System and method for measuring infant weight

Abstract

An infant sleep apparatus can include a platform for supporting an infant, a base on which the platform is supported, and one or more weight sensors positioned to measure a weight of an infant positioned on the platform.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for detecting and monitoring infant weight within a sleeping device. In disclosed embodiments, systems and methods are described for collecting infant weight, filtering the data, and analyzing the data alone or with additional infant data. Background Art

[0002] Infant weight is typically measured at birth and periodically during subsequent medical visits. These weight measurements are used to track the infant's growth and are typically compared to standardized growth and weight charts. Although there is significant variability in weight gain between individual infants, infants typically gain weight rapidly. For example, an infant's weight can double by 3 to 4 months of age. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In various embodiments, a weight detection system is configured to measure the weight of an infant while positioned on a sleep device platform. The weight detection system can be configured to measure weight using a weight sensor, such as a load cell, strain gauge, or pressure sensor located beneath the platform. The weight detection system can be configured to collect weight data for various applications. For example, weight data can be collected for caregivers to help track weight changes over time. In some embodiments, the weight data can be analyzed to determine feeding status. For example, the weight data can be compared with previously collected weight data to determine whether the infant is underfed, overfed, properly fed, and / or has adequate satiety. This analysis can take into account other collected data, such as sleep duration, sleep quality, or behavioral status associated with previous weight measurements, or the weight data can be compared to a weight model, a general or personalized weight profile, or a threshold. In the above or another example, the weight data can be analyzed to better understand feeding patterns. For example, an infant may spend the majority of their time in a sleep device. Monitoring weight throughout the day can provide insight into feeding patterns and the effectiveness of such feeding. For example, feeding patterns can be correlated with sleep patterns to provide caregivers with recommendations regarding feeding times and amounts. Monitoring weight can also be used as a health indicator and / or for early diagnosis of health problems, for example, when rapid weight loss is observed. Weight can also be monitored as an indicator of movement. For example, a weight sensor can be used to detect movement and swaying of an infant in a sleeping device. Using signal processing and / or other auxiliary information, a weight detection system can be used to determine whether the infant is in an uncomfortable situation. This can provide key information for having to determine sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In the above or another example, using a weight sensor as an indicator of movement can be used to help identify restless sleep patterns and / or as an indicator of other conditions. In various embodiments, the weight detection system is configured for use with a sleeping device having a movable platform.

[0004] In one aspect, an infant sleeping device includes a platform for supporting an infant; a base on which the platform is supported, wherein the platform is configured to move over and relative to the base; and one or more weight sensors positioned to measure the weight of an infant positioned on the platform.

[0005] In one example, the one or more weight sensors can be located between the platform and the base. In another example, the one or more weight sensors include one or more load cells.

[0006] In any of the above or another examples, the sleep device can include a platform mount mounted between the base and the platform and configured to move relative to the base as the platform moves over the base. The platform can be coupled to the platform mount. One or more weight sensors can be located between the platform mount and the platform.

[0007] In one example, the one or more weight sensors include a load cell.

[0008] In any of the above or another examples, one or more bearings can be located between the platform mount and the base. The platform mount can be mounted on the bearings and can move thereon relative to the base over the base. In one example, the sleep device can further include a drive system operable to drive the platform mount and the coupled platform to move relative to the base over the base on the one or more bearings.

[0009] In any of the above or another example, the sleep device can include or be integrated with a controller configured to calculate weight data generated or collected by one or more weight sensors. The controller can include an analysis module configured to analyze the weight data.

[0010] In another example, the analysis module can be configured to determine the feeding status of the infant, track the weight of the infant over time, generate a weight distribution graph, identify rapid weight gain or weight loss, identify abnormal weight change patterns, identify movement and restlessness of the infant, or a combination thereof.

[0011] In the above or another example, the analysis module can be configured to track the movement of the infant on the platform and perform analysis to determine restlessness, irregular or periodic movement patterns, or distress conditions, such as choking or SUID.

[0012] In the above or another example, the analysis module can be configured to track the presence of an infant on the platform and send a notification to the user interface when the presence of an infant is not detected on the platform.

[0013] In any of the above or another example, the analysis module can be configured to compare the collected weight data to previously collected weight data to determine if the infant is underfed, overfed, or fed correctly and / or has an appropriate satiety.

[0014] In any of the above or another example, the controller can be configured to send the collected weight data to a backend system for analysis and / or historical storage, where the analysis of the weight data includes one or more of: (a) identification of population trends and / or individual historical trends; (b) comparative analysis of weight data associated with individual infants and the population; or (c) comparative analysis of collected data associated with infants and the population.

[0015] In another aspect, a weight detection system for a sleep device includes a controller configured to receive weight data collected by one or more weight sensors positioned to detect a weight of an infant supported on a sleep device platform. The controller can include an analysis module configured to analyze the weight data collected by the one or more weight sensors.

[0016] In one example, the analysis module is configured to determine a feeding status of the infant, track a weight of the infant over time, generate a weight profile, identify rapid weight gain or weight loss, identify abnormal weight change patterns, identify movements and restlessness of the infant, or a combination thereof.

[0017] In the above or another example, where the analysis module can be configured to track changes in weight over time.

[0018] In any of the above or another example, the analysis module can be configured to track a presence of the infant on the platform and send a notification to a user interface when the presence of the infant is not detected on the platform.

[0019] In any of the above or another example, the analysis module can be configured to track a duration of time that the infant spends on the sleep device platform.

[0020] In any of the above or another example, the analysis module can be configured to identify feeding patterns and how the feeding patterns affect sleep time, sleep duration, or sleep quality.

[0021] In any of the above or another example, the controller can be configured to send the collected weight data to a backend system for analysis and / or historical storage, where the analysis of the weight data includes one or more of: (a) identification of population trends and / or individual historical trends; (b) comparative analysis of weight data associated with individual infants and the population; or (c) comparative analysis of collected data associated with infants and the population.

[0022] In the above or another example, when the analysis module determines that the infant is underfed, the controller can be configured to issue a notification to the user interface that the infant is underfed.

[0023] In any one or another of the above examples, the analysis module can be configured to generate a feeding schedule based on the desired or optimal sleep time, wherein the feeding schedule identifies a time range and amount of food to be fed to the infant within the time range before the desired or optimal sleep time. In another example, the sleep time includes a sleep duration.

[0024] In the above or another example, the controller can be configured to receive data related to the infant from one or more additional sensors. The analysis module can be configured to analyze the data collected from the one or more additional sensors to determine a behavioral state of the infant, and to correlate the behavioral state with weight data collected adjacent to the set of data collected from the one or more additional sensors to identify how weight patterns affect the behavioral state. In one example, the one or more additional sensors include one or more of a motion sensor, a sound sensor, a respiration sensor, a biosensor, or a combination thereof. In another example, the additional sensor is a microphone to determine whether a choking condition has occurred based on a combination of movement and sound events.

[0025] In any of the above or another example, the controller can be configured to receive data from one or more additional sensors configured to collect length and / or girth data of the infant. In one example, the one or more additional sensors include a pressure pad.

[0026] In any of the foregoing or another example, the analysis module can be located in the cloud or other remote computing location.

[0027] In one aspect, an infant sleeping device includes a platform for supporting an infant; a base upon which the platform is supported; and one or more weight sensors for measuring the weight of the infant on the platform.

[0028] In one example, one or more weight sensors may be located between the platform and the base. The one or more weight sensors may include one or more load cells.

[0029] In the above or another example, the platform can be configured to rotate above the base. One or more bearings can be located between the platform and the base. The platform can rotate above the base on the one or more bearings.

[0030] In the above or another example, the infant sleep device may include a bearing base positioned between the base and the bearing. The platform may rotate relative to the base and the bearing base on the bearing. One or more weight sensors may be positioned between the base and the bearing base. One or more clamps may be attached to the base, and the bearing base may include one or more protrusions extending therefrom, the one or more protrusions being configured to be received within clamp slots of the one or more clamps, respectively, to substantially restrict rotation of the bearing base relative to the base. When no load is positioned on the platform, the one or more protrusions may contact an upper wall of the one or more clamp slots.

[0031] In any of the above or another examples, one or more clamp slots may taper upwardly to prevent the sidewalls of the corresponding clamp slot from inhibiting limited downward movement of the one or more protrusions within the clamp slot when a load is positioned on the platform. One or more clamp slots may include a slot sleeve comprising a compressible elastic material configured to engage the one or more protrusions received within the corresponding clamp slot when no load is positioned on the platform.

[0032] In any of the above or another example, the post can extend downwardly from an upper wall of at least one of a slot defined in at least one of the one or more clamp slots and the one or more protrusions, the slot being configured to receive the post when the protrusion is received in the clamp slot. The post can be sized to move within the slot when a load is placed on or removed from the platform.

[0033] In any of the above or another examples, the one or more weight sensors include one or more load cells. The one or more load cells include a contact surface for engaging a contact surface of the bearing mount. In one configuration, the one or more load cells include a contact surface for engaging a contact surface of the one or more load cells.

[0034] In any of the above or another example, the infant sleeping apparatus includes a drive system including a motor operable to rotate a platform above the base.

[0035] In another aspect, an infant sleep device includes a platform, a base, one or more weight sensors, and a controller. The base can be configured to support the platform, and the platform can be configured to support an infant. The one or more weight sensors can be positioned to measure the weight of an infant positioned on the platform. The controller can be configured to receive weight data from the one or more weight sensors and include an analysis module for analyzing the weight data.

[0036] In one example, the analysis module is configured to determine the infant's feeding status, track the infant's weight over time, generate a weight distribution graph, identify rapid weight gain or loss, identify abnormal weight change patterns, or a combination thereof.

[0037] On the other hand, a method includes: measuring the weight of an infant positioned on a sleep device platform using one or more weight sensors, the one or more weight sensors being positioned to measure the load on the platform; sending the measured weight data to an analysis module; analyzing the measured weight data using the analysis module, wherein the analysis includes comparing the measured weight data with previously measured weight data and determining a feeding status of the infant; and outputting an indication of the feeding status to a user interface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its features and advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 Schematically illustrates a weight detection system according to various embodiments described herein;

[0040] Figure 2 A weight detection system or component thereof in combination with a sleep device according to various embodiments described herein is shown;

[0041] Figure 3 A weight detection system or component thereof in combination with a sleep device according to various embodiments described herein is shown;

[0042] Figure 4 is a perspective view of various components of a weight detection system according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the weight detection system is located within a base portion of a sleep device and includes a bearing base and a clamp for limiting movement of the bearing base;

[0043] Figure 5 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 4 a perspective view of the components shown with the bearing base and clamp removed;

[0044] Figure 6 is an isolated view of a weight sensor according to various embodiments described herein;

[0045] Figure 7A is an isolated top view of a bearing mount according to various embodiments described herein;

[0046] Figure 7B is an isolated bottom view of a bearing mount according to various embodiments described herein;

[0047] Figure 8 is an isolated view of a clamp and a weight sensor according to various embodiments described herein;

[0048] Figure 9 is an isolated view of a clamp according to various embodiments described herein;

[0049] Figure 10A sleep device including a drive system according to various embodiments described herein is shown;

[0050] Figure 11 A sleep device including a drive system including a weight detection system according to various embodiments described herein is shown;

[0051] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a drive system according to various embodiments described herein;

[0052] Figure 13 Shows isolated views of a drive module and drive belt attachment assembly of a drive system according to various embodiments described herein;

[0053] Figure 14 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 12 a partial view of the drive system shown within the base, with certain components removed for clarity;

[0054] Figure 15 The various embodiments described herein are shown Figure 13 Another view of the drive module shown;

[0055] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a configuration of a weight detection system for a sleeping device according to various embodiments described herein;

[0056] Figure 17 The various embodiments described herein are shown Figure 16 An exploded perspective view of the weight detection system of the sleeping device shown, wherein the platform is separated from the base;

[0057] Figure 18 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 16 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the weight detection system of the sleeping device shown;

[0058] Figure 19 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 17 and Figure 18 Isolated perspective view of the platform mounting frame shown;

[0059] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a respiratory sensor according to various embodiments described herein;

[0060] Figure 21 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 20 The respiratory sensor shown along Figure 20 a cross-sectional view taken at section 21;

[0061] Figure 22 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 20Exploded view of the respiratory sensor shown;

[0062] Figure 23 According to various embodiments described herein Figure 20 Exploded view of the respiratory sensor shown;

[0063] Figure 24 is a perspective view of a respiratory sensor according to various embodiments described herein;

[0064] Figure 25 Schematically illustrates a process flow for detecting respiration according to various embodiments;

[0065] Figure 26 Schematically illustrates an example buffer for intermittent breathing detection and breaths per minute analysis by a breathing detection module according to various embodiments described herein; and

[0066] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a base and platform of a sleep device including a breathing sensor according to various embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] This application discloses systems and methods for measuring infant weight. In some embodiments, infant weight is measured in a sleep device, wherein the measurement system is integrated with the sleep device. This application also discloses systems and methods for analyzing the collected infant weight and / or movement data, either alone or in conjunction with additional infant data, which may be measured by one or more additional sensors or otherwise input into the system.

