Apparatus, method, and system for measuring and assisting amount of feeding

Abstract

A method for measuring the amount of feeding and assisting feeding, according to an embodiment of the present application, comprises the steps of: measuring the temperature of a feeding bottle; displaying a corresponding color on the basis of a result of the temperature measurement; measuring a start weight of the feeding bottle; counting the number of swallows by using a signal measured via an acceleration sensor; determining whether a baby is sleeping by using a signal measured via the acceleration sensor; generating vibration on the basis of a result of the determination; when it is determined that feeding is ended by using the signal, measuring an ending weight of the feeding bottle; and calculating the amount of feeding by using the start weight and the ending weight. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the amount of feeding may be measured, feeding may be assisted, and feeding information may be automatically transmitted to a terminal.

Description

Devices, methods and systems for measuring and assisting the amount of milk produced

[0001] The present application relates to an automatic feeding amount measurement and assistance device, method and system, and more particularly, the present application relates to a device, method and system that measures feeding amount and assists smooth feeding based on data acquired through an acceleration sensor and a weight sensor.

[0002] The recommended amount and frequency of feedings for babies vary depending on factors such as the baby's age and weight. Traditionally, caregivers would handwrite the feeding amount and frequency records. This approach presents a problem: caregivers must constantly record feeding information by hand, ensuring they don't forget it.

[0003] Furthermore, breastfeeding uses a lot of energy, so babies may fall asleep before they're full. They also feel safe and secure in their mother's arms, enjoying the familiar warmth and heartbeat of their mother's embrace. Consequently, babies who doze off during feedings and fall into deep sleep may not wake up, and those who fall asleep during feedings may only receive a portion of the nutrients. Irregular feeding schedules can also lead to irregular feeding cycles for the mother. Irregular feeding intervals can cause stress for both the mother and the baby.

[0004] In this regard, Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-2153578 (publication date: June 30, 2020) “Smart bottle and control method thereof” describes a method of determining the start and end points of feeding based on inclination information and determining the feeding amount based on the difference value of water level information at each point. Since the temperature is maintained or the start and end points of feeding are determined when the inclination angle deviates from a preset angle, the inclination value has a significant influence. However, this method only considers the inclination of the bottle, so it is difficult to accurately determine the end point of feeding, and as a result, there is a problem in that the accuracy of feeding amount measurement is low.

[0005]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a feeding amount measuring and auxiliary device, method and system capable of measuring the feeding amount using an acceleration sensor and a weight sensor.

[0007] In addition, a problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a feeding amount measuring and auxiliary device, method and system that can count the number of swallows through a signal from an acceleration sensor.

[0008] In addition, a problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method, device and system for measuring and assisting breastfeeding that determines drowsiness using a signal measured by an acceleration sensor and generates vibration to assist breastfeeding.

[0009] In addition, a problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method, device and system for measuring and assisting breastfeeding by using a signal measured by an acceleration sensor to determine whether it is at an appropriate angle and generating vibration to assist breastfeeding.

[0010] In addition, a problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method, device and system for breastfeeding measurement and breastfeeding assistance that can display a color corresponding to a temperature measurement result measured by a temperature sensor.

[0011] In addition, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method, device and system for measuring and assisting feeding that can measure the amount of feeding by measuring the starting weight and type weight of the feeding bottle.

[0012] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0013] A method for measuring a feeding amount and assisting feeding according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the steps of: measuring the temperature of a feeding bottle; displaying the temperature in a corresponding color according to a result of the temperature measurement; measuring a starting weight of the feeding bottle; counting the number of swallows using a signal measured by an acceleration sensor; determining whether the baby is drowsy using the signal measured by the acceleration sensor; generating a vibration according to the result of the determination; measuring the ending weight of the feeding bottle when it is determined that feeding is finished using the signal; and calculating the feeding amount using the starting weight and the ending weight.

[0014] A system for measuring feeding amount, assisting feeding, and recording feeding amount according to one embodiment of the invention may include: a device that generates feeding information including swallowing count and feeding amount data using a weight sensor and an acceleration sensor, and assists feeding using a vibration sensor; a server that receives the feeding information from the device and transmits it to a terminal; and a terminal that connects to the server and displays the baby feeding information on a screen.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance device may include an acceleration sensor that measures the inclination and movement of a feeding bottle; a weight sensor that measures the weight of the feeding bottle; a processor that determines whether the user is drowsy using a measurement signal from the acceleration sensor, measures the feeding amount using the weight, and generates feeding information including the feeding amount; a vibration sensor that generates vibration depending on whether the user is drowsy; and a transceiver that transmits the feeding information to an external device.

[0016]

[0017] The solutions to the problems of the present invention are not limited to the solutions described above, and solutions that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the amount of milk can be measured using a weight sensor and an acceleration sensor.

[0019] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a signal measured through an acceleration sensor can be used to determine whether a person is drowsy and generate vibrations to assist breastfeeding.

[0020] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by using the inclination measured through the acceleration sensor, it is possible to determine whether the angle is appropriate and generate vibration to assist breastfeeding.

