Sleep monitoring systems that monitor and measure sleep activity

Abstract

A system and method for monitoring one or more physiological parameters of a user. The system includes: at least one sensing unit including at least one vibration sensor; and at least one elastic tubular structure configured to be embedded in a cushion layer for supporting at least a portion of a user's body. One end of the at least one tubular structure is sealed, and the other end of the at least one tubular structure is closed by the at least one sensing unit to form a volume filled with a fluid and defined by one or more inner walls of the tubular structure and a surface of the at least one sensing unit. The at least one elastic tubular structure is used to transmit vibrations from one or more portions of the at least one tubular structure to the at least one sensing unit for detection by the at least one vibration sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to systems and methods for monitoring one or more physiological parameters of a user. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to monitoring sleep levels using a signal collector and sensor that can be contained within a mattress or a chair and is used to detect mechanical vibrations. Background Art

[0002] Sleep quality is essential to people's daily activities. Research by the National Sleep Foundation (USA) shows that nearly 45% of Americans' lives are affected by poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep. Many people regularly visit doctors in the hope of improving their sleep quality. According to estimates from the study, about 33% of people believe that their sleep quality is no better than normal or that their sleep quality is poor.

[0003] Although it is obvious that the human body needs sleep to function properly, the "quality" and "quantity" of sleep required is still a complex issue. In recent years, a large amount of research has focused on exploring sleep and its physiological and psychological effects. For example, some people feel tired and exhausted during the day when they are seriously sleep deprived, but some people will experience similar fatigue after sleeping too much (see U.S. Patent Application No. 62108149).

[0004] In order to explore the complex interplay between sleep and wakefulness, researchers continue to study the various physiological conditions during sleep, and a variety of sleep monitoring technologies have been proposed in this research.

[0005] There are many reasons why sleep monitoring is important. One of the most important reasons is that it can provide actual data related to the user's sleep - sleep length, sleep depth, sleep time and wake-up time. With this data, people with sleep problems will be motivated (or urged) to seek treatment from a sleep specialist.

[0006] Physiological parameters such as heart rate can be measured through wearable electronic devices. However, this can cause discomfort to the user's sleep and thus have a negative impact on the user's sleep quality.

[0007] In view of this, there is a need for an improved sleep monitoring method that is accurate in measurement and can improve user comfort. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to a first aspect, a system for monitoring one or more physiological parameters of a user is provided. The system comprises: at least one sensing unit, including at least one vibration sensor; and at least one elastic tubular object, configured to be embedded in a cushion layer for supporting at least a portion of a user's body. One end of the at least one tubular object is sealed, and the other end of the at least one tubular object is closed by the at least one sensing unit to form a volume filled with a fluid and defined by one or more inner walls of the tubular object and a surface of the at least one sensing unit. The at least one elastic tubular object is used to transmit vibrations from one or more portions of the at least one tubular object to the at least one sensing unit for detection by the at least one vibration sensor.

[0009] By providing an elastic tubular object for transmitting vibration, the sensing unit can be arranged outside the user's body, thereby preventing the sensing unit in the cushion layer from being damaged due to mechanical strain, and further preventing the sensing unit from affecting the comfort of the cushion layer. By making the tubular object out of elastic material, not only can the mechanical vibration be transmitted more effectively, but the tubular object can also return to its original shape after the pressure is released, so that it can continue to function.

[0010] The tubular object need not necessarily be cylindrical, but can be any elongated hollow structure. The tubular object can be a straight tube or have one or more curved sections along its length. The fluid can be a gas or a liquid. The fluid can be air or any other gas capable of transmitting vibration. The tubular object can be made of elastic materials such as rubber (such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber, silicone rubber, etc.), urethane or polydimethylsiloxane.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the at least one vibration sensor includes one or more of a microphone and a pressure sensor. The at least one vibration sensor can operate in a frequency acquisition range of 0 to 200 Hz. That is, the microphone and / or the pressure sensor can operate in a frequency acquisition range of 0 to 200 Hz.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the at least one elastic tube has a uniform cross-section along its length, thereby helping to avoid reflections inside the tube.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the at least one resilient tubular article includes one or more teeth extending along one or more inner walls of the tubular article to help prevent the tubular article from sticking and blocking when collapsed. The one or more teeth may be in the form of one or more ridges extending along the length of the tubular article. The one or more teeth may include a plurality of teeth evenly spaced around the circumference of the tubular article. This helps to avoid sticking and blocking even when collapsed at multiple angles.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the at least one elastic tube comprises a plurality of elastic tubes connected to a common node to form a single volume for transmitting vibrations back to the sensing unit. In this way, the detection volume of the cushion layer can be increased.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the system further comprises a controller for one or more of: determining one or more physiological parameters of the user based on the detected vibration; determining one or more physiological states of the user based on the detected vibration.

[0016] In one embodiment, the controller forms part of an external device, wherein the at least one sensing unit is used to send data related to the detected vibration to the external device for processing by the controller. The external device may be a computer, a server, a mobile device or any form of device with processing capabilities.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the controller forms part of the sensing unit.

[0018] The at least one vibration sensor may be configured to generate a vibration signal (a form of data transmission such as an electrical signal, indicating the amplitude of the detected vibration) and send the vibration signal to the controller. The vibration signal may be an analog signal or a digital signal. In the case where the controller forms part of an external device, the sensing unit may send the vibration signal to the controller or may first process the vibration signal (e.g., compress it) and then send the processed signal to the controller.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the controller is used to determine one or more of a user's heart rate, a user's breathing rate, a user's body posture, and a user's body movement based on the detected vibration.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the controller is used to determine the user's heart rate. The determination of the heart rate may include: filtering the detected vibration to form filtered vibration data within a predetermined frequency range; detecting a local maximum in the filtered vibration data; and determining the heart rate based on the detected local maximum. The predetermined frequency range may be a range that filters out noise and respiratory rate information while retaining most of the heartbeat information. In one embodiment, the predetermined frequency range is 10 to 30 Hz.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the controller is used to determine the user's breathing rate, wherein the determination of the breathing rate includes: detecting a local maximum among the detected vibrations; and determining the breathing rate based on the detected local maximum. The frequency range when determining the breathing rate may be different from the frequency range when determining the heart rate (for example, 0-200 Hz instead of 10-30 Hz).

[0022] According to one embodiment, the controller is used to determine the user's body movement based on the detected vibration, wherein determining the user's movement includes: determining whether the amplitude of the detected vibration exceeds a predetermined amplitude threshold.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the at least one vibration sensor comprises a microphone for generating a microphone signal based on the detected vibration and a pressure sensor for generating a pressure sensor signal based on the detected vibration. The controller is used to determine a user's body posture, wherein the user's body posture is determined based on a phase difference in the microphone signal and the pressure sensor signal.

[0024] The determined body posture may indicate whether the user is lying on his back, stomach, left side, or right side.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the controller is further configured to determine the user's physiological state (eg, breathing rate and / or sleep level) based on specific noises that recur in the detected vibrations (eg, in a detected breathing cycle).

[0026] According to one embodiment, the system is used to export or store data related to the detected vibration (such as the raw vibration signal) only when certain conditions are met. The conditions may include one or more of the following:

[0027] (1) The user's sleep state (e.g., the user is in a deep sleep stage);

[0028] (2) no body movement was detected within a predetermined period of time (e.g., the previous five minutes);

[0029] (3) The volatility of the vibration over a previous predetermined period of time (e.g., the moving average root mean square (RMS) value of the signal over a predetermined period of time (e.g., 20% of the previous five minutes) does not change by more than a predetermined amount); and

[0030] (4) The system detects the heartbeat or breathing cycle (heart rate and breathing rate can be determined, for example, based on the vibration signal).

[0031] According to one embodiment, the controller is used to determine the user's sleep state based on one or more of the user's heart rate, the user's breathing rate, and the user's body movement. The sleep state can be one of wakefulness, light sleep, deep sleep, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the controller is used to perform one or more of the following: when it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the respiratory rate are higher than a corresponding first threshold and the fluctuation of one or both of the heart rate and the respiratory rate are lower than a corresponding fluctuation threshold, determining that the user is in an awake state; when it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the respiratory rate are higher than the corresponding first threshold and the fluctuation of one or both of the heart rate and the respiratory rate are higher than the corresponding fluctuation threshold, determining that the user is in a rapid eye movement (hereinafter referred to as REM) sleep state; when it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the respiratory rate are lower than the corresponding first threshold and higher than a corresponding second threshold that is lower than the corresponding first threshold, determining that the user is in a light sleep state; and when it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the respiratory rate are lower than the corresponding second threshold, determining that the user is in a deep sleep state.

[0033] The corresponding first / second threshold values ​​indicate that different first threshold values ​​or different second threshold values ​​may be set for the heart rate and the respiratory rate.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the system further comprises an alarm system, which is used to sound an alarm when a predetermined sleep state or a predetermined sleep state changes within an alarm period between a predetermined alarm start time and a predetermined alarm end time. The alarm system can be incorporated into the sensing unit (i.e., in the form of a controller in the sensing unit) or can be an external device outside the sensing unit (not necessarily the same external device as described above for determining physiological parameters).

[0035] According to one embodiment, the alarm system is used to perform one or more of the following: issuing the alarm when it is determined that the user transitions from the rapid eye movement sleep stage to the light sleep stage within the alarm period; issuing the alarm when it is determined that the current time is within a predetermined time period before the alarm end time and the user is in the light sleep stage during the alarm period, and the predetermined time period is shorter than the alarm period; and issuing the alarm when it is determined that the alarm end time is reached and the predetermined sleep state or the predetermined sleep state change is not detected within the alarm period.