[0068] Babies spend most of their day sleeping and, when awake, are unable to clearly communicate information about their health and satiety. One way, if not the primary way, that babies use to provide information about themselves is by crying. However, crying and generally being irritable are commonalities to many situations that babies may experience, such as dissatisfaction, pain, fatigue, frustration, boredom, illness, and hunger. In this regard, baby weight or weight patterns can be important indicators of baby health. Weight can also provide such information, which can be analyzed to determine feeding patterns and current satiety or feeding status. Although the subject whose weight is measured is referred to herein as a baby, it should be understood that a baby can include an infant or child. Movement can also provide such information, which can be analyzed to determine restlessness or lack thereof, as well as specific movement patterns that can be indicators of a medical condition. In addition, the various teachings herein can be similarly applied to measuring and monitoring the weight of adults.

[0069] Figure 1An embodiment of a weight detection system 1 is schematically shown. The weight detection system 1 may include or be operatively associated with a weight sensor. For example, the weight detection system 1 may receive and / or analyze weight data measured by one or more weight sensors 2. The weight sensors 2 may include load cells, strain gauges, pressure sensors, or other weight sensor configurations.

[0070] In various embodiments, the weight detection system 1 is associated with a sleep device (not shown). For example, the weight sensor 2 can be configured to measure the weight of an infant positioned on a sleep platform of the sleep device. It will be understood that although the weight detection system 1 is generally described herein as measuring the weight of an infant within the sleep device, in various embodiments, one, more, or all of the operations and functions described herein with respect to the weight detection system 1 can be independent of the sleep device.

[0071] The weight sensor 2 can communicate directly or indirectly with the controller 4 via a wired and / or wireless communication protocol, and the controller 4 includes one or more processors 20. The processor 20 can be local or remote and is configured to execute instructions to perform the operations and functions described herein with respect to the controller 4. In one example, the weight sensor 2 includes a communication port that includes a wireless transmitter or transceiver that transmits detected weight data directly or indirectly to the communication port of the controller 4, which can include a wireless receiver or transceiver. In another or further example, the weight sensor 2 and the controller 4 transmit data directly or indirectly between them via the wired communication port.

[0072] As described above, the controller 4 may include various communication ports for receiving and / or sending data, processing modules for processing data, signal converters and / or filters and / or data generators, which are configured to perform the operations of the controller 4. For example, one or more weight sensors 2 or additional sensors 10 can send detected data to the controller 4 for collection, processing, analysis and / or further transmission. The controller 4 includes a processor 20, which may include a remote processor configured to execute instructions to perform the operations and functions described herein with respect to the controller 4. In the example shown, the controller 4 is configured to receive analog data and convert all or part of the analog data into a digital format. For example, the detected data may include analog data, and the controller 4 may include an analog-to-digital (A / D) converter 22 configured to convert the analog data into a digital format. The controller 4 may include an analysis module 24, which is configured to analyze the collected data, such as weight data detected by the one or more weight sensors 2.

[0073] The controller 4 can be local or remote relative to the weight sensor 2 and / or the sleep device. For example, the controller 4 can be attached to or located on or near the weight sensor 2 and / or the sleep device, where the weight sensor 2 measures weight. In another example, the controller 4 is remote relative to the weight sensor 2 and / or the sleep device. In such a configuration, the weight sensor 2 can communicate with the controller 4 directly or indirectly, for example, one or more intermediate communication devices, such as RF, near-field, cellular, Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth receivers, transmitters or transceivers; smart home hubs; modems, Wi-Fi enabled devices; or wired networks and / or wireless networks. In some embodiments, the controller 4 can send collected data, such as weight data, detected data and / or user input data, to the data storage medium 6. In one embodiment, all or a portion of the controller 4 and / or the data storage medium 6 may include one or more servers or cloud networks configured to archive and / or analyze the collected data.

[0074] In various embodiments, the analysis module 24 may analyze the weight data as well as other collected data, such as user input data and / or data collected from one or more additional sensors 10 that collect data associated with the infant and / or the surrounding environment. In some embodiments, the analysis module 24 may receive data in addition to the detected data collected from the sensors 2, 10 and / or user input data. For example, the controller may receive new or updated data models, data analysis from remote resources, and / or analysis tools / protocols. In these or other embodiments, the analysis module 24 includes a modeling engine that is configured to apply machine learning and / or artificial intelligence processing to the data to generate the outputs described herein. In one embodiment, the modeling engine includes or integrates data inputs and / or data collected from other controllers or sources. For example, multiple controllers 4 associated with multiple weight detection systems 1 and / or sleep devices may provide data to the controllers 4 and / or central resources for analysis by the analysis module 24 or its modeling engine.

[0075] In one embodiment, the controller 4 is distributed, such that one or more processing and / or analysis functions are performed locally and one or more processing and / or analysis functions are performed remotely. For example, the controller 4 can receive and analyze weight data and / or other collected data locally, and / or send all or part of the collected and / or analyzed data to a remote processor or central or back-end resource for archiving, further analysis, data modeling associated with infant or group trends, and / or comparative analysis related to multiple infants, or for other operations. In one embodiment, the collected data can be sent to a back-end system for further analysis and historical storage. In such analysis, group trends and individual historical trends can be analyzed. In a further or another example, the analysis can include comparative analysis of individuals and groups. In some embodiments, the controller 4 sends the input, raw, and / or analyzed data to a central resource, which can include a back-end system for input or analysis along with the input, raw, and / or analyzed data obtained by other weight detection systems. In one example, the central resource and the centralized weight detection system comprise a network, wherein all or part of the collected and / or analyzed data can be shared. The data collected from the collection of weight detection systems can be used to generate new data models or update current data models, which can then be used to improve the analytical operations of the analysis module 4. It should be understood that the weight sensor 2 can be configured to send weight data directly and / or indirectly to a central or remote resource instead of or in addition to sending weight data to the controller 4.

[0076] The weight sensor 2 can be configured to continuously and periodically collect weight data at predetermined intervals upon receiving a command to collect weight data and / or upon an event, such as when an infant is placed on the platform, for example, after a predetermined time has passed since additional weight was detected on the platform. A user can initiate an initial weight measurement by communicating with the user interface 8 to indicate that an infant is on the platform and that a measurement is to be taken. In one embodiment, the user can define or schedule when weight measurements are to be taken, or input a command to collect weight data through the user interface. In one embodiment, the weight sensor 2 and / or controller 4 can calibrate the weight sensor 2, for example, upon startup, to zero the weight of the platform and any added materials, such as a mattress, bedding, etc. Because materials that change the weight measured by the sensor can vary during use, the weight sensor 2 and / or controller 4 can be configured to recalibrate at regular intervals. Alternatively or additionally, in some configurations, if the processor 20 determines that the weight of the system has changed while the infant is not present, the weight sensor 2 and / or controller 4 can automatically initiate recalibration.

[0077] The controller 4 can send the collected data and / or generated output of the analysis module 24 and / or modeling engine directly or indirectly to a user interface 8. The user interface 8 can be local or remote with respect to the weight sensor 2, sleep device, or controller 4. The user interface 8 can include a display, buttons, switches, knobs, data ports, etc. that are used to interface with the system 1, e.g., to input information, provide instructions, individualize, adjust controller settings such as weight collection schedules, and / or review output analysis data. In some embodiments, the user interface is installed locally or positioned on the sleep device. In this or another embodiment, the user interface 8 can include a user device such as a computer, tablet, smartphone, or dedicated device. The user interface 8 can be implemented with an application executed by or in communication with the user device.

[0078] The interface 8 can allow a user to input data such as a birth date of the infant, gestational age at birth, medical conditions, due date of the infant, name or identifier of the infant, gender, weight of the infant, etc. Initial weight data of the infant can be input manually or automatically. In some embodiments, the input can be used to select or identify a suitable infant weight profile or initial weight profile from which the system 1 builds an individualized weight profile. Additional inputs can include information inputs. Information inputs can include infant weight, length, girth, travel, immunizations, illnesses, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen, etc. Infant weight can include weight at birth, weight at different weigh-ins, weight over a period of time, weight at predetermined times and / or intervals, etc. Length can include length at birth of the infant, length at different times, length or change in length over time, length measurements taken at predetermined times and / or intervals, etc. Girth can include girth of the head at birth, girth at different measurements, change in girth over time, girth measurements taken at predetermined times or intervals, etc. Such length and girth can also be calculated automatically using sensors such as pressure pads that detect pressure distribution and / or dimensions of applied pressure. Such other sensors can include additional sensors 10 incorporated with the weight detection system 1 or can be additional or peripheral devices. For example, with pressure pad data, the controller 4 can also calculate length or girth. The pressure pads can be integrated with the mattress, located on the mattress, or located between the platform and the mattress. The user interface 8 can be a component of the sleep device and / or a separate part such as on a mobile peripheral device that can be connected to the sleep device through a wired connection, wireless connection, etc. The wireless connection can be a Wi-Fi connection, Bluetooth connection, etc. The user interface 8 can have controls, set information inputs, and other input data that can be sent to the control system 1 of the device. The controls can include on / off controls, sound controls, motion controls, light controls, etc. The controls can be enabled or disabled.

[0079] In some embodiments, the user interface may include a mobile application executed on a computer, tablet computer, dedicated device, or smartphone. The mobile application may provide data to the user. The data may include monitoring data, feedback data, control data, report data, analysis data, statistics, etc. The mobile application may be installed on a mobile device. The device may be a smartphone, tablet computer, etc. The mobile device may have an operating system, which may be iOS, Android, etc. The mobile application may enable interaction with the controller 4. The interaction may be achieved through a communication interface. The communication interface may be a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a Bluetooth interface, etc. The interaction may be a control interaction. The control interaction may be similar to an interaction that can be enabled directly from the sleep device and is only available on the mobile application, etc.

[0080] Other mobile device interactions may include reporting and statistics, sharing and group interactions, benchmarking and comparison interactions, graphing interactions, data upload interactions to third parties, subject matter expert feedback interactions, warning alert interactions, log sharing / printout interactions, weight interactions, breastfeeding interactions, camera interactions, and the like. Other input interactions may include photo input interactions, video input interactions, audio input interactions, and the like. Weight detection system output, including notifications, from controller 4 or an application in communication with controller 4 or data collected thereby may be directed to interface 8, which is mounted on the sleep device or may be or include a separate device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or other communication device as described above. Weight detection system 4 may be configured to route communications via a Wi-Fi connection, cellular, landline communications, or other communication connection for transmitting data and / or message communications, such as calls, emails, alerts, text messages, post messages, and the like. For example, controller 4 may be configured to transmit signals and / or data communications according to a compatible communication protocol for routing messages.

[0081] In some embodiments, analysis module 24 is configured to track the presence of an infant on the platform. Presence tracking can utilize one or more weight sensors, such as one or more load cells, gyroscopes, strain gauges, piezoelectric sensors, resistive potentiometers, or accelerometers. Weight sensors can also be used for motion tracking. For example, analysis module 24 can track the positioning of an infant on the platform by analyzing weight data representing changes in weight applied to the platform.