[0021] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present invention, breastfeeding can be assisted by displaying a color corresponding to a temperature measurement value measured through a temperature sensor.

[0022] Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the feeding amount can be measured by measuring the starting weight and the type weight of the bottle.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a processor according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating steps for determining drowsiness according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating steps for measuring a slope according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0027] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a method for measuring feeding amount, assisting feeding, and recording feeding information according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a method for counting the number of swallows according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a device according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a device according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0032] A method for measuring a feeding amount and assisting feeding according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the steps of: measuring the temperature of a feeding bottle; displaying the temperature in a corresponding color according to a result of the temperature measurement; measuring a starting weight of the feeding bottle; counting the number of swallows using a signal measured by an acceleration sensor; determining whether the baby is drowsy using the signal measured by the acceleration sensor; generating a vibration according to the result of the determination; measuring the ending weight of the feeding bottle when it is determined that feeding is finished using the signal; and calculating the feeding amount using the starting weight and the ending weight.

[0033] The above-described purposes, features, and advantages of the present application will become more apparent through the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, as the present application is susceptible to various modifications and various embodiments, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail below.

[0034] Throughout the specification, identical reference numbers, in principle, indicate identical components. Furthermore, components with identical functions within the scope of the same concept shown in the drawings of each embodiment are described using the same reference numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0035] If a detailed description of a known function or configuration related to this application is deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of this application, such detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, numbers (e.g., "first," "second," etc.) used throughout the description of this specification are merely identifiers used to distinguish one component from another.

[0036] In addition, the suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following examples are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0037] In the examples below, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] In the examples below, terms such as “include” or “have” mean that a feature or component described in the specification is present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0039] For convenience of explanation, the sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

[0040] In some embodiments, where implementations are otherwise feasible, the order of specific processes may differ from the order described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in a reverse order from the order described.

[0041] In the following examples, when components are said to be connected, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, but also cases where components are interposed between the components and are indirectly connected.

[0042] For example, when it is said in this specification that components, etc. are electrically connected, it includes not only cases where the components, etc. are directly electrically connected, but also cases where components, etc. are interposed in between and are indirectly electrically connected.

[0043]

[0044] Hereinafter, the feeding amount recording and auxiliary device, method and system of the present application will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0045] Fig. 1 is a block diagram of a feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system (10) according to one embodiment of the present application. The feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system (10) is a system that calculates the feeding amount equivalent to the amount consumed by the device (100) and transmits the data to a server (200), and the server (200) transmits the data to a terminal (300) so that the data can be checked on the terminal (300). The system can measure the number of swallows through an acceleration sensor (130), and calculates the feeding amount consumed through a weight sensor (140) and an acceleration sensor (130) and assists feeding so that feeding information can be checked on the terminal (300).

[0046] A feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system (10) according to one embodiment of the present application may include a feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance device (100) (hereinafter referred to as device (100)), a server (200), and a terminal (300).

[0047] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 7 to FIG. 9, the device may include a housing (110), a flexible portion (120), an acceleration sensor (130), a weight sensor (140), a processor (150), a vibration sensor (160), a transceiver (170), a temperature sensor (180), and a light emitting portion (190).

[0048] The device (100) can be attached to and detached from a baby bottle. Using the weight sensor (140) and acceleration sensor (130) included in the device (100), feeding information including the number of swallows, horizontality, inclination, feeding amount data, etc. can be generated in the device (100). The feeding information generated in the processor (150) can be transmitted to the server (200) from the transceiver (170).

[0049] In this specification, the term 'baby bottle' can be made of various materials such as glass bottles, plastic bottles, baby bottles, beverage bottles, water bottles, etc., and refers to a container capable of accommodating a substance.

[0050] Hereinafter, the housing (110) will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 7 to FIG. 9. The housing (110) may include an acceleration sensor (130), a weight sensor (140), a processor (150), a vibration sensor (160), a transceiver (170), a temperature sensor (180), and a light emitting unit (190).

[0051] The flexible part (120) can be combined with the housing (110). The flexible part (120) can prevent the bottle attached to the housing (110) from slipping and be fixed. The flexible part (120) includes a flexible material such as silicone, rubber, TPE, neoprene, Ullaphone, ethylene vinyl acetate, TPU, etc., and prevents slipping and provides fixing force so that the bottle attached to the flexible part (120) can be fixed to the housing (110).

[0052] The flexible part (120) can be manufactured in various sizes corresponding to the diameter of the bottle, and the user can select and use flexible parts of different sizes according to the size of the bottle. In one embodiment, when the diameter of the bottle is 60 mm, the user can attach a flexible part (120) corresponding to the size of the bottle to the housing (110) so that the bottle can be attached to the housing without slipping. Since the flexible part (120) can exist in multiple sizes, when the flexible part (120) is attached to the housing (110), if the bottle is too big or too small to be fixed to the housing (110) or does not enter the flexible part (120), the user can replace the module with a flexible part (120) of a different size and attach it to the housing (110) so that the bottle does not slip from the housing (110).

