Device for generating sensory stimuli for newborns and method for generating corresponding stimuli

Abstract

TITLE: DEVICE FOR GENERATING SENSORY STIMULUS IN NEWBORNS AND METHOD FOR GENERATING CORRESPONDING STIMULUS The present invention relates to a device for generating sensory stimuli in newborns, characterized in that it comprises at least three sources of stimulation: a light source for generating a visual stimulus, a sound source for generating an auditory stimulus, and an odor source for generating an olfactory stimulus. The invention also includes a method that can be implemented by such a device. Abstract figure: Figure 1 FIGURES

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE FOR GENERING SENSORY STIMULI FOR NEWBORNS AND METHOD FOR GENERING CORRESPONDING STIMULI Scope of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for generating sensory stimuli for a child, in particular a newborn.

[0002] In particular, the invention relates to such a device intended to simulate the presence of a reference person, preferably an adult, such as a parent, in the immediate vicinity of a premature newborn and thus to promote the reduction of its stress, promote its development, improve the relaxation of a newborn, premature or not and positively influence its hospital stay by modifying the acoustic, olfactory, visual and tactile environment in a known innate context.

[0003] The invention also relates to a method for generating sensory stimuli that can be implemented by such a device and to the use of the device according to the invention to reduce stress in a newborn or hospitalized child. Prior art

[0004] Premature infants, due to their fragility and the care they require, are subjected to numerous stressors during their first months of life, such as adaptation to the environment, or intense and new / unknown visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile stimulation (Als, H. 1986. “A synactive model of neonatal behavioral organization: framework for the assessment of neurobehavioral development in the premature infant and for support of infants and parents in the neonatal intensive care environment. Special issue: the high-risk neonate: developmental therapy perspectives”, Physical and Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 6, (3 / 4), p. 3-55.).

[0005] Ambient noise, light, medical interventions, handling and care and hygiene procedures, as well as certain syndromes inherent to the baby's health, such as respiratory distress or necrotizing ulcerative enterocolitis, are the source of stress, more or less intense, experienced by premature babies.

[0006] In a medicalized environment, the immediate close contact of the newborn with the adults around him, and in particular with his mother, is necessarily limited in time.

[0007] However, so-called “developmental” care encourages and promotes the presence of reference persons, and in particular the mother, near the newborn.

[0008] Direct physical contact between a newborn, whether premature or not, and its mother, to whom it has already become accustomed to warmth, smell, voice, movements, and heartbeat, is essential for its development. In some cases, for health reasons, the newborn is placed in a medicalized environment and consequently has limited contact with the adults around it, particularly its mother. However, it is well known that the presence of a key adult in the immediate vicinity of the newborn, and especially its mother, is very beneficial to its psychological and even physical development. Such a presence is of particular importance in the case of premature newborns.

[0009] However, the conditions of hospitalization of newborns, the state of health of the child, and the duration of these hospitalizations often do not allow parents to ensure a presence with the newborn as regularly as they would like, or to ensure direct carrying of the newborn (encouraged in NIDCAP programs) for as long as they would like and which is beneficial for the newborn.

[0010] It has also been observed that children born prematurely suffer, more often than average, from various disorders, including: stress, breathing difficulties, ocular immaturity, difficulty regulating body temperature, or even hearing disorders.

[0011] Some of these hearing disorders could be caused by exposing premature newborns to inappropriate ambient noise levels and frequencies before their ears are fully developed. To avoid such hearing disorders, adults are generally advised to speak softly when in the immediate vicinity of a premature newborn, and recommendations have been issued to limit ambient noise in hospital wards.

[0012] Regarding newborn stress, intensive care units for premature infants are working towards calmer living and developmental conditions but are still searching for solutions to more closely replicate the living and developmental conditions of the maternal, familial, or reference environment. During the first weeks of life, these infants are exposed to numerous stressors, such as invasive and painful care procedures or various manipulations for which they are not physically prepared at this stage of development. Early exposure to stressful life events can have a long-term impact on the newborn's development, particularly with regard to their psychological vulnerability.

