Stress management and relaxation device based on multimodal stimulation inspired by purring.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a relaxation device comprising a generator of vibratory frequencies of a cat's purr, characterized in that said generator is integrated into a housing (100) having a positioning means (200) on the solar plexus of a user. Abstract figure: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Stress management and relaxation device based on multimodal stimulation inspired by purring. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of technologies applied to well-being and stress management, in particular via devices based on biofeedback, regulation of the autonomic nervous system, and sensory therapy, and more particularly the field of multimodal relaxation using sound and vibration stimulation to induce a state of relaxation in the user, inspired by the purring of cats.

[0002] Chronic stress has become a pervasive component of modern life, affecting the mental and physical health of millions of people worldwide. Exacerbated by everyday factors such as work pressures, cognitive overload, and constant digital stimuli, sustained stress triggers a continuous neurochemical response in the body, involving a prolonged release of cortisol, the stress hormone. This hyperactivity can cause long-term problems, such as mood disorders, decreased immunity, poor sleep quality, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

[0003] The persistence of these triggers also leads to excessive activation of the sympathetic nervous system (the “fight or flight” response), which disrupts the regulation of autonomic systems, such as heart rate and respiration. Heart rate variability (HRV), an indicator of autonomic nervous system health, tends to decrease in situations of chronic stress, limiting resilience and recovery capacity. When the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is continuously activated due to chronic stress, there is a prolonged imbalance in cortisol secretion. This situation contributes to various disorders, including anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic dysfunction.

[0004] The purring of cats has always been recognized for its calming effect on humans, generating a feeling of security and relaxation. Science has shown that this low-frequency sound, generally between 20 and 150 Hz, promotes stress reduction by inducing deep relaxation. By imitating these frequencies, our device uses the power of purring to relax the user on a physiological and psychological level, thus creating a state of calm and well-being. A cat's purr is often associated with a calming and therapeutic effect, whether to help manage stress, anxiety, or simply to provide comfort. Studies have shown that low frequencies of purring (between 25 and 150 Hz) can have beneficial effects on the nervous system, notably by promoting relaxation and lowering blood pressure.

[0005] These products, whether in the form of plush toys, applications or electronic devices, are therefore designed to reproduce these benefits in a context where one cannot always have a real cat nearby.

[0006] Studies have precisely characterized the effects of purring, particularly on heart rate regulation, the reduction of cortisol (the stress hormone), and the stimulation of endorphin production. As a central element of the device, the purring, reproduced audibly and vibratorically, becomes an active anti-stress ally, creating a soothing sound environment and modifying the perception of stress throughout the day.

[0007] There are several products on the market that simulate a cat's purr. These products are often designed to offer a soothing and relaxing experience, recreating the comforting sensation and sound of purring.

[0008] These products take the form, for example, of interactive purring plush toys that simulate a cat's purr to help calm anxiety and provide comfort, or interactive plush toys for the elderly or people in need of emotional comfort. These plush toys imitate a cat's behavior, notably by simulating purring when petted or held. They incorporate touch sensors to detect contact and initiate a purring simulation. A small vibration motor and a low-frequency sound generator are integrated to produce both the vibrations and the sound associated with purring.

[0009] Some wellness or meditation applications include cat purring sounds among their soothing audio options (for example, "Purrli™, an online application that generates a realistic purr).

[0010] Some vibration relaxation devices include programs that mimic humming for its calming effects. These devices use low-frequency sounds combined with gentle vibrations. The apps often offer customizable humming recordings (frequency, intensity, etc.). Electronic relaxation devices can be programmed to generate synchronized sounds and vibrations to mimic the effects of humming.

[0011] The Purr Pillow™ is another example of a product that imitates a cat's purr. It is often used for pets or people seeking comfort. The pillow emits a purring sound when pressed. The purring is produced by a small internal electronic device that emits a low-frequency sound and a slight vibration to simulate the sensation of a cat. purring. These devices can be used as calming tools, especially for anxious children or pets. State of the art

[0012] Devices such as those described at the beginning are known and aim to exploit the scientific knowledge summarized above on the application of low frequencies to the human body, particularly by reproducing the purring of a cat. US patent 2007100262A1 describes such a device, configured to produce a vibration similar to a cat's purr and intended to be worn preferably on the wrist for relaxing and therapeutic purposes on the anatomical area of ​​the arm.

