Sensorimotor training device

Abstract

Device for sensorimotor training by collecting elements on a surface, comprising at least a drive unit, at least two wheels connected to the drive unit and arranged parallel to each other, at least two boundary walls arranged on the underside of the device between the wheels and perpendicular to each other in the direction of travel of the wheels, wherein the boundary walls form at least two successive sections, namely a conveying section and a fixing section, and at least one conveying roller arranged between the boundary walls in the conveying section and connected to the drive unit, wherein in the conveying section the distance between the boundary walls is greater than the width of the element and the distance between the at least one conveying roller and the surface is less than the height of the element, so that the conveying roller can move the element into the fixing section.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of promoting cognitive abilities, in particular the training of sensorimotor skills, of a user, in particular a device which makes it possible to train spatial thinking and coordination by collecting elements.

[0002] DE 10 2024 106 858 A1 relates to a training device for training the mental and motor skills of a user and a method for training the mental and motor skills of a user.

[0003] DE 20 2024 104 051 U1 refers to a piston compressor based on the opposed-piston principle.

[0004] DE 10 2023 100 847 B3 refers to a digital training mat with a pressure sensor and a light source.

[0005] DE 10 2018 113 602 A1 relates to a device for physical exercises with a proximity sensor and a method for control.

[0006] DE 10 2016 112 359 B4 refers to a facility for training the mental and / or physical abilities or activities of at least one user.

[0007] DE 20 2012 012 831 U1 relates to a training device for training and / or testing executive brain functions, in particular working memory and / or cognitive flexibility and / or inhibition of attention and behavior, of an athlete through physical and cognitive training during sport.

[0008] The targeted development of cognitive abilities is an essential component of modern rehabilitation concepts, particularly in neurological rehabilitation. Numerous scientific studies demonstrate that structured cognitive training not only improves concentration and performance but can also prevent age-related cognitive decline.

[0009] Patients who have suffered, for example, a traumatic brain injury, a stroke or a neurodegenerative disease, often show significant impairments in key areas such as attention, reaction speed and sensorimotor coordination.

[0010] To compensate for these deficits, computer-based training programs are increasingly being used. These offer a varied, but predominantly digital learning environment and naturally have limitations regarding physical interactivity. Learning environments that address both motor and cognitive processes simultaneously and practically, and offer a high degree of immersion, are particularly effective. The use of tangible, interactive elements enables a more intensive and holistic training experience.

[0011] The targeted development of sensorimotor skills has also proven effective in early childhood education. The advantages of interactive, physically experiential learning methods are particularly evident here.

[0012] Digital training methods reach their limits, particularly when it comes to developing spatial reasoning skills. Abilities such as perspective perception, mentally rotating objects, or navigating three-dimensional spaces can only be trained to a limited extent on a screen. This is due, among other things, to the lack of multisensory stimuli such as haptics and depth perception, as well as the lack of physical interaction with real objects. As a result, the training often remains abstract and far removed from the real-world demands of everyday life.

[0013] Against this background, there is a clear need for an innovative, interactive learning and training tool that sustainably strengthens cognitive abilities in realistic application scenarios.

[0014] This problem is at least partially solved by a device for sensorimotor training by collecting elements, a corresponding element for use with the device, and a computer-readable medium according to the independent claims. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0015] Accordingly, a device according to the invention for sensorimotor training by collecting elements on a surface comprises at least one drive unit, two wheels connected to the drive unit and arranged parallel to each other, two boundary walls arranged on the underside of the device between the wheels and perpendicular to each other in relation to the direction of travel of the wheels, wherein the boundary walls form at least two successive sections, namely a conveying section and a fixing section, and at least one conveying roller arranged between the boundary walls in the conveying section and connected to the drive unit.

[0016] According to the invention, in the conveying section the distance between the boundary walls is greater than the width of an element and the distance between the at least one conveying roller and the ground is less than the height of an element, so that the conveying roller can move the element into the fixing section.

[0017] The device according to the invention causes loosely distributed elements to be first taken into the device when passing over it, and after taking in further elements, to be lined up behind the device and carried along, thus forming a chain of connected elements.

[0018] When an element passes over it, it is gripped by a preferably elastic and grippy, rotating conveyor roller and transported backwards relative to the device. The thrust of this conveying movement can be used to push a previously picked-up element out of the device (or out of its fixing section) and to fill the space thus freed up by the currently picked-up element. Each newly picked-up element replaces the previously picked-up element in the device.

