U.S. patent application number 17/496387 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-05 for methods and systems for measuring and improving a sleep environment.
The applicant listed for this patent is CONSUMER SLEEP SOLUTIONS LLC. Invention is credited to Colin Lawlor, Roy Raymann.
Application Number | 20220139544 17/496387 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220139544 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lawlor; Colin ; et
al. |
May 5, 2022 |
METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MEASURING AND IMPROVING A SLEEP
ENVIRONMENT
Abstract
Computer-implemented methods for recommending a sleep-aid
product for a user are provided. In the methods, a user's sleep is
monitored to obtain monitoring data, which are analyzed and at
least one issue is identified with the user's sleep. A
recommendation is provided to the user to address the issue.
Systems and devices for implementing the methods are also
provided.
Inventors: |
Lawlor; Colin; (San Diego,
CA) ; Raymann; Roy; (Vista, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CONSUMER SLEEP SOLUTIONS LLC |
CARLSBAD |
CA |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/496387 |
Filed: |
October 7, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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63088933 |
Oct 7, 2020 |
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63088946 |
Oct 7, 2020 |
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63088950 |
Oct 7, 2020 |
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International
Class: |
G16H 40/63 20060101
G16H040/63 |
Claims
1. A computer-implemented method for recommending a sleep-aid
product for a user, comprising: monitoring the user's sleep to
thereby obtain monitoring data; by using at least one computer
processor, analyzing the monitoring data and identifying at least
one issue with the user's sleep; and by using at least one computer
processor and based on the analysis, providing a recommendation on
a sleep-aid product for the user on an electronic device user
interface that addresses the at least one issue.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein analyzing the monitoring data
comprising determining the effect of one or more products being
currently used by the user on the user's sleep.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: monitoring the user's
sleep for a preset period of time after the user starts using the
recommended sleep-aid product to obtain updated monitoring data; by
using at least one computer processor, analyzing the updated
monitoring data; based on the analysis and by using at least one
computer processor, determining the effect of the recommended
sleep-aid product on the user's sleep.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the recommendation is based on
databases containing products and their alleged benefits on a
user's sleep.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing one or more
questions for the user to answer regarding the user's experience
with the use of the recommended product, and receiving a response
from the user; wherein the determination is further based on the
user's response.
6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: generating, using at
least one computer processor, a quantitative effectiveness score
for the recommended product based on the monitoring data.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: generating, using at
least one computer processor, an overall effectiveness score for
the recommended product based on both the monitoring data and the
user's response.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein generating the overall
effectiveness score comprises discounting the user's response
distorted by secondary factors not directly relating to the
performance of the recommended product.
9. The method of claim 1 any of the foregoing claims, wherein the
monitoring the user's sleep comprising monitoring the user's body
movements during the sleep.
10. The method of claim 1 any of the foregoing claims, wherein the
monitoring the user's sleep comprising monitoring an environmental
condition during the user's sleep in the room where the user
sleeps.
11. The method of claim 1, further comprising: uploading the
monitoring data to a remote server.
12. A computer-implemented method for evaluating the effectiveness
of a sleep-aid product for a user's sleep, comprising: monitoring
the user's sleep to thereby obtain monitoring data, wherein during
the user's sleep the sleep-aid product is being used; by using at
least one computer processor, analyzing the monitoring data with
respect to a known issue of the user's sleep; and based on the
analysis and by using at least one computer processor, determining
the effectiveness of the sleep-aid product on addressing the issue
in the user's sleep.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: monitoring the
user's sleep before the user uses the sleep-aid product to obtain
first collected data; wherein determining the effectiveness of the
recommended sleep-aid product is at least partially based on
comparing the monitoring data with the first collected data.
14.-18. (canceled)
19. A computer-implemented method for evaluating the effectiveness
of a sleep-aid product for a user's sleep, comprising: monitoring
the user's sleep to thereby obtain baseline monitoring data;
determining when the user has acquired and started using a new
sleep-aid product; monitoring the user's sleep while the new
sleep-aid product is being used, to thereby obtain updated
monitoring data; and by using at least one computer processor,
comparing the updated monitoring data with the baseline monitoring
data, to thereby determine the desirability of the sleep-aid
product.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein determining when the user has
acquired and started using a new sleep-aid product comprises:
tracking the user's online purchase history.
21. The method of claim 19, wherein determining when the user has
acquired and started using a new sleep-aid product comprises:
presenting one or more questions to the user on an electronic
device user interface and receiving the user's response thereto.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to sleeping aids, and more
particularly, to methods and devices to monitor and manage a user's
sleep.
[0002] A prevalent and often overlooked cause to many secondary
health and social problems is insufficient and/or poor-quality
sleep. Estimates show that that 65% of the population has at least
a few nights a week suboptimal sleep. Humans require considerable
rest each night and if the sleep is broken, brain function,
problem-solving, cognitive skills, and reasoning are affected.
Other potential consequences of insufficient sleep include short
and long-term memory loss, mood changes, a weakened immunity, high
blood pressure, weight gain, insulin control, which increases the
risk for Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, poor balance, and a lower
sex drive. Insufficient and poor-quality sleep will also affect a
person's work performance, and likely disrupt their social behavior
and social interactions, potentially damaging relationships.
[0003] Various methods of improving a person's sleep include
physical exercise, breathing exercises and optimizing the user's
ambient conditions such as music, light, temperature etc. A variety
of monitoring and sleep improvement products have been (or are) on
the market, including wearable devices such as wristwatches,
armbands, head mounted devices, and non-contact products.
[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide methods
and devices to monitor sleep behavior and manage sleep which
overcome the deficiencies of the prior art.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present invention provides devices, systems, and
computer-implemented methods relating to measuring, analyzing,
managing and/or improving sleep and/or the sleep environment. The
sleep management aspects are derived from the personal situation of
the user and will provide personalized strategies to improve sleep
rather than generic tips. In some aspects, the disclosure concerns
sleep improvement products and sleep environment optimization
rather than behavioral change of the sleeper, which is more the
common starting point for personalized sleep improvement.
[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a
computer-implemented method for recommending a sleep-aid product
for a user, the method comprising: monitoring the user's sleep to
thereby obtain monitoring data; by using at least one computer
processor, analyzing the monitoring data and identifying at least
one issue with the user's sleep; and by using at least one computer
processor and based on the analysis, providing a recommendation on
a sleep-aid product for the user on an electronic device user
interface that addresses the at least one issue.
[0007] In some embodiments of the method, analyzing the monitoring
data comprising determining the effect of one or more products
being currently used by the user on the user's sleep.
[0008] In some embodiments of the method, the method further
comprises: monitoring the user's sleep for a preset period of time
after the user starts using the recommended sleep-aid product to
obtain updated monitoring data; by using at least one computer
processor, analyzing the updated monitoring data; based on the
analysis and by using at least one computer processor, determining
the effect of the recommended sleep-aid product on the user's
sleep.
[0009] In some embodiments, the recommendation is based on
databases containing products and their alleged benefits on a
user's sleep.
[0010] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: providing
one or more questions for the user to answer regarding the user's
experience with the use of the recommended product, and receiving a
response from the user; wherein the determination is further based
on the user's response.
[0011] In some embodiments, the method further comprises:
generating, using at least one computer processor, a quantitative
effectiveness score for the recommended product based on the
monitoring data. The method can further comprise: generating, using
at least one computer processor, an overall effectiveness score for
the recommended product based on both the monitoring data and the
user's response. Generating the overall effectiveness score can
comprise discounting the user's response distorted by secondary
factors not directly relating to the performance of the recommended
product.
[0012] In any of these embodiments, the monitoring the user's sleep
can include monitoring the user's body movements during the sleep,
and/or monitoring an environmental condition during the user's
sleep in the room where the user sleeps. The method can further
comprise uploading the monitoring data to a remote server.