[0013] Furthermore, repeated painful or invasive stimulation leads to an increase in the excitability of nociceptive neurons (pain neurons), which can result in a phenomenon of hyperalgesia, during which even stimulation Non-painful tactile stimuli eventually excite these neurons. Several researchers have also highlighted the long-term implications of a prolonged stay in neonatal care, particularly on reactions to painful stimuli (Johnston, CC; Stevens, BJ; Yang, F.; Horton, L. 1996 “Developmental changes in response to heelstick in preterm infants: a prospective cohort study,” Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 38, pp. 438–445). This research suggests that early painful events can be rapidly imprinted in neural pathways, potentially leading to different sensory, neuroendocrine, and behavioral responses.

[0014] To date there is no device to improve and reduce stress to facilitate the development of newborns, compatible in particular with hospital conditions which generates at least three stimuli among the visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile stimuli. Objectives of the invention

[0015] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks of the prior art.

[0016] The invention aims in particular to encourage emotional comfort and reduce stress to facilitate the development of newborns in good conditions, and particularly of premature newborns.

[0017] One objective of the invention is thus to provide a device enabling a newborn, and particularly a premature newborn, to modify its immediate medicalized environment in order to have a reassuring feeling of the presence of an adult at its side in order to reduce its stress and contribute to its proper development, especially when it is in an incubator or in a medicalized environment.

[0018] A particular objective of the invention is to provide such a device which can be implemented without difficulty in a medicalized environment, such as a hospital.

[0019] A particular objective of the invention is to provide such a device which avoids any disturbance to the health of the newborn, even in the event of an error in the use of the device.

[0020] Another objective of the invention is to provide such a device which is easy for adults to set up and use.

[0021] The invention also aims to provide a device, comprising one or more auditory, visual, olfactory or tactile stimuli, designed to simulate the presence of an adult in the immediate vicinity of the newborn and to reduce its stress, which results in significant benefits for the newborn.

[0022] The sensory stimulation of the device according to the invention is adapted to the newborn according to its possible state of stress and allows, depending on the duration of activation of these different stimuli, to reduce its impacts, allow relaxation towards possible sleep and promote, in the long term, its good development.

[0023] The device according to the invention has other advantages, in particular it makes it possible to provide a reliable, suitable and comparable substitute for direct contact with a reference person, in particular the mother or father of the newborn, which allows it to be reassured in an innate way.

[0024] Furthermore, the device according to the invention emits no electromagnetic waves and is fully compatible with equipment used in neonatology and pediatrics, such as related equipment in incubators and nurseries in the hospital environment.

[0025] The device according to the invention does not influence or disturb the microclimate in the incubator, nor its electrical or heat control system.

[0026] The device according to the invention does not generate noise or mechanical vibrations that could create an inappropriate acoustic environment.

[0027] The device according to the invention is very easy to clean and follows the same hygiene protocols as incubators / brooders or those required in a neonatal intensive care unit.

[0028] The elements included in the design of the device according to the invention which come into contact with the newborn do not contain any toxic or allergenic elements for the newborn.

[0029] These objectives, as well as others which will become clearer later, are achieved using a sensory stimulus generation device for newborns, characterized in that it comprises at least three sources of stimulation: a light source to generate a visual stimulus, a sound source to generate an auditory stimulus, and an odorous source to generate an olfactory stimulus.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment, the device further comprises a tactile source for touch stimulation.

[0031] Such a combination advantageously provides a soothing effect to the newborn.

[0032] Indeed, the combination of stimulus sources by a device and the stimulus generation process according to the invention aims to provide overall reassurance through several senses. Even if the senses of a premature or full-term newborn are functional, they may be functional to varying degrees. From the last trimester of pregnancy, the fetus perceives sounds of average intensity (Hiniker and Moreno, 1994) and is able to identify its mother's voice and prepare for language acquisition (Absence of neural speech discrimination in preterm infants at term-equivalent age - Research group from the Medical University of Vienna - July 2019). Each child has a preferred mode of reassurance that is reinforced by the activation of neural responses linked to the other senses.

