Interactive blocks

Abstract

Interactive block kit (1) for receiving pulses from users and, in response to these pulses, providing users with response data, each block (1) comprising a vibrating support (2), a cover (9), a vibration sensor, and a signal processing module (7) related to the vibration sensor. FIGURE 2

Description

Title of the invention: Interactive blocks technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a kit of interactive blocks for receiving contacts from users and, in response to these contacts, providing users with response data. Each block comprises a vibrating support, a cover, a vibration sensor, and a signal processing module related to the vibration sensor. Prior art

[0002] Various types of interactive blocks or boxes are known in various applications such as skill games, training devices for athletes, or devices for evaluating the cognitive abilities of patients.

[0003] For example, document EP3135348 describes a stimulating target unit comprising a housing, at least one stimulation source configured to provide a stimulus to stimulate a user, a contact sensor configured to detect an impact on the stimulating target unit triggered by an impact within a selected range of impact forces, a feedback system configured to inform the user that the stimulating target unit has been actuated in response to the stimulus, a control unit programmed to record the triggering of the contact sensor, a protective cover configured to retain the stimulating target unit, and a mounting structure configured to connect the stimulating target unit to a support structure.The mounting structure includes a vibration isolator configured to prevent, within the selected range of impact forces, the transmission of the force of an impact on the support structure to the contact sensor sufficiently to prevent the contact sensor from triggering. The interactive block is thus specifically designed to react to identical stimuli within a restricted frequency range permitted by the mechanical arrangement, while excluding other stimulus modes.

[0004] Document WO2005049154 describes a target device comprising a target disk, with a printed circuit board mounted centrally behind a transparent cover, rigidly connected to the target disk. The board integrates control circuitry and an LED display to show the target's status. The disk and the cover are mounted together via an elastic elastomer foam mount on a base plate, configured as a peripheral secondary target with lower notches. The base plate itself is mounted to a wall by means of a base bracket identical to the support. Impact sensors, typically piezoelectric accelerometers, are mounted respectively on the target disk, the base plate, and the wall. During use, a player throws a ball at the target. If the ball hits the target disc, its sensor will register a stronger response than the other two sensors, whose responses are dampened by the supports. If the ball hits the base plate, the sensor will register the strongest signal. If it hits the wall, or if the player collides with the wall, the sensor will register the strongest signal. The device is complex and expensive, requiring multiple sensors. The device is permanently configured and cannot be adjusted.

[0005] There is therefore a need for a configurable and scalable device, allowing for the consideration of impacts of different types, and for displaying data adapted to the context.

[0006] A first objective of the invention is to provide an interactive box that can take into account different types of stimuli such as a short pulse and continuous pressure over a period of several seconds.

[0007] Another objective of the invention is to provide an interactive box allowing the user to set several stimulus modes to trigger a reaction from the box.

[0008] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide an interactive housing comprising a multiple user interface. Summary of the invention

[0009] To this end, the invention provides a kit of interactive units for receiving contacts from users capable of generating pulses of different types, analyzing the received pulses, and, based on the result of the analysis, providing users with response data, each unit comprising: i. a vibrating support to receive, following contact from a user, an impulse and transmit it to a vibration sensor; ii. a cover, mounted on the vibrating support, to receive the contacts of a user and transmit to the vibrating support the impulses resulting from the contacts received; iii. a piezoelectric sensor arranged on the vibrating support, to generate an electrical signal when the support vibrates following the received impulses; iv. an insulator arranged at the base of the vibration support to isolate the housing from the surface (A) on which it is placed or fixed; v. a signal processing module in relation to the piezoelectric sensor, designed to analyze the profile of the pulses received by the piezoelectric sensor in order to detect a crossing of a minimum vibration threshold and generate a threshold crossing signal when said threshold is actually crossed; vi. a user interface, connected to the signal processing module, and designed to transmit at least one response data to the user upon receipt of a threshold crossing signal; - each kit of boxes comprising at least two receivers connectable to the vibration support, each of the receivers being configured to transmit pulses to the vibration support in the event of contact with the box by a user.