[0036] According to another aspect, a computer system is provided, comprising one or more processors for: receiving one or more vibration signals representing vibrations detected within a cushioning layer for supporting at least a portion of a user's body; and determining one or more of a user's heart rate, a user's breathing rate, a user's body posture, and a user's movement based on the one or more vibration signals.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the one or more processors are further configured to determine the sleep state of the user based on one or more of the user's heart rate, the user's breathing rate, and the user's movement.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the one or more processors are further configured to issue an alarm when a predetermined sleep state or a predetermined sleep state change is reached within an alarm period between a predetermined alarm start time and a predetermined alarm end time.

[0039] According to another aspect, a kit is provided for monitoring one or more physiological parameters of a user. The kit includes: at least one sensing unit including at least one vibration sensor; and at least one elastic tubular object configured to be embedded in a cushion layer for supporting at least a portion of a user's body, wherein one end of the at least one tubular object is sealed and the other end of the at least one tubular object is open to receive the at least one sensing unit. The kit is configured such that when the at least one sensing unit is accommodated in the other end of the at least one elastic tubular object, one or more inner walls of the tubular object and a surface of the at least one sensing unit define a volume for containing a fluid, so that the at least one elastic tubular object has a structure for transmitting vibrations from one or more portions of the at least one tubular object to the at least one sensing unit for detection by the at least one vibration sensor.

[0040] The embodiments described herein may be implemented as an apparatus, a system, a kit, a method, or a non-transitory computer-readable medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The specific arrangement of the present invention may be more fully understood and appreciated according to the following specific description given by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view and an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sleep monitoring device according to one embodiment;

[0043] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a sleep monitoring device embedded in a cushion layer;

[0044] Figure 3 A sleep monitoring device comprising a network of tubular objects according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 4A sleep monitoring device embedded in a cushion forming part of a bed according to one embodiment;

[0046] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Side view of the sleep monitoring device;

[0047] Figure 6 An alternative embodiment is shown in which the tube extends longitudinally in the length of the bed;

[0048] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A perspective view of an embodiment;

[0049] Figure 8 Shown is a typical graphical representation of a pressure signal detected by a sensing unit according to one embodiment;

[0050] Fig. 9 A strength-time diagram of the heartbeat and respiration-related signals obtained by the sensing unit;

[0051] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view of a sleep monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The figure shows a configuration method of a sleep monitoring device in a mattress according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Fig.12 for Fig.11A Side view of the sleep monitoring system;

[0054] FIG. 13A to FIG. 13F Shown are examples of different tubular cross-sections according to various embodiments;

[0055] Fig.14 Shown is a sensing unit according to an embodiment;

[0056] Fig.15 The manufacturing process of the sleep monitoring device contained in the cushion layer is shown;

[0057] Fig.16 A detailed description of a method for determining a user's sleep level according to an embodiment is shown;

[0058] Fig.17 The present invention is a flow chart of a method for determining an alarm activation time based on a determined sleep level according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The embodiments described herein relate to a system for monitoring physiological parameters of a user lying in bed, in particular a sleep monitoring system.

[0060] In order to avoid requiring the user to wear or be connected to any monitoring system, an embodiment of the present invention incorporates the sensor into the bed itself. In this way, a less intrusive means of monitoring the user's sleep can be achieved, and discomfort to the user caused by the use of wearable technology can be avoided. In addition, because the sensor is contained in the bed, a more reliable power supply can be provided to the sensor by supplying it with mains electricity (grid) or by configuring a larger battery that can only be provided separately due to size and comfort limitations of the wearable device. In this way, the risk of missed detection due to loss of power can be reduced - this risk may be problematic because the sensing time is relatively long and the user is generally unaware that the power has been lost because they are asleep.

[0061] For a monitoring subject lying on a bed, there are generally two sleep monitoring methods proposed: one is to measure the sleep rhythm by using a noise sensor or an optical camera or other sensor that is separated from the bed and the monitoring subject; the other is to place the motion sensing element directly in contact with the monitoring subject's body or very close to the monitoring subject's body. In the latter method, the sensor is placed, for example, below the lying height of the mattress.

[0062] The first method has the disadvantage of being too far away from the monitored subject in a sleeping state, and therefore lacks accuracy. It is difficult to obtain accurate measurements when the sensor is not close to the sensed object. The second method, in which the sensor is placed close to the subject's body, can achieve more accurate measurements, for example, even monitoring the heart rate and breathing of the subject in a sleeping state. That said, there are still problems with this method because sensors placed close to the body of the measured subject (for example, placed just below the sleeping surface) are prone to damage due to the mechanical stress caused by the subject lying on the bed. This problem becomes particularly serious when the system is required to provide a long-term warranty. However, when the sensor is modified to be able to withstand greater stress, the complexity and cost of the sensor may be greatly increased. In addition, the practice of placing such sensors directly in the mattress may have a negative impact on the comfort of the mattress.

[0063] Sleep data not only helps identify medical conditions, but can also be used to control other user devices that may disturb the user during sleep. For example, some devices can disturb the user's sleep by emitting noise or light while the user is asleep or before the user goes to bed. By obtaining high-quality sleep data, smart devices can be controlled to promote the user's sleep by improving and optimizing the bedroom environment. For example, devices that require starting motors or actuators often generate noise during the startup process. Therefore, when such devices are controlled to turn on only when no one is sleeping in the bed or only after the user is asleep (and therefore less likely to be woken up), the user's sleep can be improved.

[0064] In situations where it is necessary to use smart devices that are turned on / off as described above, one of the problems is, for example, a problem related to poor sleep quality caused by dust in the bedroom air. People who are allergic to dust often experience sneezing and other uncomfortable symptoms. Dust allergies can also cause congestion (which causes difficulty breathing) or itchy, red or tearing eyes. About 10% of people are allergic to dust in the air, such as pollen, mold, pet hair, dust mites, etc. Such symptoms can significantly reduce sleep quality. Therefore, a significant improvement in sleep quality can be achieved by performing air filtration that can eliminate dust particles that cause the above problems. However, air filtration for dust removal purposes produces mechanical noise, which has a negative impact on sleep quality.

[0065] In view of the above problems, there is a need for an improved means of monitoring physiological parameters and conditions, especially sleep, in a more accurate and less intrusive manner.

[0066] While the above issues have been discussed above with respect to sleep monitoring on mattresses, similar issues may be encountered when monitoring physiological conditions (such as heart rate, breathing rate, pressure, etc.) by integrating sensing technology into other types of furniture such as chairs (armchairs, sofas, etc.). For example, physiological variables such as breathing and heart rate, as well as physiological conditions such as pressure, may be monitored by placing sensors in the seat cushions or backrests of chairs or other types of seating. That said, placing sensors directly near the seating support surface may cause discomfort and increase mechanical stress on the sensors.

[0067] The embodiments described herein are intended to provide a solution to the above-mentioned problems. The present application proposes to use a collector (mechanical vibration conductor) based on a gaseous fluid vibration conducting medium to lead the signal out of the bed or chair, rather than placing the sensor directly in the mattress (under the sleeping surface, or under the sitting surface in a chair), wherein the collector is referred to as a signal collector in this article and is placed under the sleeping surface / sitting surface.

[0068] The signal collector is an elastic container filled with a vibration-conducting fluid medium, preferably a gaseous medium such as air. The signal collector can be made of a polymer material, such as rubber or PDMS. The signal collector can be a tubular object sealed with a fluid (such as gas or liquid) used as a vibration-conducting medium.

[0069] The system can use gas or liquid as a vibration transmission medium. Gas-based media are more advantageous than liquid-based media because liquid-based systems have poor durability and there is a risk of evaporation of the liquid over time when the signal collector is not effectively sealed, so there are more technical problems. External forces on the surface of the collector (such as a person lying on the bed) will generate a signal, which is transmitted by the fluid filled in the storage tank (the hollow area of ​​the collector) and is led out of the mattress along the elongated collector, and then detected by, for example, a pressure sensor in the collector. The signal collector is made of elastic material because this material helps to transfer external mechanical vibrations to the fluid transmission medium.

[0070] The signal collector can be used to extract the mechanical vibrations caused by the person sleeping in the bed from the mattress. When the signal is extracted from the mattress, it is easy to measure the change in mechanical vibration or pressure by connecting the sensor to the signal collector. In this way, the measurement can be performed outside the mattress, or at least at a certain distance from the human body, thereby preventing mechanical stress from acting on the sensor and negatively affecting the comfort of the mattress. Compared with placing the sensor directly under the sleeping surface, this construction has many advantages:

[0071] -Place the sensor outside the mattress or on the periphery of the mattress, so that it is easy to connect the signal collector to the sensor;

[0072] - Reduce the mechanical stress on the sensor, which not only reduces the risk of damage but also allows the use of less durable (and therefore cheaper) sensors;

[0073] - Cost-effective - By using a collector system dispersed under the sleeping surface, a single sensor can sense signals over a larger sensing area.

[0074] When measuring a signal with the aid of a collector placed between the signal source and the sensor, there is a possibility of some loss in signal quality and magnitude. However, recent advances in sensor quality have shown that sensors with much higher sensitivity than is required for sleep monitoring are available, such as accelerometers, pressure sensors, optical sensors, (optical) position sensors, etc. In addition, the signal collector can also make a larger force produce a smaller vibration before the measurement by converting the force into a stronger mechanical movement.