[0013] In another aspect, the present invention provides a
computer-implemented method for evaluating the effectiveness of a
sleep-aid product for a user's sleep, the method comprising:
monitoring the user's sleep to thereby obtain monitoring data,
wherein during the user's sleep the sleep-aid product is being
used; by using at least one computer processor, analyzing the
monitoring data with respect to a known issue of the user's sleep;
and based on the analysis and by using at least one computer
processor, determining the effectiveness of the sleep-aid product
on addressing the issue in the user's sleep.
[0014] In some embodiments, the method further comprises:
monitoring the user's sleep before the user uses the sleep-aid
product to obtain first collected data; wherein determining the
effectiveness of the recommended sleep-aid product is at least
partially based on comparing the monitoring data with the first
collected data.
[0015] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method
of determining an effect of a first person's sleep on his or her
sleep partner's sleep, the method comprising: recording the
movements, temperature and sounds from a bed where the first person
sleeps on during the first person's sleep using a monitor device
positioned in the bed, without the sleep partner's presence in the
bed with the first person. The monitor device can be disturbance
measuring device which comprises: a processor; a memory operatively
coupled to the processor; an accelerometer for measuring vibration;
a thermometer; a microphone; optionally a speaker; and a light
sensor for sensing ambient light.
[0016] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a
computer-implemented method of testing a first mattress, the method
comprising: positioning a disturbance-measuring (DM) device on a
side of the first mattress; recording, using the DM device, data
relating to movements of a user on the first mattress according to
a preset series of actions relevant to the use of the mattress
during his or her sleep; and analyzing, using at least one
processor, the recorded data using at least one processor to
thereby obtain an evaluation of the first mattress in terms of its
performance in the potential disturbance of the sleep of a sleep
partner of the user by the user. In some embodiments, the method
further comprises: positioning a DM device on a side of a second
mattress; recording, using the DM device, data relating to
movements of the user on the second mattress according to a same
preset series of actions; comparing the recorded data for the
second mattress with the recorded data for the first mattress, to
thereby determine a similarity between the first mattress and
second mattress with respect to their performance in potential
disturbance of the sleep of a sleep partner of the user by the
user.
[0017] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a
computer-implemented method for evaluating the effectiveness of a
sleep-aid product for a user's sleep, the method comprising:
monitoring the user's sleep to thereby obtain baseline monitoring
data; determining when the user has acquired and started using a
new sleep-aid product; monitoring the user's sleep while the new
sleep-aid product is being used, to thereby obtain updated
monitoring data; and by using at least one computer processor,
comparing the updated monitoring data with the baseline monitoring
data, to thereby determine the desirability of the sleep-aid
product. In some embodiments, determining when the user has
acquired and started using a new sleep-aid product comprises:
tracking the user's online purchase history. In some embodiments,
determining when the user has acquired and started using a new
sleep-aid product comprises: presenting one or more questions to
the user on an electronic device user interface and receiving the
user's response thereto.
[0018] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a system
or a monitor device comprising a computer processor and an
associated memory, where the memory stores instructions which when
executed by the processor, enable the system or monitor device to
perform the various embodiments of the methods as described
herein.
[0019] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a
tangible computer-readable storage medium which include a computer
program product (or software), which when executed by a processor,
enable a device or system to perform the various embodiments of the
methods as described herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic of a sleeping monitor, according to
one embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary bedroom,
showing a bed, a user sleeping in the bed, a side table and a
sleeping monitor, according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a bedroom showing a bed with
two users sleeping thereon, and a sleeping monitor having angularly
displaceable radar transducers, according to some embodiments of
the invention;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a bedroom showing a bed and
a headboard with two users sleeping thereon, and a sleeping monitor
attached to the headboard, according to some embodiments of the
invention; and
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The present disclosure provides systems, computer readable
storage media, computer-implemented methods, software application
program adapted to operate on portable electronic devices, e.g., a
smart phone or a personal monitor, or a server or cloud, for
analyzing, managing, and improving a user's sleep. As used herein,
the term "user" refers to a person or individual.
[0025] Every person is different, and as such, each person requires
that a unique set of conditions be met before a good night sleep is
achieved. For some people, getting to sleep and sleeping well
through the night is not a problem and sleeping conditions that
would generally be considered adverse to most people appear to be
accepted and ignored by this group. With others however, a
combination of sleeping conditions and preferences must be met each
night, with little exception, or the person's quality of sleep will
attenuate and his or her sleep will take much longer to reach at
the start. Some people cannot sleep unless the window is open,
while others need to have the bedroom completely dark. Others still
need to hear music on very low volume as they lay down for sleep.
Other issues relate to a person's diet. For example, spicy foods
consumed during dinner may upset a person's stomach at bedtime and
disrupt his or her normal sleep behavior. In contrast, certain
other foods may promote a person to sleep more quickly and more
deeply. Physical exertion by a person throughout the day may affect
people's sleep differently, depending on the duration, type and
intensity of the particular exercise or activity. Some people sleep
better after a long run in the morning, while others become
energized all day and have trouble sleeping at night. Other
considerations which may affect the sleep quality of a person
include the type of sleep-related products the particular person
uses. For example, most people are intimately attached to the type
of pillow they use for sleep. Some must have a firm pillow to
support their neck, while others swear by a softer pillow that
perhaps helps keep a cool surface for their head.
[0026] The sleeping environment, a person's diet, his or her level
of stress, and level of exercise, and the type of sleeping-related
products they use all may contribute how well a person sleeps each
night.
[0027] Many factors of a bedroom environment can be controlled. For
example, by opening a window, introducing air conditioning, or
using a humidifier (or dehumidifier) to help control the level of
moisture in the air, the air quality of a bedroom may be
controlled. Sound generators, such as a radio, television, or
so-called noise generators may be used in a bedroom to immerse a
person in music, broadcast news, or perhaps an acoustic world of
jungle parrots, distant thunder, or the babble of a New England
stream. Illumination may be controlled by introducing mood
lighting, or using so-called "blackout" shades to effectively
prevent any light from entering into a bedroom from a window.
[0028] Products to help aid in a person's sleep are continuously
being designed and manufactured, including new types of mattresses
that provide full body support, sheets that stay cool, pillows that
support a person's head and neck, and may other products and
devices.
[0029] Regardless of what a person does to help his or her sleep,
it is important to carefully monitor the person's sleep to
determine how effective the particular change actually is.
[0030] The present invention provide system and device for
collecting sleep-related data (continually or periodically
according to certain schedule) from its users or subscribers, along
with profile information of each user. The profile information
collected includes information such as, a user's age, gender,
weight, height, occupation, quantity of drinking and smoking and
other health details, level of exercise, typical bedtime and wakeup
time, and general diet details. Subscribers to the present system
use a monitor device which carefully tracks minute movements and
sounds of the user before and during sleep. Every day the collected
data from each monitor is uploaded to the present system's central
database. The uploaded data and is then used to assess the quality
and duration of the user's sleep and provide recommendations,
should any poor-sleep events or habits be detected. The present
system, according to one embodiment of the invention, acquires data
of an ever-growing number of users. The present system can use this
data to help predict and/or help establish the effectiveness of a
particular sleep aid, or condition, based on certain parameters of
a particular user, as described in greater detail below.
[0031] The present invention also provides systems, devices and
methods to predict and/or help establish the general effectiveness
of a particular sleep aid (i.e., a device or product that is meant
to benefit a user's sleep quality). Such aids may include bedding,
pillows, mattresses, toppers, neck support devices, air purifiers,
air conditioners, illumination devices, sound generators, snoring
cessation devices, and others. The system can initially accept
known ratings of various sleep aids by accessing databases which
include established research data and qualified user ratings of a
particular sleep aid (such as Amazon's review listings of a
particular product). Then the system can use word recognition
techniques to help categorize reviews from users of the particular
product, such as locating the term "sore neck" in connection with a
low star rating of a particular support pillow may mean that the
pillow may not be effective at supporting the user's neck.
Eventually, the present system will collect sufficient data of
products being used by its subscribers to establish its own rating
of each product, linking the pros and cons of each product to
specific parameters of specific users regarding specific sleep
disorders and conditions.
