An ultrasonic infrasound combined regulation brain electrical rhythm sleep-aiding intelligent pillow and regulation method

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of sleep monitoring and sleep intervention, and provides a sleep-aiding intelligent pillow for ultrasonic infrasound combined regulation of brain electrical rhythm and a regulation method. The sleep-aiding intelligent pillow comprises a pillow body, a piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor, a central processing module, an ultrasonic regulation module and a power supply unit are arranged in the pillow body, the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor is used for acquiring pressure change information; the central processing module is used for extracting physiological parameters and body movement parameters according to the pressure change information, judging a sleep stage of a user, and controlling the ultrasonic regulation module to emit ultrasonic wave pulses with low-intensity infrasound oscillation to directionally stimulate specific regions of the brain of the user so as to improve sleep quality; and the power supply unit is used for supplying power to the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor, the central processing module and the ultrasonic regulation module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of sleep monitoring and sleep intervention technology, and in particular to a smart pillow for sleep aiding by combining ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brain electrical rhythms, and the regulation method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] The statements in this section are merely background information related to the present invention and do not necessarily constitute prior art.

[0003] Research has found that the sleep center is located between the thalamus and medulla oblongata. Regulating the function of the cerebral cortex and deep multinucleus areas can achieve the effect of promoting sleep. Therefore, developing convenient and efficient physical technologies for regulating brain function in response to sleep disorders can greatly improve the sleep quality of people with sleep disorders, thereby reducing their risk of neurological diseases such as anxiety and depression caused by long-term sleep difficulties. It can even regulate their brain function and enhance brain memory function.

[0004] Sound wave stimulation is a commonly used method to improve sleep. Sound wave stimulation is divided into ultrasound and infrasound. Ultrasound regulates brain function by activating or inhibiting neural activity in the cerebral cortex or nuclei, showing breakthrough potential in the regulation of sleep disorders. Infrasound promotes sleep by inducing slow brain waves through rhythmic resonance. This technology is highly safe, has no obvious side effects, and can be bidirectionally and targetedly modulated. However, low-intensity ultrasound has a small focusing range and mainly acts on the cerebral cortex, while infrasound generating equipment is relatively large and difficult to miniaturize.

[0005] One existing sound stimulation scheme involves mixing and modulating selected sleep-aiding music (audible sound waves) with different brain waves from various sleep stages to form a composite brain wave that effectively interacts with the brain waves of each sleep stage. The modulated brain wave signal is then sent to an audio player, gradually inducing the insomniac to enter a deep sleep stage. However, in this technology, the sleep-aiding audio played by the audio player is only a single type of ultrasound, infrasound, or audible sound, without combining the two types of sound waves. Therefore, it cannot simultaneously leverage the advantages of both ultrasound and infrasound stimulation. Furthermore, the sound stimulation acts directly on the auditory organs for an extended period through the audio player, relying on acoustic shielding or psychological suggestion, which is unfavorable for people with sensitive hearing. The inner ear continuously converts sound signals into neural signals that are transmitted to the brain. This process not only causes progressive damage to the auditory system but also triggers a chain of physiological reactions.

[0006] Another existing sound wave stimulation method involves using infrasound to induce brainwaves, guiding the user from a fatigued beta wave state to theta waves, moderate deep sleep delta waves, deep sleep delta waves, and finally alpha waves to awaken them, thus achieving rapid deep sleep and relieving fatigue. However, this method relies on a single infrasound signal, with the user fully exposed to the stimulation space, making it impossible to precisely and efficiently stimulate specific brain regions for fatigue relief. Furthermore, the cylindrical chamber structure can cause standing waves, leading to energy deposition and potentially irreversible cell or organ damage. Additionally, the device requires a completely enclosed environment to ensure its effectiveness and isolate external noise, resulting in a large, dedicated space that may be unsuitable for common locations like bedrooms or offices. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the technical problems mentioned above, this invention provides a smart pillow and its control method for regulating brainwave rhythms through combined ultrasound and infrasound. Piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensors are arranged in the center of the pillow surface, extracting respiratory, heart rate, and body movement parameters based on pressure change information. A central processing module determines the user's sleep stage based on the parameters extracted by the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensors and controls the ultrasound control module to emit flexible 0.01-100Hz low-intensity infrasound pulses to directionally stimulate specific areas of the user's brain, thereby regulating brainwave rhythms and improving sleep quality, forming a closed-loop "perception-analysis-control" system. Simultaneously, the central processing module stores user sleep data and ultrasound control module operation information, transmitting this data wirelessly to a mobile app, allowing the user to view the data intuitively. A power supply unit powers the entire smart pillow system. This invention achieves non-invasive sleep monitoring and intervention integration, allowing users to manage their sleep simply by using the pillow normally. It combines personalization, portability, comfort, and the advantages of device miniaturization and safety.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0009] The first aspect of the present invention provides a smart pillow for sleep aiding by combining ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brain electrical rhythms.

