Toy product for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants

Abstract

Toy product (1) for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants, the product (1) comprising an internal pocket (2), an electronic device (3) and a strap (4) The pocket (2) having an opening (5) for allowing inserting the electronic device (3) inside of the pocket (2), the pocket (2) having at least two opposing walls (6) for encompassing the electronic device (3). The electronic device (3) comprising control circuits, a speaker, a microphone, a battery, a play / stop button, a record button, a memory and volume buttons, the strap (4) being removably attached to the electronic device (3) in such a way that the strap (4) is configured to extend around the periphery of the electronic device (3). The product (1) comprising at least two fastening arrangements (7) for removably attaching the electronic device (3) to the inside of the pocket (2), such that when the electronic device (3) is positioned in the pocket (2), the fastening arrangement (7) is not visible from the outside of the product (1) for preventing the infant from removing the electronic device (3) from the pocket (2).

Description

[0001] Toy product for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to a toy product for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Music boxes having the ability to record audio and subsequently play it back have been known in the prior art. In recent years, technological advancements allowed these music boxes to become smaller such that they can be integrated into toys, such as dolls or plush toys. Existing plush toys often serve as comforting companions or crib accessories for infants. Many of these toys come with a variety of melodies prerecorded in the device, allowing users to choose and play their preferred tune. Some plush toys also offer basic recording and playback functionalities. However, the positioning of the music box within the toy lacks thoughtful design and it is either impossible to take the music box out of the toy, or it is cumbersome and time consuming. As a result, recording new audio or adjusting other settings in the music box is rather inconvenient and difficult. On the other hand, allowing easy access to the music box inside the toy makes it dangerous to leave the toy in the crib, close to infants. Other existing products on the market that play recorded sound and lullabies are in the form of Software Applications Apps, which rely on wifi connections and EMF signals to the toy. Wifi products are something many parents are attempting to avoid for their children's sleeping environment.

[0006] Music boxes that are only turned on when triggered by a child's noise level also exist. These devices wait for the child to become unsettled which makes it harder for a child to resettle. Most existing music boxes that offer a recording feature can only record short messages and do not provide looping and continuous playback. Other known devices also either do not loop the recorded sound or, if offering the capability to loop the audio, it is limited to a predetermined duration which is never longer than 30 minutes.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] It is an object to provide an improved toy product. The foregoing and other objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further implementation forms are apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the figures.

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided a toy product for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants, the product comprising an internal pocket, an electronic device and a strap; the pocket having an opening for allowing inserting the electronic device inside of the pocket; the pocket having at least two opposing walls for encompassing the electronic device; the electronic device comprising control circuits, a speaker, a microphone, a battery, a play / stop button, a record button, a memory and volume buttons; the strap being removably attached to the electronic device in such a way that the strap is configured to extend around the periphery of the electronic device; the product comprising at least two fastening arrangements for removably attaching the electronic device to the inside of the pocket; each fastening arrangement comprising a fastening element and a receiving element, the fastening element being located on the strap; the receiving element being located on the wall inside of the pocket; such that when the electronic device is positioned in the pocket, the fastening arrangement is not visible from the outside of the product for preventing the infant from removing the electronic device from the pocket.

[0010] This solution provides an improved product where the electronic device is positioned within the toy such that it is securely held within the pocket, but it is still easy, simple and quick to take electronic device out of the pocket for an adult. The surface of the toy looks clean and no fastening means are visible. This prevents the child from finding the opening to remove the electronic device and then editing the recorded sound or changing any other settings. At the same time, it allows adults to take out the electronic device, record new audio, charge the battery, etc. with ease, causing less distress to an unsettled child.

[0011] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the strap is a loop, wrapping around the electronic device, such that when the electronic device is positioned in the pocket, the strap is located between the electronic device and the wall, thereby isolating the electronic device from the product. This facilitates a simple yet careful design allowing to securely hold the electronic device in place in the pocket so that it does not move, cannot fall out of the pocket, i.e. it remains inaccessible and tamper-proof to infants and small children.

[0012] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the record button and the microphone are located at a back side of the electronic device, such that when the electronic device is positioned in the pocket, the record button and the microphone are not visible from the outside of the product. The thoughtful design of the positioning of the electronic device in the pocket makes sure that only adults can use the record button and the microphone. As these are hidden on the back side of the electronic device, they are not visible when the electronic device is placed in the pocket of the toy. Infants and small children cannot tamper with the record button and the microphone when the electronic device is secured within the pocket. Only an adult can find the fastening arrangement. To remove the electronic device, an adult has to slide his / her fingers into the pocket and push his / her fingers thumbs outwards to disconnect the fastening arrangements.