[0033] Thanks to the device according to the invention, each axis offered to the child induces a decrease in stress, with one of them very likely to be predominant. As this can Because the approach is different for each child, it is the combination of stimuli that will produce beneficial results in terms of comfort for the greatest number of infants, by activating the somatic brain response linked to the senses. The duration of the stimulation depends on the newborn's level of anxiety or need for relaxation, and it can be repeated by healthcare professionals or the designated caregiver if they deem it necessary and if the newborn's level of alertness allows.

[0034] Advantageously, the activation of the stimulation sources is simultaneous.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, all stimuli are activated synchronously. In another embodiment of the invention, all stimuli are activated asynchronously.

[0036] In another preferred mode of the invention the sound stimulus is activated concomitantly with the visual stimulus.

[0037] In another embodiment of the invention, the duration of the stimuli is between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes.

[0038] According to another embodiment of the invention, the duration of the stimuli is repeated for a further period of between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes, and more preferably 12 minutes. The volume of the track containing the voice gradually decreases, while the heartbeat sound continues. Finally, for a last period of two minutes, only the heartbeat sound is played. Such a sound sequence is conducive to the gradual calming of the newborn.

[0039] In a preferred mode of the invention, the activation of the newborn stimulation sources is immediate and simultaneous.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the sound source is a sound processing and diffusion device, characterized in that it comprises means for recording a sound, means for processing the recorded sound, capable of limiting the maximum volume of said recorded sound to a determined value and reducing the components of said recorded sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency, and means for diffusing said recorded sound, mixed with another sound recorded in said sound processing and diffusion device.

[0041] It is thus possible to broadcast to a newborn by means of the device according to the invention sounds which provide the newborn with the reassuring feeling of the presence of a reference person at his side, avoiding any risk that these sounds may be disturbing to the newborn, by their volume or their tone.

[0042] Preferably, this other sound recorded in said sound processing and diffusion device includes a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment, the means for processing the recorded sound include at least one low-pass filter. Advantageously, this low-pass filter has a cutoff frequency of 400 Hz.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a housing containing at least: - a microphone, - a loudspeaker, - a sound processing component.

[0045] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light source for generating a visual stimulus is a light-emitting diode.

[0046] Advantageously, the light-emitting diode emits at a wavelength between 380 nm and 685 nm and preferably at a wavelength between 600 and 625 nm. More preferably, the light-emitting diode emits at a wavelength of 595 nm.

[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus is a cover made of textile material capable of capturing the odors of the reference person.

[0048] Advantageously, the odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus is a cover made of textile material capable of capturing familiar odors.

[0049] This cover can advantageously be worn by the reference person when removed from the case, and thus become imbued with their odor.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the textile material cover is impregnated with the odors of the reference person by direct contact with the skin for at least 4 hours.

[0051] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the tactile source for touch stimulation is a gripping cord. Advantageously, the gripping cord is made of elastomer.

[0052] The invention also relates to a method for generating stimuli intended for newborns, characterized in that: - a voice recording stage, - a first stage of sound processing, consisting of adjusting the recording volume so that its maximum volume does not exceed a predetermined value, - a second sound processing stage consisting of reducing, on this recording, the sound components whose frequency is higher than a predetermined frequency, - a sound diffusion stage, during which the previously made and processed recording is played back and mixed with another recording including a low-frequency sound mimicking the perception of a heartbeat, and - A light diffusion stage simultaneously with the sound diffusion stage.

[0053] Advantageously, the sound and light diffusion period of the stimulus generation method according to the invention is between 1 minute and 1 hour, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes, and more preferably 12 minutes. Preferably, the stimulation period is 12 minutes.

[0054] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the method for generating stimuli for newborns according to the invention is characterized in that it comprises the use of a sensory stimulus generation device according to the invention.

[0055] The invention also relates to the use of a device according to the invention to reduce stress in the newborn. List of figures

[0056] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description of preferred embodiments, given by way of simple figurative and non-limiting example, and accompanied by the figures, among which: - [Fig.1] [Fig.1] is a schematic representation of a multi-sensory stimulus generation device comprising several stimulus generation sources according to an embodiment of the invention; - [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a diagram showing the steps of a process of generation of stimuli according to an embodiment of the invention. - [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a representation of a generation device multi-sensory stimuli according to the invention comprising a case with a cover, a light source, a sound recording and diffusion source, gripping cords and a system for attaching said cords, according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

[0057] A device for generating sensory stimuli for a newborn emanating from a reference person includes at least three sources for generating these stimuli, chosen from visual, auditory, olfactory or tactile means.

