment,
the air control device is configured to deliver an air flow that
originates at or above a typical head level of the occupant. In
another embodiment, the air flow may originate from the mattress,
from the mattress level, or below. Any of the air flows described
herein may be delivered to cover the full width of the bed or a
portion of the bed. Additionally, the flows may be based on a
detected position and orientation of the occupant.
[0033] In one embodiment, processing circuit 400 controls the air
control device based on feedback. In this manner, the treatment of
the air and air flow velocities/directions may be adjusted by
processing circuit 400 in response to the feedback. One or more
sensors may be used to provide such feedback, as will be described
further herein. In general, the feedback may be related to the air
as delivered to the occupant, sensed conditions related to the
occupant (e.g., sleep state, physiological state, environmental
conditions, etc.), or the positioning or orientation of the
occupant. Based on the feedback, processing circuit 400 may drive
the air control device in order to reach or maintain target values
(e.g., a target temperature, a target air flow rate, a target
humidity level, etc.). The target values may be constant or may be
specified by a schedule. For example, at a certain time, a fast and
warm flow of compositionally controlled air may be desired, and at
a different time, a slower flow of cooled air may be desired. Such
a schedule may be defined and stored as a configuration setting
(e.g., stored in configuration data 412, etc.). In one embodiment,
target values are based on an ID or preferences for the occupant.
The target values and preferences may be stored in a user profile
for the occupant. As an example, the air control device may include
an RFID tag reader capable of detecting an RFID tag of the
occupant. Processing circuit 400 may communicate with the RFID tag
reader to identify a particular occupant based on the RFID tag
information. As another example, the occupant can be identified by
physical characteristics (e.g., weight, size, facial features,
respiration pattern, etc.). As another example, the air control
device may be configured for wireless communications (e.g., via
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.). An occupant's identification may be
transmitted to the air control device via a wireless connection
when the occupant desires, or automatically when the occupant nears
the bed. In this manner, after identifying the particular occupant,
processing circuit 400 may then access a profile for the occupant
and set target values and other device preferences based on the
profile.
[0034] In one embodiment, processing circuit 400 is configured to
control a bed mounted air control device that delivers air to an
occupant of the bed, where the air is delivered based on a detected
position and/or orientation of the occupant. Processing circuit may
receive positioning data from a variety of sensors of the air
control device. The sensors may be mounted to the bed or the air
control device. For example, the sensors may include mattress
pressure or deflection sensors. In this manner, the position of the
occupant can be determined by analyzing the pressure/deflection
data to detect when an occupant is in the bed. Further, the
location of the sensors and the pressure gradient across the
mattress can be further analyzed to determine the location and
orientation of the occupant. For example, different parts of the
human body induce different pressures on the mattress. In another
example, temperature sensors in the bed (e.g., in a mattress pad)
can be monitored to determine the location and orientation of the
occupant. Accordingly, the location of an occupant's head,
mid-section, and feet, can be estimated based on the sensor values.
As another example, the sensors may include one or more remote
sensors (e.g., micro-impulse radar, cameras, ultrasonic sensors,
thermal imagers, etc.). A stream of sensor data can then be
monitored to determine when and where an occupant is on the bed.
For example, a feed from a camera can be analyzed to detect the
presence of an occupant. The camera data can also be further
analyzed to determine the location and orientation on the bed with
respect to the camera. Based on this analysis, processing circuit
400 can determine in which direction the compositionally controlled
air should be delivered such that it is aimed at the occupant.
Processing circuit 400 can generate the appropriate signals to
adjust the directional output of the air control device. For
example, the direction of fans, nozzles, vents, or other air flow
control devices may be adjusted.
[0035] In one embodiment, control of the air control device by
processing circuit 400 is triggered by one or events. Any of the
sensors described herein may provide data signals that trigger the
operation of the air control device. For example, the air control
device may be triggered by the presence of an occupant, by a light
level, according to a schedule, etc. In an embodiment utilizing
cameras, the camera data may be analyzed by processing circuit 400
to determine the presence of an occupant, and when an occupant is
detected, further operation of the air control device may be
triggered. This may include activating or deactivating an air flow,
position an air flow, adjusting a flow rates, adjusting a
temperature or humidity level of an air flow, altering a
composition of the air of an air flow, etc. In an embodiment
utilizing pressure sensors, a certain detected pressure may trigger
such control of the air control device. For example, processing
circuit 400 may automatically begin to control the device when a
pressure of at least 50 pounds is detected on the mattress of the
bed. In an embodiment utilizing micro-impulse radar, a detected
motion or proximity of an occupant may trigger such control of the
air control device. For example, processing circuit 400 may
automatically begin to control the device when a motion is detected
within a few feet from the air control device. In an embodiment
utilizing a light sensor, a detected level of light may trigger
such control of the air control device. For example, processing
circuit 400 may automatically begin to control the device when the
light level is that of typical sleeping conditions. For example,
processing circuit 400 may automatically begin to add a stimulant
to the air 30 minutes before the occupant is scheduled (e.g., based
on an alarm clock, an electronic calendar, etc.) to wake up.