[0082] Messaging can be applied to presence tracking. For example, when a significant weight gain or loss is detected, a notification can be sent to the user interface 8, which can include a computer or smartphone application. A message can be sent to provide notification of the baby's presence or absence / removal from the platform.

[0083] The analysis of weight gain or loss can be configured to identify one or more momentary weight gains or losses or fluctuations, weight gains or losses over one or more time periods, sustained weight gains or losses, and / or rapid increases, decreases, or fluctuations. A momentary sustained increase in weight, for example, a momentary sustained increase in weight from a steady state weight corresponding to the weight of an infant, can indicate the presence of an infant on the platform. A momentary sustained decrease in weight from a steady state weight can indicate that the infant has been removed or displaced from the platform, where the steady state weight may include a steady state weight determining the presence of an infant. A sustained increase in weight after the presence of an infant is detected may indicate that something has been placed on or dropped on the platform, which may pose a danger to the infant.

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, the analysis module 24 can utilize weight data for movement tracking. For example, rapid, slow, brief, continuous, patterned, repetitive, or occasional weight fluctuations above and below a baseline weight can indicate movement of the infant. Such movement can be associated with kicking, rolling, twisting, wiggling, coughing, and / or arm or head movement. Movement can also provide information that can be analyzed to determine agitation or lack thereof, as well as specific movement patterns that can be indicators of a medical condition. Detection of such movement can trigger a message to the user interface 8 or the activation of an alarm. In some embodiments, the analysis module 24 can be configured to analyze weight data associated with movement to identify agitation and / or physical discomfort and provide notifications or alarms for the same. For example, physical discomfort can be a precursor to SIDS, a suffocation hazard, or a dangerous position for the infant. The analysis module 24 can utilize predefined patterns and / or thresholds of weight fluctuations indicative of physical discomfort to identify physical discomfort.

[0085] In some embodiments, the analysis module 24 analyzes motion and / or weight fluctuation data in addition to data collected by the additional sensors 10. Utilizing the additional sensors 10 can improve the accuracy of event or condition determinations, or can provide a more in-depth analysis to determine other events or conditions. For example, audio data collected by a sound sensor (e.g., one or more microphones) can be used to detect physical discomfort. In another example, the analysis module 24 analyzes motion data and audio data to detect whether an infant is suffocating by pairing or correlating motion and sounds consistent with suffocation. In yet another example, the analysis module 24 analyzes motion and breathing or respiration rate data to detect whether an infant is suffocating by pairing or correlating motion with a lack of breathing or respiratory effort consistent with suffocation.

[0086] In various embodiments, a user can define the sensitivity of the presence and / or motion tracking feature to track large and / or small weight changes or momentary fluctuations. In one example, using the user interface 8, a user can define one or more time periods over which weight changes or fluctuations are to be measured for tracking purposes. For example, the analysis module 24 can use the average, range, or sum of weight changes or fluctuations over a specific or predetermined time period as part of a message scheme, where a threshold amount, range, average, and / or sum of weight changes or fluctuations over one or more time periods can trigger a message notification. In some configurations, the threshold can be static, preset, or the user can select from two or more sensitivity settings that define threshold weight changes and / or fluctuations for one or more predetermined time periods.

[0087] Other types of presence and / or motion tracking can be used instead of or in addition to using weight sensors for presence and / or motion tracking. For example, optical sensors, such as infrared, video, motion, or light sensors, can track the movement and / or presence or absence of an infant and / or provide data for analysis along with weight data.

[0088] In various embodiments, information related to the weight data or its analysis can be routed to one or more alarm systems, caregivers, user communication devices, emergency services, hospitals, or third-party resources. Messages can be sent, for example, as text messages, SMS messages, push notifications, voice messages, and the like. As described above, messages can relate to the detection of an infant's presence on or removal from the sleep device's platform. For example, when the presence of an infant is detected or when the controller 4 determines that the infant has been removed, a message notification can be sent to a user device or interface 8, such as a computer or smartphone. In another or further example, the system 1 can provide the user with preference settings that allow the user to set preferences regarding how, when, and to which devices such notifications are sent. These settings can be set and accessed via the user device or interface 8, for example, using a smartphone application. The controller 4 can also be configured to sound an alarm when an infant is detected to have moved. Such a notification system can also be configured to notify the caregiver when the infant's weight loss or gain exceeds a preset limit (taking into account events such as feeding and bowel movement). In one embodiment, the system 1 can be integrated and / or communicate with a healthcare / hospital monitoring system. For example, the system 1 can provide raw or processed data, notifications, and / or alerts to third-party systems. The system 1 can also be integrated with third-party systems.

[0089] In various embodiments, raw or analyzed data can be provided to a user, such as a parent or caregiver, via user interface 8. This data can be used to track weight changes over time or provide presence information, such as notifications and duration spent in the device. In this or another example, weight changes and / or patterns identified in the data by analysis module 24 can be used to better understand feeding patterns, weight patterns, and / or create a weight profile for an infant. For example, infants typically spend a significant portion of their day in a sleep device. The analysis can analyze the weight data to determine feeding status. For example, the weight data can be compared with previously collected weight data to determine whether the infant is underfed, overfed, properly fed, and / or has adequate satiety. In some embodiments, analysis module 24 can be configured to predict whether the infant has had a diaper change, been fed, or is absent from the sleep device for other reasons. For example, such data can be provided to a caregiver for tracking purposes, which may help identify behavioral patterns or potential medical conditions. As part of the above or another analysis, analysis module 24 can incorporate predictive analysis to enhance data interpretation capabilities. For example, when the measured weight is identified as having decreased between recent or consecutive measurements, the analysis module 24 can be configured to consider whether the difference in measured weight may be related to a diaper change between measurements. Proximity measurements can be within a predetermined number of measurements, such as two or three. The analysis module 24 can utilize previous proximities or consecutive weight measurement decreases or programmed ranges to identify such potential events and can monitor proximities or subsequent measurements for confirmation. In a similar manner, the analysis module 24 can be configured to consider items located on the weight sensor 2 while the infant is on the sensor. For example, the analysis module 24 can track weight deviations over the period of time the infant is on the platform. Thus, if the infant is given a bottle while on the weight sensor, the accompanying weight changes can be tracked and compared to the weights before, during, and after. Any of the above analyses can also consider other collected data, such as sleep duration, sleep quality, or behavioral states associated with previous weight measurements, or can compare weight data to weight patterns, general or personalized weight distributions, or thresholds.

[0090] The determination of behavioral state can utilize weight data collected from weight sensor 2, such as instantaneous weight fluctuations between adjacent or consecutive measurements that indicate movement. For example, high-frequency or greater frequency variations in detected weight can indicate that the infant is in an anxious or restless state, while low-frequency or smaller fluctuations can indicate a more relaxed or calm state, and minimal weight sensor changes can indicate a sleep state. In some embodiments, in addition to or in lieu of analyzing instantaneous weight fluctuations, the determination of behavioral state utilizes other collected data. For example, controller 4 can include one or more additional sensors 10 to provide data for determining behavioral state to analysis module 24, such as motion sensors (e.g., optical, accelerometer, video), sound sensors (e.g., microphones), biosensors (e.g., breathing sensors for detecting heart rate and / or breathing rate or depth), and / or other sensors for detecting other biological parameters (e.g., blood pressure). Analysis indicating an anxious or restless state can include detecting loud voices and / or crying, rapid movements, elevated blood pressure and / or breathing, which indicate an anxious or restless state, while decreased voices, movement, blood pressure, and / or breathing can indicate a relaxed or soothed state or a sleep state. Such analysis can be temporally overlapped with the collected weight data to improve the accuracy of behavioral state determination and / or the correlation of weight patterns with behavioral state, sleep duration, or sleep quality. In further or additional embodiments, the collected data includes length and / or girth data of the infant. The length and / or girth data can be input by the user, for example, at the user interface, and / or collected by the additional sensor 10.

[0091] The analysis module 24 can correlate the weight data and (optional) input data and / or data collected from other sensors 10 or other babies with sleep patterns to help suggest feeding frequency and amounts to the user. For example, while a baby in distress can typically be soothed by a combination of movement, swaddling, comfort or auditory or visual stimulation, it has been found that a hungry baby can be somewhat immune to such attempts at soothing. By tracking the weight and / or weight patterns of the baby over time, the user can be informed that the baby can be hungry or underfed, and thus, feeding the baby should be considered as a way to soothe the baby. The collected data can also be analyzed to determine the agitation state of the baby. Agitation can be determined from rapid weight changes measured by the weight sensor indicative of movement. For example, the frequency and amplitude or extent of the weight changes or patterns of measurements thereof can be used to characterize the movement. In one embodiment, the weight data can be analyzed to determine whether the baby is in a distressed condition. For example, the controller 4 can analyze the weight data to identify movement indicative of the baby being in a distressed condition, which can be an indicator of SIDS / SUTD, suffocation, seizure or other problem. As described above, in response to determining that the baby is in a distressed condition, the controller 4 can initiate a notification to a caregiver or emergency services. Alternatively or additionally, the controller 4 can initiate an audible alarm to alert the caregiver. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the above, the controller 4 can output signals to the motor operable to move the platform. These signals can cause the motor to move the platform in a jostling motion.

[0092] In addition to the above, the collected weight data and (optional) input data and / or data collected from other sensors 10 or other babies can be used as a health indicator. For example, a rapid increase in weight can be associated with overeating, a medical condition such as a hormonal condition, an upcoming illness or a medication treatment. The collected weight data can be tracked over time for analysis by the analysis module 24. In one embodiment, the weight data including the resulting weight profile can be compared to a standardized growth chart or graph to determine whether there is a significant deviation in the rate of growth.

[0093] In various embodiments, the analysis module 24 can be configured to identify and / or respond to abnormal infant weight or growth rates. Abnormal infant weight can be identified as a deviation from an expected or desired weight variation. The expected or desired weight can be the infant's weight when feeding, or the infant's weight when optimally fed, when asleep or well fed. In one example, identifying abnormal infant growth rates can include detecting infant data, such as infant weight, using one or more sensors. Identifying abnormal infant growth rates can also take into account input data, such as the infant's age, gender, medical condition, feeding volume over a period of time, food type, or other infant data that can be input into the system 1. Infant data can be collected and analyzed by the analysis module 24 to identify weight, growth rate, or deviations from an expected weight or growth rate pattern. The weight or growth rate pattern can be compared to a general or individualized weight or growth rate pattern to identify abnormal deviations. In some embodiments, the distribution profile can be an individualized distribution profile for a specific infant, a general distribution profile, or a distribution profile can be selected based on the infant's characteristics, which can be input by the user or detected and / or measured by the weight detection system 1. In one example, the controller 4 includes or has access to a plurality of profiles that can be selected for use by the analysis module 24 based on: medical history; an input age, which may include whether the infant was born prematurely or late and / or the degree to which it was born prematurely or late; weight, such as birth weight and / or current weight; sex; whether the infant is breastfed, formula-fed, or a combination or ratio of the two; the presence of known health conditions; medications; whether the mother smokes; and / or other data related to the infant.

[0094] In one embodiment, during use of the infant by the weight detection system 1, the controller 4 can individualize the weight or growth rate profile against a generic or selected profile. For example, the system 1 can measure and analyze the weight, which can include patterns of weight at particular times, such as throughout the day and / or over time periods such as hours, days, weeks, or months, and update the profile to individualize the initial profile. Upon determining that there is an abnormal weight or growth rate, the weight detection system 1 can be configured to generate a notification signal. The signal can include a sound emitted from a speaker or a visual indication on one or more user interfaces 8, such as a light or display. The sound notification can include a recorded or generated message that provides information about the notification and / or data that prompted the notification signal. For example, the visual notification can include a text display, a text display in an associated application or on another user interface, an email message, or a text message. The sound, light, or display can be provided on a sleep device on which the weight sensor 2 measures the infant weight, or can be provided by another device, such as a user device, such as a computer, tablet, smart phone, dedicated remote device, or smart home device. In various embodiments, the weight detection system 1 and / or controller 4 includes or interfaces with such a user device, such as being in operable communication with such a user device directly or indirectly, such as via a wireless communication protocol, which can include, for example, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular. In one example, the controller 4 is configured to send raw or analyzed weight data, and (optionally) other collected data, to a data storage medium 6 and / or a central resource, such as described above, configured to analyze the data.