[0010] A smart pillow for sleep aiding by combining ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythms includes a pillow body, which houses a piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor, a central processing module, an ultrasound control module, and a power supply unit.

[0011] The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor is used to acquire pressure change information;

[0012] The central processing module is used to extract physiological and body movement parameters based on pressure change information, determine the user's sleep stage, and control the ultrasound modulation module to emit low-intensity infrasonic oscillation ultrasonic pulses to directionally stimulate specific areas of the user's brain in order to improve sleep quality.

[0013] The power supply unit is used to power the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor, the central processing module, and the ultrasonic control module.

[0014] Furthermore, the ultrasound control module outputs an infrasonic oscillating ultrasound pulse wave with a set fundamental frequency, set envelope shape, set oscillation frequency, and set pulse width based on the control signal transmitted by the central processing module.

[0015] Furthermore, the envelope shape of the infrasonic oscillation ultrasonic pulse wave includes sine wave, square wave, triangular wave, trapezoidal wave, and sawtooth wave.

[0016] Furthermore, the determination of the user's sleep stage and the control of the ultrasound modulation module to emit low-intensity infrasonic oscillation ultrasonic pulses include: during the awake stage, using square combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 8-20Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 1ms to reduce brainwave rhythm and promote sleep; during the light sleep stage, using triangular combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 0.1-8Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 16V, and a pulse duration of 2ms to promote deep sleep; and during the deep sleep stage, using sinusoidal combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 0.1Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 2ms to consolidate the deep sleep state.

[0017] Furthermore, the ultrasonic control module includes an ultrasonic transmitting circuit, an ultrasonic transducer, a heat sink, and a spring. The ultrasonic transmitting circuit is connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and the ultrasonic transmitting circuit is equipped with a heat sink. The lower end face of the ultrasonic transducer is connected to the bottom of the pillow body through a spring.

[0018] Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer is placed in the lower middle part of the pillow body at an angle of 15°-30°, with the sound waves focused towards a specific area of ​​the user's brain.

[0019] Furthermore, the pillow body includes an outer layer of medical-grade silicone and an inner core of memory foam.

[0020] Furthermore, the memory foam core has a built-in through-hole ventilation hole and a hollow channel for laying sensor signal lines and ultrasonic module wires, and the channel is filled with flexible epoxy resin fixing adhesive.

[0021] Furthermore, the central processing module includes a data storage module for storing the user's sleep data and the operating mode of the ultrasound control module.

[0022] Furthermore, the central processing module also includes a wireless communication module for transmitting data to a mobile app for display on the app.

[0023] Furthermore, the physiological parameters include heart rate and respiratory rate.

[0024] A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for regulating a smart pillow for sleep aid by combining ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brain electrical rhythms.

[0025] A method for regulating sleep-aiding smart pillows using combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms, characterized in that the method applies to the smart pillow for regulating sleep-aiding brainwave rhythms using combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation as described in the first aspect, comprising:

[0026] The pressure sleep monitoring sensor monitors pressure changes and uploads the information to the central processing module;

[0027] The central processing module extracts the user's physiological signals and body movement data based on pressure change information, and analyzes the user's sleep state based on these signals and data.