[0013] US patent application 20110061661A1 describes a purring pillow comprising a microprocessor chip, a flat speaker, a power supply, an on / off switch, a frequency selector, a random selection switch, a volume control, a standard amplifier circuit, a PC card, and a housing. The microprocessor is programmed to produce purring sounds at frequencies ranging from 20 to 140 cycles per second, and the microprocessor, speaker, and other components are housed in the housing. According to a preferred embodiment, the housing has a relatively low profile of approximately one-quarter inch.

[0014] Application WO2009076519A1 relates to a simulated animal comprising an internal device that enables the simulated animal to imitate the sounds and vibrations of a real animal, such as a cat and its purr. The simulated animal is user-adjustable, allowing the user to adjust the volume, vibration intensity, heat levels, etc. The simulated animal comprises an enclosure, and the internal device includes a sound generation mechanism coupled to a mechanical vibration mechanism and a timer communicatively connected to the sound generation mechanism coupled to the mechanical vibration mechanism, wherein the timer is configured to operate the sound generation mechanism coupled to the mechanical vibration mechanism for a predetermined duration.

[0015] Patent EP2695631B1 describes a therapy device for biomechanical stimulation in human and veterinary medicine, comprising an acoustic transducer for the direct reproduction of purring frequency signals from a cat in the form of vibrations on a human or animal body, characterized by a memory, a solid-state noise microphone that can be placed on the larynx of a cat, and a recording device for storing the purring frequency signals received by the solid-state noise microphone in the memory, wherein the recording device is preferably in the form of a computer, as well as by an amplifier for amplifying the frequency signals. purring sounds are stored in memory and used to transmit amplified signals to the acoustic transducer.

[0016] Application WO2020124118A1 relates to a method for imitating the purring of a cat, in which an electrical signal is converted into vibrations by a first electromechanical transducer, characterized in that the electrical signal has a base frequency and is divided into periods, in which the electrical signal is frequency modulated with frequency shifts that are determined by a random generator.

[0017] Italian patent application IT202000018976Al describes a therapeutic device comprising an outer shell, wherein the shell has an inner cavity (2), and means for generating vibrations and emitting sounds to simulate the purring of a cat, these means being contained within the inner cavity, characterized in that the means for generating vibrations and emitting sounds comprise at least one first loudspeaker configured to emit frequencies resonating with the shell. This document teaches that exposure to the purring of a cat reduces stress: the continuous sound and vibration have the property of relaxing the nerves and releasing tension accumulated in the muscles. A 10-year follow-up at the University of Minnesota showed that cat owners reduced their risk of suffering from serious heart disease by 40%.Purring appears to have a calming and regulating effect on heart rate, and cats use it not only when they are happy but also when they are frightened. Frequencies of 25 and 50 Hz, as well as 100 to 200 Hz, have long been used in traumatology to accelerate bone healing after fractures of varying severity. In a study titled "Healing Power of Pets," veterinarian Marty Becker discovered that cat purring can maintain human blood pressure within normal limits, thus helping people with hypertension. It also appears that exposure to frequencies of 25 to 150 Hz can help skin regenerate after injury and reduce infections because these frequencies are antagonistic to certain types of bacteria. Disadvantages of prior art

[0018] Prior art solutions are not entirely satisfactory because they passively provide simulations of cat purring, possibly with a gestural interaction from the user to activate or deactivate the device.

[0019] Furthermore, it appears that simply simulating a cat's purr produces only random and poorly controlled effects with regard to their physiological impact. Solution provided by the invention

[0020] In order to remedy these drawbacks, the present invention proposes a relaxation device comprising a vibratory frequency generator of cat purring characterized in that said generator is integrated into a housing having a means of positioning on the solar plexus of a user.