[0095] As described above, in some embodiments, determining weight distribution includes identifying one or more weight patterns associated with the infant. For example, weight patterns can be analyzed for events such as sleep, breathing, heart rate, ambient temperature, body temperature, irritability or restlessness, and / or combinations thereof. The temporal deviation of weights before, during, and / or after an event can be used to identify optimal weights for promoting or avoiding such events. In other words, infant weight can be correlated with feeding patterns, which can include the time of day of feeding, feeding amount, time since last feeding, and time since last bowel movement. Analysis of weight and associated feeding patterns can be used to identify optimal feeding times and / or amounts to promote sleep, sleep duration, or sleep pattern characteristics. For example, if a user desires an infant to sleep for a specific duration, the system 1 or an application executed in conjunction with the user device or interface 8 can recommend feeding the infant at one or more specific times and / or a certain amount of food before bedtime. The user can also be warned if the collected data does not indicate that the infant has been adequately fed to promote sleep. In some embodiments, the analysis module 24 can analyze collected data, such as the type of food fed to the infant, which can be input into the system 1 by the user via the user interface 8. The analysis module 24 can associate the types of food consumed with past sleep patterns to determine whether a particular food contributes to sleep or satiety, or is associated with poor sleep or irritability, irritability, or pathological behavior. In one such example, the analysis module 24 or application can output recommendations about feeding a baby a particular type of food or food combination. In some configurations, it may be recommended to modify or increase the optimal feeding amount and / or feeding time, taking into account the growth and development of the baby. In one application, the analysis module 4 can utilize weight data to determine whether the baby is dehydrated. In some cases, the analysis module 4 can identify certain foods that trigger behavior or collected data consistent with an allergic reaction. In some embodiments, the analysis module 4 can utilize machine learning or AI (artificial intelligence) technology described above or any other analysis.

[0096] In some embodiments, the system 1 can determine whether an infant is fussy by measuring sound, heart rate, blood pressure, galvanic skin response, body temperature, and / or infant movement using a microphone, accelerometer, optical sensor, infrared sensor, pressure gauge, piezoelectric sensor, or electrodermal activity sensor. In some embodiments, the weight sensor 2 can be used to detect the infant's movement. For example, the weight sensor 2 can include multiple weight sensors 2 distributed at different locations along the sleep platform, where changes in weight distribution between the weight sensors 2 can be used to detect movement. Motion detection through signal processing and the use of other auxiliary information, such as the infant's swaying, can be used to determine whether the infant is in a state of discomfort. This can be key information in determining SIDS. Movement detection can also be used to help identify restless sleep patterns and serve as an indicator of other conditions. In some embodiments, the analysis module 24 can use the detected data, including one or more of weight data and sound data, motion data, sleep quality and / or duration, temperature data, and input data regarding food types, to identify potential allergies that the infant may have.

[0097] In various embodiments, the respiration rate sensor may include a respiration detection sensor, such as the sensor described in US patent application Ser. No. 16 / 905,424, filed June 18, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Detection of respiration and respiration characteristics, such as respiration rate, depth, interval, and / or pattern thereof, may be collected and analyzed along with or separately from weight data.

[0098] As described above, the controller 4 can communicate with an application that can be executed directly or indirectly on a user device, such as a computer, tablet computer, smart device, smartphone, or dedicated device. In some examples, the user device includes all or part of the user interface 8. The application can be docked with the controller 4 and / or the analysis module 24 to track weight and / or other collected and / or analyzed data. In some embodiments, the analysis module 24 or the application can be configured to generate a graph showing weight changes over time, or can provide feeding recommendations to the user based on the analysis of the collected data. In one example, the analysis module 24 or the application can generate or provide a recommended feeding schedule and / or feeding amount. For example, a feeding schedule can be output based on the desired sleep time or optimal sleep time (time of day), duration, or quality identified by the user. The feeding schedule can determine the time range and amount of food to be fed to the baby before one or more desired sleep events. In some embodiments, the recommended amount of food can be provided based on the duration of feeding, the volume or weight of food, or the weight gain of the baby. In one example, the controller 4 can be configured to notify the user, for example via the user interface 8, if the baby has been fully fed according to the feeding schedule when the baby is placed on the platform and the baby's weight is measured. These recommendations may relate to discontinuous feeding or more frequent feedings. These recommendations may be related to modifying or maintaining growth and / or improving satiety. In one example, the analysis module 24 or application may be configured to identify potential medical conditions or deficiencies that may be provided to a pediatrician for further consideration or clarification.

[0099] Dedicated hardware implementations, including but not limited to application-specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays, and other hardware devices, can also be used to implement the methods described herein. Applications that may include the apparatus and systems of various embodiments broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. Some embodiments implement functionality in two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices, with associated control and data signals transmitted between or through the modules, or as part of an application-specific integrated circuit. Thus, the example networks or systems are suitable for software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0100] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the processes described herein can be used to operate as a software program running on a computer processor. In addition, software implementations can include, but are not limited to, distributed processing or component / object distributed processing, parallel processing, cloud processing, or virtual machine processing, which can be configured to implement the methods described herein. In one example, collected infant data, which may include input data, is sent directly to a weight detection module comprising a remote data processing resource, or it can be sent to a connection module for transmission to the data processing resource. The data processing resource can include a remote processor, which can be distributed, cloud-based, virtual, and / or include, for example, a remote application or program executable on a server. The infant data can include raw infant data or raw motion data. In one example, the collected infant data sent can be pre-processed or partially pre-processed. For example, the collected infant data can be filtered locally at a sensor or local processing unit and include filtered motion data, sound data, pressure / weight data, or a combination thereof. Cloud-based services can include public, private, or hybrid cloud processing resources. In one embodiment, infant data signal processing can be performed at the back end of such a system. For example, all or part of the weight detection logic can be in the cloud rather than locally, for example, associated with a cradle or other device adjacent to the monitored infant. The back end may similarly be configured to generate and / or activate alarms based on data processing, such as comparison of current respiration with a general or customized weight distribution map.

[0101] In one embodiment, the weight detection system or its controller includes a remote resource, such as a processor, application, program, etc., for receiving the collected infant data. The service can process and analyze the infant data as described herein, such as filtering the data, generating a weight distribution map, modifying or updating the weight distribution map, comparing the weight or weight pattern with a general or customized weight distribution map, determining whether the current weight or growth is abnormal, communicating and / or integrating with a hospital monitoring system or other third-party system, and / or generating or initiating an alert, such as a phone call, email, light, sound, motion, text message, SMS, or push notification. As described above, the remote resource can include a cloud-based service.

[0102] This disclosure describes various modules, which may also be referred to as sub-modules, systems, subsystems, components, units, etc. Such modules may include functionally related hardware, instructions, firmware, or software. Program modules may include physical or logical groupings of functionally related applications, services, resources, assets, systems, programs, databases, etc. Modules or hardware that store instructions or are configured to perform module functions may be physically located in one or more physical locations. For example, modules may be distributed across one or more networks, systems, devices, or a combination thereof. It should be understood that the various functions of these features may be modular, distributed, and / or integrated across one or more physical devices. It should be understood that such logical partitioning may not correspond to physical partitioning of data. For example, all or part of the various modules may reside or be distributed across one or more hardware locations.

[0103] Various embodiments described herein may include a machine-readable medium containing instructions so that a device connected to a communication network, another network, or a combination thereof can send or receive voice, video, or data and use the instructions to transmit through the communication network, another network, or a combination thereof. These instructions can also be sent or received through the communication network, another network, or a combination thereof via a network interface device. The term "machine-readable medium" should be understood to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) that stores one or more sets of instructions. The term "machine-readable medium" should also be understood to include any medium that can store, encode, or carry a set of instructions to be executed by a machine and cause the machine to perform any one or more methods of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the terms "machine-readable medium," "machine-readable device," or "computer-readable device" should include, but are not limited to: storage devices, solid-state memories, such as memory cards or other software packages that contain one or more read-only (non-volatile) memories, random access memories, or other rewritable (volatile) memories; magneto-optical or optical media, such as disks or tapes; or other self-contained information archives or archives that are considered to be distribution media equivalent to tangible storage media. A "machine-readable medium," "machine-readable device," or "computer-readable device" may be non-transitory and, in certain embodiments, may not include the waves or signals themselves. Thus, the present disclosure is considered to include any one or more of a machine-readable medium or distribution medium, as listed herein, and including art-recognized equivalents and successor media, in which the software implementations herein are stored.

[0104] refer to Figure 1 The weight system described can be used in various sleep devices and hardware configurations that are used to measure the weight of an infant in a sleep device. For example, Figures 2 to 9 、 Figure 11 as well as Figures 16 to 19Various embodiments of a sleep device including the weight system 1 and its components are described. The features described with respect to the various embodiments are not limited to these embodiments, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various features can be used together in various combinations of these embodiments. It should also be appreciated that other configurations can be utilized to perform the functions of the weight detection system, and the present application is not limited to the use of the configuration as described in the exemplary embodiment.

[0105] Figure 2 An example configuration of weight sensors 2 of a weight detection system 1 integrated with a sleep device 40 is shown, according to various embodiments. In this embodiment, the sleep device 40 comprises a bassinet, but other sleep device 40 configurations may also be used, as compared to the illustrated embodiment and other exemplary embodiments described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, two or more weight sensors 2 are located between a platform 42 configured to support an infant and a base 44 configured to support the platform 42. The weight sensors 2 are located around the perimeter of the platform 42. In some embodiments, additional weight sensors 2 may be used at other perimeter and / or more central locations of the platform 42. For example, weight sensors 2 may be located at the upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left regions below the platform 42. In one embodiment, instead of or in addition to weight sensors 2 being located along the perimeter of the platform 42, one or more weight sensors 2 may be positioned at one or more central locations of the platform 42. The weight sensors 2 may include load cells, strain gauges, pressure sensors, or other weight sensor device configurations.

[0106] As mentioned above, and with reference to Figure 3In some embodiments, the weight detection system 1 can be used with a sleep device 40 having a platform 42 configured to move relative to a base 44. In various embodiments, the sleep device 40 can be similar to the devices described in U.S. Patent Application 14 / 448,679, filed April 31, 2014, or U.S. Patent Application 15 / 055,077, filed February 26, 2016, both of which are incorporated herein. Thus, the weight can be configured to be accurately measured on the platform 42 configured to move relative to the base 44. In various embodiments, the platform 42 can be movably supported on the base 44 by, for example, a bearing or an actuator. In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 42 is rotatably supported on the base 44 by a bearing 46. A bearing base 48 can be located between the base 44 and the bearing 46. The bearing 46 can be structurally associated with the bearing base 48, the platform 42, or an accessory thereto, or can be a separate structure coupled between the platform 42 and the bearing base 48. The bearing base 48 can be located above the one or more weight sensors 2. When an infant is located on the platform 42, a force can be transmitted to the one or more weight sensors 2 configured to collect weight data. The weight data can be transmitted to the controller via a wired or wireless communication protocol, as described in more detail above and elsewhere herein.

[0107] With continued reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the weight sensor 2 can collect weight data continuously, periodically, at predetermined intervals, when an event occurs, such as when an infant is placed on the platform 42, before the platform 42 is moved, when the platform 42 is moved, when infant movement is detected or infant movement has ceased for a predetermined period of time, upon receiving an instruction via a user interface to collect weight data.

[0108] Figures 4 to 9 Example components of a sleep device and weight detection system according to Figure 3 are shown.