[0028] The system determines whether the user has left the bed. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasound control module to turn it off, and the ultrasound control module executes the command; otherwise,

[0029] The system determines whether the user is awake. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasound control module: output a square combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 8-20Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 1ms. The oscillation frequency gradually decreases from 20Hz to 8Hz, and the deceleration rate is dynamically adjusted based on historical time data of the user transitioning from wakefulness to light sleep. The ultrasound control module executes the command. Otherwise, the system continues to operate.

[0030] The system determines whether the user is in a light sleep stage. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasonic control module to output a triangular combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 0.1-8Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 16V, and a pulse duration of 2ms. The oscillation frequency gradually decreases from 8Hz to 0.1Hz, and the deceleration rate is dynamically adjusted based on the user's historical time data of transitioning from light sleep to deep sleep. The ultrasonic control module executes the command. Otherwise,

[0031] If the user is in a deep sleep state, the system will send a command to the ultrasonic control module to output a sinusoidal combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 0.1Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 2ms for 3 minutes. The ultrasonic control module will then execute the command.

[0032] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0033] This invention provides a smart pillow for sleep aiding through combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms. The pillow comprises a pillow body, piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensors, a central processing module, an ultrasound control module, and a power supply unit. The pillow body consists of an outer layer of medical-grade silicone and an inner core of memory foam. The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensors are arranged in the center of the pillow surface, extracting respiratory, heart rate, and body movement parameters based on pressure change information. The central processing module determines the user's sleep stage based on the parameters extracted by the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensors and controls the ultrasound control module to emit flexible 0.01-100Hz infrasound pulses to directionally stimulate specific areas of the user's brain to improve sleep quality. The power supply unit provides power to the entire smart pillow system. This invention achieves non-invasive sleep monitoring and intervention integration, combining personalization, portability, and comfort.

[0034] This invention emits 0.01-100Hz infrasonic oscillating ultrasonic pulses, the waveform of which is the infrasonic oscillating ultrasonic envelope. The envelope shape includes, but is not limited to, square, triangular, trapezoidal, and sinusoidal shapes, to achieve the purpose of combined stimulation by ultrasonic and infrasonic waves. Ultrasound and infrasound synergistically regulate sleep disorders. High-frequency ultrasound precisely activates or inhibits neural activity in the cerebral cortex / nuclei, while low-frequency infrasound enhances slow-wave rhythms through whole-brain resonance. This combines the dual advantages of both in promoting sleep, providing a precise and non-invasive solution for the treatment of sleep disorders. Furthermore, this invention breaks through the limitations of traditional technologies that separate monitoring and intervention and fixate parameters. For the first time, it integrates multimodal signal sensing and combined ultrasonic and infrasonic regulation into an everyday pillow, providing an efficient, comfortable, and non-invasive solution for people with anxiety-related insomnia and sleep cycle disorders, with significant clinical and market application value. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a framework diagram of a smart sleep-aiding pillow that uses ultrasound and infrasound to jointly regulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit module of the smart pillow for sleep aiding by combining ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythm, provided in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of a smart sleep-aid pillow that uses ultrasound and infrasound to jointly regulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a circuit structure diagram of a central processing module provided in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5This is a hardware block diagram of the ultrasonic control module for a smart pillow provided in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of combined ultrasonic and infrasonic sound waves provided in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for regulating a smart pillow for sleep aids by combining ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure labeling: 1. Pillow body; 2. Piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor; 3. Central processing module; 4. Ultrasonic control module; 5. Power supply unit; 6. Pulse trigger interval; 7. Pulse duration (pulse width); 8. Ultrasonic fundamental frequency; 9. Ultrasonic envelope of infrasonic oscillation; 101. Outer medical silicone layer; 102. Memory foam core; 201. Strip-shaped PVDF flexible piezoelectric film sensor; 301. ESP32 microcontroller; 401. Ultrasonic transmitting circuit; 402. Ultrasonic transducer; 403. Heat sink; 404. Spring; 501. Rechargeable battery. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0045] It should be noted that the following detailed description is illustrative and intended to provide further explanation of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0046] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall framework of a smart sleep-aid pillow that uses combined ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 1The smart sleep-aid pillow described in this embodiment includes: a pillow body 1, within which are disposed a piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2, a central processing module 3, an ultrasonic control module 4, and a power supply unit 5. The central processing module 3 is connected to the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2, the ultrasonic control module 4, and the power supply unit 5, and the power supply unit 5 supplies power to the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2, the central processing module 3, and the ultrasonic control module 4. The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2, the central processing module 3, the ultrasonic control module 4, and the power supply unit 5 are integrated into one unit and distributed within the smart sleep-aid pillow.