[0075] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view and an enlarged cross-sectional view of a sleep monitoring device 10 according to an embodiment. The sleep monitoring device 10 includes a tube 12 containing a fluid 20 and a sensing unit 14.

[0076] The tubular object 12 forms a signal collector for transmitting mechanical vibrations to the sensing unit 14. The tubular object 12 is elongated along its longitudinal axis. One end (distal end) of the tubular object 12 is closed by itself to retain the fluid 20, while the other end (proximal end) is connected to the sensing unit 14 through the connecting portion of the tubular object 12. The connecting portion 12 is configured to be connected to the sensing unit 14 so that the sensing unit 14 closes the open proximal end of the tubular object 12, thereby containing the fluid 20 in the internal volume of the tubular object 12 (defined by the inner wall of the tubular object 12). The sensing unit 14 can be connected to the proximal end of the tubular object 12 by a sealing portion, a locking mechanism or any other suitable means to prevent the fluid 20 from escaping from the tubular object 12.

[0077] The fluid 20 may be a gas or a liquid. Preferably, the fluid 20 is air.

[0078] The tubular object 12 is made of a flexible material so that the external pressure can be effectively transmitted to the fluid 20. Preferably, the tubular object 12 is elastic. The tubular object can be made of rubber, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or any other material suitable for transmitting the external force 30 as a useful signal to the sensing unit 14. It is important for the tubular object 12 to regain its original size and shape immediately after the external force is removed. By making the tubular object 12 of an elastic material, a restoring force can be provided to enable the tubular object 12 to immediately restore its original shape after the force is removed.

[0079] The sensing unit 14 includes a pressure sensor for detecting changes in the pressure of the fluid 20. When an external force 30 is applied to the tubular object 12, the external force is transmitted to the fluid 20 through the deformation of the wall of the tubular object 12. The external force 30 generates vibrations 34 in the fluid, and in particular, generates pressure changes in the fluid 20. The vibrations 34 propagate along the length direction of the tubular object 12 to the proximal end of the tubular object 12 where the sensing unit 14 is provided. Subsequently, the sensing unit 14 senses the vibrations 34.

[0080] In one embodiment, the sensing unit 14 includes a controller for determining a physiological parameter based on the sensed vibration. In another embodiment, the sensing unit 14 includes an output module (such as a wireless transmitter) for sending the vibration measurement value to an external system, and the external system is used to determine the physiological parameter based on the vibration sensing result.

[0081] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of a sleep monitoring device 10 embedded in a cushion layer 40. The sleep monitoring device 10 is located in the cushion layer 40 and below the contact surface 42. The cushion layer 40 is a deformable and recoverable layer used to support a part of the human body. The cushion layer may be filled with a cushioning material, a cushioning fluid (such as air), and / or may include one or more elastic sheets or strips for providing support. For example, the cushion layer 40 may constitute a part of a mattress or a mattress lining of a bed, or a part of a seat cushion or a backrest of a chair. The contact surface 42 is a surface used to withstand the pressure applied by a part of the human body when in use.

[0082] When the external force 30 is applied to the contact surface 42 of the cushion layer 40 , the external force 30 is transmitted to the wall of the tubular object 12 . Thus, the vibration 34 of the tubular object 12 caused by the external force 30 may cause pressure changes in the fluid 20 .

[0083] In this embodiment, the sensing unit 14 is disposed outside the cushion layer 40. However, as described below, the sensing unit 14 may also be embedded inside the cushion layer 40. Ideally, the sensing unit 14 is offset from the support portion of the cushion layer 40 for bearing the user's weight. For example, the sensing unit 14 may be located at the periphery of the cushion layer 40. In contrast, the tubular object 12 is disposed below the support portion to transmit vibration to the sensing unit 14. In one embodiment, the sensing unit 14 is offset from the support portion by at least 5 cm.

[0084] The cushion 40 can be, but is not limited to, a mattress, a chair, a cushion or any other object (or, a part of such an object) for supporting or abutting against a large or major part of a human body for a long time. Ideally, the cushion is used to support or abut against the torso of the user to facilitate the detection of respiratory rate and heart rate.

[0085] The contact surface 42 (or support surface) is any portion of the surface of the cushion layer 40, which may be, but is not limited to, a sleeping surface, a sitting surface, a lying surface, a resting surface, or any other surface that is used to contact a large or major part of the human body for a long time.

[0086] Based on the signal received by the sensing unit 14 from the vibration 34 of the tube 12 caused by the external force 30, the sleep monitoring device 10 can determine the sleep-related physiological characteristics of the monitored subject, such as body movement, body posture (e.g., determining whether the subject is in a supine, side-lying or prone posture), breathing rate and heart rate. Alternatively, the measurement results (or derived physiological parameters) can be exported (e.g., via a wireless connection) to an external system for determining the physiological characteristics.

[0087] Although Figure 1 The embodiment relates to a collector comprising a single long tube 12, but the collector can also be constructed in various shapes.

[0088] Figure 3The sleep monitoring device 110 including a tubular network 112 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Three separate tubulars 112 form a collector that can collect and transmit vibrations over a larger area. The three tubulars 112 are connected in parallel to a common node, which is connected to a sensing unit 114, so that the tubular network 112 is connected to each other to form a single volume. That is, the three tubulars 112 are in fluid communication with each other and with the sensing unit 114. Figure 3 The tubes 112 in the sensor unit 114 have the same size. Although three tubes are shown in the figure, it is obvious that any number of tubes can be used and arranged in any manner suitable for collecting vibrations and transmitting them back to the sensing unit 114 (e.g., with multiple branches, branches at different locations, etc.).

[0089] Figure 4 Shown is a sleep monitoring device 310 embedded in a cushion 340 that forms part of a bed 344 according to one embodiment. The cushion 340 (such as a mattress) is placed on top of the bed 344 for a person to rest on. The cushion 340 is used to support the human body with a support portion disposed near the center of the upper contact surface of the cushion 340.

[0090] The sleep monitoring device 310 and Figure 3 The sleep monitoring device is similar, but contains four tubes 312 instead of three. The tube 310 is embedded in the cushion layer 340 and is located below the contact surface. The tube 312 extends laterally across most of the width of the cushion layer 340 to provide a sensing area on the cushion layer 340 that can be used to detect vibrations. The tube 310 is set near the top of the cushion layer 340 so that when a person lies on the bed 344, the tube 310 is located below the person's torso and their head is close to the top. This helps to detect heart rate and respiratory rate.

[0091] Once a human body comes into contact with the sensing area (eg, lies on it), an external force 30 is applied to the tube 312 , so that the vibration is transmitted to the sensing unit 314 .

[0092] Although Figure 4 In the configuration, the sleep monitoring device is embedded in the bed in a specific manner, but the sleep monitoring device 310 can also be placed in any part of the mattress to collect signals from that part of the bed. For example, one or more tubes 312 can be placed under the area for supporting the user's legs to detect leg movement during sleep.

[0093] The vibration detected by the present system may be a mechanical vibration, and the sensing unit 314 may receive the mechanical vibration from the bed 344 .

[0094] In one embodiment, the sensing unit further comprises a microphone. In some embodiments, the sensing unit uses both the pressure sensor and the microphone. In some embodiments, the sensing unit may use only one of the pressure sensor and the microphone at a given time. In some embodiments, different sensors may collect different signals independently and / or simultaneously. For example, a microphone may be used to detect heartbeats while a pressure sensor is used to detect breathing and body movement.

[0095] The sensing unit may further include other sensors capable of detecting vibrations, oscillations or pulses in the elastic signal collector. The sensing unit may also include an accelerometer. Among them, a pressure sensor that can be used is, for example, a 40kpa MPS20N0040D pressure sensor.

[0096] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A side view of the sleep monitoring device 310. Figure 5 As shown, the sleep monitoring device 310 can be used to monitor the heart rate and / or respiratory rate of a person lying on the bed 344. In this embodiment, the sleep monitoring device 310 is arranged in the cushion layer 340, and is located under the cushion layer 340 area below the human body trunk after the person lies on the cushion layer 340, so as to ensure that the vibration generated by the heart can be transmitted to the sensing unit 314 for the detection of the heart rate. Similarly, the vibration generated by the respiratory movement (such as the movement of the diaphragm and the rib cage) is transmitted to the sensing unit for the detection of the respiratory rate. Both the heart rate and the respiratory rate are good indicators of the sleep level (such as deep sleep, light sleep, rapid eye movement sleep or awake state).

[0097] Figure 6 An alternative embodiment is shown in which the tube 412 extends longitudinally along the length of the bed. The cushion 440 is in the form of a rectangular mattress. The tube 412 has a bend along its length so that most of the tube 412 can extend along the length of the cushion 440 rather than along the width of the cushion 440. The sensing device 414 is disposed near one end of the cushion 414, and the tube 412 extends toward the center of the cushion 440 (and extends beyond the center).

[0098] Figure 7 for Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the sensing unit 414 is embedded in the side of the pad layer 440.

[0099] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a typical graphical representation of a pressure signal detected by a sensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure shows characteristic signal images of body movement, heartbeat and breathing.

[0100] The length of the tube 12 affects the absolute amplitude of the signal received by the sensing unit 14. Based on the relative signal amplitudes corresponding to different physiological characteristics, these physiological characteristics can be collected and distinguished.

[0101] like Figure 8 As shown, when there is a body movement such as turning around or moving the head, legs, hands or shoulders, the corresponding vibration 34 will increase in amplitude. The two largest peaks at the beginning and end of the above graphical representation are related to the actions of getting into bed (lying down) and getting out of bed (getting up).