[0010] The planned architecture with at least two connectable complementary accessories allows the system to have unprecedented functionalities.

[0011] For example, by connecting a suction cup to the housing of the vibrating support, we obtain A dual-effect system isolates the device from the support surface and sends a pulse to the surface when a user directly touches the device. The system then operates with one or more short pulses, preferably lasting less than 1 second.

[0012] By connecting a flexible, elastically deformable block to the housing of the vibrating support, a different operating mode is obtained, allowing a first pulse to be sent when a user presses on the housing sufficiently to deform the deformable block within its elastic range, and a second pulse when the user releases the housing and the block returns to its initial shape. The system then operates in pressure mode for a certain duration, preferably greater than 1 second, and more preferably greater than 2 seconds or even more (5, 10, 20 or 30 seconds or even more).

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment, one of the receivers is a suction cup.

[0014] This suction cup allows the housings to be used in a mode corresponding to short vibratory type pulses.

[0015] Also according to an advantageous embodiment, one of the receivers is a flexible block that can be elastically deformed.

[0016] This flexible, deformable block allows the interactive boxes to be used in a mode corresponding to a prolonged pulse of the continuous pressure type.

[0017] Advantageously, the vibrating support comprises a housing forming a cavity open towards the base of the block and provided with a housing bottom, the piezoelectric sensor being arranged against the housing bottom opposite the housing cavity.

[0018] The architecture provides for a specific arrangement of the vibrating support which includes a housing against which the piezoelectric sensor is fixed.

[0019] Also advantageously, the receivers can be connected to the vibrating support via an insert that can be plugged into the housing of the support.

[0020] According to this arrangement, the housing for the vibrating support allows the connection of an insert of the user's choice. Since the piezoelectric sensor is positioned directly against the bottom of the housing, the transmission of pulses between the insert and the sensor is direct and optimal.

[0021] According to another advantageous embodiment, the user interface includes a lighting module and a screen.

[0022] Advantageously, the interactive kit also includes a control module configured to exchange data with the boxes either by wired voice or by waves and allowing the user to enter parameter data to the signal processing module of the boxes.

[0023] The invention also provides for a kit of interactive units, for receiving contacts from users capable of generating pulses of different types, analyzing the received pulses, and, depending on the result of the analysis, providing users with response data, each unit comprising: i. a vibrating support to receive, following contact from a user, an impulse and transmit it to a vibration sensor; ii. a cover (9), mounted on the vibrating support, to receive the contacts of a user and transmit to the vibrating support the impulses resulting from the contacts received; iii. a piezoelectric sensor arranged on the vibrating support, to generate an electrical signal when the support vibrates following the received impulses; iv. an insulator arranged at the base of the vibration support to isolate the housing from the surface (A) on which it is placed or fixed; v. a signal processing module in relation to the piezoelectric sensor, designed to analyze the profile of the pulses received by the piezoelectric sensor in order to detect a crossing of a minimum vibration threshold and generate a threshold crossing signal when said threshold is actually crossed; vi. a user interface, connected to the signal processing module, and designed to transmit at least one response data to the user upon receipt of a threshold crossing signal; characterized in that the user interface includes a lighting module and a screen.