[0053] The acceleration sensor (130) can sense the movement of the bottle and generate a signal. The acceleration sensor (130) can include all sensors that can measure acceleration and inclination, such as an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and an IMU, and the signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130) can be used to count the number of swallows and calculate the inclination. An acceleration sensor is a sensor that detects the acceleration of an object and is generally manufactured in the form of a small chip using electromechanical system technology. An acceleration sensor measures the acceleration of the X, Y, and Z axes, and can track the movement, direction change, and inclination of an object through this. A gyro sensor is a sensor that measures rotational speed and angular motion. It detects angular motion that occurs according to rotational speed, and can measure the change in direction and rotation amount of an object through this. An IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) is a device that integrates multiple sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, etc.). The IMU provides various motion-related data, such as the object's motion status (acceleration, rotational speed) and orientation information.

[0054] The acceleration sensor (130) can measure the inclination to generate vibration. As another example, the signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130) can be used to determine whether the baby is drowsy. As another example, the acceleration sensor (130) can measure the inclination and movement of the baby bottle. The weight sensor (140) can measure the weight of the baby bottle, and can measure the starting weight and the ending weight. The starting weight and the ending weight measured by the weight sensor (140) can be used to calculate the amount of milk consumed. The weight sensor (140) can measure the starting weight under the following conditions. For example, if it is determined that the baby bottle maintains a horizontal level within a preset range for a preset time, and gulp counting is performed at the same time, it can be considered that the starting weight measurement requirement is satisfied. For example, when a mother pours formula into the baby bottle to feed her baby and puts the bottle with the device attached to it on the floor before giving it to the baby, it is determined that it is placed on the floor based on the inclination signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130). When it is determined that it is placed on the floor, the weight sensor (140) can measure the weight for 2 to 3 seconds, and the weight measured at this time can become the starting weight.

[0055] In another embodiment, when the number of swallows is up-counted using the signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130), and the bottle maintains a horizontal level within a preset range for a preset period of time, the weight sensor (140) can measure the final weight of the bottle. For example, when up-counting is not performed for a preset period of time and the bottle is determined to be placed on the floor based on the inclination signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130), the weight sensor (112) measures the weight for 2 to 3 seconds, and the weight measured at this time can become the final weight.

[0056] A weight sensor (140) may include any sensor capable of measuring weight, such as a load cell, pressure sensor, pendulum wire, or load cell. A load cell is a device that measures the weight or force of an object. It typically operates using the strain gauge principle, where the resistance of the strain gauge changes depending on the weight of the object. This change is converted into an electrical signal to measure the weight. A pressure sensor detects and measures pressure. Since pressure and weight are interrelated, a pressure sensor can be used to indirectly estimate the weight of an object. A pendulum wire is a device that detects stress and deformation of a material. In some cases, a pendulum wire can be used to measure the load applied to a structure and the resulting deformation, thereby inferring the weight (weight) acting on the structure. A load cell is a sensor designed to measure the load (weight) generated within various mechanical components, such as a rotating shaft. A load cell is installed around a rotating shaft and detects the stress and deformation generated when a load is applied.

[0057] The vibration sensor (160) is a module that generates vibration. When the drowsiness determination unit (153) determines whether the baby is drowsy or the inclination of the bottle is determined by the inclination determination unit (152), the vibration sensor (160) can generate vibration to cause the housing (110) to vibrate. The vibration sensor (160) can set the vibration intensity differently depending on whether the inclination is below or above an appropriate range. The user can set the vibration intensity through the terminal (300). The vibration sensor (160) can generate vibration when the number of swallows is counted. The vibration sensor (160) is not limited by the vibration generation method or type as long as it is a sensor that can generate vibration, such as a vibration motor, a piezoelectric sensor, a sound wave generator, a piezoelectric material, a magnetic sensor, a Pizmo device, etc.

[0058] The temperature sensor (180) is used to measure the temperature of the baby bottle. The temperature sensor (180) may be a non-contact infrared temperature sensor. Through the temperature sensor (180), the temperature of the milk powder contained in the baby bottle can be measured regardless of the size and type of the baby bottle.

[0059] For example, when making powdered milk, it is best to boil clean water and then cool it before use. Water boiled at 70 degrees Celsius or higher is used after cooling it. The most suitable temperature for powdered milk for feeding to babies is around 37 degrees Celsius. The temperature sensor (180) can measure the temperature so that the light emitting unit (190) can determine whether the boiled water has cooled properly and is at the appropriate temperature. A non-contact infrared temperature sensor is a sensor that uses infrared (IR) emission without direct contact to measure the temperature of an object. A non-contact temperature sensor emits infrared light to the surface of an object and detects the infrared light reflected from it to measure the temperature. Since direct contact between the sensor and the object is not required during this process, it operates in a non-contact manner. Non-contact temperature sensors typically offer very fast reading speeds, allowing them to accurately measure the temperature of an object within seconds. There are various types of non-contact temperature sensors, each with different operating ranges. Some sensors can measure extremely low or high temperatures. Some advanced non-contact temperature sensors feature built-in multiplexing capabilities, allowing them to measure temperatures simultaneously at multiple points. Non-contact temperature sensors are used in a variety of fields, including the food and beverage industry, architecture and engineering, automotive, and medical applications.