[0109] Figure 4The cradle is a partial assembly comprising a bearing base 48 positioned above the cradle base 44, with the platform removed. A bearing 46 (not shown) is positioned on the bearing base 48 and is rotatable relative to the bearing base 48. The bearing 46 includes a mounting bracket 47 for rotatably mounting the platform (not shown) on the base 44. Any method of converting force can be used to rotate the platform. In some embodiments, the rotational force can be transmitted to the platform via a motor (not shown) or other force converter. In one example, a motor having a column that receives the motor output is positioned below the bearing base 48, and the column extends through the bearing 46 and connects to the platform to transmit the motor's rotational motion output to the platform. In another example, the motor is positioned at another location within the base 44 and transmits its output to the platform at a location offset from the center of the bearing 46. For example, the column can rotate along a track extending along the platform to rotate the platform on the bearing 46, for example, in a manner similar to that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 055,077, filed on February 26, 2016. In another example, the motor is located on the platform, and the column rotates along a track extending along the base 44 to rotate the platform on the bearing 46. In another example, one or more belts or pulleys are used to transmit the rotational motor output to the platform. In another example, the motor outputs a longitudinal force, or the motor output is converted into a longitudinal force, which is transmitted to the platform to rotate the platform on the bearing 46.

[0110] A clamp 50 can be used to maintain the position of the bearing base 48. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing base 48 includes a protrusion 52 that extends outwardly to be positioned within a clamp slot 51. The clamp slot 51 is sized to receive the protrusion 52 and prevent or limit lateral and longitudinal movement of the protrusion 52, thereby preventing or limiting lateral and longitudinal movement of the bearing base 48. Figure 4 Two clamps 50 are shown, each holding a tab 52. For clarity, the remaining tabs 52 are shown at various stages of assembly, however, when assembled for operation, each tab 52 will typically be received within a clamp slot 51. The upper right tab 52 is shown without the clamp 50, and the upper left tab 52 is shown received within a slot sleeve 54.

[0111] One or more slot sleeve tubes 54 can be used to define the fixture slot 51. In various embodiments, the slot sleeve 54 can be sized to engage or closely approximate the adjacent profile of the protrusion 52 received within the fixture slot 51 to limit lateral and longitudinal movement. In one example, the slot sleeve 51 includes a resiliently compressible material or a gasket to provide a soft interface between the fixture 50 and the protrusion 52 received within the fixture slot 51. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the fixture 50 may not include the slot sleeve 54, and the fixture 50 may include one or more of the features of the slot sleeve 54 described herein. A combination of more or fewer protrusions 52 and fixtures 50 may be used.

[0112] Figure 5 The base 44 is shown with the clamp 50 and bearing base 48 removed. One or more weight sensors 2 are shown attached to the base 44 at a position below the bearing base 48 when installed. The weight sensor 2 shown includes four load cells. The weight sensors 2 are preferably distributed symmetrically; however, in some embodiments, an asymmetrical distribution of weight sensors 2 may be used.

[0113] Figure 6 An isolated view of the weight sensor 2 is provided. The sensor 2 includes a load cell having a contact surface 55 for engaging a contact surface 56 of the bearing base 48 ( Figure 7B ). Weight sensor 2 or controller, such as reference Figure 1 The controller 4 described may include an A / D converter. Although other configurations may be used, the load cell may be configured as a Wheatstone bridge and configured to feed resistance data to the A / D converter. In various embodiments, the weight sensor 2 and / or the controller may be configured to be calibrated at startup or before the infant is placed on the platform so as to zero the weight of the bed. When the infant is placed on the platform, the weight of the infant applies a force to the load cell, causing the load cell to deform. The A / D converter reads the resulting change in resistance, and the processor converts the resistance change into weight.

[0114] Figure 7A and Figure 7B An isolated top and bottom view of the bearing base 48 are provided, respectively. The bearing base 48 includes a body 49 and four protrusions 52 extending from the body 49. In other embodiments, fewer or more protrusions 52 may be used. The protrusions 52 include rectangular extensions, although other profile shapes may also be used. The body 49 includes a contact surface 56 along its underside for engaging a weight sensor contact surface 55 (e.g., see FIG. 1 ). Figure 6). The contact surface 55 for engaging the weight sensor contact surface 56 includes a sleeve 57 for receiving a raised surface along the contact surface 55 of the weight sensor 2 to provide a consistent engagement position. The engaging surface may include a raised surface along the contact surface 55 or its periphery. Similarly, the engaging surface may include the sleeve 57 and / or a surface within the sleeve 57. It will be understood that other configurations may be used. For example, the sleeve 57 may not be included and / or other positioning structures may be used. Similarly, in some configurations, the weight sensor does not need to include a raised surface, for example, the bearing base 48 may contact the weight sensor along a flat or wavy surface.

[0115] Figure 8 The figure shows an isolated view of a clamp 50 positioned near the weight sensor 2. A slotted sleeve 54 is positioned within the clamp slot 51. When the protrusion 52 of the bearing base 48 is received within the clamp slot 51, the protrusion 52 is restrained from lateral and longitudinal movement by the sidewalls 53a and 53b. The sidewalls 53a and 53b of other clamp slots 51 may also cooperate to restrain lateral and longitudinal movement of the bearing base 48. For example, longitudinal movement may be restrained by a clamp slot 51 having sidewalls 53a and 53b positioned transversely to the direction of the force due to the protrusion 52 within such a clamp slot 51 pressing against the sidewalls 53a and 53b. The protrusion 52 may also contact the sidewalls 53a and 53b to prevent torque applied to the bearing 46 from rotating the bearing base 48. Depending on the desired configuration and tolerances, lateral or longitudinal movement of the bearing base 48 may also be restrained by positioning the clamp 50 relative to the perimeter of the bearing base 48. For example, the perimeter of the bearing base 44 may be positioned proximate to the clamp 52 such that when a force is applied to the bearing base 48 in the direction of the clamp 50 , the perimeter engages the clamp 50 .

[0116] The protrusion 52 may also be vertically restrained upward by the upper wall 53c of the clamp groove 51. Figure 9 As best shown, the fixture slot 51 and / or slot sleeve 54 can include a taper toward an upper wall 53 c of the fixture slot 51. The taper can be sized to control tolerances and limit the maximum deflection of the protrusion 52 and the bearing mount 48. In some embodiments, the protrusion 52 of the bearing mount 48 can press against one or more surfaces of the slot sleeve 54. For example, in a static position, such as when there is no load on the platform, the protrusion 52 can press against the upper wall 53 c to apply a slight load to the one or more weight sensors 2, thereby maintaining a continuous load force on the one or more weight sensors 2 and maintaining the position of the bearing mount 48 on the one or more weight sensors 2. The taper can be configured to prevent the sidewalls 53 a, 53 b from impeding downward vertical movement of the protrusion 52 while guiding the protrusion 52 to a consistent maximum upper vertical position.

[0117] One or more rigid stabilizing structures can extend within or near the clamp slot 51 to further stabilize the position of the bearing base 48 while allowing a certain amount of vertical movement of the bearing base 48 relative to the base 44. The amount of vertical movement can be limited, for example, to a few microns or a millimeter or less to allow the bearing base 48 to apply a load force to the one or more weight sensors 2. In one example, the stabilizing structure includes a rail and groove configuration, where the protrusion 52 and the clamp slot 51 include complementary rail and groove structures that guide limited vertical translation of the protrusion 52 when the protrusion 52 is received within the clamp slot 51. In the illustrated embodiment, a vertically extending stabilizing structure including a post 58 extends into the clamp slot 51. The post 58 is positioned to extend through a slot 60 defined by the protrusion 58 Figure 7A and Figure 7B ). The post 58 is sized to slide within the slot 60 with minimal resistance. The post 58 can provide guidance for vertical movement of the protrusion 52 within the clamp slot 51. Depending on the desired configuration and tolerances of the clamp 50 and the bearing base 48, the post 58 can also be used to limit lateral and longitudinal movement of the bearing base 48.

[0118] In some embodiments, other stabilizing structures can be used to limit lateral and / or longitudinal movement of the bearing base 48, which can be in addition to or instead of the clamp 50 and / or protrusion 52 described above Figures 4 to 9 . For example, stops can extend from the base 44 and be positioned around the perimeter of the bearing base 48 to limit lateral and longitudinal movement. In one embodiment, the bearing base 48 can include one or more vertically extending slots for receiving rigid structures extending from the base 44. The rigid structures can allow for some vertical movement while limiting lateral and longitudinal movement. In one example, the rigid structures include shoulder bolts, which can also be used to limit the extent of upward vertical movement.

[0119] Figures 10 to 15 Various embodiments and views of an example drive system 100 of a sleep device configured as a rotating platform 142 are shown. Figure 10 A drive system 100 incorporated in a sleep device 140 including a weight detection system 1 as described herein with reference to Figures 2 to 9 b is shown. Figure 11 A drive system 100 incorporated in a sleep device without a weight detection system is shown. Figures 12 to 15 Different views of the drive system 100 are provided.

[0120] The sleep device 140 can be similar to the sleep device 140 described above with reference to Figure 31 and includes a base 144. A bearing base 148 can be supported on the base 144 in a rotationally fixed position. For example, the bearing base 148 can be bolted to the base 144 or otherwise attached to the base 144. In some embodiments of the sleep device including the weight detection system 1, the bearing base 148 can be fixed to the base 144 via a clamp (e.g., see Figure 4 ) is supported on base 144, the fixture allows the bearing base 148 to apply a downward force to the weight sensor 2 to detect weight as described herein.

[0121] The bearing 146 is connected between the bearing base 148 and the platform 142 (see Figure 10 and 11 ), to allow rotational movement of the platform 142 relative to the bearing base 148. For example, the bearing 146 may include a thrust bearing, a turntable bearing, a plain bearing, a slider bearing, or a journal bearing, a low-friction surface, a low-friction polytetrafluoroethylene surface, or a low-friction silicone surface. The platform 142 can be configured to rotate left and right within a horizontal plane. Rotation can occur about a vertical axis extending through the bearing 146. The platform 142 can be rotatably mounted to the base 144 via the bearing 146 and can rotate thereon above the base 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 142 is mounted to a platform mount 170, which includes a bearing mount 172 and a drive mount 174. The central portion of the platform 142 can be attached to the bearing mount 172 using clamps, bolts, or other attachment structures. The drive mount 174 may or may not be attached to the platform 142 at a location external to the bearing mount 172, which may include a location adjacent to a peripheral edge or end of the platform 142. A drive mount 174 motion transfer arm 176 extends between the bearing mount 172 and a drive belt attachment member 178 to transfer motion provided by the drive module 180 to the platform 142 or the bearing mount 172 in the configuration shown.

[0122] Special References Figures 12 to 15 The driving module 180 includes a motor 184 (see FIG. Figure 15 ) of the motor bracket 182. The drive module 180 can be attached to the base 144 or integral with the base 144. The torque generated by the motor 184 is applied to the motor shaft 186, and the rotation of the motor shaft 186 is used to translate the drive belt 188. The drive module 180 can include one or more pulleys 190 (see, for example, Figure 14 ), pulley 190 is configured to support translation of drive belt 188 when drive belt 188 is driven by motor shaft 186. Motor shaft 186 may include or be operatively coupled to pulley 190. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, motor shaft 186 is coupled to pulley 190d such that pulley 190d rotates with motor shaft 186.

[0123] Although any suitable motor 184 can be used, the motor 184 is preferably selected to provide smooth, low-noise high-torque operation at low speeds, which can accurately control position and speed. For example, the motor 184 can be a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), a three-phase brushless DC motor (BLDC), etc., which can be driven by sinusoidal currents. In order to control the speed and position of the motor 184, the motor driver can synthesize three independent sinusoidal voltages, wherein the frequency and amplitude of each phase are controllable. The synthesized voltage can have a constant phase offset of 120°, which reflects the position offset of the three motor windings. The motor driver can include three half-bridges, one half-bridge for each phase of the three phases, which produces three independent sinusoidal voltages. Each half-bridge can include two MOSFET transistors, which act as low-resistance electronic switches. By applying two mutually anti-phase pulse width modulation (PWM) signals to these switches, the average voltage output of the half-bridge can be set to any value between 0 volts and 12 volts DC. These voltages are connected to the motor terminals to generate sinusoidal currents in the windings of the motor 184 and generate appropriate magnetic flux in the motor stator.