[0021] According to variants, said means of positioning on the solar plexus of a user consists of an abdominal band, a necklace or a bra.

[0022] According to other variants, the device further comprises an ECG (electrocardiogram) sensor and / or an oxygen saturation sensor and / or a motion sensor including an accelerometer and a gyroscope, the signals of which drive said frequency generator to automatically adjust the vibration and sound frequencies of the device.

[0023] Advantageously, said vibration frequency generator produces low frequency sounds between 20 Hz and 150 Hz and a vibration generator synchronized with the sound, producing pulses in a range of 10 Hz to 35 Hz.

[0024] The technical effect of the invention lies in its continuous and dynamic approach. Unlike solutions that focus on one-off sessions, the device according to the invention operates autonomously throughout the day, creating a permanent and intuitive environment of calm. Through physiological stimulation of the solar plexus, our device gently activates the vagus nerve and adjusts its 10-35 Hz pulses to soothe the nervous system in a lasting way, thus contributing to increased resilience to stress.

[0025] The invention is distinguished by its continuous and autonomous, multimodal activation approach, capable of generating different vibrations simultaneously, designed to accompany users throughout the day. Centered on a purring sound, it acts as a soothing companion, promoting natural relaxation by stimulating the solar plexus, a key area for regulating the nervous system. Connected in real time to HRV, oxygen saturation (SpO2), and respiration measurements, it dynamically adapts to the user's needs, offering personalized soothing.

[0026] The device according to the invention can be used as a desensitization method by creating a consistently relaxing environment during mild and repeated exposure to movement stimuli. Low-frequency vibrations and pulses in the 10–35 Hz range, applied to the solar plexus, elicit a gentle vagus nerve regulatory response, helping to reduce the perception of movement and associated anxiety. By synchronizing these vibrations with soothing purring sounds, our device creates a calming sensory experience, reducing sensory dissonance and promoting increased tolerance to movement.

[0027] Detailed description of a non-limiting example of embodiment

[0028] The present invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, concerning a non-limiting example of an embodiment illustrated by the accompanying drawings where:

[0029] [Fig-1] Figure [Fig.1] is a schematic view of an example of a device according to the invention

[0030] [Fig.2] Figure [Fig.2] is a schematic view of the positioning of an example of a device according to the invention

[0031] [Fig.3] Figure [Fig.3] is the schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of the invention Principle of the invention

[0032] The device according to the invention consists of a housing (100) containing the technical elements of stimulation and biofeedback, housed in a modular support accessory (200) constituting a means of positioning in contact with the solar plexus of the user.

[0033] The solar plexus is an area located at the front of the body, just below the sternum, between the diaphragm and the stomach. It is situated approximately in the upper part of the abdomen, just below the rib cage. The solar plexus contains numerous nerves, including those connected to the autonomic nervous system, which control several abdominal organs such as the stomach, liver, and kidneys.

[0034] In anatomy, the solar plexus is also called the celiac plexus, a network of nerves located around the abdominal aorta. It plays an important role in regulating visceral functions such as digestion and respiration. This area is particularly well-suited for positioning the device according to the invention because stimulation of the solar plexus can have a calming effect by acting on the parasympathetic nervous system, particularly via the vagus nerve, thus promoting deep relaxation.

[0035] The positioning means can consist of three interchangeable modular support accessories, allowing for a customized and comfortable fit according to the user's preferences. This modular design optimizes the functionality of the device while offering customizable options for discreet, everyday use. The support accessories (200) include, for example, a collar for wearing the device (100) in a pendulum-like fashion, under clothing, an abdominal band, or, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, a bra, also worn under clothing. In this non-limiting example, the bra consists of a strap (210) and a soft cup (220) into which the device (100) is inserted. The strap (210) passes around the nape of the neck via an upper loop and around the abdomen via a lower loop. Tightening the strap (210) allows the bra (200) to be adjusted to the wearer's body shape.Possibly a spring. is provided between the bottom of the shell (220) and the bottom of the casing (100) to push the front surface of the casing towards the patient's skin and improve vibration transmission.