[0048] The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2 is used to acquire pressure change information;

[0049] The central processing module 3 is used to extract physiological and body movement parameters based on pressure change information, determine the user's sleep stage, and control the ultrasound modulation module 4 to emit low-intensity infrasonic oscillation ultrasonic pulses to directionally stimulate specific areas of the user's brain in order to improve sleep quality.

[0050] In this embodiment, the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2 can analyze and process the monitored piezoelectric signals to obtain the user's physiological parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate) and body movement parameters, and transmit the collected raw piezoelectric data and parameters to the central processing module 3 through serial communication.

[0051] The ultrasonic control module 4 is used to directly generate ultrasonic pulse signals with infrasound frequency oscillations by changing the electrical excitation signal of the ultrasonic transducer. The electrical excitation signal is flexibly implemented through the ultrasonic control module, thereby changing parameters such as the fundamental frequency, pulse width, pulse oscillation frequency, and pulse shape of the combined ultrasonic and infrasound signal generated by the transducer. It supports ultrasonic emission with low-intensity infrasound oscillations from 0.01-100Hz, covering the full frequency band of delta, alpha, and beta wave attenuation modes. It can switch between various oscillation waveforms such as sine waves, square waves, sawtooth waves, and trapezoidal waves to adapt to different needs. Throughout the sleep process, it flexibly switches parameters such as fundamental frequency, oscillation frequency, pulse shape, and pulse width according to the brain's needs at different sleep stages, achieving precise control of brainwave rhythms. During the waking phase, square combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 8-20Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 1ms are emitted to reduce brainwave rhythm and promote sleep. During the light sleep phase, triangular combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 0.1-8Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 16V, and a pulse duration of 2ms are emitted to promote deep sleep, achieving precise intervention.

[0052] During use, the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor 2 monitors physiological signals (respiratory rate and heart rate) and body movement data, which are then uploaded to the central processing module 3. The central processing module 3 is configured to receive and process the data, using algorithms to determine the user's sleep state, and converting the results into instructions, which are then sent to the ultrasound control module 4 for parameter control to achieve a sleep-aiding effect. This process enables sleep monitoring and sleep aid throughout the user's sleep journey from wakefulness to deep sleep.

[0053] The types and frequencies of brain waves generated by the brain vary at different sleep stages. Different waveforms of ultrasonic signals have varying advantages and disadvantages in inducing brain wave resonance, and a single waveform is insufficient to precisely match and regulate the brainwave rhythms at each stage. Furthermore, the duration of the ultrasonic signal's action within a single infrasonic oscillation cycle, i.e., the pulse width, also affects the sleep-aiding effect at different sleep stages. During the sleep onset stage, this invention uses low-intensity, short-pulse-duration square combined sound waves with the best resonance effect to help users quickly enter a sleep state. During the light sleep stage, this invention uses high-intensity, long-pulse-duration sinusoidal combined sound waves to help users stably enter a deep sleep state. By adjusting the oscillation frequency, waveform, and pulse width of the ultrasonic signal, this invention can precisely regulate the characteristics of brainwaves at each sleep stage, effectively guiding the brain into an ideal sleep state and improving the sleep-aiding effect.