[0124] Using a BLDC motor is advantageous because it allows for direct control of amplitude and frequency without the need for an additional motor or additional gears to manipulate the amplitude. The elimination of gears results in quieter operation, which is an advantage in this application. It also reduces the number of moving mechanical parts, which can lead to increased robustness. Using a brushless motor can also extend the life of the motor by eliminating brush wear. Typical induction motors have an optimum speed and achieve lower speeds through gearing. Applications that require continuous changes in direction are often difficult for these motors. The advantage of a BLDC motor is that it operates well over a wide frequency range (speed) and has high torque at low speeds, which facilitates the rapid changes in direction required for this application.

[0125] To achieve silent operation, the PWM frequency, i.e., the frequency at which the half-bridge is switched on and off, can be set to above 20 kHz, preferably around 40 kHz. The PWM frequency is independent of the frequency at which the motor 184 rotates the platform 142. The PWM signals required for the driver stage can be generated by a microcontroller (MCU) based on a control algorithm. The control algorithm can determine the desired movement amplitude and frequency based on inputs from infant motion sensing devices, infant noise sensing devices, infant vital sign sensing devices - such as sensors for heart rate, respiration, oxygenation, etc., as discussed elsewhere herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 055,077 filed on February 26, 2016. An open-loop control method that relies on the ability of the motor rotor to maintain lock with the stator magnetic flux can be used so that control of the position and rotational speed of the motor shaft 186 can be achieved by controlling the three winding currents separately.

[0126] The drive system 100 may include a controller operable to control the movement of the platform 142. For example, the controller may include a control board 168 configured to control the amplitude and frequency of the platform's movement by modulating the operation of the motor 184. The controller may include a user interface or communicate with a user interface to receive input and control instructions and / or output information about the operation of the system or the infant. The controller may be configured to collect data from one or more sensors and control the output of motion and / or sound in response to the collected data. In various embodiments, the controller may be similar to the controller described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 448,679 filed on April 31, 2014 or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 055,077 filed on February 26, 2016. In some embodiments, the controller is integrated with or separate from the controller described above with respect to the weight detection system.

[0127] As described above, the output of the motor 184 is transmitted to the drive belt 188, and the translation of the drive belt 188 further transmits the motor output to the platform 142 via the coupling of the drive belt attachment member 178 to the drive belt 188. The drive belt attachment member 178 can be coupled to the belt 188 in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive belt attachment member 178 is attached to the belt 188 by clamping the drive belt 188.

[0128] The drive belt 188 can include a belt or a chain. When a chain is used, one or more pulleys 190 can include spaced teeth that fit into the gaps between the pins in the chain to help transfer power to the chain. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive belt 188 includes a belt having teeth or ribs formed along one side thereof that engage between corresponding teeth or rib profiles on one or more pulleys 190, causing the drive belt 188 to rotate when translated by the motor 184. In another embodiment, the drive belt 188 can include flat sides.

[0129] As described above, the drive module 180 may include one or more pulleys 190 for supporting the movement of the drive belt 188. While various arrangements of pulleys 190 may be used, in the illustrated embodiment, the motor shaft 186 is coupled to the transfer belt 192 via pulley 190d. The translation of the transfer belt 192 is transmitted to the transfer pulley 190a to drive its rotation. The rotation of the transfer pulley 190a is transmitted to the drive belt 180, the translation of which is supported by the transfer pulley 190a and the idler pulleys 190b and 190c. Thus, the rotation of the motor shaft 186 translates the transfer belt 192 to rotate the transfer pulley 190a. The rotation of the transfer pulley 190a translates the drive belt 188, and the translation of the drive belt 188 rotates the idler pulley and imparts a corresponding lateral movement to the drive belt attachment member 178. Lateral movement of the drive belt attachment member 178 leverages the platform 142 or platform mount 170 on the bearings 146 to rotate the platform 142 on the base 144. Corresponding reverse rotation of the motor 184 drives lateral movement of the drive belt attachment member 178 in the opposite direction to provide oscillatory movement of the platform 142. The illustrated transfer pulley 190a includes a lower portion coupled to the transfer belt 192 and an upper portion coupled to the drive belt 188. In other embodiments, the transfer pulley 190a may be coupled to the transfer belt 192 along the upper portion and to the drive belt 188 along the lower portion. In various embodiments, additional belts and / or pulleys 190 may be used to alter the position or direction of belt movement. The drive module 180 may optionally include a tensioner 194 that engages the drive belt 188 to allow adjustment of the tension on the drive belt 188.

[0130] While the platform 142 is shown mounted to the platform mount 170, it should be understood that the platform 142 can be mounted to the base 144 via the bearings 146 without the use of the bearing mount 172, and / or the platform 142 can be directly attached to the drive module 180 in a manner similar to the drive mount 174 described herein. In some embodiments, the platform mount 170 can extend outward from the bearing mount 172 to attach to the platform 142 at other locations outward from the central portion of the platform 142, such as near the perimeter of the platform 142. In some embodiments, the bearing mount 172 includes one or more frame members extending from the bearing mount 172 that are attached to or otherwise provide support for the platform at peripheral locations below the platform 142.

[0131] In another embodiment, the motor output can be directly transferred to the bearing mount 172. For example, the motor shaft 186 can mechanically or frictionally engage a side or edge of the bearing mount 172 to drive rotation on the bearing 146. In one example, the motor shaft includes teeth that mesh with corresponding teeth or gears associated with the bearing mount 172 to convert the torque generated by the motor into rotation of the platform 142. In another embodiment, the drive system 100 includes a linear motor that pushes and pulls the motion transfer arm 176 to rotate the platform 142.

[0132] In some embodiments, the drive system 100 described herein is used in the above Figure 3 In the sleep device described. For example, the sleep device can include a weight detection system 1, which includes one or more weight sensors 2 and / or one or more additional sensors for measuring additional parameters, and the one or more additional sensors can include a drive system 100. In various embodiments, the drive system 100 is incorporated into an infant calming / sleep aid device as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 448,679, filed on April 31, 2014, or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 055,077, filed on February 26, 2016, and includes a control system for determining the behavioral state of the infant, such as movement detection, sound detection, and / or detection of other parameters, and initiating a response including rotating the platform 142 in an oscillatory manner to soothe or induce sleep. For example, the drive system 100 can drive an oscillatory motion with an excursion of approximately 2 inches at 0.5 to 1.5 cycles per second (cps), but if the infant is fussy, the device responds by delivering a smaller excursion (e.g., <1.3 inches) at a faster rate (approximately 2 to 4.5 cps). This rapid, subtle movement can deliver a specific degree of rapid acceleration-deceleration force to the semicircular canals in the vestibular mechanism of the inner ear to activate the calming reflex. During the rapid movement phase, the maximum amplitude of the reciprocating motion can be less than 1.3 inches (-2 to 4.5 centipoise), which further ensures the safety of the infant. In some embodiments, sound can also be output from a speaker to soothe the infant. In one example, in response to detecting discomfort in the infant, vigorous movement of the platform 142 and loud sounds can be provided. For example, movement of the platform 142 at a frequency greater than 0.5 Hz and an amplitude greater than 1 inch, along with sound intensity of at least 65 decibels, can provide appropriate stimulation for the infant. Of course, other amounts of stimulation are also contemplated. In another or further example, at a baseline, the sound output can produce a low-pitched rumble of approximately 65 decibels to approximately 74 decibels. If the infant's behavioral state becomes more distressed, a higher-pitched soundtrack can be output. In another example, a higher-pitched soundtrack can be output at a louder volume of approximately 75 decibels to approximately 95 decibels.

[0133] Figures 16 to 19Another configuration of a sleeping device 240 incorporating the weight detection system 1 is shown. Figures 16 to 18 A base 244, platform 242, and related features are shown; however, various sleep device configurations may be used. For example, the sleep device 240 may have a base 244, platform 242, and related features; Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 10 or Figure 11 The configuration described herein includes, for example, a cradle.

[0134] The weight detection system 1 may include or be configured to operate in conjunction with a base 244, a platform 242, and one or more weight sensors 2. The weight sensors 2 may include load cells, strain gauges, pressure sensors, or other weight sensor configurations.

[0135] The platform 242 is connected to the platform mount 270 at one or more attachment points 266. In the illustrated example, the weight sensors 2 are located at the attachment points 266 so as to be located between the platform 242 and the platform mount 270. One or more weight sensors 2 may include load cells or other weight sensor 2 configurations, although other configurations may be used to position the weight sensors 2 between the platform 242 and the platform mount 270. Additionally or alternatively, the weight sensors may include gyroscopes, strain gauges, piezoelectric sensors, resistive potentiometers, accelerometers, or combinations thereof.

[0136] The weight sensor 2 can be configured to reference Figure 1 The weight data is collected in the manner described. For example, the weight sensor 2 can be configured to measure the weight of an infant positioned on the platform 242. The weight sensor 2 can be configured to collect weight data continuously, periodically, and at predetermined intervals upon receiving an instruction to collect weight data, and / or upon an event occurring, such as when an infant is placed on the platform 242. In one embodiment, a user can define or schedule when weight measurements are to be taken, or input instructions through a user interface to collect weight data in the manner described above. The platform 242 can be mounted to the platform mounting bracket 270 at the attachment point 266 such that the platform presses against the weight sensor 2. In one embodiment, the weight sensor 2 and / or the controller (e.g., see Figure 1 ) The weight sensor 2 can be calibrated, for example to zero the weight of the platform 242 at startup.

[0137] In the illustrated embodiment, the weight detection system 1 is integrated with a sleep device 240, which includes a platform 242 configured to move above a base 244. For example, the platform 242 can rotate on a bearing mount 248 secured to the base 244, which may also include the bearing mount 248. The rotation can occur about a vertical axis extending through a bearing 246, on which the platform 242 can rotate relative to the base 244. In some embodiments, the platform 242 can be configured to move in other or additional modes of movement, such as any of the modes described herein. As shown, the platform 242 is mounted to a platform mounting bracket 270, which includes a bearing mount 272 for rotatably mounting above the base and a drive mounting bracket 274 for mounting to the drive system 200. The central portion of the platform 242 can be attached to the bearing mount 272 using a clamp, bolts, or other attachment structure. As described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the platform 242 is mounted to the platform mounting bracket 271 via the weight sensor 2 at attachment point 266.

[0138] As described above, the sleep aid device including the weight detection system 1 includes a drive system 200 configured to selectively move the platform 242. The drive system 200 may be similar to the drive system 100 described above (see FIG. Figures 10 to 15) in a manner similar to that of the drive system 200, wherein similar features are identified by similar numbers. For example, the drive system 200 includes a drive module 280, which includes a motor 284 housed in a motor bracket 282. The motor output rotates a motor shaft 286, which drives a corresponding rotation of a transfer pulley 290a via a transfer belt 292. The rotation of the transfer pulley 290a is transferred to a drive belt 288, which is coupled to the platform 244 via a drive mounting bracket 274. The drive mounting bracket 274 includes a drive belt attachment member 278, which includes a clamp that clamps the drive belt 288 to couple the movement of the drive belt 288. The drive belt attachment member 278 is attached to the motion traction arm 176 or directly to the platform 242 or the platform mounting bracket 270. The drive mount 274 in the illustrated embodiment includes a motion transfer arm 276 that extends between the bearing mount 272 and the drive belt attachment member 278 to transfer the motion provided by the drive module 280 to the platform 242 and / or the bearing mount 272. In the illustrated embodiment, the motion transfer arm 276 is coupled to the platform mount 270 and / or the platform 242 at a transfer arm coupling 296. Although other coupling configurations may be used, the transfer arm coupling 296 includes an upper clamping portion 296a and a lower clamping portion 296b that are configured to clamp the motion transfer arm 276 to couple the platform mount 270 to the transfer arm 276. In another embodiment, the motion transfer arm 276 is retained by a pin, bolt, or is integral with the platform mount 278 or the platform. It should be understood that other configurations may be used to couple to the motion of the drive belt 288; for example, the platform mount 270 or the platform 242 may be directly coupled to the drive belt 288.