[0060] The light emitting unit (190) is attached to the housing (110), and can display a preset corresponding color on the light emitting unit (190) according to the measurement result of the temperature sensor (180). The user can intuitively check the temperature through the color emitted by the light emitting unit (190). In one embodiment, the light emitting unit (190) can display blue when the temperature is 36 degrees or less, green when it is over 36 degrees and under 38 degrees, orange when it is over 38 degrees and under 40 degrees, and red when it is over 40 degrees, so that the user can intuitively check the temperature through the light emitting unit (190).

[0061] The light-emitting unit (190) can be composed of an RGB LED, an OLED, an LCD, or an EL Panel. An RGB LED (Red-Green-Blue Light-Emitting Diode) is a device that combines LEDs of three primary colors: red, green, and blue. By controlling and combining the brightness of each color, various colors can be expressed. An OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) is a light-emitting device composed of a thin film made of organic materials. An OLED operates in pixel units, and by controlling the value of each pixel, a desired color can be emitted at the corresponding location. An LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) operates by controlling the direction of liquid crystal molecules with voltage to block or transmit light. An external light source such as a backlight is required, and various colors can be displayed by changing the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules according to the value. An EL Panel (Electroluminescent Panel): An EL Panel is a panel that receives electric energy and emits uniform light on a flat surface. By controlling the change in current or voltage according to the value, it can emit light with the desired brightness and color.

[0062] Hereinafter, the processor (150) will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The processor (150) may include a counting unit (151), a slope determination unit (152), a drowsiness determination unit (153), a weight measurement determination unit (154), a vibration control unit (155), a feeding amount calculation unit (156), and a temperature determination unit (157).

[0063] The processor (150) may be implemented as an AP (Application Processor), a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MCU (Microcontroller Unit), or a similar device, depending on hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In this case, the hardware may be provided in the form of an electronic circuit that processes electrical signals to perform control functions, and the software may be provided in the form of a program or code that drives the hardware circuit. The presence of drowsiness can be determined using the measurement signal of the acceleration sensor (130), and the amount of feeding can be measured using the measured weight.

[0064] The counting unit (151) can up-count the number of swallows using the signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130). At this time, the counting unit (151) can up-count the number of swallows when the amplitude of the signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value. Referring to FIG. 6, it can be seen that the accuracy of counting is low because the amplitude size of the counter data of another company based on the pressure sensor is not large. However, since the amplitude size of the number of times counted using the acceleration sensor is large, the counting unit (151) can up-count when the amplitude increases beyond a preset threshold value. In one embodiment, the counting unit (151) counts the number of swallows according to the acceleration amplitude as the baby swallows while feeding through a bottle. At this time, the acceleration sensor (130) generates a slope signal for the movement of the bottle, and the counting unit (151) counts when the measured signal reaches a preset threshold value and can count up until feeding is finished. In one embodiment, the counting unit (151) can determine that feeding has started when the starting weight is measured and the number of swallows is counted through the counting unit (151).

[0065] The inclination determination unit (152) can determine whether the bottle is maintained horizontally by using a signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130). The inclination determination unit (152) can determine whether the measured inclination is outside a preset appropriate range. In one embodiment, the inclination determination unit (152) can determine whether the inclination of the bottle exceeds a preset threshold value or falls below the preset threshold value while feeding by attaching the device (100) to the bottle. If the inclination determination unit (152) determines that the inclination is a value exceeding the preset threshold value, air may be excessively injected into the bottle, causing the feeding subject to swallow air, so that the inclination can be adjusted to fall within a normal range. If the inclination determination unit (152) determines that the measured inclination does not fall within the preset threshold value, the vibration sensor (160) can generate vibration to assist in allowing the inclination of the bottle to fall within the preset threshold value. In one embodiment, a preset threshold can be set directly on the terminal. If the user sets the appropriate range to be 20 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less, the tilt determination unit (152) can determine that the tilt does not fall within the preset threshold when the measured tilt is 15 degrees.

[0066] In another embodiment, when a mother pours formula into a bottle and puts the bottle with the device (100) attached to it on the floor before giving it to the baby, the tilt determination unit (152) determines that the bottle is placed on the floor through the signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130). If it is determined that the bottle is placed on the floor based on the determination result, the weight sensor (140) can measure the weight for 2 to 3 seconds. In addition, if the counting of the number of swallows is in progress through the counting unit (151) and the upcount is not performed for a preset time, and the tilt determination unit (152) determines that the bottle is placed on the floor based on the tilt signal measured by the acceleration sensor (130), the weight sensor (112) can measure the weight for 2 to 3 seconds.