[0058] According to the present invention, a "reference person" is preferably a relative of the newborn, such as the biological mother, biological father, adoptive father, stepfather, foster mother, foster father, or grandparents. However, the reference person may also be a brother or sister (especially if significantly older) or another reference person. This includes, in particular, a newborn or young child or a child of any age with a relationship pronounced affective bond with a reference person, for example a child whose mental and / or emotional development is delayed due to illness or disability.

[0059] According to the present invention, a newborn child or "newborn" is defined as a child who is less than 28 days old. A premature newborn, or premature infant, is a child who is born before 8 and a half months of pregnancy (37 weeks of amenorrhea).

[0060] The devices and methods according to the invention are suitable for newborns, premature newborns, and children, terms which are used equivalently and interchangeably in the present application.

[0061] Figure 1 schematically represents a sensory stimulus generation device according to an embodiment of the invention. This device comprises a housing 1, in which the various electronic components are contained.

[0062] This housing 1 contains, in particular, batteries 3, a loudspeaker 4 and an electronic board 5, connected together. The electronic board 5 includes, in particular, a microcontroller 51, a sound processing component 52, a microphone 53, a light source 54, a power socket 55 and a control button 56.

[0063] The microcontroller 51 notably ensures the control of all other components, so that the device can implement several functionalities, including the following functionalities: - a recording function, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51, the sound processing component 52 and the microphone 53, - a sound diffusion function, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51, the sound processing component 52 and the loudspeaker 4, - a light diffusion function, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51 and the light-emitting diode 54, - a battery charging function, implemented in particular by the microcontroller 51, the power socket 55 and the batteries 3.

[0064] The microcontroller advantageously allows the device according to the invention to be assigned to one or the other of the functionalities indicated above. Preferably, these functionalities are not implemented simultaneously.

[0065] The microcontroller allows the device to be placed in different distinct states. Among these states: - a recording state, in which the recording functionality allows for the recording and processing of sounds, - a sound broadcasting state, during which the sound broadcasting functionality allows the broadcasting of sounds, which may include one or more previously recorded sound tracks, - a battery charging state, during which the sound processing and playback device is connected to a power source, and the battery charging functionality is active.

[0066] When the power socket 55 is not connected to a power supply, pressing the control button 56 allows the microcontroller to receive instructions to put the device into one of the recording, sound broadcasting, or light broadcasting states.

[0067] Advantageously, the microcontroller 51 is capable of detecting when a power supply is connected to the power socket 55. In this case, it puts the device according to the invention into battery charging mode, interrupting, where appropriate, the recording, sound playback, or light playback functions. Such an interruption of the sound playback, recording, and light functions, when the device is connected to a power supply, advantageously prevents any risk of electrical accidents.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the sound source or sound means comprises several functionalities

[0069] In the recording state, the recording function of the sound processing and playback device is activated. This recording function is implemented by the electronic components whose function is to record ambient sounds and process the sounds for playback, and in particular the microphone 53 and the sound processing component 52.

[0070] This sound processing component 52 can be an electronic component dedicated to sound processing. In other embodiments, it can also be a software audio driver, operating for example on the microcontroller 51.

[0071] According to a preferred embodiment, when the microcontroller 51 activates the recording function, the microphone 53 records a sound, preferably a sound in which the voice of the reference person is prominently featured. The recording function thus allows recordings lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes.

[0072] It is also recommended that the reference person make this voice recording by placing the unit 1 against their chest. During the recording, the microphone 53 can thus capture, in addition to the voice, a weak signal representative of the reference person's heart rate.

[0073] After recording sounds, the sound processing component 52 performs several specific processing operations on these sounds.