[0019] In one embodiment, the at least one conveyor roller can be positively connected to at least one motor of the drive unit. This means that the direction of rotation of the at least one conveyor roller corresponds to the direction of rotation of at least one of the wheels.

[0020] According to a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, the at least one conveyor roller can be arranged on one of the axles of the at least two wheels. Alternatively, the at least one conveyor roller can be arranged on its own axle. Preferably, the conveyor roller can be equipped with a grippy, in particular an elastic, material on its contact surface.

[0021] The position and dimensions of the conveyor roller can preferably be geometrically dependent on the fixing section and the size of the elements. Accordingly, in preferred embodiments, the conveyor roller can be dimensioned and arranged so that it can move freely between the boundary walls, exert slight pressure on elements as it passes over them, and thus move them under the device. An element can then be held in the fixing section without any force from the conveyor roller acting on the respective element. The conveyor roller can be designed in conjunction with the wheels or with at least one of the wheels, or it can be designed independently of the wheels, particularly with its own drive. Depending on the embodiment, the drive unit and the rotation of the conveyor roller can also be either dependent on or independent of the wheels.Even when a grippy conveying roller is used in preferred embodiments, it is crucial for the invention that a force-fit connection is formed at the moment of contact between the element and the conveying roller, thus moving the element through the conveying roller; this can also be achieved by toothing or (electro-)magnetic coupling. The cylindrical shape of the conveying roller and / or its axial arrangement are also only one possibility. In other, alternative embodiments, other conveying mechanisms, such as conveyor belts, can also be used. To ensure that the elements "find each other" in the area between the boundary walls, that is, are magnetically coupled to each other before leaving the device, a pre-alignment of the element just picked up has proven effective.Preferably, this pre-alignment can be achieved by the magnetic force of electric motors arranged close to the axis; however, depending on the overall design, a separate magnet might be necessary for this purpose. Alternatively, in preferred embodiments, the pre-alignment can be effected by the track direction of the wheels. Alternatively or additionally, the alignment of the elements relative to each other can be achieved or supported by magnets arranged within the elements.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the conveying roller can be arranged on a common axis with at least one wheel; the wheel and conveying roller thus form a single unit, which is mechanically very simple and therefore advantageous. In alternative embodiments, the two functions of moving the device and conveying can be separated by independent or decoupled drives for the wheel and conveying roller. While this is mechanically more complex, it offers other advantages, such as a shorter overall design of the device and lower centrifugal forces during steering at the retaining clamp, since the wheel and clamp are closer together, as well as independent movement of the conveying roller and the device.

[0023] According to a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, the distance between the boundary walls at the end of the fixing section can be less than the width of the element, wherein the boundary walls in the fixing section can be designed to be flexible at least in sections or, alternatively or in addition, at least one magnet, preferably a controllable electromagnet, can be arranged on the underside of the device within the fixing section.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, a projection can be arranged at least on one of the boundary walls at the end of the fixing section, forming a clamp-like structure; the distance between the boundary walls in this area is therefore less than the width of the element. This clamp forms a mechanical barrier to hold the swallowed element in the fixing section of the device. Under normal conditions, the clamp restricts the width of the tunnel formed by the underside of the device and its boundary walls, ensuring that one element always remains in the device. The resistance of this clamp is precisely sufficient to allow the device to hold an indefinite number of elements in a row and pull them along as it moves, while simultaneously enabling the conveyor roller to push the still-held element through the clamp by means of a newly picked-up element.Essentially, the clamp is molded directly onto the tunnel's boundary walls, but it can also be formed by a separate, attached, plugged, or screwed-in component and / or not rely on its own elasticity, but instead, for example, generate the necessary resistance via a hinged bearing and an external spring, or open and close entirely via mechanical triggers (lever action). Depending on the material, an adjustable spring force can be advantageous to counteract or compensate for material fatigue and / or wear.

[0025] In preferred embodiments, where the elements are magnetically coupled to one another, a magnet arranged in the fixing section of the device can also function as a clamp. If this magnet is located at the end of the device, the first element picked up would then be outside the device.

[0026] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the drive unit can comprise a receiver, a control unit, a battery and at least one motor, wherein at least two parallel wheels of the at least two wheels are driven by one motor or different motors.

[0027] A drive unit consisting of two individually driven wheels and featuring a so-called armored steering system has proven effective, whereby the steering movement is achieved by driving one wheel on one side faster than the wheel on the other. Alternatively or additionally, other drive and steering concepts can also be used. For example, in preferred embodiments, a device with four wheels and articulated steering can be used, or, alternatively or additionally, the wheels can be replaced by tracks.