[0032] Based on this collected data of various products, the system
of the present invention can recommend a particular sleep aid on an
electronic device user interface to a particular subscriber of the
present system (a user) based on measured criteria. For example,
the present system may monitor a male subscriber as he sleeps and
learns over a period of time that he moves his arms and head
regularly for at least 30 minutes before entering a first sleep
stage, wakes up with a stiff neck and is not getting enough sleep
for his age and activity levels. The present system uses this
information and compares these movements to similar ones in the
present system's database. Based on common matches from the
database search, the present system, continuing with this example,
determines that the user's pillow is likely too thin or too soft to
support the user's head sufficiently and recommends to the user
that he replaces his current pillow with a particular brand of
pillow that has been determined (based on collected review data and
perhaps clinical research data) to be thicker and stiffer and
better for supporting the head and necks of men of a certain age,
height and weight.
[0033] As used herein, an electronic device user interface includes
a typical graphic user interface of an electronic device (e.g., a
monitor device, smart phone, or other smart devices) which displays
visual information to the user, as well as other ways to
communicate to the user, such as vibration, audio, light and other
signals that can be perceived by the user.
[0034] Continuing again with this example, the system of the
present invention can determine that the user has followed the
system's recommendation (as described in greater detail below) and
replaced his pillow with the recommended product. The system will
then associate with the new product newly acquired sleep data from
monitoring the user and will evaluate newly collected results
accordingly. The product will be accessed and its rating possibly
revised based on the outcome of the newly collected data. If the
particular user is monitored as having a higher sleep quality, or
if particular aspects of the user's sleep have improved after using
the particular recommended product, then the product will
thereafter be associated with the improvement and its effectiveness
rating at improving overall sleep of a user or at least improving
certain aspects of a user's sleep, will increase.
[0035] The present system can also acquire valuable feedback from
the user regarding the new pillow and will collect this data to
continually revise and update the ratings of the particular pillow
product, and additionally, associate the product with details
regarding how it affected users' sleep and the profile and personal
details of any particular users (age, weight, height, smoker,
etc.). This information can be continuously updated to strengthen
the system's capabilities to accurately assess and correct specific
sleep-related, issues, disorders and conditions and increase a
user's overall sleep quality (or sleep score).
[0036] The system of the present invention can access databases of
known products on the market having internal ratings. The present
system begins with defined basic categories and a baseline set of
rated products within each category. For example, a category called
"stiff necks" may include several different types of commercially
available supportive pillows and neck supports and perhaps certain
treatments to aid in people having stiff necks. As described above,
the system can utilize known effectiveness data from outside
sources as a baseline and revise ratings and reviews as the
products are field tested by trusted subscribers of the system. If
a particular product does not have any rating information, or fails
to meet a minimum threshold of ratings, the product is considered
"unproven" and will be recommended only after other more-proven
products have been first tried to overcome a particular sleep
issue. Eventually, the present system will have collected
sufficient trusted user-data for such otherwise unknown or unproven
products, thereby providing a trusted rating value for the
same.
[0037] Until the present system is able to accumulate effectiveness
ratings of products based on trusted field testing of subscribers
to the present system and collected feedback and analyzed sleep
data from its users, the present system preferably uses popular
sleep aid products within core categories, such as mattresses and
pillows, and subcategories, such as memory foam mattresses and
neck-supporting pillows. Such popular products are more likely to
have a higher number of ratings, of which most will be reliable and
accurate. This information may be supported by validation studies
conducted by the product company for determining the efficacy of
targeted products. The information from these studies is used to
establish a clear baseline on the impact on a prospective user of
the product. The information will also provide clues as to how the
particular product may benefit a user's sleep and provide
supplemental information.
[0038] Over time, as the present system aggregates more and more
trusted user data regarding specific sleep-aid products (and
services and medical treatments) and how each product is effective
at correcting specific sleep-related disorders (issues) or
conditions, additional categories and subcategories may evolve. The
system may use any appropriate algorithm to generate an
effectiveness score for each product based on user review and
collected sleep data. For example, a user is given a product
recommendation to overcome a specific sleep-related issue. The
present system uses methods described below, according to other
embodiments of the invention, to establish that the user is indeed
using the recommended product as he or she sleeps. The system
automatically collects sleep monitoring data of the user to
determine how well the recommended product performs in correcting
or at least mitigating the specific sleep issue. The system can use
collected sleep data to calculate a percentage of improvement of
the particular sleep issue. Perhaps over a period, such as two
weeks, the data shows that a particular exemplary user "tossed and
turned" for an average of 50% less time prior to reaching a first
stage of sleep after using a recommended "cooler" pillow. In this
case, the particular pillow could be given a quantified
effectiveness value of "5" (out of 10). After a predetermined
period of time (such as two weeks), the user would be asked a few
questions regarding the particular recommended product to establish
a qualitative effectiveness score to supplement quantitative
collected objective sleep metrics. Examples of such questions could
include: [0039] 1) "Since using our recommended Cooler Pillow
product, beginning Two Weeks Ago, please answer the following
questions regarding your recent Neck-Strain issue (Using a scale
between 1 and 10, where 1 is poor, and 10 is great): [0040] a) How
does your new product make you feel during your sleep? [0041] 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [0042] b) Do you feel rested when you wake up?
[0043] 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [0044] c) Does your neck feel sore when
you wake up? [0045] 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [0046] d) Do you feel like
you fall asleep faster? [0047] 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 [0048] e) Do
you feel like you have more energy during the day? [0049] 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 Other questions may include: [0050] 2) Where did you
purchase the recommended product? [0051] 3) How much did you pay
for the recommended product?
[0052] The present system can use the responses from the such
questions to generate a qualitative-effectiveness score of the
particular recommended product. The quantitative-effectiveness
score and the qualitative-effectiveness score may be used to
establish an overall-effectiveness rating for the product regarding
overall sleep and the specific sleep-related issue. According to
the present invention, other information about the particular
product, such as price and availability may be used in calculating
the above overall-effectiveness rating.
[0053] According to the present invention, should a user not
provide any answers to product-review questions, as shown above, or
if the answers to the questions are suspected of being inaccurate,
such as always receiving 10s or 1s from a particular user, then the
qualitative-effectiveness score may be ignored, resulting in the
present system relying solely on the quantitative-effectiveness
score in calculating the overall-effectiveness score of the
product. Perhaps in such instance, the rating score is weighted
accordingly, such as by 50%.
[0054] The above-described product-review questions can be provided
to each user using a web-based software program operating on the
user's portable smart device, such as a smartphone. The program
preferably measures the amount of time it takes for each question
to be answered to help establish a level of authenticity in the
user's response. For example, a question requires an average of 12
seconds to read, and an average of 10 seconds to answer, as
determined by collected data of actual users, and/or independent
testing. If, in such instance, a particular user answers the
question in less than 5 seconds, then, according to the invention,
it can be assumed that the user has not read the question and lacks
sincerity in participating in the survey. In this case, the present
system would ignore the response from the user for either that
question, or all the questions, since the user is likely not (and
will not be) authentic and honest in his or her response. If the
user provides an unrealistic time to answer two questions
concurrently, the present system can immediately end the survey.
Also, the present system preferably "times out" after a
predetermine amount of time spent answering any particular
question, such as 1 minute, after which the present software
program, according to the invention, can ask the user if he or she
requires additional time to answer the question. If no response is
detected (after a predetermine amount of time), the present
software program preferably ends the survey. The purpose of this
feature is to help ensure that only authentic, honest and accurate
product review responses are received and approved.
[0055] The present system, according to the invention, can ask the
user details about any recommended products sometime after the user
trial period has elapsed, perhaps after two weeks or one month of
use. One line of questions which may be asked of the user is the
price paid for the product. Was the product a gift, or otherwise
free? Was the product very expensive? The system may compare the
user's answer with an average of known prices collected from
various sites on the Internet.
[0056] This is an important question since the price and the brand
name of the product may introduce a psychological component of
"perceived value," wherein the user may assume that since he or she
paid so much for the costly product, it must be working. Products
with prices above/below a certain threshold may suffer from an
adoption perception curve, e.g., "My expensive mattress can do no
wrong." OR "This cheap mattress could never give me a good night
sleep." Products can be tagged and monitored for this potential
influencing factor. If confirmed, the present system can actively
work against distorted perception by asking the user similar
questions multiple times to draw an average response or to use
other methods of extracting truth from a subject that may be
knowingly or unknowingly distorting their answers from the absolute
truth.