[0054] This invention proposes a smart sleep-aid pillow that combines ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythms. The pillow primarily uses whole-brain rhythm regulation, supplemented by focused regulation of sleep-related brain regions. Based on the different sleep regulation mechanisms and complementary effects of ultrasound and infrasound, the developed brainwave rhythm regulation technology, coupled with sleep state monitoring and feedback, enables real-time personalized brainwave regulation, alleviating sleep disorders and improving sleep quality. Specifically, the combined ultrasound and infrasound brainwave regulation technology can guide a rapid decrease in brainwave rhythms to achieve sleep aid.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit module of a smart sleep-aid pillow that uses combined ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 2The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor connects to the central processing module via a serial port. The central processing module includes: a serial data receiving module, a sleep state judgment module, a data storage module, a wireless communication module, and a control signal output module. The serial data receiving module receives pressure change information uploaded by the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor and extracts respiratory, heart rate, and body movement parameters. The sleep state judgment module determines the sleep state based on respiratory, heart rate, and body movement parameters, including wakefulness, light sleep, and deep sleep. The data storage module stores the user's sleep data and the ultrasonic control module's operating mode (on or off and current output parameters, etc.), allowing users to view historical sleep records and device usage at any time. The wireless communication module transmits data to a mobile app, allowing users to intuitively understand sleep quality, device status, and other information on their mobile devices. The control signal output module generates electrical excitation signals that control the ultrasonic control module to output specific frequencies and waveforms.

[0056] In some embodiments, after extracting physiological and body movement parameters and determining the user's sleep stage, the central processing module organizes and packages this data according to certain timestamps, user identifiers, and other information, and stores it in the data storage module. The stored data includes, but is not limited to, sleep duration, the ratio of deep sleep to light sleep, heart rate change curves, respiratory rate change curves, and the operating mode of the ultrasound control module. The central processing module then sends the organized data to the mobile app via a wireless communication module (such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) according to a preset transmission protocol. The transmission can be set to timed transmission (such as once per hour), real-time transmission, or transmission upon user request. To ensure the stability and security of data transmission, data encryption technology can be used.

[0057] In this embodiment, the ultrasound control module includes a waveform editing digital circuit and a digital-to-analog converter circuit implemented by a programmable gate array (FPGA). It can emit infrasonic oscillating ultrasound pulse waves with flexible and adjustable fundamental frequency (20-1000 kHz), oscillation frequency (0.01-100Hz), pulse shape (sine wave, square wave, triangular wave, trapezoidal wave, sawtooth wave, etc.), and pulse width to induce corresponding frequency brainwave rhythm resonance and gradually induce the user to enter a sleep state.

[0058] The core of the programmable gate array (FPGA) is to use a direct digital frequency synthesizer (DDS) module as a signal source to generate high-precision digital baseband signals. At the same time, a programmable pulse generator generates enable control signals with dynamically configurable time-domain parameters (pulse width and frequency) to achieve pulse output.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of a smart sleep-aid pillow that uses combined ultrasound and infrasound to regulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 3 The smart pillow for sleep aid includes a pillow body, which includes an outer medical-grade silicone 101 and a memory foam inner core 102. A strip-shaped PVDF flexible piezoelectric film sensor 201 is disposed inside the outer medical-grade silicone 101. The strip-shaped PVDF flexible piezoelectric film sensor 201 is connected to an ESP32 microcontroller 301 via wires. The ESP32 microcontroller 301 is connected to a rechargeable battery 501 and an ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401 via wires. The ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401 is provided with a heat sink 403. The ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401 is connected to an ultrasonic transducer 402 via wires. A spring 404 is disposed between the ultrasonic transducer 402 and the bottom of the memory foam inner core 102. The strip-shaped PVDF flexible piezoelectric film sensor 201, ESP32 microcontroller 301, ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401, heat sink 403, ultrasonic transducer 402, spring 404, and rechargeable battery 501 are all housed in the memory foam core 102; and the rechargeable battery 501 powers the strip-shaped PVDF flexible piezoelectric film sensor 201, ESP32 microcontroller 301, ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401, and ultrasonic transducer 402.