[0074] Thus, the sound processing component 52 processes the recorded sounds to limit the maximum sound level to a predetermined value. This processing may, for example, consist of reducing the volume of the entire recording so that the overall volume is lower than the predetermined value. Alternatively, in another embodiment, it may consist of a greater reduction in the recording volume of portions of the recording that are too loud. In this case, this limitation of the maximum sound level results in a smoothing of the overall recording volume.

[0075] The sound processing component 52 also performs, according to the invention, processing of recorded sounds to specifically reduce the volume of sounds with the highest frequencies. This processing may consist of frequency filtering designed to strongly limit the highest frequencies. Thus, in the embodiment shown, this processing is performed by a first-order low-pass filter with a cutoff frequency of 400 Hz, which attenuates frequencies above 400 Hz by 20 dB per decade.

[0076] Such sound processing makes it possible, when the sound is subsequently broadcast near a newborn child, to greatly limit the impact, on the newborn's ears, of high or strident sounds, such as a high-pitched outburst of voice, which could stress the newborn and / or degrade its hearing, particularly in the case of a premature newborn whose auditory functions are not fully formed.

[0077] In the sound playback state, the sound playback functionality of the sound processing and playback device is activated. This sound playback functionality is implemented in particular by the electronic components whose function is to play sounds, and in particular by the loudspeaker 4 and the sound processing component 52, under the control of the microcontroller 51.

[0078] The sound processing component 52 can thus broadcast selected sounds via the loudspeaker 4. Advantageously, this sound broadcasting functionality allows the device according to the invention to broadcast sounds from at least two separate sound tracks. At least one of these tracks consists of a voice sound, which has been previously recorded and processed by the device according to the invention, as part of the recording functionality.

[0079] Preferably, another of these tracks consists of a low-frequency sound recording imitating the perception of heartbeats. This recording may, in an advantageous embodiment, have a rhythm and volume, possibly varying over time, specifically chosen to obtain a calming effect.

[0080] In a particular embodiment, the rhythm of this sound recording imitating the perception of heartbeats can be modulated, from a information related to the weak signal representative of the heart rate of the reference person, which was previously captured by the recording feature.

[0081] When implementing this sound diffusion functionality, the device according to the invention can mix these sound tracks, or diffuse one or the other, according to a predefined sequence.

[0082] In the embodiment shown, the sound sequence that can be played is as follows: for a period of eight minutes, a sound track containing the voice of the person whose presence is to be simulated is accompanied by a sound track of heartbeats. Then, for a further period of two minutes, the volume of the voice track gradually decreases, while the heartbeat sound remains. Finally, for a last period of two minutes, only the heartbeat sound is played. Such a sound sequence is conducive to the gradual calming of the newborn.

[0083] Of course, other sound sequences can be broadcast to suit different needs.

[0084] The case 1 according to the invention can be made of any material compatible with medical use and preferably has bacteriostatic, bactericidal, virucidal, and / or other germicidal properties. Furthermore, the case 1 can take any shape that is visually appealing, such as the shape of an animal, a heart, a fruit or vegetable, an imaginary or legendary animal, a fairytale character, a well-known or famous person, or any other shape that is reassuring to the newborn.

[0085] In the embodiment shown, this housing 1 is made of thermoplastic elastomer and has a heart shape. However, in other embodiments, this housing may have different shapes and be made of any suitable material known to those skilled in the art.

[0086] In [Fig. 1], this housing 1 is shown open, so as to show the components it contains.

[0087] According to an advantageous feature, the sensory stimulus generating device includes an odorant source for generating an olfactory stimulus.

[0088] Indeed, the olfactory overstimulation generated by a medicalized environment is replaced, with the device according to the invention, by a known, innate, familiar, reassuring odor to promote the sense of smell, and ultimately the development of the sucking reflex.

[0089] The fabric cover can also serve as a support for diffusing the milky odor in order to encourage the suckling reflex through olfactory stimulation. According to a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a cover 2 made of textile material, surrounding the housing 1. This cover 2 is advantageously removable, and can The cover can be removed from the device to generate an olfactory stimulus when worn by the reference person whose presence is to be simulated with a child, allowing them to absorb their scent. When cover 2 is then replaced on the device, it releases the reference person's scent. The fabric cover can also be used to diffuse the scent of breast milk to encourage the sucking reflex through olfactory stimulation.