[0067] The drowsiness determination unit (153) can determine drowsiness using the number of swallows. Hereinafter, a method for determining drowsiness will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 5. The drowsiness determination unit (153) can determine that the subject of feeding is asleep if the number of swallows continuously measured by the acceleration sensor (130) is not counted up in the counting unit (151) for a preset period of time. If the drowsiness determination unit (153) determines that the subject of feeding is asleep, a vibration sensor (160) in the housing (110) generates vibration, and vibration is generated at the bottom of the bottle so that the subject of feeding can proceed with feeding, thereby completing feeding. Through this, the drowsiness determination unit (153) can assist in fixing the bottle at an appropriate incline, thereby assisting feeding so that the baby being fed does not suffer from colic.

[0068] The weight measurement determination unit (154) can determine whether to measure the starting weight and ending weight of the bottle based on the signal of the bottle measured by the acceleration sensor (130). If the tilt determination unit (152) determines that the device (100) is placed on the floor, the weight sensor (140) can measure the weight. However, if the weight measurement determination unit (154) determines that the bottle is tilted or the weight of the bottle is not measured, the starting weight can retrieve the previous starting weight, and the ending weight can retrieve the counted number of swallows.

[0069] The vibration control unit (155) can cause the housing (110) to vibrate based on the results determined by the inclination determination unit (152) and the drowsiness determination unit (153). In one embodiment, the vibration control unit (155) can generate vibration when the inclination is determined to be within a normal range by the inclination determination unit (152) and the subject of feeding is determined to be drowsy based on the results determined by the drowsiness determination unit (153).

[0070] For example, while breastfeeding, babies may fall asleep before they are full because they use a lot of energy. Furthermore, when breastfeeding, babies feel safe and secure in their mother's arms, feeling the familiar warmth and heartbeat. Consequently, if a baby falls asleep during breastfeeding and falls into a deep sleep, they may not wake up. Falling asleep during breastfeeding may result in only a partial intake of nutrients, and if the baby becomes accustomed to breastfeeding to sleep, the mother's feeding schedule may become irregular. If the baby's feeding frequency is irregular, the mother's feeding cycle may also become irregular. This can lead to insufficient feeding volume, and the inconsistent feeding schedule can make it difficult to distinguish between hunger and discomfort. Therefore, a vibration sensor (160) can be used to wake babies up immediately for feeding, and if the vibration sensor determines that the baby is drowsy during feeding, the vibration sensor (160) can generate vibrations to assist in smooth feeding so that the baby can finish feeding without drowsiness.

[0071] As another example, if the incline is not within the normal range and is tilted, excessive air may be injected into the bottle, causing the baby to swallow air. Therefore, the vibration control unit (155) may generate vibrations to notify that the incline can be adjusted to within the normal range. The vibration speed, intensity, etc. in each situation can be distinguished and may vary according to the user's settings. Through the vibration speed, intensity, pattern, etc., the user can intuitively know whether the incline of the bottle is too great or too small, or whether the baby is dozing off.

[0072] The feeding amount calculation unit (156) can calculate the feeding amount using the starting weight and the ending weight. For example, the feeding amount is calculated by subtracting the starting weight from the measured ending weight. If the user does not place the device (100) on the floor before feeding the baby formula and the starting weight is not measured, the feeding amount calculation unit (156) can recall the previous weight and set it as the starting weight. In addition, if the ending weight is not measured, such as when the bottle is tilted or tipped over, the feeding amount calculation unit (156) can recall the counted number of swallows as the ending weight. The feeding amount calculation unit (156) can calculate the feeding amount using the difference between the starting weight and the ending weight. In addition, the feeding amount calculation unit (156) can calculate the feeding amount using the previous weight instead of the starting weight and the number of swallows instead of the ending weight.

[0073] The temperature judgment unit (157) determines whether the temperature of the bottle measured by the temperature sensor (180) is within an appropriate range, below an appropriate range, or above an appropriate range so that the user can intuitively check the temperature. Depending on the judgment result of the temperature judgment unit (157), the light emitting unit (190) can display to the user whether the bottle temperature, i.e., the milk powder temperature, is appropriate in different colors. For example, the temperature judgment unit (157) can determine that 36 to 38 degrees is an appropriate range, and the light emitting unit (190) can display blue when the bottle temperature is 36 degrees or lower, green when it is over 36 degrees and under 38 degrees, orange when it is over 38 degrees and under 40 degrees, and red when it is over 40 degrees or higher, depending on the judgment result of the temperature judgment unit (157).

[0074] The transmitter / receiver (170) can transmit feeding information to an external device. The transmitter / receiver (170) can act as a hub that transmits data from other devices to the server (200). Other devices can include devices capable of measuring information about the baby and the surrounding environment, such as a diaper sensor, temperature / humidity sensor, or bed sensor.

[0075] Referring back to FIG. 1, the server (200) can receive feeding information from the device (100) and transmit it to the terminal (300).

[0076]

[0077] *The terminal (300) can display baby feeding information on the screen, and the terminal (300) can include a breastfeeding terminal (310) and a caregiver terminal (320). The terminal (300) can provide the user with a notification of the feeding time and feeding amount according to the feeding target based on the feeding information. The feeding information is automatically recorded without having to be manually entered, thereby resolving recording errors caused by user omissions or errors. The user can arbitrarily set a threshold value on the terminal (300). In one embodiment, the user can arbitrarily set an appropriate slope, or a vibration intensity, a vibration cycle, etc. If the measured slope does not fall within the appropriate slope, the device (100) generates vibrations according to the value set in the terminal (300) to alert the user to the device (100). The user can determine whether the slope is greater or less than a preset threshold value based on the magnitude or cycle of the vibration.