[0036] The central housing (100) is the heart of the device, containing the electronic components, sensors, and vibration and sound stimulation modules. It is designed to be easily clipped on and interchangeable between the different attachment accessories (200). It has an outer shell made of a durable, hypoallergenic, medical-grade silicone material to facilitate extended wear. It is also designed to be waterproof and shock-resistant to protect the electronic circuits from moisture and impacts. The housing is compatible with accessories that allow for stable attachment while remaining suitable for discreet everyday use. Typically, the housing measures 5 cm in length, 3 cm in width, and 1 cm in thickness, providing a discreet size for wearing under clothing at the solar plexus.

[0037] The support means (200) may consist of a band that provides a snug fit around the chest, inspired by sports bras, and designed to hold the case in place in a stable and comfortable manner.

[0038] The headband is made of a soft, breathable, elastic fabric for optimal comfort, even during prolonged wear. It incorporates adjustable straps to accommodate different body shapes and provide a personalized fit. It is suitable for users seeking a discreet and reliable solution for precise positioning on the solar plexus. This positioning method allows direct contact between the device and the solar plexus, optimizing the transmission of vibrations and impulses for continuous stimulation.

[0039] The collar provides a more discreet and elegant positioning option (200), allowing the device to be worn around the neck. It is designed to be aesthetically pleasing, with hypoallergenic materials that make it comfortable for prolonged wear.

[0040] The casing can be inserted into a secure location in the center of the collar, which positions it close to the plexus without creating excessive pressure.

[0041] The discreet design is suitable for use in social environments, where the device can be worn as a fashion accessory while providing the benefits of stimulation.

[0042] An intermediate variant combines the advantages of a headband and a neckband to offer flexible support that adapts to various situations and wearing preferences. It allows the device to be secured snugly while offering flexibility in positioning, suitable for both comfortable and discreet wear. With a moderate tightening system, this accessory is designed for users seeking a A lightweight alternative that allows for adjustment of the device without putting pressure on the solar plexus. This accessory is particularly useful for users who need adjustable support to easily transition from a casual to a formal environment.

[0043] Multimodal sound and vibration stimulation system

[0044] The housing integrates an electronic circuit ensuring the functions of generating vibration and sound signals, and of control by signals from physiological sensors.

[0045] This electronic circuit provides a signal replicating the natural purr of a cat by generating the vibrational frequencies of a cat's purr (20 to 150 Hz), with an optimal peak between 25 and 50 Hz to maximize the relaxation effect. This sound is broadcast continuously to create a soothing atmosphere and reinforce the feeling of calm.

[0046] The vibration generator also produces low-frequency pulses (10-35 Hz), specifically targeting the solar plexus to modulate the autonomic nervous system and promote dopamine release. These low-frequency pulses influence emotional regulation and support overall calming.

[0047] In addition, the vibration generator produces gentle, continuous vibrations in the range of 25 to 50 Hz to induce tonic stimulation of the vagus nerve, promoting background relaxation throughout the day.

[0048] This toning promotes the activation and strengthening of the vagus nerve to improve the response of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digestion. It can be achieved in various ways, including through low-frequency sounds and vibrations, to improve heart rate variability (HRV), an indicator of a healthy autonomic nervous system, and to promote a state of deep calm.

[0049] The electronic circuit also includes a sound generator: The purring sound can be accompanied by soothing frequencies (432 Hz and 528 Hz) to support emotional regulation, accessible via connected headphones.

[0050] The low-frequency vibration generator reproduces the specific frequencies of purring, while being programmable to generate distinct infrasonic toning pulses.

[0051] The high-fidelity sound generator delivers an audio signal on an output, for example a jack or a Bluetooth module for the diffusion of therapeutic frequencies and infrasonic toning via headphones or through the unit, without altering the quality of the vibrations.

[0052] The electronic circuit advantageously includes an advanced ARM Cortex microcontroller to simultaneously manage different types of vibration and sound signals, with sufficient memory to store and adjust programs in real time.