[0090] This cover thus makes it possible to obtain an olfactory stimulus by impregnation with the smell of the reference person, such as the mother, the father or any other person in the family.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover is made of textile material allowing the newborn to absorb the scent of the reference parent.

[0092] By way of non-limiting example, examples include natural materials such as cotton or linen, or synthetic materials such as cotton blended with polyester or elastane. Other examples include cotton fabric, poplin, jersey, cretonne, cotton piqué, brushed cotton, terry cloth or looped cotton, terry cloth, flannel, velvet, cotton voile, denim, chambray, madras, Panama cloth, eyelet embroidery, wool, and cashmere.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the textile material of the odor source 2 is cotton.

[0094] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the mother positions the cover 2 right-side up or wrong-side down, directly against her skin for a specified period. This contact time is between 2 and 12 hours, preferably 4 hours, to allow the scent to permeate the material. This impregnation can take place overnight to ensure that the cover absorbs the desired scent.

[0095] Thus, when the cover 2 is placed back on the housing 1, it diffuses the scent of the person whose presence is to be simulated. It is also possible for the presence simulation device to be supplied with several covers, so that the reference person whose presence is to be simulated can wear one to impregnate it with their scent, while the other is placed on the housing 1. In [Fig. 1], only the outline of the cover 2 is shown in dashed lines, so that the housing 1 and its contents remain visible in the figure.

[0096] According to the present invention, any object serving as a source of odor can be used. Examples include a towel, a wipe, in any shape suitable for use on the device of the invention, such as, but not limited to, square, rectangular, round, or strip, composed of one or more textile materials alone or in combination, allowing for the impregnation of an odor.

[0097] By placing a source of odor, familiar environmental conditions can be created for the child, also in terms of olfactory perception.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises one or more tactile sources or means, in addition to the cover, which allow a tactile stimulus in order to reassure it.

[0099] The shape must have a particular geometry and texture to allow the child to recognize a known element (intubation for example), to dwell on it and not generate unpleasant, negative, or stressful memories linked to this texture.

[0100] Indeed, the palm of the hand is capable of recognizing shapes and textures (Grandeur et Misères du système perceptif manuel du nourrisson. Arlette Streri. NecPlus. 2020 / A n°1 pages 35-37, https: / / www.cairn.info / revue-enfance2-2012-l-page-35.htm). The development of the sense of touch is linked to brain development. Grasping shapes reminiscent of the feel of medical equipment, similar to stimuli experienced by the child, allows them to conceptualize shapes and concentrate on them, thus preventing them from tearing off their medical devices.

[0101] Figure 3 shows an example of an embodiment of a multi-sensory stimulus generation device for newborns comprising auditory, visual, tactile, and olfactory means. The housing 1 comprises a cover 2 serving as an olfactory source, a light source 54, and a sound source 4 contained within the housing 1, and one or more grasping cords 31 generating a tactile stimulus, inducing a grasping reflex and reassuring somatic conceptualization.

[0102] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, these gripping cords 31 can be removable.

[0103] The tactile means according to the invention can be attached to the device in any way. Figure 3 shows a non-limiting example where the textile means is attached to a button 32, which is itself part of an embodiment of the housing 1.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the button 32 enabling the attachment of the touch means to the housing 1 is made of the same material as the latter.

[0105] These grasping cords 31 can be made of one or more elastomer straps, the material of which has been chosen to allow good grip and tactile contact with the newborn, intubated or equipped with an oxygen mask for example.

[0106] The length of the straps must be made so that it does not constitute any danger or source of stress for the newborn and so that the length does not induce danger in use.

[0107] According to one embodiment of the invention, the tactile means consisting of one or more strips of elastomer material compatible with hygiene protocols at a size that does not exceed the size of the newborn at birth.

[0108] The size of a newborn baby can vary depending on its gestational age and sex. It generally ranges from 23 to 60 centimeters, with an average of around 54 centimeters. According to one embodiment of the invention, the tactile strips have a length between 10 and 60 centimeters, preferably 16 centimeters.