[0057] Alternatively, the present system can consider a) such
secondary influences (price paid, brand recognition, popularity,
etc.), b) a user's responses to qualitative questions regarding the
assessment of a particular product's effectiveness (see above), and
c) measured data collected from the monitoring device to determine
if secondary influences affected the user's perception of product
effectiveness. If it is determined that the purchase price, the
brand name, or some other secondary influencing factor affected the
authenticity of a user's response in evaluating the effectiveness
of a product, the system may decide to apply a weighting factor to
the measured data collected automatically by the monitoring device.
This decision may be based on degree of disparity between the
measured values of quantitative-effectiveness and received values
of qualitative-effectiveness from the user.
[0058] For example, a user is following a system recommendation and
purchased a brand name and popular memory-foam mattress at full
price at a store (considered by the present system to be an above
average price). The user uses the new mattress for one full month
and then is asked by the present software program, initiated by the
present system to answer qualitative questions regarding the new
mattress. The user gave the new product high marks for all
questions. However, continuing with this example, the monitoring
device used to monitor specific movements by the user, as he or she
slept, detected user-movements which indicated a restless sleep,
with numbers worse than before the purchase of the new mattress,
indicating that the quantitative-effectiveness values of the new
mattress are much lower than the values of
qualitative-effectiveness. This disparity suggests that the user
doesn't know or doesn't want to admit to how bad they really slept.
In such instance, the present system would assume that secondary
factors influenced the user's perception of the quality of sleep
achieved by the new mattress. The system, in this example, would
ignore the qualitative-effectiveness results and rely solely on the
more reliable quantitative-effectiveness results.
[0059] The present system can recognize that certain product
categories may require different amounts of usage before their
effectiveness may be accurately evaluated. For example, a new
mattress product may require that a user sleep on it for two or
three months before its effectiveness may be determined. In
contrast, a pillow product may only require a week. The present
system can establish the appropriate amount of time for each
product by category, cost, effort required to replace or return,
and other factors. Also, the testing period may be ongoing so that
a product's effective life may be accurately measured. For example,
a firm neck-supporting pillow may be very effective for the first
six months, but may lose its support slowly after that. The present
system can detect when a product becomes less effective and can
alert the user when the product fails to maintain good
quantitative-effectiveness values, which are measured constantly.
Any collected user data can be provided to the product companies
for internal product evaluation, engineering review and product
development. The fact that sleep-aid products used by users of the
present system are effectively field-tested by actual customers in
real-life environments can only increase the reliability of the
resulting data and feedback.
[0060] As mentioned above, the present system preferably determines
the quantitative-effectiveness value of a product based on
user-movement measurements made by the monitoring device. It should
be noted that any type of sleep-monitor may be used with the
present system to monitor a user and provide sleep-related data,
regardless of how the other sleep monitors operate, and the type of
data provided. The processes and methods used in the present
system, described herein are measuring-device agnostic and any of
many types of sleep-monitor data may be used to carry out the
various features and embodiments of the present invention,
described herein. Other sensors may be used to measure other
factors which may help determine the quality of a user's sleep
using a new product. Such factors include movement of user during
sleep, temperature of user during sleep, noise from user during
sleep, duration of overall sleep, duration of specific sleep
stages, time between user going to bed and falling asleep, wake-up
time, etc.
[0061] A method for evaluating the effectiveness of a sleep-aid
product, according to the invention, includes the steps of:
[0062] 1) Using a body-displacement measurement device, measure
body movement of a sleeping user and determine a first level of
sleep quality of the user using a first sleep-aid product, collect
and store the data as first monitored data;
[0063] 2) Replacing the first sleep-aid product with a second
sleep-aid product.
[0064] 3) Using a body-displacement measurement device, measure
body movement of the same sleeping user and determine a second
level of sleep quality of the user using the second sleep-aid
product, collect and store the data as second monitored data;
[0065] 4) Comparing the first collected monitored data with the
second collected monitored data;
[0066] 5) Using the comparison information to determine the
effectiveness of the second sleep-aid product based on the first
sleep-aid product; and
[0067] 6) Repeating steps 1-5 for the person sleeping different
nights;
[0068] 7) Repeating steps 1-6 for different people to confirm
results; and
[0069] 8) Using the first and second collected data to support the
return of the second sleep-aid product or the certification of the
second sleep-aid product as being effective, depending on the
results.
[0070] After the above-listed second step, a step of detecting
(automatically or manually) the second sleep-aid product may be
included, according to the present invention.
[0071] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a
user may follow the recommendation of a sleep-aid product by the
present system. The user would confirm purchase of the product and
provide purchasing details, such as brand name, price and location
of purchase. The present system can use this information to
determine product warranty details, such as the time period for
return of the product due to a user being unsatisfied, and use this
information to help remind a user of the return deadlines. The
present system can further suggest that a user returns a product
based on an indication of poor quantitative-effectiveness values
calculated since use of the new product commenced compared to
quantitative-effectiveness values calculated before the new product
was first in use. The present system collects data of each user's
sleep data (such as sleep quality score) before and after a new
product (such as a mattress) is purchased and used. The user
therefore has sleep history data to substantiate a product return
claim, or to provide valuable user feedback to the company of the
particular product.
[0072] In some embodiments, the present system may be set up to
post a user's feedback regarding a particular product directly to a
select website, or multiple websites, such as the website of the
particular product, or an online retailer's website. Alternatively,
companies of products may pay to access and repost select user
reviews of their product from the present system. Also, a
subscribing user can be given access to a community of users, such
as a chat or forum, covering many products. The access given may be
to information relating to all products, select products, or only
products that have been or are being used by the user. The
accessible information preferably includes details of sleep-aid
products, how they performed, reviews and ratings, and which
sleep-related issues the products may or may not help overcome.
[0073] A company of a product may request use of the present system
to initiate a product review by leveraging the subscribed users of
the present system. Based on the independent reviewing process of
the present system, both qualitative and quantitative effectiveness
values may be calculated and collected over a prescribed testing
period. Depending on the test results, the product may receive a
"certification of sleep-effectiveness" by the present system. The
product company may then use this certification in their marketing
of the particular product. Also, the test results may offer the
company suggestions for improving the product, or developing
others. For example, a pillow company requests the use of the
present system for testing a newly developed memory-foam pillow
that provides adjustable neck support. The test results, in this
example are promising with over 300 positive reviews and high
quantitative-effectiveness scores. The qualitative-effectiveness
scores are also high, but many of the respondents indicated
negative ratings for cleaning the pillow. Apparently, in this
example, the pillow case was difficult to remove from the pillow
structure. The company learns from these comments and decides to
perform a running-redesign to overcome this apparent deficiency.
User testing and user feedback is invaluable.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 1, and according to some embodiments of
the present invention, a block diagram schematic of an example
sleep monitor 10 (also referred to as a monitor device in this
disclosure) is shown including a computer processor (or simply a
processor, or CPU) 12, a power supply 14, a Bluetooth/WIFI
communication circuit 16, a memory 18. The monitor device can have
an architecture of a general purpose computer, where different
components can communicate through a system bus. As can be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, processor 12 is connected
to all components and controls the operation of each.
Bluetooth/WIFI communication circuit 16 includes conventional
communication circuitry to allow selective communication with
Bluetooth and WIFI devices, including a Home Area Network 22, which
in turn is connected to the Internet 24. The Bluetooth/WIFI
communication circuit 16 includes the use of all types of wireless
communication devices and techniques, such as, but not limited to
Bluetooth, WIFI, and Zigbee. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 1,
a radar transducer 20 (e.g., a Doppler type) is shown. It is
understood that other types of motion sensors may be used in place
of a radar transducer, including, but not limited to SONAR (using
sound waves to detect micro displacements), and LIDAR (wherein
light is used to deter micro displacements) and IR sensors. The
term "radar" and "radar transducer" is used hereinafter to include
all types of motion detection and displacement measuring
devices.