[0078] For example, maintaining and managing a consistent feeding interval for infants and toddlers can help parents distinguish between hunger and other discomfort when crying. Furthermore, distinguishing between feeding, sleep, and playtime can help caregivers secure rest periods. Therefore, automatically recording feeding information can effectively identify the next feeding time and allow for appropriate rest periods, improving the quality of parenting.

[0079] Users of the terminal (300) may include postpartum care center staff, family members of the breastfeeding subject, and breastfeeding facilitators, and users may include all persons who can breastfeed the breastfeeding subject. The terminal (300) may display the breastfeeding amount of the breastfeeding subject and compare the actual breastfeeding amount with the standard breastfeeding amount by month of age to display on the screen whether the breastfeeding subject is consuming an appropriate amount of milk or formula milk, etc., and whether breastfeeding is occurring smoothly. The breastfeeding amount may vary by month of age or weight, and may be displayed in comparison with the average breastfeeding amount by month of age or weight at the request of the breastfeeding subject.

[0080] The terminal (300) may be any electronic device including a display device such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a digital television, a 3D TV, a personal computer (PC), a home electronic device, a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a digital camera, a music player, a portable game console, a navigation system, etc.

[0081] Through the nursing terminal (310), the family and related persons of the nursing subject who may be the nursing subject can display the child's feeding information, and the feeding information, expected feeding time, appropriate slope, and average feeding amount by month of age can be displayed on the screen. The feeding information can include measured temperature, number of times of drowsiness, amount of feeding per time, amount of feeding per day, number of feedings, feeding interval, feeding duration, starting weight, ending weight, number of swallows, etc.

[0082] The nursing assistant terminal (320) can be installed in the nursing assistant and display the nursing information of one or more nursing subjects on the screen. The nursing information, expected feeding time, appropriate slope, average feeding amount by month of age, etc. can be displayed on the screen. The staff working in the nursing assistant terminal (320) can check the feeding status of children at once and quickly identify a baby in need of feeding. The feeding information displayed on the nursing assistant terminal (320) can include measured temperature, number of times of drowsiness, amount of feeding per time, amount of feeding per day, number of feedings, feeding interval, feeding progress time, starting weight, ending weight, number of swallows, etc.

[0083] Below, the method for measuring the amount of milk and assisting milk feeding is explained through Figures 3 and 4.

[0084] In the step of measuring temperature (S1000), the device can measure the temperature and display a color corresponding to the measured temperature value. In one embodiment, the device can determine that 36 to 38 degrees is an appropriate range, and the user can intuitively check the temperature of the baby bottle connected through the device. Depending on the determination result, the color can be displayed in blue when the temperature of the baby bottle is 36 degrees or less, in green when it is over 36 degrees and under 38 degrees, in orange when it is over 38 degrees and under 40 degrees, and in red when it is over 40 degrees. In this case, the temperature range corresponding to each color can vary depending on the user setting.

[0085] In the step of measuring the starting weight (S2000), the device can use an acceleration sensor to determine whether the bottle maintains a horizontal level within a preset range for a preset period of time. If it is determined that the horizontal level within a specific range is maintained for a predetermined period of time, the device can measure the weight of the bottle. In the step of measuring the starting weight (S2000), if the weight is not measured, the device can set the starting weight using the ending weight or the number of swallows saved during the previous feeding.

[0086] Referring to Fig. 6, in the step of measuring the number of swallows (S3000), the device can up-count the number of swallows if the amplitude of the measured signal is greater than a preset threshold. The device can determine that feeding has begun if the slope calculated from the measured signal is within the normal range and the number of swallows is measured.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 7, in the step (S4000) of determining whether the subject is asleep, the device can determine that the subject is asleep if the slope according to the signal measured in step S3000 is outside a preset range and the number of swallows is not counted up for a preset time.

[0088] The step (S5000) of generating vibration according to the result of determining whether the subject is sleepy is such that if the device determines in step S4000 that the subject is sleepy, the device vibrates, thereby assisting the subject in breastfeeding so that the subject can breastfeed smoothly.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 5, in the step of measuring the slope (S4100), the device can measure the slope output while the number of swallows is counted up while the breastfeeding subject is breastfeeding.

[0090] In the step of generating vibration according to the inclination value (S5100), the device can generate vibration when the inclination is outside the preset appropriate range, and the intensity of the vibration can be set differently depending on whether the inclination is below or above the appropriate range. Colic can mean infant colic, and can be seen as a result of the baby's immaturity of the digestive system. The breastfeeding subject may feel pain because the air inhaled during feeding and the gas generated in the intestines are not expelled. It can commonly occur in babies aged 5-6 weeks to 4-6 months. Since it is so common that about 20-25% of babies experience it, it is important to maintain the correct inclination when feeding.