[0109] All textures and types of elastomeric material allowing tactile interaction with the newborn can be used according to the invention. Preferably, the elastomeric material is a polymeric elastomeric material, such as a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, providing substantial elastic resilience in compression and / or tension. In particular, in a preferred example of the invention, the elastomeric material is a food-grade TPE.

[0110] In other non-limiting embodiments, other elastomers, polymers, composites, natural or synthetic rubber, or other materials known to those skilled in the art may be used, offering an appropriate degree of elastic deformation, resistance to plastic deformation and compatibility with newborn and hospital medical use.

[0111] According to other embodiments, a single gripping cord or any other shape may constitute the tactile means. These may be made of any suitable material known to those skilled in the art.

[0112] Advantageously, the housing 1 also includes a light means or a light source 54. This light source is preferably selected from a light-emitting diode, an incandescent light source having a wavelength filter, a fluorescent light source, a backlit LCD panel, or another light source configured to provide the newborn with light at a desired and predetermined wavelength or range of wavelengths.

[0113] Preferably, the light source 54 is a light-emitting diode.

[0114] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is equipped with a light-emitting diode 54 which participates in stimulation by continuously diffusing a low-intensity light, in a wavelength chosen to soothe the newborn.

[0115] To this end, the light may be intended for therapeutic purposes and may have appropriate properties (in particular wavelength, intensity, or derived from work on chromatic treatment of spaces).

[0116] Advantageously, the wavelength emitted by the light source 54 helps to soothe and reduce stress in the newborn. The light source 54 has a wavelength between 380 nm and 685 nm and preferably a wavelength of 600 to 625 nm. According to a preferred embodiment the wavelength is 595 nm.

[0117] According to one embodiment of the invention, the light source is contained in the housing 1 in order to avoid any direct radiation.

[0118] According to another embodiment of the invention, the light source of the device can either always be on, or adaptable to the situation and be adjustable between a high stimulus, where it is activated at its maximum, no visual stimulus or the light source is not activated.

[0119] In another embodiment, the light source can be programmed to provide a light output that alternates between a high light level (a high stimulus) and a lower light level (a low stimulus).

[0120] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the light-emitting diode e 54 can also provide information to the user of the device. This diode can, in particular, for example by its flashing or its color, indicate the state of the device, the charging status of its battery, etc.

[0121] Particularly advantageously, the components of the device according to the invention are chosen so as not to emit electromagnetic waves at frequencies or intensities likely to disturb nearby electronic equipment.

[0122] The use of the device according to the invention in a hospital setting, near medical electronic equipment, effectively eliminates any risk of interference with this medical equipment. For this reason, the multi-sensory device according to the embodiment shown specifically does not include any radio communication interface.

[0123] Furthermore, the limitation of electromagnetic wave emissions makes it possible to prevent the newborn placed in the vicinity of the device according to the invention from receiving such waves, and therefore to eliminate any risk that such waves may have a detrimental impact on its health.

[0124] Fig. 2 schematically represents the steps of a process for generating stimuli intended for newborns.

[0125] This method comprises, with regard to sound, a step 61 of recording a voice, more precisely the voice of the reference person. This recording step 61 is followed by two sound processing steps.

[0126] A first sound processing step 62 consists of adjusting the volume of the recording so that its maximum volume does not exceed a predetermined value. A second sound processing step 63, high-frequency reduction, consists of reducing or removing the sound components from this recording. whose frequency is higher than a given frequency in the audible frequency spectrum.

[0127] These two sound processing steps 62 and 63 can be carried out simultaneously or successively. If they are carried out successively, the first sound processing step 62 can be carried out either before or after the second sound processing step 63.

[0128] The process includes a sound diffusion step 64, during which the previously made and processed recording is diffused, preferably mixed with another recording comprising a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats.

[0129] Finally, the process includes a light diffusion step 65, during which all the sensory stimuli of the device are generated simultaneously, to help reduce stress and improve the relaxation of the newborn through different somatic responses.

[0130] The placement of the cover 2 on the housing 1 and of the gripping cords 31 on the cover 2 can be done before, or after the steps of the stimulus generation process.