[0075] The diagram shown in FIG. 1 is only a non-limiting example
of a "sleep monitor" or "monitor device" (or simply "monitor") as
used in this disclosure. This disclosure contemplates any suitable
"sleep monitor" or "monitor device" having any suitable number of
any suitable components in any suitable arrangement. It is
understood that a "sleep monitor" or "monitor device" can broadly
encompass all monitoring devices or systems that can sense or
monitor environment conditions (ambient temperature, humidity,
sound, vibration, lighting, air quality, etc., of the environment
in which the subject person is being monitored) as well as
physiological and/or biomechanical signals from a human body (e.g.,
body movement, noise made by the person, body temperature,
breathing, heartbeat, cardiogram, brain activity, etc.), by an
either contact or non-contact manner. A monitor device can include
all components and functionalities of a general smart phone (e.g.,
speaker, microphone, camera, GPS, accelerometer, etc.) as well as
sensors and other components (e.g., radar/sonar related components)
that are typically not included in a general smart phone. The
software program of the present invention can be installed/loaded
directly in the monitor device(s) to process information and data
gathered by the sensors and other signal-acquisition components as
well as other data entered by the user or retrieved from other
sources. Alternatively, if the monitor device does not include the
advanced chips/memory or other components of modern-day
smartphones, the monitor device can be configured to work in
concert with such a smartphone and utilize the components available
on the smartphone (e.g., a microphone or other sensing devices),
and in which case, the present software program can also be loaded
on the smartphone which can be used to process information received
from the monitor device. In some instances, the user's smart phone
or other portable or wearable smart devices can be deemed
standalone monitor devices.
[0076] In the sleep monitor or the monitor devices described
herein, the processor can include one or more processors, which can
include hardware for executing instructions, such as those making
up a computer program or application, for example, it may retrieve
(or fetch) the instructions from an internal register, an internal
cache, memory, storage; decode and execute them; and then write one
or more results to internal register, internal cache, memory, or
storage. In particular embodiments, software executed by processor
may include an operating system (OS). As an example and not by
limitation, then the OS may be a mobile operating system, such as
for example, Android, iOS, Windows. In some embodiments, the memory
can include main memory for storing instructions for the processor
to execute or data for processor to operate on. One or more buses
may connect the processor with the memory. The memory can include
random-access memory (RAM). This RAM may be volatile memory, where
appropriate. Where appropriate, this RAM may be dynamic RAM (DRAM)
or static RAM (SRAM). The monitor device can further include a
permanent data storage device which can include non-volatile and/or
non-transient mass storage or media for data or instructions, for
example HDD, flash memory, optical medium, DVD, etc., or a
combination of two or more thereof, solid-state memory, read-only
memory (ROM), or any other suitable physical form. The
communication component can include hardware, software, or both
providing one or more interfaces for communication (such as, for
example, packet-based communication) between the monitor device and
other devices, for example, a network interface controller (NIC) or
network adapter for communicating with an Ethernet or other
wire-based network or a wireless NIC (WNIC), wireless adapter for
communicating with a wireless network, such as for example a WI-FI
network or modem for communicating with a cellular network, such as
third generation mobile telecommunications (3G), or Long Term
Evolution (LTE) network, wireless PAN (WPAN) (such as, for example,
a BLUETOOTH WPAN), a WI-FI network, a WI-MAX network, a cellular
telephone network (such as, for example, a Global System for Mobile
Communications (GSM), 3G, or LTE network), or other suitable
wireless network or a combination of two or more thereof. The bus
can include hardware, software, or both coupling components of the
personal computing device to each other, for example, a graphics
bus, an Enhanced Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, a
front-side bus (FSB), a HYPERTRANSPORT (HT) interconnect, an
Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, an INFINIBAND
interconnect, a low-pin-count (LPC) bus, a memory bus, a Micro
Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, a serial advanced technology
attachment (SATA) bus, a Video Electronics Standards Association
local (VLB) bus, or another suitable bus or a combination of two or
more of these.
[0077] As used herein, a system of the present invention can
include one or more monitor devices described herein, wherein a
memory is installed or stored which computer program product(s) (or
software), which when activated or running (e.g., executed by the
processor), enables the monitor device(s) to perform certain
functions or methods according to the instructions of the computer
program product. In some embodiments, when the software on a
monitor device is activated (the details of which will be further
described below), a user interface (UI), or graphical UI, may be
loaded on a display area of the device so as to display information
to a user and allow a user to interact with the software, e.g.,
through areas of a touchscreen designated in the computer software.
The system can further include other devices that communicate with
the monitor devices, e.g., a user smartphone, a remote server, a
smart IOT device, a device designated to perform specific analysis
(such as detection of certain chemicals), where the present
software application product or components thereof can be installed
to perform the functions contemplated, or data inputted or gathered
by such devices can be sent to a monitor device or another device
or server which may act as a nerve center to control or coordinate
the functions of all involved devices. The functions and methods to
be performed by the software product and the system are further
described herein.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 2, monitor 10 is positioned in a user's
bedroom, next the user's bedside, such as on the user's side table
30. Doppler radar transducer 20 is directed towards a user 32 as he
or she sleeps in a bed 33. Radar transducer 20 is designed to
transmit and receive radio waves of a specific frequency to measure
minute displacements of user 32 as he or she sleeps, including the
subtle movements of breathing, snoring and muscle contractions
(twitching). The received signals are collected and stored as data
in local memory 18 and eventually, at prescribed intervals, the
data from memory 18 is uploaded to a remote server using the
Bluetooth/WIFI communication circuit 16, as controlled by onboard
processor 12, and any other necessary appropriate known
communication method.
[0079] As shown in FIG. 1, other types of sensors (called auxiliary
sensors), according to this invention may be included with the
automatic sleep monitor 10. Such auxiliary sensors may include a
thermometer 25 for measuring bedroom temperature, a light sensor 26
for measuring any light in the bedroom, a microphone 27 for
measuring sounds that can be heard in the bedroom. The data
collected from these auxiliary sensors 25, 26, 27 is combined with
the data from radar transducer 20 and time-stamped by processor 12
so collectively, the data from different types of sensors may be
analyzed concurrently, locally, using processor 12, or at a later
time, using either local processor 12, or a remote server (not
shown). In this manner, additional factors of a user's sleeping
environment may now be considered when analyzing a user's sleep
behavior and generally, as in many fields of study, the more
information, the better. For example, if the collected data of a
certain user shows sudden body movement by the sleeping user at
around 4:15 AM every Monday morning, the data from microphone 27,
light sensor 26, and thermometer 25 can then be reviewed for clues
at what is happening at that time. Perhaps in this example, the
microphone data reveals the distinct sounds of a garbage truck
outside picking up the trash at this exact time. Based on this, the
user would be given a recommendation to either wear ear plugs on
Mondays or perhaps have double-pane windows installed.
[0080] According to the present invention, such auxiliary sensors
25, 26, 27 may be used to detect conditions within the user's
bedroom. Processor 12 of monitor 10 may be used to determine if any
measured parameter or condition within the bedroom exceeds a
predetermined value. In such instance, the user can be informed and
corrective measures suggested automatically. For example, if the
illumination level in the bedroom is measured by light sensor 26,
and the value exceeds a certain predetermined level (as decided by
the user or as determined using historical data of the user's
bedroom), the present system will inform the user (either by text,
email, or through the present software program) of the excessive
light condition. In this example, the present system will provide
an appropriate suggestion to the user, such as turning off all
lights before going to bed, providing a sleep partner with a
book-light, if appropriate, using an eye mask, or installing
blackout blinds to prevent light from entering the room through
windows. If loud sounds are detected in the bedroom at bedtime or
during sleep time, the present system may suggest that the user
locate the source of the sound and try to eliminate it. If this is
not possible, the present system will suggest that the user use ear
plugs or an appropriate sound-cancelling device.