[0053] Stimulation of the solar plexus maximizes vagus nerve activation, providing a rapid connection with the autonomic nervous system. Compared to wrist-worn devices, this position allows for a profound effect on visceral relaxation, heart rate regulation, and stress management. Respiratory sensors, HRV and SpO2:

[0054] The electronic circuit advantageously includes an ECG sensor and an SpO2: our device continuously measures HRV and oxygen saturation, monitoring the user's physiological responses to adapt vibrations and pulses in real time by the signals from its two sensors.

[0055] The electronic circuit advantageously also includes an IMU module for advanced monitoring of respiratory movements and adaptation of stimulation: In the device, an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) module, composed of an accelerometer and a gyroscope, ensures precise tracking of respiratory movements and changes in body orientation. Unlike a simple accelerometer, the IMU captures the micromovements associated with breathing and the user's orientation, thus optimizing the synchronization of vibratory and auditory stimulations with the respiratory rhythm. This ability to adapt the protocols according to the user's posture and activity (standing, sitting, lying down) increases the effectiveness of our device as a relaxation and stress management tool.This technology also allows for automatic adjustment for a personalized experience, while ensuring continuity of use throughout the day. Computer module and internal memory:

[0056] By way of example, the electronic circuit uses a 16-32 MHz microprocessor to simultaneously control pulses, vibrations, and sounds according to physiological measurements. A 1 MB memory stores the stimulation protocols.

[0057] The stimulation modes adjust according to perceived stress and physiological data for a personalized experience. Mobile application:

[0058] The electronic circuit is connected to a mobile application that displays HRV, SpO2, and respiration data. The user can track their progress and adjust the relaxation and desensitization modes.

[0059] Offering heart coherence exercises, stress management and relaxation, the application allows on-demand sessions to improve mental well-being and resilience.

[0060] Schematic diagram for the multimodal sound and vibration stimulation system: Schematic diagram of the electronic circuit

[0061] By way of non-limiting example, figure [Fig.3] illustrates the principle diagram of an electronic circuit of a device according to the invention.

[0062] It comprises a low-frequency vibration generator module (20) producing vibratory pulses in the 10-35 Hz range to stimulate the solar plexus and vagus nerve, and also continuous vibrations in the 25-50 Hz range for toning the vagus nerve. The signals are delivered to a haptic transducer (21) located on the front face of the housing (100).

[0063] The sound generator (30) produces sounds at specific frequencies (432 Hz and 528 Hz). It includes an oscillator, modulated in amplitude to recreate volume variations and in frequency to simulate fluctuations. White noise is added to enrich the texture of the hum. The final signal is amplified by an amplifier (31) and transmitted to a Bluetooth module (32) or to a jack (33) for connecting headphones, or to a low-frequency speaker integrated into the housing (100).

[0064] The circuit further includes physiological sensors (10 to 12) integrated into the housing (100) or from peripheral connected equipment.

[0065] An ECG (Electrocardiogram) sensor (10) provides a signal representative of the heart rhythm to synchronize the vibrations emitted by the vibration generator (20).

[0066] A SpO2 (Oxygen Saturation) sensor (11) provides a signal based on oxygen saturation to adjust the stimulation.

[0067] A respiratory movement and posture sensor (12) IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) composed of an accelerometer and a gyroscope provides information on the respiratory movements of the user.

[0068] Heart rate variability (HRV), which measures the autonomic nervous system's response to stimuli, is obtained by processing the signal provided by the ECG sensor (10) by analyzing the variations in the time interval between each heartbeat, i.e., the variations in the RR or NN intervals (between the R waves of successive beats on an ECG). These variations provide valuable information on the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Alternatively, the signals can come from a user-worn photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor (e.g., a smartwatch, which uses an optical sensor to measure blood flow in vessels). Although less precise than the ECG, it can provide acceptable estimates of HRV.