[0102] The vibrations caused by breathing have an average amplitude. Fig. 9 As shown, although the amplitude corresponding to the heartbeat is relatively small, it can still be clearly identified.

[0103] Fig. 9 It is a strength-time diagram of the heartbeat and respiration related signals obtained by the sensing unit 14.

[0104] Compared to the heartbeat, the oscillations caused by respiration are characterized by a longer wavelength and a larger amplitude. The amplitude of the signal corresponding to the heartbeat is about five times weaker than that corresponding to respiration. Fig. 9 The figure shows the intensity of the two signals when measured simultaneously. The heart rate is about six times higher than the respiration rate.

[0105] As can be seen from the above, the system can detect heartbeats, breathing cycles and body movements based on the amplitude and frequency of the detected vibrations. If the vibration signal amplitude exceeds the first predetermined limit, the detection result is body movement. If the vibration signal amplitude is lower than the first predetermined limit, but higher than the second predetermined limit (the second predetermined limit is lower than the first predetermined limit), and falls within the first predetermined wavelength or frequency range, the detection result is breathing. If the vibration signal amplitude is lower than the second predetermined threshold and falls within the second predetermined wavelength or frequency range, the detection result is heartbeat. The second predetermined wavelength range is less than (the wavelength covered is lower than) the first predetermined wavelength range. On the contrary, if the monitored object is frequency, the second predetermined frequency range threshold is higher than (that is, the frequency covered is higher than) the first predetermined frequency range.

[0106] The system is used to determine the breathing rate, heart rate and body movement rate based on the detected body movement, breathing and heartbeat. In this way, the system can characterize the user's sleep level (or wakefulness level).

[0107] Hereinafter, a description will be given of a combined operation in one embodiment.

[0108] In one embodiment, the sleep monitoring system 10 includes a cushion 40 (such as a mattress or a cushion). The sleep monitoring system 10 is placed under a contact surface 42 and filled with a fluid 20 (generally air), and is used to collect (via a tube 12) mechanical vibrations 34 in the cushion 40 and transmit (via a tube 12) to a sensing unit 14 at a distance (at least 5 cm away from the signal source) to achieve the purpose of detecting the vibrations 34 caused by the sleeping object (see Figure 5 ).

[0109] When the external force 30 acts on the outer wall of the tube of the sleep monitoring system 10, it will be transmitted along the tube wall and converted into the fluid filled in the tube 12 (see Figure 1 ) mechanical vibration 34. The sleep monitoring system 10 assembled by the elastic tubular object 12 is selected to be in a shape that enables it to transmit the vibration from the source part to (or guide) the target part, so as to achieve the purpose of detecting the vibration by the sensing unit 14 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The elastic tubular article 12 is incorporated into the cushion layer 40 and can be used as a sleep monitoring system 10 to collect vibrations 34 or oscillations caused by body movements including breathing and heartbeats, and transmit such vibrations 34 along the elastic tubular article 12 to achieve the purpose of detection.

[0110] The sleep monitoring system 10 is composed of one or more elastic tubular objects 12 made of rubber, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or any other elastic material capable of transmitting signals and converting the signals into mechanical vibrations 34 of the fluid in the tubular object 12. Among them, it is important for the tubular object 12 to be able to restore its original size and shape immediately after the external force 30 is eliminated to ensure the continuity of detection. In order to allow the signal to enter the sensing unit 14 after being transmitted for a certain distance, the shape of the elastic tubular object 12 of the sleep monitoring system 10 can be any shape (but generally a long strip), as long as the fluid (air, or any other stable gas or gas mixture) filled in the elastic tubular object 12 can be applied.

[0111] Such a system (a combination of an elastic tubular object 12 and its inner fluid) can be used as a collector of mechanical vibration signals to lead such signals in the form of fluid vibration 34 from the source of the vibration 34 (such as a sleeping object on the cushion layer 40) to a distance away. It can be seen that the sleep monitoring system 10 is used to collect signals and lead the signals from the cushion layer 40 to achieve the purpose of detection. The detection can be performed on the side of the mattress, or at least at a place away from the human body (such as more than 5 cm away from the human body). In this way, the mechanical stress caused by the weight of the human body can be avoided from damaging the sensing unit 14, and the negative impact on the comfort of the cushion layer 40 can be avoided.

[0112] Because the sleep monitoring system 10 is connected to the vibration sensing element, when it is located inside the cushion layer 40, it can be specifically used to detect and subsequently distinguish signals associated with body movement, body posture (supine, side and prone), breathing and / or heartbeat. One advantage of the sleep monitoring system 10 is that it allows fragile electronic components to be set away from the monitoring object on the cushion layer 40 for safety and durability purposes, because the mechanical forces generated by the monitoring object may deform or even damage the fragile electronic components. Another advantage is that by locating the electronics away from the user, any negative effects that the electromagnetic fields generated by the electrical measurement system may have on human health can be eliminated, or simply reduce the psychological effects on the body - for example, concerns about whether sleeping close to electronic devices may have some negative health effects.

[0113] The elastic tubular object 12 forming the sleep monitoring system 10 is, for example, an elastic tube placed between the softening materials of the mattress, so that the body movement, heartbeat and breathing of the monitored object on the cushion layer 40 will generate mechanical forces on its surface. Signal detection at the other end of the tubular object 12 can be achieved, for example, by a pressure sensor, a microphone or some other sensor suitable for detecting mechanical vibrations 34. For the purpose of signal detection, more than one sensor can be connected to the sleep monitoring system 10. By using different sensors at the same time, for example, using a microphone and a pressure sensor at the same time, it is advantageous for example to collect signals with different frequencies at the same time. This is important because different types of external forces 30 will generate signals with different frequencies in the collector. In this way, breathing can be detected only by the pressure sensor, while the heart rate can be further detected by the microphone.

[0114] In one embodiment, the pipe forming the elastic tubular object 12 is an airtight pipe, but in an alternative embodiment, the elastic tubular object 12 is not an airtight pipe, but may be provided with holes or pores on the pipe wall, for example. Through these holes or pores, the atmosphere (air) inside the pipe is physically connected to the atmosphere (air) outside the tubular object 12. The use of connecting the internal and external atmospheres can be to maintain a basic signal close to the corresponding value of the ambient air pressure during the measurement process. In this way, for example, after a person goes to bed, the pressure increase in the elastic tubular object 12 caused by the external force will disappear within a suitable time, and subsequent measurements can be performed under conditions close to the ambient air pressure. In this way, the pressure in the cavity can be maintained within the optimal sensing range of the sensing unit 14 (avoiding the situation of excessive pressure), so it is of great use. Otherwise, when a person goes to bed or gets out of bed after waking up, the pressure will exceed the optimal sensing range of the sensor. It can be seen that by setting a leak point on the pipe wall of the tubular object 12, the system can keep the sensing unit 14 within the optimal working pressure range.

[0115] The specific depth of the elastic tube 12 in the cushion layer 40 can not only achieve the best signal extraction, but also maintain the softness of the cushion layer 40. The specific depth of the sleep monitoring system 10 depends on the mechanical properties of the sleep monitoring system 10 and the material of the cushion layer 40.

[0116] Considering that the cushion layer 40 is between the human body and the elastic tubular object 12 of the sleep monitoring system 10, the signal collector including the tubular object 12 or the network of tubular objects 12 should be arranged close to the signal source. Nevertheless, in some cases, for example, when a low elastic material is used, the sleep monitoring system 10 is most effective when it is in direct contact with the human body, and at the same time, there is no cushion layer 40 between the human body and the collector (wherein the signal collector can be placed directly on the cushion layer, for example).

[0117] The sleep monitoring system 10 can have a variety of different specific forms. In one embodiment, the tubes 12 are arranged parallel to each other in a direction perpendicular to the human body and connected together with a T-joint on the side of the cushion 40. In addition, the distance between the tube 12 and the surface of the cushion 40 is about 2 to 3 cm, and it is arranged under the elastic foam layer in the cushion 40. When arranged in the cushion 40 in this way, the fluid (preferably air) inside the tube 12 will generate mechanical vibration 34 when the top of the cushion 40 is pressed. In addition to the tube 12, a pressure sensor is also used for signal detection ( Figure 8 and Fig. 9 ).

[0118] As for the sensing unit 14, any sensor that can detect vibration, oscillation or pulse of elastic medium, such as pressure sensor, microphone, accelerometer, etc., can be used. In one embodiment, a 40kpa MPS20N0040D pressure sensor is used. The length of the above-mentioned pipe has a great influence on the absolute amplitude of the signal. From this point, it can be seen that the vibration amplitude caused by the movement of the body (such as head, legs, hands, shoulders) is relatively large. The vibration amplitude caused by breathing is relatively medium. The vibration amplitude caused by heartbeat is relatively low, but it can still be clearly detected. The corresponding signal can be seen Figure 8 and Fig. 9 .

[0119] Example Uses of Embodiments

[0120] An elastic hose (8 mm in diameter, 2 mm in wall thickness, 1 m in length) made of rubber, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or some other elastic material and filled with air as a gaseous fluid is placed under the sleeping surface in the mattress. The tubular object is placed between the soft elastic filling materials of the mattress in a manner covered by a soft material layer of about 2 cm thick. Air is used as a signal transmission medium inside the tubular object. The tubular object is placed between the softening materials of the mattress so that the vibration caused by a person lying on the mattress will cause the tubular object to generate mechanical vibration, and the mechanical vibration is transmitted to the outside of the mattress by the fluid in the tubular object. The far end of the tubular object is located outside the mattress, and a pressure sensor for signal detection is provided therein.