[0024] This alternative kit architecture allows for a high-performance user interface, significantly expanding the potential range of applications. In its basic version, the housings do not have receivers that can be connected to the vibration support, and the housing is only used by placing it on the insulator at the base of the support. The vibration support can then be flat, without a housing. Alternatively, this architecture is supplemented by a support with a housing and connectable receivers such as a suction cup and a deformable block. Brief description of the drawings

[0025] All implementation details are given in the following description, supplemented by Figures 1 to 6, presented solely for the purpose of non-limiting examples, and in which: Fig. 1

[0026] [Fig.1] [Fig.1] is a perspective view illustrating an example of an interactive housing; Fig. 2

[0027] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is an exploded view showing the main constituent elements of the interactive housing of [Fig.1], used with a first example of a receiver, a suction cup; Fig.3

[0028] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an elevation view of an example of a second type of receiver, in this example a flexible block that can be elastically deformed, shown in its rest state at the top of the figure, and in its deformed state under the action of a compressive force; Fig. 4

[0029] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is another exploded view of the block in [Fig.1], allowing for a better present certain components, in addition to the vibration sensor; Fig. 5

[0030] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a graph illustrating an example of a short impulse above capable of being transmitted to the vibrating support by a receiver such as the suction cup in figures 2 and 4; Fig. 6

[0031] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a graph illustrating an example of a long-sustained impulse capable of being transmitted to the vibrating support by a receiver such as a deformable block such as the block in [Fig.3]. Description of the implementation methods

[0032] The technology shown in Figures 1 to 4 consists of an interactive block or housing 1 comprising a means for detecting external stimuli using a piezoelectric sensor 5. The sensor is mounted on a part serving as a vibrating support 2. The design of the housing 1 allows the vibrational impulses received during impacts applied by a user to be transmitted to the vibrating support 2. The vibrating support 2 includes a housing 3 or cavity. The piezoelectric sensor 5 is fixed against the bottom 4 of this housing, on the outer side of the housing.

[0033] To protect the various internal components of the housing 1 and to receive user contacts, a cover 9 is mounted directly on the vibrating support 2 or cooperates with the latter in order to transmit the impulses generated by the impacts received.

[0034] In the illustrated example, a flexible insulator 6 in the form of a ribbon or strip is arranged at the base of the support to isolate the housing from the surface A on which it is placed or fixed and to minimize vibrations received during impacts exerted on the support A and not directly on the housing. The insulator 6 can also take the form of a series of pads arranged at the four lower corners of the housing.

[0035] A user interface 8 is located on the top of the housing 1. In the illustrated example, the user interface 8 includes a lighting module 10 comprising, for example, a series of LEDs distributed around the periphery of the upper face of the housing. The lighting module 10 surrounds a screen 11 visible from the top of the housing. A speaker may also be provided. A screen protector 19 is preferably added to protect the screen 11 from impacts that could damage it.

[0036] The lighting module 10, the screen 11 or the screen protector 19 are connected directly or indirectly to the vibrating support 2 in order to properly transmit the impulses received during use.

[0037] A control module 16 allows the user to enter parameter data into the signal processing module 7. As illustrated in the example in [Fig. 1], the control module is advantageously provided outside the housing 1, for example in the form of software or an application running on a computer, tablet, or mobile phone. Communication between the control module 16 and the housings is implemented either wired or via a network such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or another.

[0038] The housing 3 allows the connection of at least two types of interface tools, called "receivers," enabling distinct working modes. Figures 2, 3, and 4 illustrate two examples of receivers: a suction cup 13 ([Fig. 2] and 4), and an elastically deformable block 14 ([Fig. 3]). An insert 12, connectable to the vibrating support 2 via the housing 3 of the support, serves as a standard adapter for all types of receivers, for example, by screwing or clipping it into the cavity 15 of the housing 3.

[0039] The suction cup 13 securely attaches the housing to a support A (table, floor, window, etc.), isolates the housing 1 from unwanted vibrations, and allows it to operate in SHORT PULSE mode. Upon contact or impact on the housing 1, the suction cup 13, which supports the housing 1, transmits the force to the vibrating support 2 and thus to the piezoelectric sensor 5, which can produce a signal corresponding to the force received. A signal processing module 7 analyzes the vibration signal emitted by the piezoelectric sensor 5. If a detection threshold is exceeded, the signal processing module 7 sends an output signal, triggering the transmission of data to the user interface 8. By For example, the output signal activates the lighting 10 and / or sends data to the screen 11, to indicate a SHORT PULSE.

