Mobile warning device, specifically for the hearing impaired

A compact, mobile device with a vibration alarm and wireless charging, integrated into a bracelet, addresses the challenge of alerting individuals with hearing impairments by automatically detecting and transmitting alerts via Bluetooth or WiFi, ensuring continuous operation and adaptability to different environments.

DE202025000681U1Active Publication Date: 2025-05-08FISCHER PITT
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE202025000681
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Utility models
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-24
Publication Date
2025-05-08
Estimated Expiration
2035-03-31

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing warning devices fail to effectively alert individuals with hearing impairments or in soundproof environments to potential dangers, such as smoke, carbon monoxide, or gas leaks, and require manual operation which may not be feasible in emergency situations.

Method used

A compact, mobile device with a vibration alarm, optical display, and wireless charging, integrated into a bracelet, that automatically detects and transmits alerts via Bluetooth or WiFi, ensuring continuous operation and adaptability to different environments.

Benefits of technology

Ensures continuous alerting through vibration, even in soundproof conditions, and allows hands-free operation, catering to individuals with hearing impairments or disabilities, and providing immediate notification of potential hazards.

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Abstract

An electrically operated, portable warning device for life-saving purposes, consisting of two modules: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter module converts sounds above a certain adjustable volume into radio signals and transmits them via Bluetooth, SIM card, and / or Wi-Fi. The receiver module, equipped with at least one attachment point for the body and a receiver unit for Bluetooth and / or SIM card / Wi-Fi, forms a coupled transmission unit. The receiver unit contains an electronic unit that uses the incoming radio signals to trigger warning signals from the vibration, sound, and flashing light generators and optionally indicates the type of hazard.
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Description

Short description

[0001] The present invention relates to a compact, mobile electrical warning and emergency call device for saving lives, primarily in that the warning is still reached by warning messages in the form of vibration, light, sound, on the wrist even when the person is not directly present at the location of the warning device or in the case of hearing-impaired persons who cannot hear the warning tones.

[0002] In many buildings, apartments, offices, recreational vehicles, boats, and even in some professions where people work alone and in particularly hazardous locations (sewer systems, septic tanks, underground ventilation pipes, boats, etc.), numerous hazards occur, either intentionally or unintentionally, such as smoke, carbon monoxide, CO2, propane and methane gases, fire, burglary, and even important audible signals such as doorbells and telephone rings.

[0003] People without hearing impairments can react immediately if they are close to the alarm-triggering devices, such as the doorbell or telephone. If these devices are in adjacent rooms or somewhat further away, or if they see and hear TV / radio via Bluetooth, people with severe hearing impairment or even deafness, depending on the degree of their hearing impairment, may not even hear the doorbell or telephone ringing, let alone smoke or other alarms.

[0004] The vibration on the wrist warns of the dangers even when you are napping at lunchtime or at night, if your hearing aid is broken or removed, or if you are in adjoining rooms. STATE OF THE ART

[0005] In order to be able to easily make an emergency call in an emergency situation, various watches or bracelets are known from the state of the art that provide an emergency call function for sending an emergency call signal.

[0006] For example, the document WO 2012 / 079 791 A1 discloses an emergency call wristwatch for locating a location, which has an alarm switch, the actuation of which triggers an emergency call signal, wherein the emergency call wristwatch further comprises a microphone and a loudspeaker to thereby provide a telephone function.

[0007] Document US 8 059 491 B1 also describes an emergency call wristwatch having alarm buttons, the actuation of which triggers an emergency call signal. The emergency call wristwatch further comprises a microphone and a speaker to provide various audio functions, such as reading text messages. Accordingly, with conventional emergency call wristwatches or watches, the user must manually press an alarm button to trigger an emergency call. However, this actuation is not possible in every emergency situation, for example, if their hands or arms are injured. Therefore, there is a need for improvement in this regard.

[0008] There are portable telephones, portable computers and wristwatches.

[0009] In recent years, developments in so-called “wearables” have become known, i.e. communication devices that can be worn on the body. These devices consist of mobile devices that are worn on the wrist in combination with watches or portable computers as a replacement for a wristwatch.