[0060] In some embodiments, the outer medical-grade silicone 101 is ISO 10993 biocompatibility certified, and does not cause irritation upon long-term contact with human skin. Furthermore, the acoustic impedance of silicone (≈1.5 MRayl) is highly similar to that of human soft tissue (≈1.6 MRayl), significantly reducing ultrasound reflection loss at the material interface. The silicone molecular chains are also highly flexible and have a high absorption rate of sound waves. Low It boasts high sound wave energy transmission efficiency. The 102 density memory foam core can slowly deform according to the user's head and neck contour, conforming to the physiological curvature of the cervical spine. The pressure distribution area is increased by more than 60% compared to ordinary sponges, reducing local pressure and effectively avoiding muscle stiffness or stiff neck caused by traditional hard pillows. The memory foam core has built-in through-holes with a diameter of 1-3 mm (opening rate ≥30%) and a pore size of 5-10 μm, forming a two-way air convection channel to accelerate the dissipation of heat generated by the circuitry inside the pillow; it also has hollowed-out channels for laying sensor signal lines and ultrasonic module wires, and the channels are filled with flexible epoxy resin fixing adhesive.

[0061] In one embodiment, the outer layer of medical-grade silicone 101 can be 5mm thick, and it is ISO 10993 biocompatibility certified, so it does not irritate human skin during long-term contact.

[0062] In one embodiment, the strip-shaped PVDF flexible piezoelectric film sensor 201 is flexible and distributed in the center of the smart pillow for sleep aid, conforming to the ergonomic structure, and is used to collect chest vibration signals.

[0063] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401, the ultrasonic transducer 402, the heat sink 403 and the spring 404 constitute an ultrasonic control module, wherein the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401 includes a waveform editing digital circuit and a 10-bit DAC conversion module.

[0064] The ultrasonic transducer 402 outputs a signal with a sound pressure level that is always below the biosafety boundary of 80dB (focus depth is about 10cm). The ultrasonic transducer 402 is fixed by a helical spring 404. The spring structure is elastic, which ensures the comfort of the smart pillow for sleep aid.

[0065] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 402 is a large-diameter piezoelectric ceramic transducer with a backing that has good wave absorption properties. It is placed in the lower middle part of the pillow body with an inclination angle of 15°-30°. The sound waves are focused on a specific area of ​​the user's brain, realizing a neuromodulation approach that primarily uses whole-brain rhythm regulation and secondarily uses focused regulation of sleep-related brain regions.

[0066] In some embodiments, the ESP32 microcontroller reads monitoring data transmitted via the serial port, collects heart rate, respiratory rate, and body movement data in real time to construct a 30-second sliding window, and dynamically updates the individualized physiological baseline (heart rate baseline value = historical mean × 95% + current value × 5%) using exponential smoothing. Combining multi-dimensional features such as heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory variability coefficient, and body movement index, it judges the user's current sleep state according to the priority order of "high-frequency body movement → deep sleep (heart rate / respiration is 20% lower than baseline) → rapid eye movement (rapid eye movement) stage (prominent respiratory variability) → light sleep (high HRV + low body movement)" and outputs control signals to the ultrasound control module. These signals are connected to the ultrasound control module via DuPont wires to control the output effect of the ultrasound control module.

[0067] The ultrasonic control module can emit flexible infrasonic oscillating ultrasonic pulse waves. Based on the control signals transmitted by the central processing module, the ultrasonic control module outputs infrasonic oscillating ultrasonic pulse waves with set fundamental frequency, set envelope shape, set oscillation frequency and set pulse width.

[0068] In some embodiments, the ESP32 microcontroller 301 analyzes the parameters received from the serial port using an algorithm to determine whether the user is currently in bed and their sleep state. It then transmits the user's sleep information to the user's mobile app via wireless communication (Bluetooth / Wi-Fi, etc.) so that the user can access sleep data and adjust their sleep habits. Simultaneously, it outputs control signals to control the operation of the ultrasonic transmitting circuit 401.

[0069] In some embodiments, a plurality of rechargeable batteries 501 constitute a power supply unit.

[0070] Figure 4This is a circuit structure diagram of a central processing module provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 4 The central processing module can use the ESP32-WROOM-32-N4 chip.