[0131] Preferably, the cover 2 is positioned on the housing 1 after the voice recording step 61. The gripping cords 31 are attached to the cover 2 in order to have all the stimuli on the device.

[0132] This activation of stimuli is preferably carried out synchronously so that all the newborn's senses can be stimulated and engaged in a calibrated and complementary manner. This activation is carried out for a specific period of time, which is between 10 minutes and 12 hours, preferably between 1 and 8 hours, and more preferably between 3 and 4 hours. Even more preferably, 4 hours.

[0133] In a preferred embodiment, the stimulation of the newborn by the device is, for auditory and visual stimulation, between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes and more preferably 12 minutes and, for olfactory and / or tactile stimulation, between 12 hours and 48 hours, preferably 24 hours.

[0134] In the method and device according to the invention, providing at least three or more auditory, visual, and / or tactile and olfactory stimuli simultaneously can provide enhanced benefits compared to providing a single auditory, visual, or tactile stimulus separately. The three or more auditory, visual, and / or olfactory stimuli can thus combine to provide the enhanced benefits, for example (i.e., the three or more auditory, visual, and / or tactile stimuli work synergistically to provide improved results compared to providing three of the stimuli individually). The use of the method allows for the reduction of stress, a overall reassurance for the newborn, which improves their relaxation by restoring innate reference points.

[0135] Although examples of the present invention have been shown and described in this document, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these examples are given only by way of illustration. Many variations, modifications, and substitutions can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention.

[0136] It must be understood that the invention includes all the different combinations contained in this document.

Claims

Demands

1. A sensory stimulus generation device for newborns, characterized in that it comprises at least three sources of stimulation: - a light source for generating a visual stimulus, - a sound source for generating an auditory stimulus, - an odorous source for generating an olfactory stimulus and characterized in that the sound source is a sound processing and diffusion device, characterized in that it comprises: - means for recording a sound, - means for processing the recorded sound (52), capable of limiting the maximum volume of said recorded sound to a determined value and of reducing the components of said recorded sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency, and - means for diffusing said recorded sound, mixed with another sound recorded in said sound processing and diffusion device.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device further comprises a tactile source of touch stimulation.

3. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the activation of the stimulation sources is simultaneous.

4. Device according to claim 3, characterized in that said other sound recorded in said sound processing and diffusion device comprises a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats.

5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that said means for processing the recorded sound comprise at least one low-pass filter.

6. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that said low-pass filter has a cutoff frequency of 400 Hz.

7. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that it comprises a housing (1) containing at least: - a microphone (53), - a loudspeaker (4), - a sound processing component (52).

8. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that the light source for generating a visual stimulus is a light-emitting diode (54).

9. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the light-emitting diode (54) emits at a wavelength between 380 nm and 685 nm and preferably at a wavelength of 600 and 625 nm.

10. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the light-emitting diode (54) emits at a wavelength of 595 nm.

11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the odorant source for generating an olfactory stimulus is a cover (2) made of textile material capable of capturing the odors of the reference person.

12. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the cover (2) made of textile material is impregnated with the odors of the reference person by direct contact with the skin for at least 4 hours.

13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tactile source of touch stimulation is a grasping cord (31).

14. Device according to claim 13, characterized in that the gripping cord (31) is made of elastomer.

15. A method for generating stimuli intended for newborns by means of a device according to claims 1 to 14, characterized in that it comprises: - a voice recording step (61), - a first sound processing step (62), consisting of adjusting the volume of the recording so that its maximum volume does not exceed a determined value, - a second sound processing step (63) consisting of reducing, on this recording, the components of the sound whose frequency is higher than a determined frequency, - a sound diffusion step (64), during which the previously made and processed recording is diffused, mixed with another recording comprising a low-frequency sound imitating the perception of heartbeats, and - a light diffusion step (65) simultaneously with the sound diffusion step (64).

16. A method for generating stimuli intended for newborns according to claim 15, characterized in that the diffusion period

17. The sound and light display lasts between 1 minute and 2 hours, preferably between 5 minutes and 30 minutes, and more preferably 12 minutes. Method of generating stimuli for newborns according to claim 16, characterized in that the stimulation period is 12 minutes.