[0010] US patent 6,078,803 A discloses a device in which a computer and a mobile phone are connected by a data cable and two wristbands, and worn as a complete unit on the wrist. One disadvantage is the inflexible connection; if the data cable is permanently attached, it must be larger than the wrist circumference and therefore does not lie flat, posing a safety hazard. If the cable is flexible and adjustable, a professional is required for fitting each cable. Another disadvantage is the inefficient design with two screens, keyboards, etc., which also makes the device unwieldy.

[0011] DE 200 07 125 U1 discloses a device in which two modules are connected by a band. A fundamental disadvantage is the choice of only two modules, which results in insufficient adaptation to the wrist's capabilities. Another disadvantage lies in the selected fastening and connecting components. A flexible band with attached modules is more difficult to protect mechanically than a rigid module with joints.

[0012] Another device, known from DE 299 08 171 U1, has three modules: two connected by a flexible and a fixed link, and the third, worn around the neck, by radio frequency. One disadvantage is that it consists of two parts, worn on the wrist and around the neck, which is not recommended for children and teenagers (transmitter on the head, raising potential health concerns). Another disadvantage is that adjusting the size to the wrist circumference with a single adjustable side panel (only two modules) may be more difficult than with two adjustable side panels (four modules).

[0013] US 5 218 A577 A describes a terminal device consisting of four different modules connected by four different components. These components are intended to ensure a flexible connection between the modules. The mechanical function of these connecting parts is described in detail, but the electrical connections are not. To allow a modular design, the device requires multi-pole cables of appropriate dimensions to withstand mechanical stress. The disadvantage is that the design of the mechanical connection (especially Fig. 6) is so large and heavy. Another economic disadvantage is that a plug connection in the connecting links is not possible (according to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6). Each time a size adjustment or module replacement is required, the housing must be opened (by a specialist).

[0014] WO 00 / 55 978 A1 discloses a device that is attached to the wrist and rests on the back of the hand. A disadvantage here is that all components are located on the back of the hand. The space in the wrist area is not utilized at all.

[0015] From DE 198 58 942 A1, an end device is known in which the transmitter and receiver are arranged in a watch case, which also only allows input with pictograms via a knurled dial. This limits communication capabilities.

[0016] German patent DE 299 12 001 U1 discloses a device that combines three modules in a bracelet form. A disadvantage of the bracelet system is that it is difficult to adapt it to the body (arm diameter) and to the climate (wearing it with clothing). Another disadvantage is inherent to the system's design: this necessitates three displays, three batteries, etc.

[0017] CH 587 471 A5 also describes a wrist-worn device. In this case, the device components are connected by cables, which poses a constant danger, especially for children playing, and is therefore disadvantageous. Another disadvantage lies in the chosen fastening and connecting element. A flexible band with attached modules is more difficult to protect mechanically than a rigid module.

[0018] DE 10 2005 011 502 A1 describes a digital assistant, with the disadvantage that the scope and operation of the system requires a lot of technical know-how and time, whereby people who depend on a life-saving device but are not physically or mentally able to always use it correctly and keep it operational are not really helped here.

[0019] DE 10 2017 116 437 A1 concerns a rescue bracelet which does not contain any warning devices, in particular no vibration alarm.

[0020] Furthermore DE 10 2021 117 616A1, WO 2009 / 109 642 A1, DE 10 2015 111 506 A1. The problem

[0021] There are numerous warning and reporting devices for humans and animals in premises such as homes, work spaces and leisure properties.

[0022] For example, burglar, smoke, fire, carbon monoxide, propane, methane gas alarms, apartment and telephone bells.

[0023] Changes in lifestyles and building practices have created additional sources of danger that did not exist before.