[0071] Figure 5 This is a hardware block diagram of the ultrasonic control module for a smart pillow provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 5 The FPGA receives an external clock signal (CLK), a reset signal (RST), and two control signals (CTRL1, CTRL2). The control signals transmit control commands to the FPGA to achieve different combined ultrasonic and infrasonic sound wave output effects. The DA_CLK clock signal from the FPGA is used to synchronize the data sampling and conversion operations of the DAC. DA_DATA [9:0] is a 10-bit data bus from the FPGA, used to provide the DAC with digital data to be converted into analog signals. DA_OUT is the analog signal output by the DAC, which is the result of converting the input digital data into an analog quantity, used to drive the ultrasonic transducer.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of combined ultrasonic and infrasonic sound waves provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 6 The central processing module controls the ultrasonic modulation module to generate an ultrasonic fundamental frequency 8 by setting the pulse trigger interval 6, pulse duration (pulse width) 7, and pulse shape. The envelope of the ultrasonic fundamental frequency 8 is the ultrasonic envelope 9 of infrasound oscillation, thereby fusing ultrasonic waves and infrasound to obtain a pulse combining ultrasonic waves and infrasound, which is used to help users sleep.

[0073] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for regulating a smart pillow for sleep aids using a combination of ultrasound and infrasound to modulate brainwave rhythms, provided in one embodiment of the present invention; see reference. Figure 7 This modulation method, applied to the aforementioned ultrasound-infrasound combined modulation of brainwave rhythm in the above-described embodiments, includes:

[0074] S1: The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor monitors the user's physiological signals (respiratory rate and heart rate) and body movement data, and uploads them to the central processing module;

[0075] S2: The central processing module analyzes the user's sleep state based on the received data using an algorithm to determine whether the user has gotten out of bed. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasound control module to "turn off," and the ultrasound control module executes the command. Otherwise, it continues to the next step of judgment.

[0076] S3: The central processing module receives data and analyzes the user's sleep state using an algorithm to determine whether the user is awake. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasound control module: "Output effect = square combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 8-20Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 1ms." The oscillation frequency gradually decreases from 20Hz to 8Hz, and this deceleration rate is dynamically adjusted based on the user's historical time data of transitioning from the awake phase to the light sleep phase. The ultrasound control module executes the command. Otherwise, it continues to the next step of judgment.

[0077] S4: The central processing module receives data and analyzes the user's sleep state using an algorithm to determine whether the user is in a light sleep stage. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasonic control module: "Output effect = triangular combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 0.1-8Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 16V, and a pulse duration of 2ms." The oscillation frequency gradually decreases from 8Hz to 0.1Hz. This deceleration rate is dynamically adjusted based on the user's historical time data of transitioning from a light sleep stage to a deep sleep stage. The ultrasonic control module executes the command. Otherwise, it continues to the next step of judgment.

[0078] S5: The central processing module receives data and analyzes the user's sleep state according to the algorithm to determine whether the user is in deep sleep. If so, it sends an instruction to the ultrasonic control module to output a sinusoidal combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 0.1Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 2ms for 3 minutes. The ultrasonic control module executes the instruction.

[0079] The specific sleep stages are shown in Table 1:

[0080] Table 1. Sleep Stage Assessment

[0081]

[0082] This sleep-monitoring-based pillow interconnects sensors, a central processing unit, and an ultrasonic control module based on the user's physiological and movement parameters to achieve the effect of sleep data monitoring and real-time ultrasonic infrasound combined regulation to promote sleep and improve the user's sleep quality.

[0083] Meanwhile, the central processing module stores the relevant data and sends it to the mobile app via wireless communication for users to view.