[0028] In preferred embodiments, the device can be controlled by established techniques known to those skilled in the art, such as infrared or radio wave remote controls with basic functions (forward, left, right, reverse).

[0029] In another preferred embodiment, control can be achieved via a digital connection, for example via Bluetooth. ® or via Wi-Fi between the device and a smartphone, the smartphone having a corresponding application (app). Control can then be achieved via input on the smartphone's touchscreen. In preferred embodiments, additional information or instructions can also be displayed to the user via the smartphone. Individual events can be indicated by vibration, sound, or video on the smartphone.

[0030] According to a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, the boundary walls in front of the conveying section can form a receiving section, wherein in the receiving section the distance between the boundary walls is greater than the width of the element and, optionally, the distance between the underside of the device and the ground is greater than the height of the element.

[0031] An element according to the invention for use with the device comprises a flat, preferably circular housing; and two magnets arranged opposite each other in the housing, such as neodymium spherical magnets.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, each element contains two magnets that enable the coupling of different elements. Preferably, elements can be connected, i.e., coupled, via two magnets, so that chains of connected elements can be formed. In the coupled state, the inner magnets attract each other and align themselves towards the center of the link segment. This ensures that coupling between two elements only occurs when the respective elements are precisely aligned with their respective contact points. This occurs precisely where desired within the device and not, where undesired, in the field.

[0033] According to a further embodiment of the element according to the invention, the magnets can align themselves with respect to their polarity depending on magnetic fields acting externally on the element.

[0034] According to a further embodiment of the element according to the invention, the element can have at least one wheel, wherein the wheel protrudes from the housing at least on a flat side.

[0035] In preferred embodiments, the element is flat and cylindrical and moves on wheels. Wheels, as used in the present invention, can be wheels, rollers, balls, and the like. Alternatively, sliding elements, for example made of Teflon, can be used instead of or in addition to the wheels.

[0036] In preferred embodiments, the elements may deviate in shape from the cylindrical form; for example, the elements may have the shape of idealized round barrels or cubes.

[0037] In further, preferred embodiments, the elements can be endowed with additional properties, in particular interactive properties, by means of additional technology. For example, in preferred embodiments, NFC or RFID chips integrated into the elements can be read in the device, thereby triggering extended functions or notifications; for example, a score can be counted in this way, especially if elements are assigned different weights by being equipped with different additional functionalities. Energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, capacitors) integrated into the element, in conjunction with induction coils, could exert an electromagnetic effect, and by retracting the magnets, already coupled element chains could be selectively "broken," i.e., the coupling between elements could be interrupted or released.In addition, the elements can be equipped with lighting, in particular LED lighting, to enable further notifications or effects; the energy supply of the elements can be provided, for example, by energy transfer from the device to the element when passing through the device.

[0038] In preferred embodiments, reflective surfaces or components on the elements, e.g., in the infrared spectrum, of the device (which is then equipped with corresponding transmitting and receiving modules) can facilitate the localization of the elements when a predefined distance is undershot. For example, the device control can be overridden by the user via software, allowing for more precise detection of the element. In this way, difficulty levels can be varied, thereby increasing the training effect or adapting it to the user's abilities or needs.

[0039] In a further aspect of the invention, a computer-readable medium is provided. The computer-readable medium stores data that defines both a digital representation of the device without a drive unit as described above and / or an element as described above, as well as operating instructions suitable for controlling an additive manufacturing device to produce the device without a drive unit as described above and / or an element as described above using the digital representation, when this data is sent to the additive manufacturing device. Brief description of the images

[0040] The present disclosure is described in detail in accordance with one or more different embodiments with reference to the following figures. The figures serve only for illustration and represent only typical or exemplary embodiments. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of the device with the elements. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic bottom view of the device with the elements. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the device from below. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of the element. Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic side view of the element. Fig. Figure 6 shows a section view of the element.

[0041] The illustrations are not exhaustive and do not limit the present disclosure to the exact form that is revealed. Detailed description

[0042] Fig. Figure 1 shows the device with internal elements arranged sequentially inside and behind the device. The housing 1 is shown lifted off in the illustration so that the internal parts of the device, which are covered and thus protected by the housing during operation, are visible. A drive unit 5 is connected to at least two parallel, individually driven wheels 2. The wheels 2 can be set in motion via a gear transmission, as shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows the drive unit 5 comprising a receiver, a control unit, a battery, and at least one motor. Steering is achieved by means of a tank steering system, in which one wheel on one side is driven faster than the wheel on the other side. Boundary walls 3 are located along the sides of the housing and serve as guides for the elements 6 during their movement within the device.