[0024] For example, Native American tepees, with their fireplaces and thermal exhaust ventilation at the top of the tent and air intake through loosely sealed entrance curtains and openings in the tent, were able to provide warmth and cooking facilities for people and animals without poisoning them from the toxic CO (carbon monoxide) gases produced by the fire, the CO2 gases, and the CO2 produced by people and animals when they breathed out. The oxygen consumed by the fire and the breathing of people and animals was also replaced by the air supplied through openings in the tent. The thermal exhaust ventilation and the opening at the top of the tent sucked the harmful air out of the tent.

[0025] For a long time, our living and working spaces were equipped with fireplaces in stoves, fireplaces, and stoves, along with corresponding exhaust chimneys. Windows and doors in the simplest configurations of the time were not airtight, had gaps, and caused a constant draft in the rooms. Drafts and exhaust chimneys provided the necessary air exchange. Natural gas lines, propane stoves, heating elements, etc., were nonexistent or very rare. Everything was fine.

[0026] Then came the structural changes: central heating, electric and gas stoves, water heaters, the elimination of chimneys, double glazing with thicker, weather-sealed frames, and interior and exterior wall insulation. Rooms became "airtight" to prevent heat from escaping.

[0027] This applies to houses, but also boats, camping vehicles, holiday homes, etc. Like a plastic container.

[0028] Without opening the "lid" there will be no CO and CO2 extraction and no oxygen supply. The CO2 pollutants produced by humans and animals in the rooms and the oxygen consumption, the oxygen consumption by open fires such as gas stoves, gas water heaters, fireplaces, propane stoves, propane solar heaters and the CO and CO2 emissions produced by the devices when they are lit are life-threatening in the rooms mentioned above without manual ventilation (automatic ventilation is usually lacking) and cannot usually be smelled, tasted or seen. This is in contrast to the smoke produced when a fire breaks out, which can be perceived, at least as long as you are not asleep or visually impaired. The law has reacted and made smoke detectors compulsory in certain rooms. But not everywhere. Boats, camping vehicles, certain businesses, trade fairs, etc., do not have these life-saving devices.

[0029] There are no legally required measures for the other lethal gases that are produced. In this case, everyone is responsible for themselves.

[0030] But they all have the same disadvantage: if you stay in adjoining rooms and are hearing impaired, you miss the signals and fail to take necessary measures.

[0031] The warning devices known to date do not solve this problem.

[0032] Therefore, the use and perception of warning devices is not only necessary, but also the transmission of signals to those who are absent or who are hearing impaired is a must.

[0033] This is achieved and solved with the above-mentioned invention

[0034] All mobile inventions according to the state of the art also lack: Automatic wireless charging A maintenance-free and user-free function that operates at all times.

[0035] A vibration alarm (so that hearing or visually impaired people and people who work with noise-protection or communication headphones and are hindered by music playing in the headphones can also perceive the alarm) optionally also with a visual indication from which side danger is threatening. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0036] Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a warning device that is always wearable and ready for use, like a watch, and warns of as many dangers as possible using vibration, light and sound, thus saving lives. In particular, and especially for people with health disabilities such as hearing impairments, visual impairments or mental disabilities, and in certain situations at work and during leisure time in which headphones or noise-cancelling earpieces are worn and / or hearing amplifiers are switched off, the device warns people through vibrations on the body. The device should not be switchable off and should warn in the event of a power outage. The intended watch is primarily intended to ensure that the user wears a watch as usual - namely the one with the warning device - and thus has their life-saving device constantly ready.The device with a vibration alarm on the body and the audio transmitter module, which transmits the warning signals to the warning device on the body once a certain volume is reached, is mobile and can carry out and trigger the transmission using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or a SIM card.

[0037] In addition, the type of hazard detection can optionally be displayed. Description of the technical solution

[0038] This object is achieved by a device having the features of claim 1 and the advantageous embodiments. These are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0039] The invention proposes a housing equipped with technology and a wristband, provided with electrically operated, maintenance-free, always-operational technology, as well as individual modules that can be used together or alone.