[0084] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A smart pillow for sleep aiding through combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms, comprising a pillow body, characterized in that, The pillow contains a piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor, a central processing module, an ultrasonic control module, and a power supply unit. The piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor is used to acquire pressure change information; The central processing module is used to extract physiological and body movement parameters based on pressure change information, determine the user's sleep stage, and control the ultrasound modulation module to emit low-intensity infrasonic oscillation ultrasonic pulses to directionally stimulate specific areas of the user's brain in order to improve sleep quality. The power supply unit is used to power the piezoelectric sleep monitoring sensor, the central processing module, and the ultrasonic control module. The ultrasound control module includes a waveform editing digital circuit and a digital-to-analog converter circuit implemented by a programmable gate array (FPGA). It can emit infrasonic oscillating ultrasound pulse waves with a fundamental frequency of 20-1000kHz, an oscillation frequency of 0.01-100Hz, and flexible adjustable pulse shape and pulse width. The envelope of the fundamental frequency of the ultrasound is the envelope of the infrasonic oscillation ultrasound, thereby fusing ultrasound and infrasound to obtain a combined ultrasound and infrasound pulse to help users sleep. Ultrasound and infrasound synergistically regulate sleep disorders. High-frequency ultrasound precisely activates or inhibits the neural activity of the cerebral cortex / nuclei, while low-frequency infrasound enhances slow wave rhythms through whole-brain resonance, combining the dual advantages of both in sleep aid. The ultrasound control module includes an ultrasound transmitting circuit, an ultrasound transducer, a heat sink, and a spring. The ultrasound transmitting circuit is connected to the ultrasound transducer, and the ultrasound transmitting circuit is equipped with a heat sink. The lower end face of the ultrasound transducer is connected to the bottom of the pillow body through a spring. The ultrasonic control module outputs an infrasonic ultrasonic pulse wave with a set frequency, set envelope shape, set oscillation frequency, and set pulse width based on the control signal transmitted by the central processing module. The envelope shape of the ultrasonic pulse wave of infrasonic oscillation includes sine wave, square wave, triangular wave, trapezoidal wave, and sawtooth wave; The process of determining the user's sleep stage and controlling the ultrasound control module to emit low-intensity infrasonic oscillation ultrasonic pulses includes: during the awake stage, using square combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 8-20Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 1ms to reduce brainwave rhythm and promote sleep; during the light sleep stage, using triangular combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 0.1-8Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 16V, and a pulse duration of 2ms to promote deep sleep; and during the deep sleep stage, using sinusoidal combined sound waves with an oscillation frequency of 0.1Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 2ms to consolidate the deep sleep state. The ultrasonic transducer is placed in the lower middle part of the pillow body, with an inclination angle of 15°-30°, and the sound waves are focused towards a specific area of ​​the user's brain.

2. The smart pillow for sleep aiding with combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pillow body includes an outer layer of medical-grade silicone and a memory foam inner core. The memory foam inner core has a built-in through-hole ventilation hole and a hollow channel for laying sensor signal lines and ultrasonic module wires. The channel is filled with flexible epoxy resin fixative.

3. The smart pillow for sleep aiding with combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central processing module includes a data storage module for storing user sleep data and the operating mode of the ultrasound control module.

4. The smart pillow for sleep aiding with combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central processing module also includes a wireless communication module for transmitting data to a mobile app for display.

5. A method for regulating a smart pillow for sleep aid using a combination of ultrasound and infrasound to modulate brainwave rhythms, characterized in that, The smart sleep-aid pillow for combined ultrasound and infrasound modulation of brainwave rhythms as described in any one of claims 1-4 comprises: The pressure sleep monitoring sensor monitors pressure changes and uploads the information to the central processing module; The central processing module extracts the user's physiological signals and body movement data based on pressure change information, and analyzes the user's sleep state based on these signals and data. The system determines whether the user has left the bed. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasound control module to turn it off, and the ultrasound control module executes the command; otherwise, The system determines whether the user is awake. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasound control module: output a square combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 8-20Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 1ms. The oscillation frequency gradually decreases from 20Hz to 8Hz, and the deceleration rate is dynamically adjusted based on historical time data of the user transitioning from wakefulness to light sleep. The ultrasound control module executes the command. Otherwise, the system continues to operate. The system determines whether the user is in a light sleep stage. If so, it sends a command to the ultrasonic control module to output a triangular combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 0.1-8Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 16V, and a pulse duration of 2ms. The oscillation frequency gradually decreases from 8Hz to 0.1Hz, and the deceleration rate is dynamically adjusted based on the user's historical time data of transitioning from light sleep to deep sleep. The ultrasonic control module executes the command. Otherwise, If the user is in a deep sleep state, the system will send a command to the ultrasonic control module to output a sinusoidal combined sound wave with an oscillation frequency of 0.1Hz, a peak-to-peak value of 10V, and a pulse duration of 2ms for 3 minutes. The ultrasonic control module will then execute the command.

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