[0139] To provide space for the platform 242 to move, a clearance area 260 can be provided between the inward-facing side 261 of the base 244 and the outward side or rim 262 of the platform mounting bracket 270, although in other embodiments, a clearance area 261 can be provided between the inward-facing side 261 of the base 244 and the outward side of the platform 242. In the illustrated embodiment, the rim 262 extends upward to define an area for receiving the platform 242, such that the platform 242 is recessed below the upper extent of the rim 262. The rim 262 can help retain a mattress (not shown) positioned on the platform 242 during movement of the platform 242. The raised rim 262 can also limit the chance of the mattress resting its edge on the rim 262, thereby receiving a portion of the load of the mattress or an infant placed on the mattress.

[0140] As mentioned above, the layout has reference Figures 16 to 19 The weight detection system 1 of the platform 242 and / or bearing mount 272 described in the embodiment can be combined with a sleep device 240 having a different drive system and / or configuration. Figures 16 to 18 The described approach is combined with respect to the platform, wherein the platform 242 is not configured to be moved by a drive system. For example, the weight sensor 2 can be located between the platform 242 and a frame, such as the platform mounting bracket 270, and the platform 242 sleep device may not include a drive system. In another embodiment, the weight detection system 1 is combined with the platform and the drive system, and the platform and the drive system are configured to move in another manner, such as up and down movement; undulation in a lateral, longitudinal, or diagonal direction; a rocking motion; lateral side-to-side movement in a horizontal plane; head-to-toe movement in a plane in a horizontal plane; and / or tilting movement about a rotation axis extending through or parallel to the main plane of the platform, such as moving laterally to tilt a first longitudinal end of the platform 242 upward while tilting a second longitudinal end downward, or moving longitudinally to tilt a first lateral side of the platform upward while tilting a second lateral side downward. In one example, the rotation or tilt axis extends along the horizontal plane through or relative to the center of the platform 242, longitudinally or transversely bisecting or bisecting it. As described herein, such movement can be selected based on data collected by the sensors and analysis thereof.

[0141] In some embodiments, Figures 16 to 19 The weight detection system 1 may include a controller and additional sensors, as described above with reference to Figure 1 and as described elsewhere herein. For example, the controller may include an analysis module and communicate with and provide output to a user interface and / or data storage device. The controller may also include or interface with another controller that is operable to control a motor that drives the motion of the platform 242.

[0142] In one embodiment, the drive system 200 can be incorporated into an infant calming / sleep-aid device such as that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 448,679, filed April 31, 2014, or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 055,077, filed February 26, 2016, and includes a control system for determining the infant's behavioral state, such as motion detection, sound detection, and / or other parameter detection, and initiating a response, including rotating the platform 242 in an oscillatory manner, to soothe or induce sleep based on analysis of the measured data. For example, the drive system 200 can drive an oscillatory motion of approximately 2" excursion at 0.5 to 1.5 cycles per second (cps), but if the infant is fussy, the device responds by delivering a smaller excursion (e.g., <1.3") at a faster rate (approximately 2 to 4.5 cps). This rapid, small motion can deliver a specific degree of rapid acceleration-deceleration force to the semicircular canals in the vestibular mechanism of the inner ear to activate the calming reflex. In the rapid motion phase, the maximum amplitude of the reciprocating motion is less than 1.3 inches (-2 to 4.5 cps), which further ensures the safety of the baby. In some embodiments, sound can also be output from a speaker to soothe the baby. In one example, in response to detecting that the baby is uncomfortable, violent movement and loud sounds of the platform 242 can be provided. For example, providing a frequency greater than 0.5 Hz and a movement of the platform 242 greater than 1 inch, and a sound with an intensity of at least 65 decibels can provide appropriate stimulation for the baby. Of course, other amounts of stimulation can also be envisioned. In another or further example, at the baseline, the sound output can produce a low-pitched rumble of about 65 decibels to about 74 decibels. If the baby's behavioral state becomes more uncomfortable, a higher-pitched soundtrack can be output. In another example, a higher-pitched soundtrack can be output at a higher volume of about 75 decibels to about 95 decibels.

[0143] The platform 242 also includes an optional attachment mechanism 263 for attaching a sleeping bag, which is configured to secure an infant to the platform in the manner described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 448,679, filed April 31, 2014, or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 055,077, filed February 26, 2016. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism 263 includes two attachment members 264. The attachment members 264 include clamps located on lateral sides of the platform 242. Attachment mechanisms such as those illustrated can be similarly incorporated with other embodiments of the sleep apparatus platform described herein.

[0144] The sleep device 240 or weight detection system 1 can include one or more additional sensors for measuring additional parameters. Such sensors can be associated with a sensor system or control system, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application 14 / 448,679, filed April 31, 2014, or U.S. Patent Application 15 / 055,077, filed February 26, 2016, which include the weight detection system 1 or integrate data collected from the weight detection system 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 242 also includes one or more selectable speakers 268 for outputting audio. The audio can include audio tracks selected by the control system or its controller based on input and / or analysis of other data related to the infant collected by sensors positioned to detect infant parameters. The sensors can include one or more pressure sensors (e.g., pressure pads), video sensors (e.g., for detecting motion and / or collecting size data), or motion sensors. The sensors also include a respiration sensor 269 configured to detect respiration, heartbeat, and / or motion. The respiration sensor 269 can be part of or configured to be in operable communication with a respiration detection module of the controller and / or control system, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application 16 / 905,424, filed June 18, 2020, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0145] In one embodiment, respiration sensor 269 includes one or more motion sensors, including one or more piezoelectric elements, load cells, gyroscopes, strain gauges, resistive potentiometers, accelerometers, and the like. It should be understood that while the respiration sensor 269 in the illustrated embodiment may be referred to as including or consisting of one or more piezoelectric elements, such embodiments may also be configured for use with other motion sensors, such as load cells, gyroscopes, strain gauges, resistive potentiometers, accelerometers, and the like. The sensor may be configured to detect changes in pressure, force, strain, or acceleration, which may include vibrations. For example, a piezoelectric element may detect acoustic waves propagating through a solid or gas or changes in pressure, resulting in sensor vibrations that are transduced to a heartbeat detection module and / or a respiration detection module for analysis, which may include a controller or sensor control system as described herein. The sensor may include or be in communication with a processor and / or storage medium, the storage medium storing analysis instructions executable by the processor for analyzing the signals generated by the sensor. In one embodiment, the processor is a component of the controller described herein and / or the respiration detection module described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 905,424, filed on June 18, 2020. In one example, the sensor includes one or more piezoelectric strips. In some embodiments, such a strip sensor configuration can be suspended. The strip sensor can be attached to a surface so that movement of the surface exerts stress or strain on the sensor. The strip sensor can be positioned between two surfaces so that the sensor can detect changes in force transmitted between the two surfaces. The strip sensor can be positioned in a sealed gas volume or in a solid so that the sensor detects vibrations transmitted along the surrounding material via pressure changes. The strip sensor can be suspended to isolate the sensor from the movement of the movable platform. The piezoelectric element can be positioned at an appropriate position relative to the infant and within an appropriate distance from the infant to detect the infant's movement, such as vertical movement or movement in other directions and / or associated pressure, force, or vibration. In one example, multiple piezoelectric strip sensors can be used at different locations. In one embodiment, when the infant is positioned on the platform, the piezoelectric element of the respiration sensor 249 can be positioned below the back or elsewhere along the infant's back. For example, piezoelectric elements can be embedded in cushions, mattresses, baby clothing, sleeping bags, or attached to a mobile platform that the baby is placed on. Motion sensors other than piezoelectric elements can be similarly configured and utilized, as described above and elsewhere herein with respect to piezoelectric elements.

[0146] Figures 20 to 24Different views of two additional embodiments of a breathing sensor 269 for a sleeping device are shown. The exemplary breathing sensor 269 includes a tray design configuration for attaching to a platform of the sleeping device, but other design configurations may also be used. The breathing sensor 269 is attached to the platform and positioned below the mattress and the infant positioned thereon. The breathing sensor 269 can be positioned within the recess and approximately flush with or slightly above the plane defined by the peripheral upper surface of the platform. The breathing sensor 269 can include a piezoelectric element 302, which can be a strip or other configuration. The force, strain, or pressure (such as vibration) applied along the piezoelectric element 302 can be converted into an electrical signal for detecting the breathing of an infant positioned on the platform. As described above, the breathing sensor 269 can also be used to detect heartbeat, movement, and other biosignals.

[0147] Special References Figures 20 to 23 In the illustrated embodiment, a piezoelectric element 302 is housed within a sensor housing 304 having a base 306 and a cover 308. The base 306 can be attached to the platform via one or more washers 310, which are configured to suppress vibrations from propagating from the platform to the housing 304. The piezoelectric element 302 can be positioned to detect forces, strains, or pressures, such as vibrations, from above the platform to generate electrical signals for detecting the breathing of an infant positioned on the platform. A data signal port 312 is electrically coupled to the piezoelectric element 302 to receive and transmit electrical signals to a controller or sensor control system as described herein, either wired or wirelessly. The piezoelectric element 302 can be suspended within the housing, attached to the upper wall of the cover (as shown), or located within a sealed portion of the housing 304 to detect pressure changes, forces, or strains. The cover 308 can be configured to allow controlled deflection via a half-moon or crescent-shaped bumper on the end of the cover 308, as well as to limit vertical travel distance via controlled sidewalls (to prevent overextension of the sensor 302).

[0148] Figure 24Another embodiment of a respiration sensor 269 is shown, comprising a piezoelectric element 302 positioned on a material configured to isolate the piezoelectric element 302 from vibrations on its mounting platform. As shown, the piezoelectric element 302 is positioned on a foam pad 314, which is positioned on a base 306. The foam pad 314 can extend flush with the base 306 along its underside. In another embodiment, one or more cavities are positioned between the underside of the foam pad 314 and the base 306. In another embodiment, the piezoelectric element 302 is positioned on a hard surface, with one or more sides of the element 302 enclosed and positioned adjacent to the foam pad 314. The foam pad 314 can extend along the sides of the piezoelectric element 302 to attenuate vibrations propagating along the mattress, beneath which the respiration sensor 269 is positioned, further concentrating detection on the portion of the mattress above the piezoelectric element 302. In one embodiment, the foam pad 314 is supported on a cover covering the base 306. The base 306 may be attached to the platform by one or more washers 310 configured to suppress vibrations from being transmitted from the platform to the piezoelectric element 302. The respiration sensor 269 may include a data signal port 312 that may be similar to the reference Figures 20 to 23 The data signal port 312 described is electrically coupled to the piezoelectric element 302 to receive and transmit electrical signals to a controller or sensor control system as described herein, either wired or wirelessly. In various embodiments, the respiration sensor 249 can be used in the sleep device described herein. In use, an infant can be placed in a conventional manner on a mattress resting on the sleep device platform, such that the infant's height dimension extends along the longitudinal axis of the mattress. As described above, the infant can be secured in position on the mattress relative to the platform using straps or clamps within a sleeping bag or other carrier device.

[0149] Figure 27 An example of a base 244 and platform 242 of a sleep device 340 including a breathing sensor 269 is shown, according to various embodiments described herein. The breathing sensor 269 includes a sensor similar to that of reference numerals. Figures 20 to 24 The piezoelectric element 302 and the base 306. The piezoelectric element 302 can be Figure 24 and variations thereof are positioned on or between foam pads 314. Washers 310 may also be used to dampen vibrations. Sleeping device 340 may be similar to sleeping device 240 ( Figure 16 ) and is equipped with a movable platform 249.

[0150] exist Figure 24 In the embodiment shown, the piezoelectric element 302 comprises a strip extending transversely or laterally to the longitudinal extension of the platform to correspondingly lie beneath a mattress or pad on the platform. Figures 20 to 23In the illustrated embodiment, the piezoelectric element 302 comprises a strip that extends longitudinally or generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the platform to correspondingly lie beneath a mattress or pad located on the platform. Thus, the piezoelectric element 302 comprising the strip can be configured to be positioned beneath an infant on the platform, preferably beneath the torso transverse to or corresponding to the height dimension of the infant. Figure 24 In one example of a respiration sensor 249, the piezoelectric element 302 may be positioned at other angles. For example, Figure 27 An example platform 242 and platform mount 270 are shown supported by base 244, with respiration sensor 269 positioned thereon and including a piezoelectric element 302 extending longitudinally along a longitudinal axis of platform 242. Platform 244 may be configured to move as described herein. Figure 27 The configuration shown may also include a drive system and / or a weight detection system as also described herein. Figures 20 to 23 In some examples of respiration sensor 249, piezoelectric element 302 may be positioned laterally or at other angles. As described above, in some embodiments, other respiration sensor configurations may be used.