[0013] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the play / stop button and the volume buttons are located at a front side of the electronic device, and the strap is configured to extend around the periphery of the electronic device in such a way that the strap is located between any of the play / stop button and the volume buttons such that when the electronic device is positioned in the pocket, the play / stop button and the volume buttons are visible and accessible from the outside of the product. This solution facilitates easy access to the buttons of the electronic device where the playback, audio can be selected and volume set. These buttons can be accessible even for children as pushing these buttons does not permanently delete or record any audio. Providing these buttons on the front side of the electronic device allows adults to quickly use these functions and to turn on or off the electronic device without having to remove the electronic device from the pocket.

[0014] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fastening arrangement is a snap button. This solution provides an inexpensive, easy-to-connect and simple design. Using a snap as the fastening arrangement allows adults to remove the electronic device from the pocket quickly and conveniently.

[0015] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, a distance between the opening and the receiving element is more than about 2 cm, preferably more than about 2.5 cm; more preferably the distance being about 3 cm. This solution provides a secure positioning of the electronic device in the pocket and makes sure that the fastening arrangements are not visible from the outside of the toy even when small children are playing with the toy and exploring the back surface of the toy, looking around the outside of the pocket. The positioning of the opening and the receiving element in specific positions helps make sure that the different elements of the product align and connect well and that the electronic device, once connected, is in a perfectly fitted and secured location within the toy product. This design also creates a clean surface without any visible fastening arrangements that kids would want to tamper with. The distance of more than about 2 cm makes sure that infants and small children cannot reach the fastening arrangements but adults can. In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the strap is made of linen. Using linen provides a combination of strength, durability, resistance to stretching and abrasion, moisture management, and eco-friendliness, making it a practical and reliable choice for the material of the strap.

[0016] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the strap has a circumference of about 15-25 cm, preferably about 18-22 cm, more preferably about 20 cm.

[0017] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the strap has a width of about 0.5-3 cm, preferably about 0.8-2 cm, more preferably about 1 cm. This solution provides a not too robust yet secure and effective connection between the electronic device and the pocket, without adding excessive tension or pressure, striking a balance between security and ease of use. Using a width of about 0.5-3 cm, preferably about 0.8-2 cm, more preferably about 1 cm allows the buttons on the electronic device to be accessible and also does not add unnecessary weight to the toy.

[0018] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the product is a stuffed animal, and the opening is arranged in a back side of the animal. For example, a koala.

[0019] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method for the application of the toy product according to the first aspect, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

[0020] - recording an audio by pushing and holding the record button and sending audio signals to the microphone;

[0021] - stopping the recording by letting go of the record button;

[0022] - playing back the recorded audio continuously in a loop for up to 2 days to comfort infants. This solution provides an improved toy product for recording audio and playing back audio recordings continuously in a loop for up to 2 days to infants. According to a research conducted by renowned birth educator and doula Penny Simkin, singing a song to a child before birth and then singing that same song after birth to the child provides exceedingly positive results and can sooth babies to sleep. Scientific studies also show that infants' biometrics are calm when hearing their parents voices even if it is a recording. Therefore, if a mother records a song with her voice and plays it back to her child using the toy product according to this patent application, her child can sleep in a relaxed way. By playing back the audio all night, the baby is constantly hearing his / her mother's voice (e.g. singing) soothing him / her to sleep. As the recorded audio can be played continuously, the baby does not need to become escalated, the babies are constantly relaxed by the sound of the parents voice. By providing the function to play the recorded audio for up to 2 days, if the baby wakes during the night (or during a nap), the baby will relax and fall back to sleep when he / she hears the mother's voice. Children's sleep wake cycles are very short, especially at birth. So, continuous playback is advantageous as infants wake up frequently, but whenever they hear the mother’s voice, as research show the child becomes relaxed causing the child to fall back to sleep quickly.

[0023] In a possible implementation form of the second aspect, the recorded audio has a length of up to 3 minutes. This solution facilitates recording longer songs, poems, melodies or other soothing audio messages for small children. The long recording time improves the overall quality of playback as it reduces repetition between loops. The longest record option of existing devices records for a maximum time of 30 seconds, resulting in a lower quality playback melody.