[0040] The deformable block 14 isolates the housing from unwanted vibrations and allows it to operate in CONTINUOUS PRESSURE mode. When the user applies continuous pressure to the housing, the deformable block 14, which supports the housing 1, is compressed and deforms, generating a first impulse to the vibrating support 2 and thus to the piezoelectric sensor 5, which can produce a signal corresponding to this first impulse. Figure 3 shows, at the top, an example of the deformable block 14 in its normal, unloaded form, and at the bottom, the same block subjected to continuous pressure exerted by a user. When the user releases the housing, the deformable block 14 returns to its initial shape (see Figure 3, top), generating a second impulse to the vibrating support 2 and thus to the piezoelectric sensor 5, which can produce a signal corresponding to this second impulse.If a detection threshold is crossed, the signal processing module 7 sends an output signal to the user interface to announce the receipt of a CONTINUOUS PRESSURE. Examples of uses for the enclosure kit

[0041] As previously described, a housing 1 can be used with a suction cup 13 or a deformable block 14. It can also be used without a receiver. In the latter case, rather than resting on a suction cup or a deformable block, the housing rests on the insulator 6.

[0042] A kit comprises a plurality of housings 1 and at least two different receivers, for example, a suction cup 13 and a deformable block 14. The control module 16 is available, for example, by downloading it onto the user's chosen computer medium. This module offers the user several modes for using the housings, depending on the needs, for example, for sports training, a game, a dexterity or skill test, etc. If the user is a healthcare professional, one of the modes of use can assist this professional in conducting a cognitive assessment. Several modes involve the use of multiple housings arranged according to a layout that can be specified by the control module or a user guide.

[0043] The user selects the type and mode they wish to use. The number and arrangement of the boxes can be indicated by the control module 16 or decided by the user, depending on the intended uses.

[0044] Among the many possible applications of the kit, one example is a sports or reflex training program using several units placed on the floor or on a vertical support. The units are activated sequentially, for example, by lighting up LEDs, displaying a message on the screen, or emitting a sound. In response to these signals, the user must make contact with the relevant units. The user can, for example, touch or tap the activated units successively with their hands, feet, another body part, or an accessory. If the impulse generates a signal above the detection threshold, the unit signals the user's correct response. This response can be an audible and / or visual signal. It may also include data transmission from the signal processing module 7 to the control module 16, for example, so that the latter can activate the next unit, record the user's score, etc. This type of kit application can be implemented with the units mounted on suction cups or directly on the insulation 6.

[0045] In another use case for the kit, for example to assess a user's cognitive abilities, the control module sends the user instructions either to apply continuous pressure to a signal-activated device, or to touch or tap another device. This use case can be implemented by connecting a suction cup to the devices intended for brief stimulation (or by placing the devices on their base with the insulator), and a deformable block to the devices intended to receive pressure for a certain duration.

[0046] Given the vast possibilities of each case, the kit can be used for hundreds of other cases.

[0047] Examples of uses of the user interface Examples of messages using lighting

[0048] The lighting module 10 can be used on the one hand to give a signal or instruction to the user before the latter comes to contact this box, for example a light signal indicating to come and contact the illuminated box.

[0049] The lighting module can also be used to indicate to the user whether the contact made is successful (e.g., green light) or unsuccessful (red light). Examples of messages on the screen

[0050] The screen 11 can be used to give a signal or instruction to the user before the latter comes to contact this box, for example by displaying a pictogram, logo, photo or image, indicating to come and contact the box in question or another box in the kit.

[0051] The screen can also be used to indicate to the user that the contact made is good (for example by displaying a pictogram or image indicating success) or bad (for example with a pictogram or image indicating failure). Examples of IMPULSES

[0052] Figures 5 and 6 are graphs showing examples of pulses that the housing 1 can use to generate a detection and transmit a message suitable for the user.