[0121] This example is for the purpose of disclosure and is not intended to limit the present invention. Various specific modifications and dimensions are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0122] Other Implementations

[0123] The following description relates to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0124] Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a sleep monitoring device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 Corresponding components are indicated by similar reference numerals. The sleep monitoring device includes a tubular object 12 and a sensing unit 14. The tubular object 12 is a fluid-tight tube. One end of the tubular object 12 is sealed by itself, while the other end is completely closed by inserting the sensing unit 14. The length of the tubular object 12 is sufficient to create a certain volume between the two closed ends of the tubular object 12. The volume is filled with a fluid 20. The fluid 20 can be any liquid or gas, but is preferably air.

[0125] The elasticity of the tubular object 12 is sufficient to enable the elastic tubular object 12 to deform when an external force 30 is applied to its outer surface, and to return to its original shape after the external force 30 is removed. The Young's modulus of the elastic tubular object 12 may be in the range of 0.1 to 100 MPa. The elastic tubular object 12 is preferably made of a soft material to achieve effective collection of mechanical vibrations. The material of the tubular object 12 includes, for example, but is not limited to, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, silicone rubber, urethane, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).

[0126] The frequency acquisition range of the pressure sensor is 0 to 200Hz. This range enables effective acquisition of breathing rate and heart rate. The frequency acquisition range of the microphone is 0 to 200Hz. The upper frequency limit of 200Hz is the optimal detection range for vibrations caused by heartbeat, breathing and body movement. In addition, this range filters out higher frequencies that may cause interference and prevents the detection of voices that may cause privacy issues. Voice information is generally transmitted at higher frequencies, and voices within the above range (0 to 200Hz) are almost incomprehensible to humans.

[0127] In this embodiment, the sensing unit 14 outputs the vibration measurements (from the microphone and pressure sensor) to an external device for processing. This can be achieved through a wireless connection. The external device can be a computer, a mobile device such as a smartphone, or a central server. However, in an alternative embodiment, the processing is performed by a processor of the sensing unit 14.

[0128] The system can determine the user's sleep state, wakefulness or stress level based on changes in heart rate, breathing rate and body movement frequency over time. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As described above, detecting specific repetitive noises in the respiratory phase with a microphone (for identifying individual respiratory cycles or heartbeats) can help detect respiratory rate and heart rate. Such noises can also be used as indicators of certain diseases or sleep conditions.

[0129] The phase difference between the microphone and pressure sensor signals is used to determine the user's body posture. The signals collected by these sensors are related to the user's posture and orientation on the cushion layer 40. In this way, it can be detected whether the user is lying on his back, prone, left side, or right side.

[0130] The shape and amplitude of the signal caused by the heartbeat vary with the specific posture. The key point is that the signals of the microphone and the pressure sensor are in phase and out of phase respectively when the user lies on his back or prone. By using such changes, the posture of the person lying on the mattress can be determined based on the signals collected by the tube 12 alone without any additional measurements.

[0131] For example, microphone signals can be used to identify individual heartbeats (or phases of heartbeats / cardiac cycles). Changes in the pressure signal from the heartbeats throughout the cardiac cycle indicate the direction of movement of the heart (the movement of the heart is converted into vibrations of the bed). Since the common position of the heart in the human body and the common movement patterns of the heart during the cardiac cycle are known, the user's body posture can be determined by comparing the phases of the sound and pressure signals. For example, the pressure signal measured when a person lies on the right side has an opposite phase / direction to the signal measured when the person lies on the left side. Therefore, the sound signal can be used as a marker (trigger) in the analysis, where the reading of the pressure sensor indicates the direction of movement of the right ventricle (representing the position of the heart on the bed).

[0132] The user can calibrate for different lying positions to improve detection in those positions.

[0133] By providing multiple sensing units and / or multiple tubes in the mattress, the possibility of further determining the posture of the limbs of the person on the bed can be increased, for example, whether the legs are in an extended or curled posture relative to the body. By providing multiple tubes, vibration collection can be achieved over a larger surface area of ​​the mattress. These tubes can be connected to the same sensing unit (as shown in the above reference Figures 3 to 7 The above mentioned) can also be connected to corresponding sensing units respectively. By providing a sensing unit for each tubular object, it is easier to distinguish vibration signals from different parts of the mattress / cushion.

[0134] In order to improve the judgment of a person's sleeping state, the environmental noise can also be measured. The environmental noise includes, but is not limited to, road traffic noise and noise generated by electrical appliances such as air conditioners, fans, and refrigerators.

[0135] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The figure shows the arrangement of a sleep monitoring system in a mattress 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Fig.11A The system shown includes multiple independent sleep monitoring devices, and Fig. 11B Shown is a system including a sleep monitoring device.

[0137] Each sleep monitoring device 10 is placed inside the mattress and is arranged to extend along the width of the mattress, wherein the sensing unit is arranged on the side of the mattress. In an embodiment, the sleep monitoring device includes a tubular object 12 extending along the entire width of the mattress. Fig.11A Four sleep monitoring devices are shown in FIG, but any arbitrary number of such devices may be provided to detect at target locations on the mattress.

[0138] For a larger mattress / cushion 40, multiple sensing units and / or sleep monitoring devices may be provided to more effectively collect mechanical vibrations. In addition, multiple groups of sensing units and / or sleep monitoring devices may be provided in the same cushion 40 to collect vibrations for multiple users. For example, two columns of sensing units and / or sleep monitoring devices may be provided in a double bed to collect vibrations for two users. In this case, the two groups of sensing units may be provided on opposite sides of the cushion, and the tubular objects in opposite halves of the cushion 40 may extend toward the center.

[0139] Fig.12 for Fig.11A Side view of sleep monitoring system 10. Tubes 12 are spaced at regular intervals along the length of cushion 10. However, in some embodiments, tubes 12 may be arranged in a manner that focuses the collection of vibrations 34 on certain contact areas 42. For example, more tubes 12 may be arranged at the top portion of the mattress to collect vibrations 34 from the subject's head and torso.

[0140] FIG. 13A to FIG. 13F 2 are examples of different cross-sections of the tube 12 according to various embodiments. The shape of the tube is important to the transmission of the vibration 34 through the pressure changes in the fluid 20. For example, maintaining a regular cross-section along the length of the tube helps avoid reflections and / or noise when the vibration 34 is transmitted through the pressure changes in the fluid 20.

[0141] Fig.13A The tubular is shown to be circular in cross section. Fig. 13B The cross section of the tubular object shown has an elongated strip in the middle and rounded ends. In a similar embodiment, the cross section is an ellipse. Fig. 13C The cross section of the tubular object shown has a long strip-shaped portion in the middle and sharp corners at both ends.

[0142] FIG. 13D to FIG. 13F The cross section of the tubular FIG. 13A to FIG. 13C Similar, but with internal ridges to reduce the risk of the tubing sticking and sealing.

[0143] Due to the high potential external forces 30 that may be applied to the tubular article 12, the tubular article 12 may be forced to close completely at certain locations along its length. In this case, the tubular article may become blocked due to adhesion when collapsed. This problem can be solved by providing an internal protrusion 13 inside the tubular article 12, thereby reducing the inner wall surface area that contacts the tubular article 12 when it is forced to close.

[0144] Fig.13D The circular tube shown has four protrusions 13 evenly spaced around the circumference of the tube. Fig.13E The tubular object shown is Fig. 13BSimilar, but with two protrusions on opposite sides of the central elongated portion. Fig.13F The tubular object shown is Fig. 13C Similar, but with two protrusions on opposite sides of the central elongated portion.

[0145] Each protrusion is a ridge extending along the length of the tube. In this way, the tube can have a constant cross-section along its length, thereby reducing the back reflection occurring in the tube.

[0146] Fig.14 The sensing unit 14 includes a pressure sensor, a microphone, a controller, a memory in the form of a serial flash memory, a USB port, and input / output modules in the form of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules.

[0147] The microphone is used to detect vibrations in the form of sound inside the tubular object. The pressure sensor is used to detect the pressure inside the tubular object. The microphone and the pressure sensor are connected to a controller and report their measurements to the controller. The controller is used to store the measurements in a memory (serial flash memory) and output the measurements via an output module (such as a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module) or via a USB module. The system is powered by a battery or mains electricity, for example via a USB port.

[0148] Although Fig.14 Embodiments include serial flash memory, but any form of memory may be used. Likewise, although Fig.14 Embodiments include USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, but any suitable form of output port / output module may be used.

[0149] The memory stores computer executable instructions which, when executed, cause the controller to perform the functions described herein.While the present embodiment outputs the vibration measurements to an external system for analysis, in alternative embodiments the analysis of the measurements may be performed by the controller of the sensing unit.

[0150] The cross section of the sensing unit 14 may correspond to the inner cross section of the tubular object 12, so that the unit 14 can be easily assembled in the tubular object 12. Nevertheless, the present invention does not require that the cross section of the sensing unit 14 precisely corresponds to the inner cross section of the tubular object 12, because the sensing unit 14 only needs to have at least its connecting portion configured to be inserted into the tubular object 12, for example, by at least being loaded into the tubular object 12 (the width / height and other dimensions of the cross section are smaller than the inner diameter of the tubular object), and does not necessarily need to have a cross section corresponding to the tubular object 12. For example, the connecting portion may have a square or rectangular cross section, and the gap between the outer periphery of the connecting portion and the tubular object 12 may be sealed, for example, by glue.