[0091] For example, if the bottle tilts while the breastfeeding patient is nursing, the patient may experience colic. To prevent colic, if the tilt deviates from a preset range, the device vibrates to help the patient maintain the correct tilt.

[0092] In one embodiment, the vibration may be fast when the slope is greater than a preset slope, and slow when the slope is less than a preset slope. Conversely, the vibration may be fast when the slope is less than a preset slope, and slow when the slope is greater than a preset slope.

[0093] In the final weight measurement step (S6000), the device can measure the final weight of the bottle if the bottle maintains a horizontal level within a preset range for a preset period of time while the number of swallows is counted up. The device can calculate the feeding amount using the initial weight and the final weight. If the bottle is tilted and the final weight cannot be measured, the device can calculate the final weight value calculated using the number of swallows. And, the feeding amount can be calculated using the calculated final weight value.

[0094] In step S7000 of transmitting feeding information to the terminal, the device can transmit feeding information, including the measured feeding amount, to the terminal. The terminal can then display the received feeding information on its screen, allowing the user to easily check and manage the feeding information.

[0095] Hereinafter, a system for transmitting the feeding amount to a terminal by a device is described using FIG. 5. Since the device is continuously supplied with power, it can be in a standby state (S100). When the device is attached to a feeding bottle (S150), the device measures the temperature of the feeding bottle (S200). The device can display the temperature of the feeding bottle by changing the color of the light-emitting part according to the temperature so that the user can intuitively determine whether the temperature is appropriate. The device measures the starting weight (S250) and determines whether the starting weight is within the normal range to determine whether the measured weight is data that can be used to measure the feeding amount (S300). For example, if the amount of milk that a baby should drink is 100 ml, but the starting weight is only 10 ml, the device can determine that the measured starting weight is incorrectly measured data and recall the weight previously measured as the starting weight (S330).

[0096] Through these steps, even if the weight measurement sensor incorrectly measures the weight, the feeding amount is not measured with no error, so that the accuracy and continuity of the feeding information recording can be maintained. If the starting weight is determined to be within the normal range in step S300, the device stores the starting weight and then measures the number of swallows using the signal measured by the acceleration sensor (S350). The device can determine whether the feeding subject is asleep during feeding using the number of swallows (S400). Specifically, the device can determine that the feeding subject is asleep if the number of swallows is not counted up for a preset period of time. If the device determines that the feeding subject is asleep, the device generates a vibration to wake the feeding subject (S430). If the feeding subject is determined not to be asleep, the device continuously counts the number of swallows and determines whether to complete the weight measurement by determining whether the preset incline range is maintained for a certain period of time (S450).

[0097] If the number of swallows is no longer counted, the preset tilt range is maintained for a certain period of time, and the bottle is determined to be placed on the floor, but the final weight is not measured due to an error in the weight sensor, the device can calculate the feeding amount using the counted number of swallows (S480). Specifically, since the amount that a baby can swallow per swallow can be calculated using previously stored data (number of swallows, feeding amount, etc.), the device can use this to multiply the number of swallows by the most recent swallow amount to calculate the feeding amount. If the final weight is measured without any particular error in step S450, the device calculates the feeding amount using the starting weight and the final weight (S500).

[0098] The device can transmit feeding information, including starting weight, ending weight, feeding amount, and feeding time, to the server (S550). The server then transmits the received feeding information to the terminal, which can then display the feeding information on its display.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device, method, and system for measuring and assisting feeding amount can be advantageously used in that a user can check information about the baby, information about the baby's feeding amount, and a comparison of feeding amounts on a terminal by attaching the device to an existing feeding bottle without having to manually write down the feeding amount. In addition, the device can assist in proper feeding of the baby. In one embodiment, the device can determine the baby's drowsiness or the tilt of the feeding bottle and generate vibrations according to the determination result. In addition, the user can intuitively check the temperature of the formula milk in the feeding bottle through the device.

[0100] Description of the symbol

[0101] 10: Feeding volume measurement and feeding assistance system

[0102] 100: Water flow measurement device 110: Housing

[0103] 120: Flexible part 130: Acceleration sensor

[0104] 140: Weight sensor 150: Processor

[0105] 160: Vibration sensor 170: Transmitter and receiver

[0106] 180: Temperature sensor 190: Light emitting part

[0107] 200: Server 300: Terminal

Claims

1. In the method of measuring the amount of breast milk and assisting breastfeeding, Step 1: Measure the starting weight of the bottle; A step of counting the number of swallows using a signal measured through an acceleration sensor; A step of determining whether or not one is drowsy by using the number of swallowings above; A step of generating vibration according to the above judgment result; A step of measuring the end weight of the bottle when it is determined that feeding is finished using the above signal; A method for measuring feeding amount and assisting feeding, comprising a step of calculating feeding amount using the above starting weight and the above ending weight.

2. In paragraph 1, The step of measuring the above starting weight is: A method for measuring feeding amount and assisting feeding, comprising a step of measuring the weight of the feeding bottle when it is determined that the feeding bottle maintains a horizontal level within a preset range for a preset period of time.