[0024] In a possible implementation form of the second aspect, the recording of the audio starts after pushing and holding the record button for at least 5 seconds. This solution makes sure that recording will not start accidentally and that already recorded audio will not permanently deleted by accident. This and other aspects will be apparent from the embodiments described below.

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] In the following detailed portion of the present disclosure, the aspects, embodiments and implementations will be explained in more detail with reference to the example embodiments shown in the drawings, in which:

[0027] Fig. la shows a front view of a toy product in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Fig. lb shows a rear view of the toy product shown in Fig. la;

[0029] Fig. 2a shows a front view of an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Fig. 2b shows a rear view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 2a;

[0031] Fig. 2c shows a side view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 2a and 2b;

[0032] Fig. 2d shows a different side view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 2a-2c;

[0033] Fig. 3a shows a front view of an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Fig. 3 b shows a perspective view of a strap to be placed on the electronic device shown in Fig- 3a;

[0035] Fig. 4a shows a front view of an electronic device with the strap extending around the periphery of the electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Fig. 4b shows a side view of the electronic device with the strap in Fig. 4a; Fig. 4c shows a different side view of the electronic device with the strap in Fig. 4a and 4b;

[0037] Fig. 5a shows a side view of a toy product and its internal pocket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Fig. 5b shows a rear view of the toy product shown in Fig. 5a;

[0039] Fig. 5c shows a side view of the toy product shown in Fig. 5a and 5b, its pocket being inside out.

[0040] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Fig. la and Fig. lb show two different sides of a toy product in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The toy product 1 for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants comprises an internal pocket 2, an electronic device 3 and a strap 4. The pocket 2 has an opening 5 for allowing inserting the electronic device 3 inside of the pocket 2. The pocket 2 further has at least two opposing walls 6 for encompassing the electronic device 3. The two opposing walls 6 preferably extend substantially parallel to each other. Moreover, the product 1 comprises at least two fastening arrangements 7 for removably attaching the electronic device 3 to the inside of the pocket 2. Each fastening arrangement 7 comprises a fastening element 7a and a receiving element 7b, the fastening element 7a being located on the strap 4, the receiving element 7b being located on the wall 6 inside of the pocket 2. As a result, when the electronic device 3 is positioned in the pocket 2, just like in Fig. la, the fastening arrangement 7 is not visible from the outside of the product 1 for preventing the infant from removing the electronic device 3 from the pocket 2. The fastening arrangement 7 is preferably a snap button. The strap 4 is preferably made of linen. As the figures also show, the toy product 1 is optionally a stuffed animal, and the opening 5 is arranged in the back side la of the animal. Fig. 2a-2d show different views of an electronic device according to a possible embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 3 comprises control circuits, a speaker, a microphone 9, a battery, a play / stop button 10, a record button 8, a memory and volume buttons 11. The play button 10 is for playback of the recorded audio. The record button 8 is for recording audio, e.g. the mother's voice. As seen on Fig. 2b, the record button 8 and the microphone 9 are preferably located at a back side 3 a of the electronic device 3, such that when the electronic device 3 is positioned in the pocket 2, the record button 8 and the microphone 9 are not visible from the outside of the product 1. This way, the record button 8 and the microphone 9 being hidden, the child cannot press the record button 8 and edit the audio.

[0042] Other buttons on the front side 3 b of the electronic device 3 can include play buttons for inbuilt songs. In a possible embodiment, there are four more play buttons which are for inbuilt, prerecorded songs / sound-tracks. All songs / melodies are tuned to 528 herts (carrier frequency). And all songs include a different sound pulse overlaying the melody (isochronic tone).

[0043] Isochronic Tones:

[0044] PLAY HARP: 7.83hz (mimics pre sleep brainwaves)

[0045] PLAY DIDGERIDOO: llhz (mimic pre sleep brainwaves)

[0046] PLAY WOMB: 174 hz (Ancient Solfeggio frequency)

[0047] PLAY DEEP SLEEP: 4hz (mimic deep sleep brainwaves)

[0048] Fig 3 a show the electronic device 3 before placing, attaching the strap 4 on it. Fig 3 b shows a possible embodiment of the strap 4, before placing it on the electronic device 3. The strap 4 is preferably a loop, wrapping around the electronic device 3, such that when the electronic device 3 is positioned in the pocket 2, the strap 4 is located between the electronic device 3 and the wall 6, thereby isolating the electronic device 3 from the product 1. As Fig. 4a-4c show, the strap 4 is removably attached to the electronic device 3 in such a way that the strap 4 is configured to extend around the periphery of the electronic device 3.