[0151] When assembling the system, the sensing unit 14 is first inserted into the unsealed end of the tubular object 12. The insertion depth of the sensing unit 14 is sufficient to make one end thereof (the end where the USB port is provided) flush with the open end of the tubular object. Subsequently, the end of the tubular object with the sensing unit 14 inserted therein is hermetically sealed (for example, by heat shrink or non-conductive adhesive sealing, or by using both of these seals). Before sealing, various gases may be filled into the tubular object. As an alternative, the sensing unit 14 may also be retained in the tubular object 14 by an interference fit. However, this approach may cause air to escape from the tubular object 14 during use.

[0152] Fig.15 The manufacturing process of placing the sleep monitoring device 10 in the cushion layer 40 is shown. The manufacturing process includes: cutting a channel 50 in the cushion layer 40 with a specially designed cutting tool.

[0153] Mattresses, for example, can be difficult to cut due to their compressibility and shape recovery, so custom cutting tools are used that make it easier to cut such mattresses.

[0154] The cutting tool comprises a cutting wire coated with diamond and made of, for example, steel. The cutting wire is formed into a ring and driven by a motor (for example, through a set of pulleys). By coating the cutting wire with diamond (or other material with suitable hardness), an extremely hard and sharp cutting edge can be obtained.

[0155] The cutting tool works similarly to a band saw, with an exposed area serving as the cutting area for the mat 40, wherein the cutting wire passes through the exposed area.

[0156] Fig.15 The view is shown looking along the length of the cushion 40 (mattress). In this figure, the cutting wire of the cutting tool is running perpendicular to the viewing direction (outward from the paper). Fig.15 The path shown moves to cut a channel along the length of the mat 40. The cutting wire first cuts in from the top of the mat to form a straight entry and exit path, then cuts along the annular / circular path required for channel cutting, and finally exits from the entry and exit path.

[0157] During use, the cutting tool can be kept stationary (while the cutting wire is driven by a motor), and the cushion layer 40 can be pushed in the direction of the cutting wire to cut out the desired shape (the shape of the passage 50 for accommodating the tubular object). The cushion layer 40 can be pushed by hand or by a mechanical platform (such as a computer-controlled platform). As an alternative, the cushion layer 40 can be kept stationary and the passage 50 can be cut out by moving the cutting tool along the desired path.

[0158] When cutting, the pad 40 can be compressed so that the actual cut thickness of the mattress foam is greater than the exposed length of the cut wire. In one embodiment, the channel 50 of the tube 12 is cut in a manner such that the distance between the top of the channel 50 and the top of the pad 40 is not only sufficient to prevent the tube 14 from affecting the comfort of the pad, but also shallow enough to ensure that the tube can still collect vibrations (e.g., at least 5 cm from the surface of the pad).

[0159] Finally, the tube 12 is inserted into the channel 50 in the cushion layer 40. The tube 12 can be placed in the channel 50 independently (for example, fixed by interference fit), or, as an alternative, glue can be applied to the inner wall of the channel 50 or the wall of the tube 12 before the tube is inserted to fix its position, thereby preventing the tube 12 from being undesirably displaced and collapsed during the use of the cushion layer 40.

[0160] The access point formed when the channel 50 is cut can remain open (while the tubular object 12 is fixed in the channel 50 by glue or interference fit, or the cushion layer 40 is sealed by other means such as being wrapped in an outer cover). As an alternative, the access path can also be sealed by glue or other means.

[0161] Raw data analysis and data streaming

[0162] The controller of the sensing unit can directly communicate with an external computing system such as a mobile device, a computer or a server through wireless communication such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication. In one embodiment, the sensing unit communicates with a user's mobile device (such as a smart phone). When the external device is out of communication range or loses connection due to other reasons, the data can be stored first and sent to the external device after the connection is restored.

[0163] The sensing unit 14 may process the signal, for example to remove noise and compress the signal. The processed signal may be sent to an external device to complete tasks that require additional computing power. In some alternative embodiments, the unprocessed raw data is fed to an external device for more accurate analysis of the sensed data.

[0164] Based on the signals collected by the sensing unit 14, it is also possible to detect heart and respiratory related diseases. The computing power required for the detection of such diseases may be higher than that provided by the on-chip microprocessor of the sensing unit 14, and may also require comparison with an external database. Among them, for example, a spectral analysis requiring a Fourier transform of the raw sensor signal may be required. In addition, compared with a normal healthy state, the deviations presented in the sound spectrum of such diseases are more complex and sometimes very subtle, so the noise in the raw data used for such analysis should be reduced as much as possible.

[0165] When performing such analysis, the software running on the controller detects the signal of the sensing unit 14 all night long. In order to avoid the amount of data exported or stored being too large, the system can monitor the raw data and only export or store the raw data of a predetermined length of time (e.g., a series of data in a short period of time) when certain conditions are met (e.g., when the detected signal quality is good and / or when a certain sleep level is detected).

[0166] The time span of the series of data may be less than five minutes. The raw data may be analyzed by the external device as described above, or sent to a remote server for analysis by additional computing power. Given the high data transfer rate of raw data, optimal conditions should be ensured for the acquisition of high-quality data to avoid wasting effort and storage space on data that may not be relevant for further analysis.

[0167] The start time of the data streaming process is determined according to the monitoring results of the four parameters. When all four conditions exceed the corresponding thresholds, the data streaming is started. The thresholds can vary depending on whether the object being analyzed is heart sound or respiratory sound.

[0168] For cardiac / respiratory status analysis, a data stream is sent to the phone or remote server when the following four parameters are met:

[0169] (1) The sleep state is deep sleep;

[0170] (2) the body does not move within a predetermined period of time (e.g., within the first five minutes);

[0171] (3) The change in the moving average root mean square (RMS) value of the signal within a predetermined time period does not exceed a predetermined amount (e.g., not more than 20% within the first five minutes);

[0172] (4) The detection object is heart rate / respiration rate.

[0173] The time and percentage values ​​in conditions (2) and (3) may vary (e.g., 1 to 20 minutes, 5 to 50%). When these conditions are met, the sensing unit 14 may record and export a signal (e.g., a signal within a predetermined time period, or a series of signals) for further analysis, such as exporting to a memory and / or an external device.

[0174] Heart rate measurement

[0175] In heart rate detection, signals in the frequency range of 10 to 30 Hz are filtered out from the original heartbeat signal (for example, by a bandpass filter). That is, signals with frequencies outside the range of 10 to 30 Hz are blocked. The resulting heartbeat signal (within the range of 10 to 30 Hz) is smoothed by a moving average method. In order to improve performance, two rounds of smoothing can be performed. In the resulting signal, the local maximum is detected. Each heartbeat produces two peaks (local maximums), one of which is a main peak with a larger amplitude and the other is a secondary peak with a smaller amplitude. The main peak is used to determine the heart rate, and the secondary peak is discarded. That is, each main peak represents a corresponding heartbeat. By measuring the time between different main peaks, the frequency can be determined (for example, the number of main peaks measured in a period of time divided by the length of the period). Among them, a moving window that averages the heart rate within the window can be used.

[0176] Respiration rate measurement

[0177] The measurement of the respiratory rate does not require the interception of the frequency range, and the original signal is smoothed by the above-mentioned moving average method (such as two rounds). The respiratory rate is calculated by identifying the peak value (local maximum). When determining the peak value, the peak with an amplitude lower than a specific threshold amplitude and / or a frequency higher than a specific threshold frequency is discarded as noise. This is achieved by determining the relative amplitude and time difference between the peaks to filter out the peaks associated with smaller high-frequency fluctuations (i.e., unlikely to be related to breathing). Thereafter, the respiratory rate is determined using the peaks in the filtered signal. In other words, each peak represents a corresponding breath (a breathing cycle). The frequency can be determined by measuring the time between different peaks (for example, the number of peaks measured in a period of time divided by the length of the period). A moving window that averages the respiratory rate within the window can be used.

[0178] Sleep stage classification

[0179] Fig.16 Shown is a detailed description table of a method for determining a user's sleep level according to one embodiment. When a person sleeps at night, they go through several sleep stages, which are roughly divided into: light sleep; deep sleep; and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. These sleep stages cycle back and forth - transitioning from light sleep to deep sleep, and then returning to light sleep again; each sleep cycle ends with the REM sleep stage. Each sleep stage is accompanied by changes in heart rate and breathing rate. Among them, there may also be awake stages. Compared with the awake state, light and deep sleep are characterized by a decrease in heart rate and breathing rate, among which these two values ​​are the lowest in deep sleep (approximately 20-30% lower than the awake state).

[0180] For each user, the baseline heart rate and respiratory rate in the awake state can be measured in the time period after the user goes to bed and before falling asleep. Among them, the long-term recorded average values ​​of the heart rate and respiratory rate in the awake state can be used as parameters for determining the sleep state. In the REM sleep stage, the heart rate and respiratory rate increase to a level comparable to the awake state, and at the same time, the fluctuation amplitude of the heart rate and respiratory rate is also higher than the average value. According to the law of the rise and fall of the heart rate and respiratory rate, and taking into account the phenomenon that the fluctuation of the heart rate and respiratory rate in the REM sleep stage is greater, each sleep stage can be set. The deep sleep stage corresponds to the local minimum of the heart rate and respiratory rate curve averaged over a period of 30 to 60 seconds. Similarly, the REM sleep stage corresponds to the local maximum accompanied by a large short-term fluctuation of >10%. The light sleep stage is between the deep sleep stage and the REM sleep stage in terms of heart rate and respiratory rate. Compared with the light and deep sleep stages, the awake state is characterized by an increase in heart rate and respiratory rate, but without the fluctuation characteristics of REM sleep.