[0040] The modules would be: 1. a water- and explosion-proof receiving device that can receive sound signals via Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi, SIM card and can reproduce these in warning messages via vibrator and / or sound and light signals. 2. optional 1 electric clock 3. a power supply via a USB socket and / or battery and / or rechargeable battery, preferably with a wireless automatic charging device. 4. optional, a visual display of the type of hazard detection 5. the audio transmitter, which can receive the audio warning signals from a certain adjustable volume and converts them into impulses that are forwarded via Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi, SIM card to the receiving device, where they trigger the warning. 6. a power supply for the audio transmitter, which ensures power supply via a USB socket and / or battery and / or rechargeable battery, preferably with a wireless automatic charging device. 5. and / or optionally a connection option for a mobile phone or mobile phone module.

[0041] Although numerous features and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, this description is for illustrative purposes only. Modifications by omitting individual features or by combining the individual features presented are within the scope of the invention as long as they do not depart from the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure includes all combinations of the individual features presented. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2012 / 079 791 A1

[0006] US 8 059 491 B1

[0007] US 6 078 803 A

[0010] DE 200 07 125 U1

[0011] DE 299 08 171 U1

[0012] US 5 218

[0013] WO 00 / 55 978 A1

[0014] DE 198 58 942 A1

[0015] DE 299 12 001 U1

[0016] CH 587 471 A5

[0017] DE 10 2005 011 502 A1

[0018] DE 10 2017 116 437 A1

[0019] DE 10 2021 117 616A1

[0020] WO 2009 / 109 642 A1

[0020] DE 10 2015 111 506 A1

[0020]

Claims

[1] An electrical, portable warning device for life-saving, consisting of two modules: the transmitter and the receiver module. The transmitter module converts sounds above a certain adjustable volume into radio signals and transmits them via Bluetooth, SIM card, and / or Wi-Fi. The receiver module, which has at least one attachment option on the body and a receiver for Bluetooth and / or SIM card, Wi-Fi, forms a coupled transmission unit. The receiver is equipped with an electronic unit that uses the incoming radio signals to trigger warning signals in the vibration, sound, and flashing light generator components and optionally indicates the type of hazard. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized bythat the device and its modules are electrically powered, notifies of a power emergency via the warning device, and the device has one or more of the following operating modes: a. USB port, b. AC power and power converter, c. Battery, d. Rechargeable battery, e. Wireless charging. [3] Device according to claim 1 characterized by that the modules are waterproof and explosion-proof [4] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the receiving device module has a shutdown device with a double safety switch for shutdown. [5] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the transmitter module has a DB setting control from which the module reacts to the volume of the tones and sends out impulses. a. Preferably, the transmitting device module can be designed in the form of a 230-volt power plug and also operate with a 230-volt power supply, wherein the plug has an anti-theft device that locks the device in the socket. b. Preferably, the module can be provided with a mounting bracket to which it can be screwed in a theft-proof manner. c. Preferably, the module may be provided with a control light that signals readiness. [6] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the receiving module has a control for adjusting the strength of the vibration. [7] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the receiving module has an electrically operated clock. a. Preferably, the sources of danger can be indicated by acoustic identification, e.g. Morse code short, short, short; long, long, long; short, long, short, long; etc. or optically by appropriate marking on the LED or by the LED colour and, in the case of the vibration alarm, also by Morse code. b. Preferably, the device can perform the following monitoring functions and operate hazard warning and can be expanded accordingly if required, b1. Air pollutant monitoring e.g. CO, CO2, formaldehyde, smoke, propane, natural gas, methane, radon gas, b2. Body function monitoring e.g. blood pressure, heart rhythm, heart rate, etc.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Wristwatch with additional units fitted to band - includes receiver or calculator all of similar rectangular form

    CH587471A5

  • Digital assistant for use in e.g. home, has decentralized individual modules characterized by input mechanisms, where modules are communicated among each other, and communication occurs through infrared, radio or handy-radio

    DE102005011502A1

  • workwear unit, wristband, connector, glove, sensor module and methods for recording, documenting, analyzing, controlling and / or teaching processes

    DE102015111506A1

  • Rescue bracelet

    DE102017116437A1

  • Rescue bracelet

    DE102021117616A1