[0049] Figs. 5a-5c show the toy product 1 when being a stuffed animal with its internal pocket 2 and opening 5, but without the electronic device 3 and without the strap 4.

[0050] As seen on Fig. 2a, 3 a and 4a, the play / stop button 10 and the volume buttons 11 are preferably located at a front side 3 b of the electronic device 3. The strap 4 preferably extends around the periphery of the electronic device 3 in such a way that the strap 4 is located between any of the play / stop button 10 and the volume buttons 11. This way, when the electronic device 3 is positioned in the pocket 2, the play / stop button 10 and the volume buttons 11 are visible and accessible from the outside of the product 1. As a result, the music can be turned off / on, volume+ / - adjusted and song changed all quickly and easily from the outside of the toy product 1 to suit the parent and child’s needs.

[0051] Advantageously, the distance (dl) between the opening 5 and the receiving element 7b is more than about 2 cm, preferably more than about 2.5 cm; more preferably the distance dl being about 3 cm. The distance dl being more than about 2 cm makes sure that infants and small children cannot reach the fastening arrangements but adults can. To remove the electronic device from the pocket by an adult, the adult can slide his / her fingers into the pocket and push his / her thumbs outwards to disconnect the fastening arrangements, e.g. snaps and release the electronic device. This process is too technical for a small child to implement independently.

[0052] Regarding the dimensions, the electronic device has a width of about 3 cm and a depth of about 8 cm. The strap 4 preferably has a circumference of about 15-25 cm, preferably about 18-22 cm, more preferably about 20 cm. The strap 4 preferably has a width (d2) of about 0.5-3 cm, preferably about 0.8-2 cm, more preferably about 1 cm. When using the toy product, the method comprises the steps of:

[0053] - recording an audio by pushing and holding the record button 8 and sending audio signals to the microphone,

[0054] - stopping the recording by letting go of the record button 8,

[0055] - playing back the recorded audio continuously in a loop for up to 2 days to comfort infants.

[0056] The recorded audio can have a length of up to 3 minutes. However, regardless of how long the recorded audio is, e.g. only 1 minute or 2 minutes, it will be looped together for continuous play. Optionally, inbuilt, i.e. prerecorded sound tracks can be selected for play too. In a possible embodiment there are four inbuilt, prerecorded sound tracks. Optionally, these inbuilt, i.e. prerecorded sound tracks are available on the front side 3b of the electronic device 3 and can be selected by pushing certain buttons. Optionally, user can select to play the recorded audio and one of the inbuilt songs at the same time.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the recording of the audio starts after pushing and holding the record button 8 for at least 5 seconds. After pushing and holding the record button 8 for about 5 seconds, there will be a beep sound and the recording of the audio starts after the beep. As long as the record button 8 is being pushed, the recording of the audio continues for up to 3 minutes. If the record button 8 is let go, it will stop recording. The recorded audio will be looped and played continuously. The audio can be played back all night and up to 2 days. So, if the baby wakes during the night and hears the mothers voice, the sound encourages the child to relax and fall back to sleep.

[0058] When it comes to the playback options, both the recorded audio and the inbuilt songs are able to be played for: 30 mins, 60 mins, 8 hours or, if no time option is selected, the playback can continue until the battery dies, which is over 2 days of continuous play. In a possible embodiment, to set the unlimited (about 2 days, also depending on the volume selected) continuous playback, one of the play buttons (inbuilt songs or recorded audio) should be pressed once. In a possible embodiment, to set the 8 hours of continuous playback, the user can click the play button four times, until a red light moves onto the 8hr display text.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, three red lights are located on the front side 3b of the electronic device 3. When the ON button is pressed, the red light indicator will move across to the time play duration. For example, if the user wants the inbuilt songs or recorded audio to play back for 30 minutes, they press and release the ON button until it lights up the red light with the 30 minutes indicator light, they press the button again and the light moves to the 60 minutes or again to the 8 hours and one more time and the device will turn off / shut down and there will be no red lights. And as mentioned, if the user does not press the on button more than that initial first press, the selected sound will continue to play until the battery of the electronic device 3 runs out.

[0060] It is recommended that a pregnant mother sings one (same) song daily from week 24 fetus development onwards to her growing baby. Then the mother records that specific song into the electronic device 3 and when the baby is born, the baby remembers the song and the mother's voice and that recorded sound can be used to comfort the baby. The sound loops together and can be played all night and day if wanted, as long as the battery remains charged. Since the electronic device 3 is positioned in a toy or doll, it can easily be taken with the baby during trips and thus the toy product 1 can comfort the baby wherever it travels.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the electronic device 3 is not able to attract a wifi or bluetooth signal to provide a safe environment around the baby and to avoid wifi signals around the crib.