[0181] Based on the above data and the data obtained by the sensing unit 14, the external device or the software in the sensing unit can determine the sleep stage (such as deep sleep, light sleep, rapid eye movement sleep, awake state) curve.

[0182] As can be seen from the above, a first set of thresholds can be set for the heart rate and / or respiratory rate. If the heart rate and / or respiratory rate is higher than the first threshold, and the volatility of the heart rate and / or respiratory rate is lower than the corresponding volatility threshold, the system can classify the user state as an awake state. If the heart rate and / or respiratory rate is higher than the first threshold, and the volatility of the heart rate and / or respiratory rate is higher than the corresponding volatility threshold, the system can classify the user state as a rapid eye movement sleep state. If the heart rate and / or respiratory rate is lower than the first threshold and higher than the second threshold (the second threshold is lower than the first threshold), the system can classify the user state as a light sleep state. If the heart rate and / or respiratory rate is lower than the second threshold, the system can classify the user state as a deep sleep state.

[0183] If one or both of the heart rate and breathing rate fall within the above corresponding limits, the system can classify the status into one of the above categories.

[0184] How to determine the wake-up time

[0185] The system described herein can be used to determine the best time to wake up (via an alarm) based on the sleep state. When waking a person who is in deep or REM sleep, they will feel groggy and dazed. Therefore, it is beneficial to monitor the sleep state to ensure that the user is woken up at the appropriate time in the sleep cycle to ensure that they feel well rested when they wake up.

[0186] Users can set the wake-up window as per their preference, which refers to the earliest and latest time that the alarm will sound, also known as the start time and end time. The scheduled end time ensures that users do not oversleep or miss any pre-scheduled appointments. The scheduled start time ensures that sleep time is maximized while also leaving a period of time to allow the most appropriate wake-up time to be selected according to sleep status.

[0187] The sleep stage of the sleeper is monitored all night long, and the preferred wake-up time is when the subject has completed the REM sleep stage and entered the light sleep stage. When the REM sleep stage is incomplete or interrupted, it will result in drowsiness for a long time after waking up.

[0188] As an alternative, if the above-mentioned transition of the sleep state (from the REM sleep stage to the light sleep stage) is not observed, it is still preferred to wake up the user in the light sleep stage rather than the deep or REM sleep stage, because this can still reduce the user's sleepiness after waking up.

[0189] Therefore, if during the scheduled wake-up time period, the user is in or enters the REM sleep stage no later than 15 minutes before the end time, the alarm will sound at the earlier of the following two time points: the moment when the REM sleep stage is completed and the light sleep stage is entered; the scheduled latest alarm time.

[0190] If the user is in the light sleep stage (not in the REM sleep stage during the alarm period) within a predetermined time period (e.g. 15 minutes) before the scheduled end time, the alarm will sound 15 minutes before the latest time to avoid entering the REM sleep stage in a short time.

[0191] If the user is in deep sleep (not in REM sleep during the alarm period) 15 minutes before the scheduled end time, the alarm will sound at the earlier of the following two time points: the moment of entering the light sleep stage; the latest scheduled alarm time.

[0192] The 15 minute time point mentioned above is for illustration purposes and can vary within a range of 5 to 30 minutes. The difference between the earliest time and the latest time that can be set by the user should be greater than or equal to this time point.

[0193] The alarm can be equipped with a snooze function, which is activated after the alarm sounds to stop the alarm from sounding, and makes the alarm sound again after a certain preset time (such as 1 to 15 minutes).

[0194] Fig.17 The present invention is a flow chart of a method for determining an alarm activation time based on a determined sleep level according to one embodiment.

[0195] The method can be performed by a controller within the sensing unit or by an external device such as a user's smartphone, which either determines the sleep level itself after receiving the vibration measurement results or receives a sleep level report from another device (based on the above-mentioned determination of the vibration measurement results).

[0196] The first step 602 includes setting a wake-up period. This period is the time period (alarm period) that the monitored subject wishes to be awakened by the sleep monitoring system 10. Therein, an end time is set to determine the latest time that an alarm is allowed to be sounded, and a start time is set to determine the earliest time that an alarm is allowed to be sounded. The start time and the end time are received via user input (e.g., via an input device such as a keyboard or a touch screen, or via a connection with another device, such as a wireless communication connection).

[0197] The system then receives input for initiating the alarm function 604. The input instructs the system to monitor sleep activity and sleep time relative to the alarm period and wake the user by sounding an alarm when specified criteria are met.

[0198] The system then begins waiting 606 and monitors the current time until the start time of the alarm period is reached (that is, until the current time is equal to or later than the start time).

[0199] After this, the system determines 608 whether the current time is in the alarm period. If not, the system returns to step 606 and continues to wait. If the current time is in the alarm period 608, the system determines whether to wake up the user by sounding an alarm.

[0200] Afterwards, the system determines whether the length of the current time from the end time 610 is shorter than a preset time period (such as 15 minutes). The preset time period is shorter than the alarm period, so this step is only performed when the current time is within the alarm period. This step checks whether the wake-up period is approaching its end. If so, as long as the user is not in the deep or rapid eye movement sleep stage, the system will sound an alarm instead of waiting for the user to transition from the rapid eye movement sleep stage to the light sleep stage (as described below) to avoid the user entering the rapid eye movement sleep stage and not leaving the rapid eye movement sleep stage before the end time. The above 15 minutes is an arbitrarily selected time period, which is intended to represent a suitable time for avoiding the rapid eye movement sleep stage from continuing until the end time. In addition, other lengths of preset time periods can also be used to achieve this function.

[0201] If the current time is within the preset time period, the system determines 612 whether the user is in a deep sleep or REM sleep stage. If not (e.g., in a wakeful state or a light sleep stage), the system issues 614 an alarm. If the user is in a deep or REM sleep stage, the system determines 616 whether the end time has been reached. If not, the system returns to step 606 and repeats the method again. If the end time has been reached, the system issues 614 an alarm.

[0202] In step 610, if it is determined that the current time is not within the preset time period, the system determines 618 whether the user is in the REM sleep stage. If not, the system returns to step 606. If the user is currently in the REM sleep stage, the system begins to wait 620 to see whether the user will leave the REM sleep stage before the end time.

[0203] Then, the system checks 622 whether the user has entered the light sleep stage. If yes, an alarm is issued 614. If no, the system determines 624 whether the end time has been reached. If yes, an alarm is issued 614. If no, the system returns to step 620 to continue waiting to see whether the user will enter the light sleep stage.

[0204] The sounding of an alarm can refer to an alarm that is physically emitted by the system (such as sound and / or light), or it can refer to an electronic alarm that wakes up the user by being sent to another device (for example, wirelessly sending to an alarm to cause it to emit sound and / or light, thereby waking up the user).

[0205] The order of the above steps is not necessarily the only order that can be adopted by each implementation method. The order of some steps can be interchanged while still achieving the same technical effect.

[0206] As can be seen from the above, an embodiment of the present invention provides a sleep monitoring system, which is used to detect mechanical vibrations to determine one or more physiological parameters (such as heart rate or breathing rate) and / or one or more physiological states (such as sleep level) of a user located on a cushion layer. This is achieved by an elastic tubular object filled with fluid and connected to a sensing unit, and the sensing unit can detect the vibration in the fluid caused by the external force acting on the elastic tubular object. In addition, a controller (which can be arranged in the sensing unit or in an external device) can determine the physiological state depending on the user's heart rate, breathing rate, body posture and / or body movement based on the vibration sensed by the elastic tubular object. By adopting a signal collector in the form of an elastic tubular object, the vibration can be transmitted to the outside of the user's body, so that the sensing unit can be arranged outside the user's body. In this way, the sensing unit can be kept so that it is free from the influence of mechanical stress. In addition, any negative impact on the comfort of the cushion layer when the hard sensing unit is embedded in the cushion layer close to the user's body can be prevented.

[0207] Other embodiments include an alarm system for waking a sleeping person based on the physiological state of the person, wherein the physiological state of the person may include sleep stages, including deep sleep, light sleep, rapid eye movement sleep, and wakefulness, and are also determined based on the vibration of the fluid. By using the sleep state, the alarm can be timed to wake the user at the best time in the sleep cycle to avoid waking up while still sleepy.

[0208] It should be noted that although most of the above embodiments relate to sleep monitoring, the above data and sleep monitoring device 10 can also be used for different types of physiological monitoring and for different users, including but not limited to:

[0209] Sleep monitoring for personal use (health and lifestyle)

[0210] Sleep monitoring for external device control purposes - turning off devices that may disturb sleep during light sleep by emitting sound or light (such as fans, air conditioners, etc.)

[0211] Elderly monitoring (self-monitoring or monitoring by a caregiver)

[0212] Monitoring of meditation (e.g. mindfulness)

[0213] Monitoring of diseases and health problems (e.g., epilepsy, insomnia, snoring, sleep apnea, heart attack, stroke)

[0214] Although embodiments herein are described above with reference to implementation within a bed or mattress, the methods described herein may also be applied to other forms of padded furniture or padded products. For example, embodiments herein may be disposed within the backrest of a chair to monitor heart rate, breathing rate, body movement, etc., thereby helping to determine stress levels and wakefulness levels. Similarly, embodiments herein may also be disposed within backpack padding to monitor heart rate and breathing rate. More generally, embodiments herein may be disposed within any cushioning layer that is configured to rest against (or rest against) a user's body, particularly against a user's torso (to utilize detection of breathing rate and heart rate).