[0081] According to another embodiment of the invention, referring
to FIG. 3, a monitor 200 is includes two separately moveable
Doppler radar transducers 202, 204 (or other similar movement
sensors), one for each person 206, 208 in a bed 210. The
above-described calibration techniques can be used to focus each
transducer on each respective partner sleeping in bed 210. Monitor
200, with its dual transducers 202, 204 may be positioned at either
side of the bed, on a bedside table 212 with one transducer 202
being located above the other 204. The higher transducer 202 is
used to monitor the more distant partner, since this higher
transducer must "see" over the closer user. The lower transducer
204 may monitor the closer partner in bed.
[0082] According to another embodiment of the invention, referring
to FIG. 4, a monitor 220 may include appropriate fastening hardware
(not shown) to allow the monitor to be mounted on a headboard 222
of a bed 224 (in the center). Monitor 220 may also similarly be
mounted to a wall (not shown) adjacent to the headboard, on the
ceiling (not shown) over bed 224, or on other walls (not shown) of
the bedroom, as appropriate. In the case of mounting monitor 220 on
headboard 222 of bed 224, as shown in FIG. 4, a left-side radar
transducer 226 is positioned within monitor 220 and is aligned to
monitor a left-side user 228 (a user sleeping on a left-side of bed
224), covering a left field of view 230. Similarly, a right-side
radar transducer 232 is positioned within monitor 220 and is
aligned to monitor a right-side user 234 (a user sleeping on a
right-side of bed 224), covering a right field of view 236. Monitor
220 preferably otherwise operates in a similar manner to monitor
200, described above. By having the monitor located symmetrically
and above both sleeping users, the respective left and right radar
transducers 226, 232 will have a clearer field of view of left and
right users, 228, 234, as shown in FIG. 4. Monitor 220 preferably
includes two directional microphones (not shown), one for each
sleeping user. It may also include a single thermometer and light
sensor. Monitored user data of both radar transducers may be stored
together in a single memory, but kept separate, as understood by
those skilled in the art.
[0083] Additionally, a displaceable single Doppler radar transducer
(not shown) may be provided in combination with an appropriate
drive mechanism (not shown) to allow for controlled and selective
angular displacement of the transducer between two or more
positions. The monitor here will allow a controller to selectively
move the single transducer at prescribed times between a first
position to focus on and monitor a first user in bed, and a second
position to focus on and monitor a second user in bed. The monitor
would continue to move the transducer between the two positions so
that both people in bed can be effectively monitored throughout the
night, albeit alternately.
[0084] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, a
disturbance-measuring (DM) device is used to determine how much
potential disturbance a sleeping partner inflicts on a sleeping
user during a sleeping period (though the night). In some examples,
the DM device does not need to be a stand-alone device, but can be
regarded as a component for receiving and transmitting input
signals to a main monitor device, via an API and/or wired or
wireless connection. In other examples, the DM device can be small,
self-contained and self-powered with an appropriate internal
battery, and can include Bluetooth wireless communication circuit,
microprocessor, electronic memory, and sensors (such as
thermometers, accelerometer, light sensor, microphone, speaker,
etc.) The DM device can be linked to a user's 302 smartphone, or
the user's sleep monitor 10 via a Bluetooth communication link. The
DM device can be positioned next to the user's sleeping partner, as
the partner sleeps. The sensors of the DM device will record
various measurements and the processor will store the measurements,
along with time and date information on the local memory. The DM
device uploads its collected data, at prescribed times (preferably
the next morning) to either the user's smartphone or to the user's
sleeping monitor. The data is then later compared with the sleep
data collected by the sleep monitor and the smartphone of the user,
synched by time. In this manner, if the user has any sleep issues
during a particular night, the data from the DM device 300
(representing the sleep partner) may be reviewed to determine if
the user's sleep event was influenced by the real partner's
movements, sound, or temperature.
[0085] For example, if the user's sleep data shows a disruption
event at 3:35 AM where she is awakened from a light stage of sleep,
and data collected from her sleep partner shows sudden movement at
exactly 3:35 AM, then a correlation between her disruption and his
movement at 3:35 AM may be assumed. If this type of disturbance
occurs regularly, then corrective action may be necessary to ensure
that the user's sleep quality is at least maintained or even
improved. One possible corrective action could be to monitor the
sleep of the user's partner to determine why he is moving so much
while sleeping. When the user's partner's sleep issues are
corrected, the user's sleep will benefit. Other corrective actions
may include the use of separate beds.
[0086] It is appreciated that the monitor device shown in FIGS. 1-4
can also be configured to implement the functions described herein
by the DM device. In that regard, the DM device 300 can be
considered a specific embodiment of a sleep monitor device as
contemplated by the present disclosure.
[0087] According to the present invention, the DM device may also
be used to measure vibration, temperature and noise disturbances of
a user's partner, when the user is not present in the same bed. In
this manner, the DM device is preferably positioned in the location
of the user in the bed while the user is absent, i.e., in place of
the user. In use, in this arrangement, according to this embodiment
of the invention, as the user's partner sleeps, the DM device will
measure and record the movements of the bed, the temperature of the
bed and the sounds from the bed, as felt and heard from the user's
position in the bed. Using the DM device in this manner, the user
may determine in advance the types of potential disturbances he or
she can expect when the user returns to sleep in the same bed. This
method of effectively replacing a user with the DM device may also
be used when testing out a new mattress at a mattress store to
measure and record movements (and also temperature and noise) which
migrate across the mattress to predict how movement much potential
disruption one partner will experience in response to movement of
the other.
[0088] The DM device may be used to compare movements of a new
mattress with movements already recorded using an old mattress to
determine if there are any meaningful differences, for better or
worse. In testing, prior to going to the mattress store, the DM
device (or a smartphone running a software program) may first be
positioned on one side (e.g., the left side) of the user's home
"old" mattress, and in a known orientation. The user, lying down on
an opposing side (e.g., right side) of the old mattress is
instructed to switch sleeping positions from sleeping on his or her
right side to his or her left side, and also moving from prone to
supine positions, and other combination of movements, following a
prescribed pattern. According to the invention, DM device itself
may instruct the user during use, by electronically announcing
(generating a synthetic voice through speaker) how the user should
move around in bed during the initial testing. Alternatively, the
DM device may link by Bluetooth to the user's smartphone, and work
with a running software program which would instruct the user how
to move in bed during the initial test. Finally, according to
another aspect of the invention, the function of DM device may be
provided entirely in the user's smartphone as a running software
program wherein sensors already provided on smartphones are used to
measure specific characteristics of an environment, such as
vibration, light, and sound. Regardless of whether the DM device or
a smartphone with a running software program is used, the user then
visits a mattress store and performs the same test using a select
new mattress, following the same sequence of movements as before.
The data recorded during test using the new mattress can be readily
compared with the data recorded using the old mattress. Using the
DM device in this manner, the user may understand how a new
mattress will perform during sleep movements compared with an old
mattress. Owing to the expense and effort one typically spends when
replacing an old mattress with a new one, this information can be
very useful.
[0089] According to another embodiment of the present invention,
the DM device may be modularly connected to sleeping monitor
(functioning as a base station), as a removable modular component.
When mechanically connected, the modular DM device preferably
includes electrical connection as well so that the battery of the
DM device may be automatically recharged by power from the sleeping
monitor and data may flow between the memory components of both. In
this arrangement, a user may detach the DM device whenever it is
needed and return the device to the sleeping monitor for convenient
storage.
[0090] Also, and alternatively, the above-described DM device may
be effectively substituted using a software program and a user's
smartphone. In such instance, the accelerometer sensor and
microphone already present in most smartphones may be instructed by
the running software program to pick up local movement and sounds
and store the data, synched to date and time. The software program
may then upload the data to another device or server for analysis
or comparison, or may be used directly on the screen to determine
if any movements or sounds occurred at a specific time of
interest.