[0043] Fig. Figure 2 shows the device from below, with the elements 6 located both inside and outside the device. The elements 6 are arranged one behind the other. This arrangement is not shown in Figure 2 due to the magnets attached to the elements. Fig. 2. When the element passes over the device, it is gripped by the rotating conveyor roller and moved backwards relative to the device. This thrust is used to push any previously picked-up element out of the device and to fill the space thus freed up by the current element.

[0044] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic bottom view of the device with its functionally divided sections: receiving section, conveying section, and fixing section. The element 6 is drawn into the receiving section by magnetic forces between the magnets located in the elements and the magnet in the device. The conveying section contains at least one conveying roller 4. The conveying roller 4 can be arranged on the same axis 15 as the wheels 2 or on a separate axis. The drive and rotation of the conveying roller can be either dependent on or independent of the wheels, as this is irrelevant for achieving the thrust required to draw in an element.The conveying roller 4 preferably has a non-slip coating that enables the conveying roller 4 to adhere to the element 6 and facilitates its smooth movement, first from the receiving section to the conveying section and then from the conveying section to the fixing section. In some embodiments, the area between the boundary walls 3 may be divided only into a conveying section and a fixing section. In this case, the element enters the conveying section of the device directly and is conveyed into the fixing section by means of the conveying roller. The boundary walls 3 are movable within the fixing section and have projections 8 by which an element 6 is held in the fixing section and moves with the device until it is pushed out by the next element entering the device.The position of the conveyor roller 4 is geometrically dependent on the projections 8 and the size of the elements 6. Furthermore, the cylindrical shape and the axial arrangement of the conveyor roller are only one possibility realized in one embodiment. For example, a conveyor belt can be used instead of the conveyor roller. Fig. The projections 8 are arranged directly on the side walls of the boundary walls 3, but they can also be a separate, attached, plugged-in, screwed, or otherwise connected component and not act due to their own elasticity, but rather generate the necessary resistance, for example, by means of a hinged bearing and an external spring, or open and close entirely by mechanical triggers or leverage. Due to material properties, an adjustable spring force may be advantageous, for example, to compensate for or counteract wear. Since the elements are magnetically coupled to each other, a magnet arranged in the device could also take over the holding function of the projections. If such a magnet is located at the end of the device, the first element would then be outside the device.The boundary walls 3 are straight and essentially parallel to each other, thus defining the receiving section, the conveying section, and the fixing section through which the elements 6 pass. In some embodiments, the boundary walls 3 can narrow in the area of ​​the fixing section. In this case, the arrangement of projections 8 can be at least partially dispensed with. An element 6 is then held in the fixing section due to the difference between the diameter B of the element and the distance between the boundary walls 3, and is then pushed out of the fixing section by the deflection of the boundary walls 3 in the fixing section by the next elements.

[0045] Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows various views of element 6. The element is made of a plastic suitable for the respective application and consists of a two-part, planar housing, the two parts being configured to connect to each other via a mortise and tenon joint. Element 6 has a diameter B and a height h, where the diameter B is smaller than the width A between the two opposing boundary walls 3 in the conveying section of the device and larger than the width C between the projections 8 of the device. The element is equipped with wheels arranged on an axle 13, which facilitate the movement of the element on a surface. In preferred embodiments, element 6 is used with two wheels 11. The wheels 11 facilitate the movement of element 6 within the device but are not essential.The element comprises at least two magnets 12, which are located in the . Fig.Figure 6 shows the magnets. The magnets are neodymium spherical magnets and are located opposite each other in separate sections 14, which determine the arrangement of the magnets within the element. The arrangement of the magnets determines which side of the elements attracts and connects to each other, thus determining the orientation of the elements. In the uncoupled state, the inner magnets attract each other and align towards the center of the element. This ensures that coupling between two elements only occurs when the respective elements are precisely aligned with each other at their respective contact points. The wheels 11 facilitate the movement and alignment of the elements 6. The elements 6 preferably have a circular shape, but depending on the application, they can also have other, particularly different, shapes and may also have more than two wheels.For example, the element can have a square shape and be equipped with three wheels. In this case, more than one magnet is arranged along opposite surfaces, and the elements attract each other along the surfaces where the magnets are located.