3. In paragraph 2, If the starting weight is not measured in the step of measuring the starting weight above, A method for measuring feeding amount and assisting feeding, further comprising the step of setting the ending weight and number of swallows saved during the previous feeding as the starting weight.

4. In paragraph 1, The step of counting the number of swallows above is: A method for measuring the amount of milk and assisting feeding, comprising a step of up-counting the number of swallows when the amplitude of the signal is greater than a preset threshold value.

5. In paragraph 1, The step of determining whether or not the above drowsiness is, A method for measuring the amount of breast milk and assisting breastfeeding, comprising a step of determining that the subject of breastfeeding is asleep if the number of swallows does not increase for a preset period of time.

6. In paragraph 1, The step of measuring the above end weight is: A method for measuring the amount of milk to be fed and assisting feeding, comprising a step of measuring the final weight of the milk bottle when the milk bottle maintains a horizontal level within a preset range for a preset time while counting the number of swallows using the acceleration sensor.

7. In paragraph 6, If the end weight is not measured in the step of measuring the end weight above, A method for measuring the amount of breast milk and assisting breast milk, further comprising a step of calculating the amount of breast milk using the number of swallowings.

8. In paragraph 1, The step of generating the above vibration is: It includes a step of generating vibration when the slope measured through the acceleration sensor exceeds a preset appropriate range, The above vibration is, A method for measuring the amount of milk and assisting milk feeding, wherein the intensity is set differently depending on whether the above-mentioned slope is below or above the above-mentioned appropriate range.

9. In paragraph 1, Before measuring the starting weight of the above bottle, A step of measuring the temperature of the above-mentioned baby bottle; and A method for measuring the amount of milk and assisting milk feeding, comprising the step of displaying a color corresponding to the temperature measurement result.

10. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for executing the method of any one of clauses 1 to 9 on a computer.

11. In a system that measures the amount of milk to assist milk feeding and records the amount of milk feeding, A device that generates feeding information including swallowing count and feeding amount data using a weight sensor and an acceleration sensor, and assists feeding using a temperature sensor and a vibration sensor; A server that receives the feeding information from the device and transmits it to the terminal; and A feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system including a terminal that connects to the above server and displays the baby feeding information on the screen.

12. In paragraph 11, The above feeding information is: A feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system including one of the following: number of drowsiness, appropriate angle, measured single feeding amount, measured daily feeding amount, average feeding amount by month of age, number of feedings, feeding interval, feeding progress time, and expected feeding time.

13. In paragraph 11, The above terminal, The terminal includes one of a nursing terminal and a nursing staff terminal. The above-mentioned feeding terminal is a feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system that displays feeding information and feeding target information on a screen for one or more feeding targets.

14. In Article 11 The above device, A feeding amount measurement and feeding assistance system that up-counts the number of swallows according to the acceleration amplitude using a signal measured through the above acceleration sensor and calculates the feeding amount using the number of swallows and the weight measured through the above weight sensor.

15. A device that can be detached from a baby bottle to measure the amount of milk and assist in feeding, An acceleration sensor that measures the inclination and movement of the bottle; A weight sensor for measuring the weight of the above bottle; A processor that determines whether or not a baby is drowsy using the measurement signal of the acceleration sensor, measures the feeding amount using the weight, and generates feeding information including the feeding amount; A vibration sensor that generates vibrations depending on whether the user is drowsy or not; A feeding amount measuring and feeding assistance device including a transmitter / receiver unit that transmits the feeding information to an external device.

16. In paragraph 15, The above processor, A counting unit that counts the number of swallows using the measurement signal of the above acceleration sensor; A tilt determination unit that determines the horizontality of the bottle using a signal measured by the acceleration sensor; A drowsiness determination unit that determines drowsiness using the number of swallowings; A weight measurement judgment unit that determines whether to measure the starting weight and ending weight of the bottle based on the inclination of the bottle; A vibration control unit that controls vibration by determining whether the inclination of the above-mentioned bottle is within a preset appropriate range; A feeding amount calculation unit that calculates the feeding amount using the starting weight and ending weight of the bottle or calculates the feeding amount using the number of swallows; and A feeding amount measuring and feeding assistance device including a temperature determining unit that determines a color corresponding to the temperature measured in the above feeding bottle.

17. In Article 15 A housing including the acceleration sensor, the weight sensor, the processor, the vibration sensor, and the transceiver; A feeding amount measuring and feeding assistance device that fixes the feeding bottle to a size corresponding to the diameter of the feeding bottle and includes a flexible part that is attachable and detachable to the housing.

18. In Article 17 Further comprising a non-contact temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the above-mentioned bottle, A breastfeeding amount measuring and breastfeeding assistance device including a light-emitting unit that displays a color corresponding to the temperature measurement result.

19. In paragraph 15, The above device, When the above transmitter and receiver are in operation, the power is continuously turned on, A feeding amount measuring and feeding assistance device that controls the power supply to a low power state when the above transmitter and receiver are not operating.

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