[0036] In one embodiment, processing circuit 400 is configure to
control a bed mounted air control device that delivers air to an
occupant of the bed, where the air is delivered based on one or
more sensed conditions related to the occupant. In one embodiment,
the sensed conditions are physiological-related conditions. For
example, a condition may include the temperature of the occupant
and/or the environment surrounding the occupant. In this manner,
processing circuit 400 may control and configure the air control
device based on temperature. As another example, the condition may
include detected sweat (perspiration) from the occupant. In this
manner, processing circuit 400 may control and configure the air
control device based on whether the occupant is sweating (e.g.,
processing circuit may cause a temperature of an air flow to
decrease if the occupant is exhibiting signs that he or she is hot,
etc.). As another example, the condition may include detecting
respiration characteristics of the occupant. In this manner,
processing circuit 400 may control and configure the air control
device based on the respiration of the occupant (e.g., processing
circuit may adjust the composition of an air flow based on one or
more respiration characteristics, etc.). As another example, the
condition may include detecting heartbeat characteristics of the
occupant. In this manner, processing circuit 400 may control and
configure the air control device based on the pulse of an occupant.
As another example, the condition may include detecting exhalation
characteristics (e.g., a carbon-dioxide amount, etc.) via data from
sensor devices. In this manner, processing circuit 400 may control
and configure the air control device based on the contents of what
the occupant is exhaling. In another embodiment, the sensed
conditions are related to a sleep-state of the occupant, and
processing circuit 400 may control and configure the air control
device based on any of these conditions. For example, a condition
may be whether the occupant is asleep or awake. As another example,
a condition may include a REM-pattern of the occupant. As another
example, the condition may include whether the occupant is snoring.
As another example, the condition may include a breathing pattern.
As another example, the condition may include physical movements of
the occupant during sleep.
[0037] The conditions discussed above may be detected utilizing a
variety of sensors that supply data to processing circuit 400. The
sensors may be part of the air control device, or the sensors may
be remote. In a remote configuration, such sensors may provide data
to processing circuit 400 via a wired or wireless connection, and
processing circuit 400 may analyze the data in order to detect a
condition. Sensors may include a visible or infrared camera, a
pulse oximeter, a thermometer, a gas detection sensor, a functional
near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIR) device, an electroencephalography
(EEG) device, a Fluorescence spectroscopy device, micro-impulse
radar, a laser, and/or a microphone.
[0038] In any of the configurations disclosed herein, air may be
delivered to multiple occupants of a bed. For example, processing
circuit 400 may utilize the techniques discussed above to detect
the location and orientation of multiple occupants and the
conditions related to the multiple occupants. When multiple
occupants are present, the same air flow or differentiated air
flows may be provided to each of the occupants. In embodiments
where multiple different air flows are provided, the corresponding
air control device may include air supply components that are
independently controllable by processing circuit 400 such that
different air flows may be simultaneously generated. Alternatively,
the components of the air control device may be toggled between
multiple occupants, and processing circuit 400 may manage the
configuration of the air control device as it toggles such that
each occupant receives a particular air flow.
[0039] Additionally, in any of the configurations disclosed herein,
the air control device may include an articulating boom that can be
used to deliver an air flow (e.g., via an outlet of the boom) to an
occupant of a bed. For example, in an embodiment where processing
circuit 400 uses sensor data to detect the location and orientation
of the occupant, the articulating boom may be automatically
positioned based on the location of the occupant. For example, such
an articulating boom may include various motors or actuators that
can be controlled by processing circuit 400 in order to position
the boom. In one embodiment, the articulating boom also includes
any of the sensors discussed herein. For example, the articulating
boom may include sensors configured to provide data related to the
location and orientation of an occupant. As another example, the
articulating boom may include sensors configured to provide data
related a condition of the occupant. In one embodiment, the
articulating boom also includes an air intake, which can be used to
supply source air to compositionally controlled and otherwise
adjusted by the air control device. Such an air intake may also be
used to provide air used to detect exhalation characteristics of a
bed occupant.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 5, a schematic diagram of an air treatment
system 500 is shown, according to one embodiment. System 500
includes air control device 504, which includes processing circuit
506. Processing circuit 506 may be any of the processing circuits
disclosed herein and is configured to control the operation air
control device 504. Air control device 504 is depicted as being
mounted to the headboard of bed 502 and further includes air
delivery mechanisms 508. In FIG. 5, air delivery mechanisms 508 are
depicted as including fans. However, any of the air flow delivery
mechanisms disclosed herein may be utilized. In one embodiment, air
delivery mechanisms 508 include conduit that is embedded throughout
the frame of bed 502 such that an air flow of compositionally
controlled air may be delivered to an occupant of bed 502 at
various locations and at various air flow configurations. For
example, an air flow may be directed through the mattress of bed
502, or from the footboard area of bed 502. Processing circuit 506
may be configured to communicate with one or more sensors as
disclosed herein. For example, pressure sensors 510 may be embedded
in the frame or mattress of bed 502. Based on data from sensors
510, processing circuit 506 may detect the position and orientation
of an occupant of the bed, and control the operation of air control
device 506 based on the position and orientation. For example,
processing circuit 506 may adjust the orientation of fans 508
(e.g., via controlling actuators of the fans, etc.) in order to
obtain a desired air flow. As another example, an EEG device 514
may be worn by the occupant of the bed as he or she sleeps. EEG
device 514 may provide data to processing circuit 506 so that
processing circuit 506 can detect conditions related to the
occupant, and adjust the operation of air control device 504 based
on the conditions.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 6, a flow diagram of a process 600 for air