[0069] In the device according to the invention, the ECG (10), SpO2 (11) and IMH (12) sensors deliver signals processed by a microcontroller (50) which drives the vibration (20) and sound (30) generators for real-time adaptation of the sound and vibration stimuli. The ECG sensor continuously measures the electrical activity of the heart, Specifically, the RR intervals between heartbeats are used to calculate heart rate variability (HRV). This data is then analyzed to provide information about the user's state of relaxation or stress. For example, a high HRV indicates a state of relaxation, while a low HRV may indicate a state of stress or sympathetic nervous system activation.

[0070] The signals captured by the ECG are transmitted to the microcontroller (50), for example an ARM Cortex mentioned, which processes this data in real time.

[0071] The microcontroller compares HRV data and other physiological measurements (such as oxygen saturation measured by the SpO2 sensor (11) and respiratory movements measured by the IMU module) (12) to adjust the stimulation modes.

[0072] If the ECG detects a state of stress (for example, a low HRV), the microcontroller (50) commands the low frequency vibration generator (20) to activate low frequency vibration pulses (10-35 Hz) and stimulate the solar plexus and promote relaxation by modulating the autonomic nervous system.

[0073] To enhance background relaxation, the device also adjusts the vibration frequency in the range of 25-50 Hz to tone the vagus nerve and enhance the resting and digestive (parasympathetic) state.

[0074] The ECG sensor (10) can also influence the sound generation (30). Based on HRV data, the microcontroller (50) adjusts the diffusion of soothing sounds, such as frequencies of 432 Hz and 528 Hz, which are known to support emotional regulation and soothe the user.

[0075] The cat's purring sound, associated with these frequencies, can be adjusted according to the user's physiological response, thus providing a more effective sound immersion to calm the mind.

[0076] By combining data from the ECG sensor (10) with that from the respiratory sensor (IMU) (12) and the SpO2 sensor (11), the device provides a biofeedback loop. This allows for real-time adjustment of both sounds and vibrations to synchronize the stimulation with the user's immediate physiological needs.

[0077] For example, if the ECG detects a decrease in HRV (a sign of stress), vibration and sound generators can increase the intensity of calming stimuli to counteract this state.

[0078] By providing a continuous measurement, the ECG allows the system to personalize the stimuli according to each user. This means that the sound and vibration generators will not produce predefined patterns, but will constantly adapt to the cardiac and respiratory data.

[0079] This personalization increases the effectiveness of the device, as each user receives vibration and sound signals adapted to their current state of stress or relaxation.

[0080] In summary, the ECG sensor (10) collects HRV data, which is then processed by the microcontroller (50). • Depending on physiological signals, the vibration (20) and sound (30) generators adapt their frequency and intensity to modulate the emotional state and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. • This creates a dynamic feedback loop where the device adjusts in real time, providing a personalized stress management and relaxation experience. Thus, the interaction between the ECG sensor and the sound and vibration generators makes it possible to create an optimized relaxation experience tailored to the physiological needs of each user.

Claims

Demands

1. Relaxation device comprising a cat purring vibration frequency generator characterized in that said generator is integrated into a housing (100) having a positioning means (200) on the solar plexus of a user.

2. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that said positioning means (200) on the solar plexus of a user is constituted by an abdominal band.

3. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that said positioning means (200) on the solar plexus of a user is constituted by a collar.

4. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that said positioning means (200) on the solar plexus of a user is constituted by a bra.

5. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that it further comprises an ECG (electrocardiogram) sensor (10) whose signals drive said frequency generator to automatically adjust the vibration and sound frequencies of the device.

6. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that it further comprises an oxygen saturation sensor (11) whose signals control said frequency generator to automatically adjust the vibration and sound frequencies of the device.

7. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that it further comprises a motion sensor (12) including an accelerometer and a gyroscope, the signals of which drive said frequency generator to automatically adjust the vibration and sound frequencies of the device.

8. Relaxation device according to claim 1 characterized in that said vibratory frequency generator produces low frequency sounds (20) between 20 Hz and 150 Hz and in that said device further comprises a sound-synchronized vibration generator (30), producing pulses in a range of 10 Hz to 35 Hz.

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