[0215] Although certain arrangements are described above, these arrangements are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection. The inventive concept described herein can be implemented in various other forms. Various simplifications, replacements and changes can also be made to the specific embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

[0216] Various implementations may be provided according to the following clauses:

[0217] Clauses:

[0218] 1. A sleep monitoring system for monitoring and measuring sleep activity, comprising: a mattress or a chair (1) with a built-in signal collector (2), the signal collector (2) being a fluid (gas-based) signal collector made of a non-electroelastic material, for generating mechanical vibrations below a sleeping surface (3), thereby collecting mechanical vibration signals, and leading them out of the mattress for detection by a sensor (4), wherein the sensor (4) is connected to a portion of the signal collector outside the mattress, or is placed in a place not directly affected by a sleeper or at least 5 cm away from the sleeper.

[0219] 2. The sleep monitoring system according to item 1 has any type of geometric shape, characterized in that the signal collector is assembled from at least one inflatable container (5) made of elastic material.

[0220] 3. The sleep monitoring system according to item 2 is characterized in that the inflatable elastic container is a tubular object made of elastic polymer materials such as rubber or PDMS.

[0221] 4. The sleep monitoring system according to item 2 or 3 is characterized in that the signal collector is a tubular object filled with gas, and the gas is selected from air, nitrogen, argon, etc.

[0222] 5. The sleep monitoring system according to item 3 or 4 is characterized in that tubular objects with different geometric cross-sections, including round or flat, are used as signal collectors.

[0223] 6. The sleep monitoring system according to item 4 is characterized in that the tubular object used as a signal collector is used in the following manner: one end of the tubular object is closed, and an air pressure sensor for signal detection is connected to the other end of the tubular object.

[0224] 7. The sleep monitoring system according to item 1 is characterized in that small holes or air channels are formed in the signal collector, or the collector uses a porous tube wall material so that the atmosphere inside and outside its elastic container can be exchanged in a controlled manner.

[0225] 8. The sleep monitoring system according to any one of the preceding clauses is characterized in that the sensor is firmly connected to the signal collector outside the mattress.

[0226] 9. The sleep monitoring system according to any one of the preceding clauses is characterized in that the signal collector system is integrated into the seat cushion of the chair.

Claims

1. A system for monitoring one or more physiological parameters of a user, characterized in that: The system includes: at least one sensing unit, including a vibration sensor, the vibration sensor including a microphone and a pressure sensor, the microphone being configured to generate a microphone signal according to the detected vibration, the pressure sensor being configured to generate a pressure sensor signal according to the detected vibration; and at least one elastic tubular object configured to be embedded in a cushion layer, the cushion layer being used to support at least a portion of the user's body, wherein one end of the at least one elastic tubular object is sealed, and the other end of the at least one elastic tubular object is closed by the at least one sensing unit to form a volume filled with a fluid, and the volume is defined by one or more inner walls of the elastic tubular object and a surface of the at least one sensing unit, wherein the at least one elastic tubular object is used to transmit vibration from one or more parts of the at least one elastic tubular object to the at least one sensing unit for detection by the vibration sensor; The pressure sensor signal includes a pressure signal representing the heartbeat of the user throughout the heartbeat cycle, the pressure signal indicating the direction of movement of the user's heart; The microphone signal is indicative of a heartbeat or phase within the heart cycle; and A controller is configured to determine a body posture of the user based on a phase difference between the microphone signal and the pressure sensor signal.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The vibration sensor operates in a frequency acquisition range of 0 to 200 Hz.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one elastic tube has a uniform cross-section along its length.

4. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one elastic tubular object includes one or more teeth extending along one or more inner walls of the elastic tubular object to help prevent the elastic tubular object from sticking and sealing when collapsed.

5. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that The one or more teeth are in the form of one or more ridges extending along the length of the resilient tubing.

6. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that The one or more teeth include a plurality of teeth evenly spaced apart along the circumference of the elastic tubular object.

7. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one elastic tube includes a plurality of elastic tubes connected with a common node to form a single volume for transmitting vibrations back to the sensing unit.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The controller is used for one or more of the following: determining one or more physiological parameters of the user based on the detected vibration; Based on the detected vibrations, one or more physiological states of the user are determined.

9. The system according to claim 8, characterized in that The controller forms part of an external device, and the at least one sensing unit is used to send data related to the detected vibration to the external device for processing by the controller.

10. The system according to claim 8, characterized in that The controller forms a part of the sensing unit.

11. The system according to claim 8, characterized in that The controller is used to determine one or more of the user's heart rate, the user's breathing rate, and the user's movement based on the detected vibration.

12. The system according to claim 11, characterized in that The controller is used to determine the heart rate of the user, and the determination of the heart rate includes: Filtering the detected vibration to form filtered vibration data within a predetermined frequency range; detecting a local maximum in the filtered vibration data; and The heart rate is determined based on the detected local maximum.

13. The system according to claim 11, characterized in that The controller is used to determine the breathing rate of the user, and the determination of the breathing rate includes: detecting local maxima among the detected vibrations; and Based on the detected local maximum, the respiration rate is determined.

14. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that The controller is used to determine the movement of the user according to the detected vibration, wherein determining the movement of the user includes: determining whether the amplitude of the detected vibration exceeds a predetermined amplitude threshold.

15. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that The controller is used to determine the sleep state of the user based on one or more of the heart rate of the user, the breathing rate of the user, and the movement of the user.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein: The controller is configured to perform one or more of the following: When it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the breathing rate are higher than a corresponding first threshold and a fluctuation of one or both of the heart rate and the breathing rate is lower than a corresponding fluctuation threshold, determining that the user is in a wakeful state; When it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the breathing rate are higher than the corresponding first threshold and the fluctuation of one or both of the heart rate and the breathing rate is higher than the corresponding fluctuation threshold, determining that the user is in a rapid eye movement sleep state; When it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the breathing rate are lower than the corresponding first threshold and higher than a corresponding second threshold that is lower than the corresponding first threshold, determining that the user is in a light sleep state; as well as When it is determined that one or both of the heart rate and the breathing rate are lower than the corresponding second threshold, it is determined that the user is in a deep sleep state.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein: Also included is an alarm system for sounding an alarm when a predetermined sleep state or a predetermined sleep state change is reached within an alarm period between a predetermined alarm start time and a predetermined alarm end time.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein: The alarm system is configured to perform one or more of the following: The alarm is issued when it is determined that the user transitions from the REM sleep stage to the light sleep stage within the alarm period; issuing the alarm when it is determined that the current time is within a predetermined time period before the alarm end time and the user is in a light sleep stage during the alarm period, the predetermined time period being shorter than the alarm period; as well as The alarm is issued when it is determined that the alarm end time has been reached and the predetermined sleep state or a predetermined sleep state change has not been detected within the alarm period.

19. A computer system comprising one or more processors, characterized in that: The one or more processors are configured to: receiving a vibration signal representing vibrations detected within a cushion for supporting at least a portion of a body of a user, wherein the vibration signal comprises a microphone signal sensed by a microphone and a pressure sensor signal sensed by a pressure sensor; Wherein, the pressure sensor signal includes a pressure signal representing the heartbeat of the user in the entire heartbeat cycle, and the pressure signal indicates the direction of movement of the user's heart; The microphone signal is indicative of a heartbeat or phase within the heart cycle; and The user's body posture is determined based on a phase difference in the microphone signal and the pressure sensor signal.

20. The computer system of claim 19, wherein: The one or more processors are further configured to: determining one or more of a heart rate of the user, a breathing rate of the user, and a movement of the user based on the vibration signal; The sleeping state of the user is determined based on one or more of the heart rate of the user, the breathing rate of the user, and the movement of the user.

21. The computer system of claim 20, wherein: The one or more processors are further configured to issue an alarm when a predetermined sleep state or a predetermined sleep state change is reached within an alarm period between a predetermined alarm start time and a predetermined alarm end time.

22. A kit of parts for monitoring one or more physiological parameters of a user, characterized in that: The kit includes: at least one sensing unit, including a vibration sensor, the vibration sensor including a microphone and a pressure sensor, the microphone being configured to generate a microphone signal according to the detected vibration, the pressure sensor being configured to generate a pressure sensor signal according to the detected vibration; and at least one elastic tubular object, configured to be embedded in a cushion layer, the cushion layer being used to support at least a portion of the user's body, wherein one end of the at least one elastic tubular object is sealed and the other end of the at least one elastic tubular object is open to accommodate the at least one sensing unit, Wherein, the pressure sensor signal includes a pressure signal representing the heartbeat of the user in the entire heartbeat cycle, and the pressure signal indicates the direction of movement of the user's heart; the microphone signal indicating a heartbeat or phase within the heartbeat cycle; and a controller for determining a body posture of the user based on a phase difference between the microphone signal and a pressure sensor signal, Wherein, the set of components is constructed so that, when the at least one sensing unit is accommodated in the other end of the at least one elastic tubular object, one or more inner walls of the elastic tubular object and the surface of the at least one sensing unit define a volume for holding a fluid, so that the at least one elastic tubular object is constructed to transmit vibrations from one or more parts of the at least one elastic tubular object to the at least one sensing unit for detection by the vibration sensor.

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