[0151] Figure 25 Schematic diagram of a process flow for detecting respiration using a respiration sensor 279, such as respiration sensor 269, according to various embodiments. Respiration sensor 279 includes a piezoelectric element. In one example, respiration sensor 279 can be similar to that of reference 1. Figures 20 to 24 and Figure 27 Respiration sensor 269 is described. The force, strain, or pressure applied along the piezoelectric element of respiration sensor 279 can be converted into an electrical signal, which can be conditioned by signal conditioner 281. The conditioned signal can be sent to analog-to-digital converter 285 via driver 283 for conversion to a digital signal, which can then be processed by a processor. The processor can be a component of a controller or sensor control system as described herein, or can be configured to send processed data thereto.

[0152] Figure 26An example buffer 500 for intermittent breathing detection and breaths per minute analysis by a breathing detection module according to various embodiments is schematically illustrated. Buffer 500 can be used by a breathing detection module that employs a breathing sensor device as described herein. For example, the breathing detection module can utilize a piezoelectric method that uses a signal from a breathing sensor, which includes a piezoelectric sensor positioned so that when an infant breathes, the sensor is compressed, strained, or vibrated, thereby generating a signal. In one example, the breathing sensor can be placed under a mattress. The generated signal can then be filtered and analyzed. In one embodiment, filtering can include amplification and / or conversion. For example, the signal can be transmitted to an amplifier and then to an analog-to-digital converter. The breathing detection module can then read the amplified value at a sampling rate of 100 Hz, but those skilled in the art will appreciate upon reading this disclosure that other sampling rates can be used.

[0153] Buffer 500 can store data in a first-in, first-out (FIFO) order. Section A represents samples that are removed from buffer 500 as new samples arrive. Section D shows new samples acquired at the sampling rate. Section C represents a portion of the buffer that, together with section D, serves as a buffer length for a predetermined period for intermittent breathing detection. Section B represents a portion of the buffer that, together with sections A, C, and D, comprises a buffer length for a predetermined period for per-cycle breathing calculation.

[0154] The illustrations of the arrangements described herein are intended to provide an overall understanding of the structures of the various embodiments and are not intended to be fully described to all elements and features of the systems, modules, and processes that can utilize the structures described herein. Although the present disclosure generally describes weight detection systems and processes with reference to cradles with removable platforms, removable cradles are only one of many potential applications. In fact, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that weight detection systems and processes as described herein can be found in many baby devices, such as bouncy chairs, car seats, or other baby devices in which babies can sleep and which can include significant weight-independent motion and / or sound. Other arrangements can be utilized and derived therefrom so that structural and logical replacements and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0155] Therefore, although specific arrangements have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any arrangement intended to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific arrangement shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all modifications or variations of the various embodiments and arrangements of the present invention. Combinations of the above arrangements, as well as other arrangements not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, it is intended that this disclosure not be limited to the specific arrangements disclosed as the best mode for carrying out the invention, but rather that the invention will include all embodiments and arrangements falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0156] Unless otherwise indicated, the grammatical articles "a", "an" and "the" used in this specification are intended to include "at least one" or "one or more". Therefore, the articles used in this specification refer to one or more of the grammatical objects of the article (i.e., "at least one"). For example, "a component" means one or more components, and therefore, more than one component may be envisioned and may be adopted or used in the application of the embodiments. In addition, the use of a singular noun includes the plural, and the use of a plural noun includes the singular, unless the context of usage requires otherwise. In addition, the grammatical conjunctions "and" and "or" are used in this article according to recognized usage. For example, "x and y" refers to "x" and "y". On the other hand, "x or y" refers to "x", "y" or both "x" and "y", while "x or y" refers to exclusivity. Any numerical ranges listed herein include all values ​​and ranges from the lower limit to the upper limit. These are merely examples of specific intent, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​and ranges between and including the lowest and highest values ​​listed are considered to be explicitly stated in this application. A value modified by the term "about" or "approximately" is intended to include + / - 10% of the modified value.

[0157] The foregoing description is provided to illustrate, explain, and describe embodiments of the present invention. Modifications and adaptations to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. Upon reviewing the embodiments described above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications, subtractions, or enhancements may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the following claims.

Claims

1. A baby sleeping device, comprising: a platform for supporting the infant; a base upon which the platform is supported, wherein the platform is configured to move relative to the base over the base; one or more weight sensors positioned to measure the weight of an infant positioned on the platform; A controller comprising an analysis module configured to: analyzing weight data measured by one or more weight sensors to identify weight patterns by tracking changes in weight over time; Analyze weight patterns to identify feeding patterns; determining a sleep state using weight data, non-weight data associated with the infant collected by one or more non-weight sensors, or a combination thereof, and identifying a sleep pattern from a plurality of sleep state determinations; correlating the feeding pattern and the sleeping pattern to identify how the feeding pattern affects sleep time; as well as Using the correlation between the feeding pattern and the sleep pattern, a feeding schedule is generated based on the desired sleep time or the optimal sleep time, wherein the feeding schedule identifies one or more specific times or time ranges and an amount of food to be fed to the infant at the one or more specific times or time ranges before the desired sleep time or the optimal sleep time. 2 . The sleeping device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more weight sensors are located between the platform and the base.

3. The sleeping device of claim 2, wherein the one or more weight sensors comprise one or more load cells. 4 . The sleeping device of claim 2 , wherein the one or more weight sensors comprise at least one of a strain gauge, a piezoelectric sensor, a resistive potentiometer, an accelerometer, or a gyroscope.

5. The sleeping device according to claim 1, further comprising: a platform mount mounted between the base and the platform and configured to move relative to the base as the platform moves over the base, wherein the platform is coupled to the platform mount, and wherein the one or more weight sensors are positioned between the platform mount and the platform.

6. The sleeping device of claim 5, wherein the one or more weight sensors comprise one or more of a load cell, a strain gauge, a gyroscope, or an accelerometer.

7. The sleeping device according to claim 5, further comprising: one or more bearings located between the platform mount and the base, wherein the platform mount is mounted to the bearings and can move thereon over the base relative to the base, and wherein the sleep device further includes: a drive system operable to drive the platform mount and the connected platform to move over the base relative to the base on one or more of the bearings.

8. The sleep device of claim 1 , wherein the analysis module is configured to determine the infant's feeding status, generate a weight distribution graph, identify rapid weight gain or weight loss, identify abnormal weight change patterns, identify movement and restlessness of the infant, or a combination thereof.

9. The sleep device of claim 1, wherein the analysis module is configured to track the presence of the infant on the platform, and wherein the controller is configured to send a notification to a user interface when the analysis module determines that the infant is not on the platform.

10. The sleeping device of claim 1 , wherein the analysis module is configured to analyze the weight data to track infant restlessness and / or physical discomfort, and wherein the controller is configured to take an action when the analysis module determines at least one of infant restlessness or physical discomfort, and wherein the action is selected from the group consisting of generating a rocking of the platform or sending a notification to a user interface.

11. The sleeping apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the analysis module is configured to compare currently collected weight data with previously collected weight data to determine whether the infant is underfed, overfed, or properly fed and / or properly full.

12. The sleeping device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to send the collected weight data to a backend system for analysis and / or historical storage, wherein analysis of the weight data comprises one or more of the following: Identification of group trends and / or individual historical trends; Comparative analysis of infant weight data and infant groups.

13. The sleeping device of claim 1, wherein the analysis module utilizes instantaneous fluctuations in the weight data to identify movement of the infant on the platform.

14. The sleep device of claim 13, wherein the analysis module is further configured to analyze weight data associated with movement to identify restlessness and / or physical discomfort.

15. The sleeping device of claim 13, wherein the analysis module is further configured to analyze weight data associated with movement and sound data collected by one or more sound sensors to identify an apnea event.

16. A weight detection system for a sleeping device, the system comprising: a controller configured to receive weight data collected by one or more weight sensors positioned to detect the weight of an infant supported on a platform of the sleep apparatus, wherein the controller includes an analysis module configured to: analyzing weight data collected by the one or more weight sensors to identify weight patterns by tracking changes in weight over time; Analyze weight patterns to identify feeding patterns; determining a sleep state using the weight data, non-weight data associated with the infant collected by one or more non-weight sensors, or a combination thereof, and identifying a sleep pattern from a plurality of sleep state determinations; correlating the feeding pattern and the sleeping pattern to identify how the feeding pattern affects sleep time; as well as Using the correlation between the feeding pattern and the sleep pattern, a feeding schedule is generated based on the desired sleep time or the optimal sleep time, wherein the feeding schedule identifies one or more specific times or time ranges and an amount of food to be fed to the infant at the one or more specific times or time ranges before the desired sleep time or the optimal sleep time.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the analysis module is further configured to determine the infant's feeding status, generate a weight distribution graph, identify rapid weight gain or weight loss, identify abnormal weight change patterns, identify movement and agitation of the infant, or a combination thereof.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the analysis module is further configured to track the presence of an infant on the platform and send a notification to a user interface when the presence of the infant is not detected on the platform.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the analysis module is further configured to track the duration of time the infant spends on the platform of the sleep device.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein: The correlation between the feeding pattern and the sleeping pattern further identifies how the feeding pattern affects sleep quality.

21. The system of claim 16, wherein the controller is further configured to send the weight data to a backend system for analysis and / or historical storage, wherein the analysis includes one or more of: Identification of group trends and / or individual historical trends; Comparative analysis of infant weight data and infant groups.

22. The system of claim 16, wherein: The analysis module is further configured to analyze the weight data to determine a feeding status by comparing the weight with previously collected weight data to determine whether the infant is fed, underfed, or properly full, wherein when the analysis module determines that the infant is underfed, the controller is configured to generate a notification to the user interface that the infant is underfed.

23. The system of claim 16, wherein the correlation of the feeding pattern and the sleeping pattern further identifies how the feeding pattern affects sleep duration, and wherein the desired or optimal sleep time also includes sleep duration.

24. A system according to claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to receive non-weight data associated with the infant collected by one or more non-weight sensors, and wherein the analysis module is further configured to analyze the non-weight data to determine a behavioral state of the infant other than a sleep state, and to associate the behavioral state with weight data collected proximate to the collection of the non-weight data to identify how weight patterns affect the behavioral state, wherein the one or more additional sensors include one or more of a motion sensor, a sound sensor, a breathing sensor, a biosensor, or a combination thereof.

25. The sleeping device of claim 16, wherein the analysis module utilizes instantaneous fluctuations in the weight data to identify movement of the infant on the platform.

26. The sleep device of claim 25, wherein the analysis module is further configured to analyze weight data associated with movement to identify restlessness and / or physical discomfort.

27. The sleeping device of claim 25, wherein the analysis module is further configured to analyze weight data associated with movement and sound data collected by one or more sound sensors to identify an apnea event.

28. A method comprising: receiving weight data associated with an infant positioned on a platform of the sleep apparatus via one or more weight sensors positioned to measure a load placed on the platform; Processing the weight data with an analysis module, wherein the processing comprises: Identify weight patterns by tracking weight changes over time; Analyze weight patterns to identify feeding patterns; determining a sleep state using the weight data, non-weight data associated with the infant collected by one or more non-weight sensors, or a combination thereof, and identifying a sleep pattern from a plurality of sleep state determinations; correlating the feeding pattern and the sleeping pattern to identify how the feeding pattern affects sleep time; and Using the correlation between the feeding pattern and the sleep pattern, a feeding schedule is generated based on the desired sleep time or the optimal sleep time, wherein the feeding schedule identifies one or more specific times or time ranges and an amount of food to be fed to the infant at the one or more specific times or time ranges before the desired sleep time or the optimal sleep time.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the processing further comprises comparing current weight data with previously measured weight data and determining a feeding status of the infant, and wherein the method further comprises outputting an indication of the feeding status to a user interface.

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