[0091] According to another one embodiment of the present
invention, the present system is able to automatically recognize
when sleeping aids are introduced into the user's bedroom, used by
the user during sleep and what the actual products are. According
to this embodiment of the invention, and with permission from the
user, the system accesses order information from either the website
used by the user to purchase such items, such as Amazon.com, or the
payment information used to purchase items by the user, such as
VISA, or PayPal. For example, during initial setup of the system by
the user, the user optionally inputs purchase information, such as
credit card account information, or PayPal account information and
agrees to use the inputted payment method when purchasing
sleep-related items. In this manner, the present system can monitor
purchases made by the user and flag any products that fit
pre-defined criteria, such as the purchase of pillows, mattresses,
sheets, sound-generators, humidifiers, etc. Upon detection of such
a product purchase, the present system sends a simple inquiry to
the user by text, email or other regarding the purchase, such as:
"We noticed that you recently purchased a new "COOLER-HEADS"
pillow, by Pillow-Matic.com--Is this pillow for you?" If yes, the
present system automatically inserts a "PRODUCT NOW IN USE" button
using the present software program so that it appears on the user's
smartphone screen each night. The user is instructed to press the
"PRODUCT NOW IN USE" button when the user begins using the new
product during his or her sleep. In this manner, the present system
will be able to associate future monitored sleep data of the user
with the new product, once the user presses the button. For
example, if, after using the new pillow, in the above example, the
present monitor shows improved sleep data, the present system would
credit the improved results to the new product. It is contemplated
that the present system could ask the user to switch back to the
old pillow for one night to see if the user's sleep parameters
return to the pre-new product period. If so, then the new product
will be graded highly, regarding improving the sleep behavior of
the particular user. The system can then confirm on an accessible
database of product reviews that the particular pillow was able to
improve the sleep of a specific user (having specific
characteristics and conditions). All identification information
would preferably remain private.
[0092] Alternatively, instead of the present system accessing the
user's payment information to determine when a new sleep aid
product has been purchased, the present system may link to the
user's email and monitor for "Order Confirmation" email and/or
"Ship Notification" email and search for terms that indicate the
purchase of a sleep aid. The present system may again ask the user
to confirm what the particular sleep aid product is and if it is
for their specific use, and again confirm when the user begins to
user the new product, as mentioned above. In place of using a " NOW
IN USE" button, as described above, the present system may use the
ship notification information uncovered in the user's email to
estimate when the product arrives and make assumptions as to when
the user begins to use the new product, such as within a couple of
days of receiving the product. The system may then analyze
monitored sleep data from that point on looking for noticeable
changes in sleep data of the user. If the product makes a
difference, then the sleep data will show a difference.
[0093] According to another one embodiment of the invention, the
present system may simply rely on the user to inform the system,
through the system's software program when a new sleep aid product
is going to be used by the user during sleep. In such instance, the
system may instruct the user to input the product details of the
new product (brand name, model number, SKU, etc.) or ask the user
to scan the product's bar code using the camera of the smartphone.
This will allow the system to ensure that accurate product details
are inputted. As before, the new product will effectively be tested
by the present system by having the system associate future
monitored sleep data of the user to the new product. The new
product will either improve the sleep quality, worsen the sleep
quality, or make no meaningful difference.
[0094] According to another one embodiment of the invention (not
shown), a new product includes an integral BLE beacon. The present
system uses monitor, such as monitor 10, described above, located
next to the user's bed to automatically detect the beacon's
presence when the product is moved to within a prescribed distance
of the monitor.
[0095] When the monitor detects a beacon, the beacon is
automatically interrogated for identifying information, thereby
determining the details of the new product. In this embodiment, a
Bluetooth transmitter/receiver circuit suitable for detecting and
communicating with low-energy Bluetooth (BLE) devices would be
included in the sleep monitor located on the side table of the
user's bed. Once a new product is detected, by reading the
product's BLE beacon, the present system would ask the user to
confirm (using the present software program) the details of the new
product and if the product is meant for use by the user, or by
someone else. Instead of using the monitor, or in addition to using
the monitor, the present system may include a scanning device
positioned at any appropriate location in a user's bedroom, such as
at the bedroom's doorway, to automatically scan for new products
passing therethrough. Also, if a BLE beacon is installed within a
mattress and the BLE includes a built-in accelerometer or other
directional sensor, the present system will be able to detect the
presence of the new mattress through detection and communication
with the BLE and the orientation of the mattress, as well as which
side the mattress is facing. The present system can use his
information to remind the user to rotate and/or flip the mattress
after a prescribed period of time has elapsed, such as 6 months.
This will help the mattress maintain its shape and firmness.
Regardless, if a user's sleep quality degrades overtime, the
present system may recommend that the user flip his or her mattress
anyway to see if doing so will improve the quality numbers. If it
does, the system will remind the user to continue doing so on a
regular schedule. Also, the present system may offer a courtesy
reminder to the user to wash his or her bedding following a
schedule to ensure clean sheets and pillow cases, which can only
encourage a healthy lifestyle. A reminder to replace a pillow may
also be scheduled since most pillows lose their structural firmness
over time and can also accumulate mites.
[0096] The present system may detect sudden changes in a person's
sleep quality and increased movement throughout the night and make
assumptions that the user may be sick. The system may inquire of
the user's health and ask the user to confirm. If the user confirms
that he or she has the Flu, for example, the present system may
record the "signature" of the monitored data for the next few days,
while the user remains sick. This information may then be stored
and used for future recognition of the user being sick and used to
help decide when the user should be reminded to wash the bedding
when his or her sleep-monitored data show signs of returning to
"normal." Of course, washing the bedding will help reduce the
chances of reinfection.
[0097] If the newly acquired sleep aid product is an IOT device,
such as a NEST brand thermostat, Google Home device, or a Philips
brand smart light bulb, then the present system will automatically
recognize the new device when it is installed and connected with
the home network.
[0098] Regardless of how a new product is detected, the system,
according to another embodiment of the present invention, will be
able to connect with the Internet through the home network and
retrieve the product warranty and return details from the retailer
from which the user purchased the product. The present system can
then remind the user of critical return dates of the new product
before reaching them. According to the invention, reminding the
user about the product's return information may be automatic, or
may only be in response to the present system determining through
sleep monitoring that the new product is not helping the user
improve his or her sleep quality.
[0099] As mentioned above, overtime the present system will begin
to learn a user's sleep habits and his or her monitored sleep data
may show predictable patterns. Should a parameter or several
parameters of a user's sleep data change relatively suddenly, the
present system will inquire of the user if the user made any recent
changes to his or her behavior, including exercise, work stress, an
increased or decreased consumption of alcohol, caffeinated drinks,
drugs, tobacco products, or food. If the user confirms that nothing
has changed, then the system may inquire if a sleep-related product
has been replaced or is no longer being used, such as the recent
use of a new pillow, etc.
[0100] According to the invention, the present system is designed
to automatically analyze monitored data of a user and compare the
data with known data "signatures" of known conditions of stored
data from other monitored users. For example, if the monitored data
from a subject user has signature data points that are similar to
other, previously monitored users and such data points are
associated with a sleep apnea condition, then the present system
would be able to consider that the present user may be suffering
from a similar sleep apnea condition. In this example, based on the
similarities of newly monitored data with known data, the present
system can offer suggestions to the user on how to treat or
mitigate sleep apnea, with a certain level of confidence,
automatically. Depending on the recognized condition, assuming the
system is able to match the current user's sleep data with a known
data condition, the recommendations provided by the present system
may be one of a product, a service, and a medical treatment.
[0101] The recommendation may match what was recommended from
previous users having common data points and common conditions, or
may include new, updated recommendations, based on new products or
research, depending on the condition itself.
[0102] The present system preferably continuously analyzes a user's
monitored data, looking for trends and data point signatures that
match known conditions. If there are no matches found, the system
may recommend certain products or services which may help improve
the user's overall sleep quality, as shown to be the case when the
products have been used with other subscribers which similar user
parameters (age, gender, height, weight, level of exercise, etc.).
If a data point "signature" to a known sleep condition is uncovered
over a period of time, depending on the particular condition, the
subject user may or may not be immediately given a recommendation.