treatment, using an air treatment system, is shown according to one
embodiment. In alternative embodiments, fewer, additional, and/or
different actions may be performed. Also, the use of a flow diagram
is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order of actions
performed. Source air is compositionally controlled by an air
control device (602). The source air is to be controlled and
delivered to a region proximate to an occupant of the bed. For
example, the source air's concentration of oxygen (604) and carbon
dioxide (606) may be adjusted. Additionally, the source air may be
filtered, may have its temperature adjusted, and may have its
humidity adjusted. The compositionally controlled air is then
delivered to the region proximate to the occupant of the bed (608).
For example, the air flow of the compositionally controlled air may
be direct and unconstrained, or it may be virtually constrained via
a gas curtain effect. Multiple aspects of the air flow may be
controlled, and the direction of the air flow may be adjusted. A
processing circuit can be used to control the operation of the air
control device (610).
[0042] Referring to FIG. 7, a flow diagram of a process 700 for air
treatment, using an air treatment system, is shown according to one
embodiment. In alternative embodiments, fewer, additional, and/or
different actions may be performed. Also, the use of a flow diagram
is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order of actions
performed. Sensor data is generated based on a position of an
occupant of a bed (702). Source air is property controlled by an
air control device (704). For example, the source air's
concentration of oxygen (706) and carbon dioxide (708) may
optionally be altered. The position of the occupant is determined
based on the sensor data (710). For example, a camera may be used
to determine where an occupant is positioned on the bed. The
orientation of the occupant may also be determined. A processing
circuit can be used to control the operation of the air control
device based on the sensor data (e.g., the determined position)
(712). The controlled air may then be delivered based on the sensor
data such that the air is directed toward the determined position
of the occupant (714).
[0043] Referring to FIG. 8, a flow diagram of a process 800 for air
treatment, using an air treatment system, is shown according to one
embodiment. In alternative embodiments, fewer, additional, and/or
different actions may be performed. Also, the use of a flow diagram
is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order of actions
performed. Sensor data is generated based on one or more conditions
of an occupant of a bed (802). The sensor data is analyzed to
determine the condition (804). Source air is property controlled by
an air control device (806). For example, the source air's
concentration of oxygen (808) and carbon dioxide (810) may be
optionally adjusted based on the condition. Other aspects of the
air may also be adjusted based on the condition (e.g., temperature,
humidity, filtration, etc.). A processing circuit may be used to
control the operation of the air control device based on the sensor
data (e.g., the sensed condition of the occupant) (812). For
example, the air control device may be activated/deactivated based
on the sensed condition. As another example, the air flow provided
by the air control device may be adjusted based on the sensed
condition. The controlled air is delivered, based on the sensed
condition, to a region proximate the occupant of the bed (814).
[0044] The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods
as shown in the various embodiments are illustrative only. Although
only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this
disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in
sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the
various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use
of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the
position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied and the
nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered
or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be
included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or
sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or
re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other
substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in
the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the embodiments
without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0045] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and
program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing
various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may
be implemented or modeled using existing computer processors, or by
a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system,
incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system.
Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include
program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or
having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored
thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media
that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose
computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such
machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM
or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other
magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to
carry or store desired program code in the form of
machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be
accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other
machine with a processor. When information is transferred or
provided over a network or another communications connection
(either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or
wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views the connection
as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection is properly
termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above are
also included within the scope of machine-readable media.
Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions
and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose
computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a
certain function or group of functions.
[0046] Although the figures may show a specific order of method
steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted.
Also two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with
partial concurrence. All such variations are within the scope of
the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be
accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based
logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps,
processing steps, comparison steps and decision steps.
[0047] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed
herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those
skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed
herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be
limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following
claims.
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