[0062] Optionally, the product 1 may have further features:

[0063] - long lasting rechargeable inbuilt lithium battery (recharge with USB cable supplied);>safe sound decibels, max sound levels being 50dB to protect infant hearing;

[0064] - base speaker producing a slight vibration feeling to the stomach of the toy product when the sound is played (to replicate the feeling experienced within the womb when the mother sang and can be felt when cuddling the toy);

[0065] - a clip on and off linen necklace that holds around the stuffed toy's neck and includes having a chew ring that can also clip onto a crib or a stroller to prevent losing the doll.

[0066] The various aspects and implementations have been described in conjunction with various embodiments herein. However, other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed subjectmatter, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid- state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

[0067] The reference signs used in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intended to be read (e.g., cross-hatching, arrangement of parts, proportion, degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considered a portion of the entire written description of this disclosure. As used in the description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “left”, “right”, “up” and “down”, as well as adjectival and adverbial derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “rightwardly”, “upwardly”, etc.), simply refer to the orientation of the illustrated structure as the particular drawing figure faces the reader. Similarly, the terms “inwardly” and “outwardly” generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, as appropriate.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Toy product (1) for recording audio and playing back audio recordings to infants, the product (1) comprising an internal pocket (2), an electronic device (3) and a strap (4), the pocket (2) having an opening (5) for allowing inserting the electronic device (3) inside of the pocket (2), the pocket (2) having at least two opposing walls (6) for encompassing the electronic device (3), the electronic device (3) comprising control circuits, a speaker, a microphone, a battery, a play / stop button, a record button, a memory and volume buttons, the strap (4) being removably attached to the electronic device (3) in such a way that the strap (4) is configured to extend around the periphery of the electronic device (3), the product (1) comprising at least two fastening arrangements (7) for removably attaching the electronic device (3) to the inside of the pocket (2), each fastening arrangement (7) comprising a fastening element (7a) and a receiving element (7b), the fastening element (7a) being located on the strap (4), the receiving element (7b) being located on the wall (6) inside of the pocket (2), such that when the electronic device (3) is positioned in the pocket (2), the fastening arrangement (7) is not visible from the outside of the product (1) for preventing the infant from removing the electronic device (3) from the pocket (2).

2. The product (1) according to claim 1, wherein the strap (4) is a loop, wrapping around the electronic device (3), such that when the electronic device (3) is positioned in the pocket (2), the strap (4) is located between the electronic device (3) and the wall (6), thereby isolating the electronic device (3) from the product (1).

3. The product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the record button (8) and the microphone (9) are located at a back side (3a) of the electronic device (3), such that whenthe electronic device (3) is positioned in the pocket (2), the record button (8) and the microphone (9) are not visible from the outside of the product (1).

4. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the play / stop button (10) and the volume buttons (11) are located at a front side (3b) of the electronic device (3), and the strap (4) is configured to extend around the periphery of the electronic device (3) in such a way that the strap (4) is located between any of the play / stop button (10) and the volume buttons (11), such that when the electronic device (3) is positioned in the pocket (2), the play / stop button (10) and the volume buttons (11) are visible and accessible from the outside of the product (1).

5. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening arrangement (7) is a snap button.

6. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a distance (dl) between the opening (5) and the receiving element (7b) is more than about 2 cm, preferably more than about 2.5 cm; more preferably the distance (dl) being about 3 cm.

7. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the strap (4) is made of linen.

8. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the strap (4) has a circumference of about 15-25 cm, preferably about 18-22 cm, more preferably about 20 cm.

9. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the strap (4) has a width (d2) of about 0.5-3 cm, preferably about 0.8-2 cm, more preferably about 1 cm.

10. The product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the product (1) is a stuffed animal, and the opening (5) is arranged in a back side (la) of the animal.

11. Method for the application of the toy product (1) according to any of claims 1-10, wherein the method comprises the steps of:- recording an audio by pushing and holding the record button (8) and sending audio signals to the microphone (9),- stopping the recording by letting go of the record button (8),- playing back the recorded audio continuously in a loop for up to 2 days to comfort infants.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the recorded audio has a length of up to 3 minutes.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the recording of the audio starts after pushing and holding the record button (8) for at least 5 seconds.

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