For example, if the user's data points suggest that the user likely
needs a new pillow, the present system may offer the suggestion
after additional data is acquired to ensure that this is indeed the
case. However, if the user's data points suggests a condition such
as sleep apnea (wherein the monitored data of the user reveals
excessive loud snoring when in the supine position and noticeable
leg jerk movements at a certain sleep stage level), the level of
concern increases and the present system quickly suggest
immediately medical intervention to confirm and treat the
condition, since sleep apnea is potentially life-threatening and
often overlooked.
[0103] The present system may offer a hierarchical pattern of
suggestions to overcome a user's recognized sleep-related
condition. In this arrangement, the system will first offer a first
level of solution, perhaps a product suggestion, and then, if the
user's sleep quality shows no improvement, offer a next level of
solution, and so on, until the monitored data shows improvement. In
each case, the user's sleep is carefully monitored and the
collected data analyzed, as before. The time between suggestions
may be days, weeks, or however long is required to establish any
net affect on a user's sleep pattern or sleep quality. The present
system will select suggestions according to predetermined
parameters and factors, such as cost of implementing the
suggestion, potential risk of implementing the suggestion, and
level of confidence of the detected condition, among others. For
example, a user's monitored sleep data shows a pattern that is
similar to other people who ended up having a stiff neck from
sleeping. A first level suggestion, in this example, is to get a
neck massage and a second level suggestion is to purchase a
relatively expensive memory-foam pillow. Normally, the present
system would offer to the user the first level suggestion first,
but in this example, the system learns of a sale of a particularly
highly rated (as determined by a history of good user reviews)
memory-foam pillow, which is ending soon. Because there is a cost
savings and the level of risk of implementing either the level one
or the level two suggestion is low, the present system would offer
to the user the second suggestion first, indicating where the user
may purchase the pillow at reduced cost.
[0104] It is contemplated that companies of products may request
access to the present system, as a marketing effort, to target
specific groups of users to use their products to overcome certain
sleep-related conditions. Depending on the sleep-related condition
and promotion details, the present system can implement the
promotion for those users which fit the designated or targeted
group and encourage a suggestion to overcome a specific sleep
condition that promotes the particular product of the participating
company. For example, a brand name mattress company wants to
promote their top-tier mattress to couples in their 30's who live
in the Denver area and the company will offer 30% off the price of
the mattress to the first 100 couples that match the targeted
group. The present system can help monitor the users in the Denver
area who meet the criteria and offer the company's promotion
details for those users who are shown by their monitored sleep data
to have a sleep-issue wherein one suggestion would be to purchase a
new firm mattress. In such instance, the present system would
suggest the mattress of the promotion and would include the sale
details. The present system would only do this if the promoted
product would indeed align with a genuine suggestion for
improvement for the particular user.
[0105] According to yet another one embodiment of the present
invention, the present system may monitor a user's sleep and
suggest that the user stay at a specific nearby hotel which
includes specific known rooms which have been effectively certified
to meet specific sleep requirements. These include a firm new bed,
quiet location in town, double-pane windows, soundproof walls,
blackout drapes, soft music, etc. The system would suggest that the
user stay at such a location for a period of time as a
"sleep-reset." Sleeping in a room filled with beneficial sleep-aids
may also help the user test out certain products which may
encourage the user to later purchase for use in his or her home
setting.
[0106] According to yet another one embodiment of the present
invention, the present system monitor a user while he or she
sleeps. The present system can determine by the movement signatures
and sounds of the user which stage of sleep the user has reached
and can also determine when the user awakens. According to this
embodiment, the monitor has control over IOT devices and can
activate specific devices in response to the user entering a
certain stage of sleep or becoming awake. For example, if it is
known that a male user enjoys classical music because it calms him
down and helps him go to sleep, the monitor can use this
information to automatically activate a music player (connected
either directly or wirelessly to the monitor) to play classical
music when the monitor determines that the user has just awakened.
The music will start softly and increase slowly in volume to a
preset level. The music will help the user quickly return to sleep.
The monitor may also control lights in the room and air
conditioning devices (hot, cold, humidity, etc.) in response to
detection that the user reaches a specific stage of sleep, not only
waking up. If a user is known to often reside in the first stage of
sleep (light sleep) for long periods of time, the monitor of the
present invention can change an environment factor, such as
introducing soft, quiet music to encourage the user to reach a deep
stage of sleep. It is contemplated a sleep monitor be provided with
an integral music player and speaker and a courteously light or
even a reading light so that wireless connections to TOT devices do
not have to be made.
[0107] According to another one embodiment of the present
invention, and referring to FIG. 4, in situations where two people
are sleeping in a common bed, each person has a dedicated
sleep-monitor radar transducer 226, 232, and each has a smartphone
located on their respective side table. According to this
embodiment, the present system is able to use all the sensors of
each smartphone to help understand the sleep behavior of each
person in bed, how the movements and sounds of each person affects
the other, and also to help better understand the bedroom
environment. The present system activates the microphone of a
left-side person's smartphone, for example, and listens to that
person's sleep sounds, such as snoring. The present system
correlates the picked-up snoring sounds with the detected sleep
movements (and sounds) of not only the person sleeping on the
left-side, but also, of the person sleeping on the right-side of
the bed. One partner may snore, and when he or she does, the
present system may detect increased movement and a change of sleep
stage of the other partner. Owing to the timing of both events and
perhaps the lack of additional potential disturbances in the
bedroom, the present system would identify the snoring partner as
the source of sleep-disturbance of the disturbed partner.
[0108] According to the invention, the smartphone of either user
may be activated one at a time, alternating, or together at the
same time. When both smartphones are being used simultaneously, the
present system can better "listen" for sounds reaching or emanating
from the bedroom. By activating the microphones of nearby
smartphones, the present system can expand the effective range of
recorded audio and provide directional information which may help
the present system better locate the source of any captured sound
(through triangulation techniques). The present system can link
with, and preferably control the use of any peripheral device,
including smartphones, various TOT devices, including medical
devices, such as a user's continuous positive airway pressure
(CPAP) machine to collect data (and metadata) relating to either
the user of the present system, or the user's environment, in
particular, the user's bedroom.
[0109] Other sensors, including sleep-monitoring devices may be
used to correlate movements by one partner with signs of
sleep-disruption of the other. For example, a left-side sleep
partner may suffer from occasional Restless-Leg-Syndrome, and when
such an event occurs, the user's sleep monitor will detect it.
Following this example, the right-side sleep monitor detects sudden
and unusual movement and sound from the right-side sleeping partner
immediately after detection of the left side user's leg movement
event. The present system connects the two events and establishes
cause and effect evidence and notifies both partners, providing
suggested remedies. Other sleep issues may be detected as well,
such as snoring and bruxism (teeth grinding).
[0110] It is to be understood that any data collected by the
present system, including by any sleep-monitor or smart device
operating within the present system including metadata related to
the data and that the present system may receive or otherwise
collect any type of data from any type of electronic device,
including any TOT device and any sensor.
[0111] Herein, "or" is inclusive and not exclusive, unless
expressly indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context.
Therefore, herein, "A or B" means "A, B, or both," unless expressly
indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context. Moreover,
"and" is both joint and several, unless expressly indicated
otherwise or indicated otherwise by context. Therefore, herein, "A
and B" means "A and B, jointly or severally," unless expressly
indicated otherwise or indicated otherwise by context.
[0112] This disclosure encompasses all changes, substitutions,
variations, alterations, and modifications to the example
embodiments herein that a person having ordinary skill in the art
would comprehend. Moreover, although this disclosure describes and
illustrates respective embodiments herein as including particular
components, elements, functions, operations, or steps, any of these
embodiments may include any combination or permutation of any of
the components, elements, functions, operations, or steps described
or illustrated anywhere herein that a person having ordinary skill
in the art would comprehend. Furthermore, reference in the appended
claims to an apparatus or system or a component of an apparatus or
system being adapted to, arranged to, capable of, configured to,
enabled to, operable to, or operative to perform a particular
function encompasses that apparatus, system, component, whether or
not it or that particular function is activated, turned on, or
unlocked, as long as that apparatus, system, or component is so
adapted, arranged, capable, configured, enabled, operable, or
operative.
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