[0046] In its simplest form, the device can be remotely controlled using established infrared or radio wave remote controls with basic functions such as forward, left, right, and reverse. Alternatively, in a digital version, the device can be controlled, for example, via Bluetooth. ®The system can be controlled via smartphones and a corresponding app, with controls then accessible via the touchscreen. A training sequence and / or training goal can be defined, and results can be displayed to illustrate the training progress, for example, for comparison purposes. Individual events, such as picking up or ejecting an element, can be indicated haptically through vibration, sound, or visual display on the smartphone.

[0047] The connection between cognitive and sensorimotor skills is fundamental for developing and maintaining functional independence in everyday life. Especially in children, neurological patients, and older adults, targeted support for these skills is crucial for linking learning, movement, and cognitive processes. Sensorimotor skills training is an effective method for activating higher cognitive functions and promoting neuronal plasticity.

[0048] A user, such as a child or patient, can easily control the device and collect the elements. In this way, the present invention aims to promote motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Due to its simple construction, the device can be easily used by children and can be manufactured in various sizes and designs. Furthermore, the elements can be marked with letters, numbers, symbols, or pictures, for example, which allow for a specific, predefined arrangement for collecting the elements in a particular order to build a required word or picture, thus further promoting the child's development. The child not only builds but also observes how the elements automatically connect under magnetic force. Since the elements can have different shapes and colors, this also contributes to fostering creativity.

[0049] Controlling the device precisely requires constant focus on the target object and the direction of movement. The user trains their ability to concentrate on a task for extended periods. To successfully complete the task (e.g., collecting specific objects in a sequence), information must be stored in the short term, actions planned, and decisions made. In this way, memory and action planning are specifically enhanced. Unexpected situations during the task (e.g., blockages, hard-to-reach objects) require creative solutions and strategic adjustments—essential skills for adaptive thinking. Perceiving distances, directions, and object positions activates the parietal lobe, which is responsible for visuospatial abilities. Sensorimotor activity simultaneously stimulates many brain regions.This simultaneous activation promotes neuronal networking and strengthens the brain's neuroplastic abilities - those cognitive processes - a key prerequisite for development, adaptation and rehabilitation.

Claims

[1] Device for collecting elements (6) on a substrate, comprising at least: a drive unit (5); at least two wheels (2) connected to the drive unit (5) and arranged parallel to each other; at least two boundary walls (3) arranged on the underside of the device between the wheels (2) and perpendicular to each other in relation to the direction of travel of the wheels (2), wherein the boundary walls (3) form at least two successive sections, namely a conveying section and a fixing section; and at least one conveyor roller (4) arranged between the boundary walls in the conveying section and connected to the drive unit; characterized by , that in the conveying section the distance of the boundary walls (3) is greater than the width of the element (6) and the distance between the at least one conveying roller and the ground is less than the height of the element (6), so that the conveying roller (4) can move the element (6) into the fixing section. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by , that at the end of the fixing section the distance between the boundary walls (3) is less than the width of the element (6), wherein the boundary walls (3) in the fixing section are at least partially flexible or at least one magnet is arranged on the underside of the device within the fixing section. [3] Device according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by, that the drive unit (5) comprises a receiver, a control unit, a battery and at least one motor, wherein at least two parallel wheels of the at least two wheels (2) are driven by one motor or different motors. [4] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the at least one conveyor roller (4) is positively connected to at least one motor of the drive unit (5). [5] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the direction of travel of the at least one conveyor roller (4) corresponds to the direction of travel of the at least two wheels (2). [6] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that the at least one conveying roller (4) is arranged on one of the axles (15) of the at least two wheels (2) and / or on its own axle. [7] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that at least one conveyor roller (4) is equipped on its contact surface with a grippy, in particular an elastic material. [8] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the boundary walls (3) form a receiving section in front of the conveying section, wherein in the receiving section the distance between the boundary walls (3) is greater than the width of the element (6) and, optionally, the distance between the underside of the device and the ground is greater than the height of the element (6); [9] An element (6) for use with the device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: a flat, preferably circular housing; and two magnets (12) arranged opposite each other in the housing, such as neodymium spherical magnets. [10] The element (6) according to claim 9, characterized by, that the magnets (12) can align themselves with respect to their polarity depending on external magnetic fields acting on the element (6). [11] The element (6) according to any one of claims 9 to 10, characterized by , that the element (6) has at least one wheel (11), wherein the wheel (11) protrudes from the housing at least on one flat side. [12] A computer-readable medium that stores data defining both a digital representation of the device without a drive unit (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or an element (6) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, and operating instructions suitable for controlling an additive manufacturing device to produce the device without a drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or an element according to any one of claims 9 to 11 using the digital representation when this data is sent to the additive manufacturing device.

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