[0053] The graph in [Fig.5] relates to an example of use with a suction cup 13. The user makes one or more contacts by tapping the device once or several times, either instantaneously or for a very short duration. The graph shows the voltage output from the piezoelectric sensor as a function of time. This voltage corresponds to the vibration level over time for these pulses. For example, a detection threshold of 1 volt would, in this instance, validate the double peak on the left side of the graph and ignore the secondary vibrations on the right side.

[0054] The graph in [Fig. 6] relates to an example of use with a deformable block 14. The user applies pressure to the housing equipped with a deformable block 14. As the block deforms, a first pulse is received. The pressure is maintained for a certain time (in this example, for 5 seconds), then the user releases the housing. The deformable block 14 then returns to its initial shape, which generates a second pulse. The signal processing module can recognize these successive signals and indicate via the interface whether the user has correctly followed the given instruction, for example, for a dexterity exercise. The graph shows the vibration level (expressed in Volts) as a function of time for these pulses. In this example, two pulses spaced 5 seconds apart clearly show the two successive deformations. List of reference signs

[0055] 1. Interactive housing 2. Vibrational support 3. Housing 4. Housing Fund 5. Piezoelectric sensor 6. Insulation (e.g., rubber tape) 7. Signal Processing Module 8. User Interface 9. Lid 10. Lighting module (e.g., with LEDs) 11. Screen 12. Plug-in insert (e.g., clip-on) 13. Suction Cup 14. Elastically deformable block 15. Cavity of the dwelling 16. Control Module 17. Monitor stand 18. Screen cover 19. Screen protector

Claims

Demands

1. Kit of interactive units (1) for receiving contacts from users that are capable of generating pulses of various types, analyzing the received pulses, and, based on the result of the analysis, providing users with response data, each unit (1) comprising: i. a vibrating support (2) for receiving, following contact from a user, an impulse and transmitting it to a vibration sensor; ii. a cover (9), mounted on the vibrating support (2), to receive the contacts of a user and transmit to the vibrating support (2) the impulses resulting from the contacts received; iii. a piezoelectric sensor (5) arranged on the vibrating support (2), to generate an electrical signal when the support vibrates following the received impulses; iv. an insulator (6) arranged at the base of the vibration support (2) to isolate the housing (1) from the surface (A) on which it is placed or fixed; v. a signal processing module (7) in relation to the piezoelectric sensor (5), designed to analyze the profile of the pulses received by the piezoelectric sensor (5) in order to detect a crossing of a minimum vibration threshold and generate a threshold crossing signal when said threshold is actually crossed; vi. a user interface (8), connected to the signal processing module (7), and designed to transmit to the user at least one response data upon receipt of a threshold crossing signal; characterized in that each housing kit comprises at least two receivers (13, 14), connectable to the vibrating support (2), each receiver being configured to transmit pulses to the vibrating support (2) upon contact with the housing by a user, wherein one of the receivers is a suction cup (13), for operation with one or more short pulses of a duration of less than 1 second, and another of the receivers is a flexible, deformable block (14) elas- ticement, for operation with continuous pressure lasting more than 1 second, and more preferably more than 2 seconds or 5 seconds.

2. Interactive kit according to claim 1, wherein the vibrating support (2) comprises a housing (3) forming a cavity (15) open towards the base of the block (1) and provided with a housing bottom (4), the piezoelectric sensor (5) being arranged against the bottom (4) of the housing opposite the cavity (15) of the housing (3).

3. Interactive kit according to claim 2, wherein the receivers (13, 14) are connectable to the vibrating support (2) by means of an insert (12) pluggable into the housing (3) of the support.

4. Interactive kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the user interface (8) comprises a lighting module (10) and a screen (11).

5. Interactive kit according to any one of the preceding claims, also comprising a control module (16) configured to exchange data with the boxes (1) either by wired voice or by waves and enabling the user to enter parameter data into the signal processing module (7) of the boxes.

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