Removable feeder bottle accessory

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a smart feeder bottle accessory system and method for enhancing infant feeding experiences. The system comprises a capping component containing an integrated sensor for detecting fluid dispensation, and a sleeve component containing electronic components. These components work in tandem to transform standard feeding bottles into interactive devices. The method involves detecting fluid dispensation, registering it as a dispensation event, retrieving associated feedback, and emitting this feedback through an output system. The system includes a memory device for storing various types of feedback and at least one hardware processor for event processing. Feedback may be audio, visual, mechanical, or sensory, providing a perceptible response to feeding events. The system aims to encourage proper feeding habits, engage infants, and provide valuable data to caregivers, thereby revolutionizing the infant feeding process.

Description

PATENT DESCRIPTIONREMOVABLE FEEDER BOTTLE ACCESSORYFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present invention generally relates to infant and child feeding bottles and systems, and more particularly, to interactive infant feeding bottles and devices, training vessels, smart tracking containers, and instrumented feeding systems for encouraging and tracking feeding metrics.CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] The present invention claims priority benefit and is a continuation of provisional utility model application KE / U / 2024 / 2747 filed on 12 / 08 / 2024, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The present invention also claims priority benefit and is a continuation of the PCT application PCT / KE2025 / 050001 filed on 29 / 01 / 2025.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Feeding bottles are essential in infant care, allowing caregivers to feed milk, formula, or other liquids to babies and young toddlers. The global baby feeding bottles market size was valued at USD 2.7 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2021 to 2028. While the shapes and forms of bottles continue to evolve, there is a growing trend towards accessories that enhance the functionality and appeal of standard feeding bottles. Major consumer product companies have dedicated divisions for nursery items and baby care, recognizing the market significance of parental demands for effective, reliable, and innovative products for their developing children.

[0004] The marketplace offers a wide range of feeding bottles and accessories. However, there is a growing need for smart accessories that can transform standard feeding bottles into interactive, data-rich devices. While prior art includes bottle warmers, sterilizers, and simple measurement markers, there is a lack of sophisticated accessories that can detect feeding events, provide real-time feedback, and collect valuable data. Current accessories do not effectively link sensed dispensation with responsive audiovisual feedback to promote engagement, train effective feeding habits, and assist caregivers with tracking feeding patterns and compliance.

[0005] The disclosed accessory system builds upon fundamental feeding bottle designs byintroducing a cap and sleeve combination that embeds sensors and outputs to react to bottle use through associated electronics and programming. The user interactivity provides engagement, positive associations with feeding, and potential developmental benefits from pattern analysis for proper drinking habits. The accessory system may feature components shaped into fanciful animal characters, with the feedback being associated with these characters. Such an instrumented feeding bottle accessory system with event detection and response fills the technological gaps of standard vessels to encourage young children in necessary sustenance consumption for growth and nutrition.

[0006] The forthcoming sections disclose the specific components, examples and embodiments, alternate arrangements and functions, materials and modes of operation, processes, and method steps meeting this background need through an interactive feeding bottle accessory system with audio, visual, mechanical, or sensory feedback capabilities. This system is designed to work in conjunction with existing feeding bottles, providing a cost- effective and versatile solution for enhancing the feeding experience.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a "smart" feeding bottle accessory system capable of transforming standard bottles into interactive feeding devices. Further objectives include sensing liquid dispensation events and triggering corresponding audio, visual, mechanical, or sensory feedback for encouragement. Another object is to provide a cost-effective and versatile solution for enhancing the feeding experience that works in conjunction with existing feeding bottles through a cap and sleeve combination that embeds sensors and outputs to react to bottle use through associated electronics and programming.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] This summary section provides an overview of some of the inventive aspects related to the smart feeder bottle accessory system, method, and apparatus as outlined in the description. It is not a comprehensive review of the invention and is not meant to restrict the scope to anything beyond what is described and claimed in this summary.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a smart feeder bottle accessory system designed to work with pre-existing feeding bottles. The system comprises a cap sectionadapted to cap a feeder bottle and a sleeve section adapted to receive the feeder bottle. The cap section includes an integrated sensor to detect fluid dispensation, while the sleeve section contains electronic components for processing and feedback. The system includes an output system comprising at least one of an audio output device, a visual output device, a mechanical actuator, or a sensory feedback device. It also includes a memory device to store prerecorded, generative, dynamic, or downloaded feedback, including at least one of audio, visual, mechanical, or sensory feedback.

[0010] One aspect covers integrated sensor implementations in the cap section for detecting fluid motion. Techniques outlined may include capacitive sensors, pressure sensors, or other means of converting physical fluid movement into electronic signals indicating dispensation.

[0011] One aspect of the invention includes integrated mechanical actuation features in the sleeve section for tangible response output upon sensing feeding dispensation events. Small electric motors or actuators powered by control electronics may drive decorative parts like articulating tails or ears in synchrony with the measured feeding session, providing supplementary sensory engagement.

[0012] Another aspect provides for aesthetic personalization through fanciful designs on the cap and sleeve sections, such as animal characters or other concepts aimed at improving infant affinity and engagement. Corresponding contextually associated audio samples, visual feedback such as LED lighting patterns, and sensory feedback then reinforce psychological ties between physical appearance and reward responses during interactively detected feeding sessions.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, the accessory system may be designed to accommodate various bottle sizes. The sleeve section may be substantially elastic, allowing it to fit securely around feeding bottles of different dimensions. The cap section may incorporate an elastic capping means, enabling it to securely fit onto bottles with varying neck sizes and shapes.

[0014] In a further aspect, onboard processors in the sleeve section analyze the digitized sensor data for behavioral insights. Tracking volume consumed over sequential time windows allows determination of ingestion rates for comparison against optimal patterns. Assessed compliance to these patterns then selects whether generated audio, visual, mechanical, orsensory feedback provides reinforcing response or corrective guidance to coach better drinking efficiency.

[0015] An additional aspect covers embedded environmental recording and machine mimicry functionality to play captured ambient audio for a familiar and intuitive context, enhancing the feeding experience.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to machine-readable instructions enabling enhanced feeding bottle behavior through the accessory system. Stored software modules execute on processors to interface with sensors in order to react to feeding events.

[0017] Another aspect relates to a method for operating the smart feeder bottle accessory system, including detecting dispensation events, registering these events, retrieving appropriate feedback, and emitting this feedback through the output system.

[0018] The disclosure also covers a computer-readable storage medium containing instructions for operating the smart feeder bottle accessory system, as well as the overall system configuration for playful feeder bottle dispensation using the accessory system.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The novel features believed to define the illustrative embodiments are detailed in the appended claims. To fully comprehend these embodiments, along with their preferred usage, objectives, and detailed descriptions, one should refer to the comprehensive description of one or more examples of these embodiments, as provided in this disclosure. This understanding is further enhanced when considered alongside the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a bottle feeder accessory system according to one aspect.

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a bottle feeder accessory system according to one aspect.

[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates the connecting member of the bottle feeder accessory system according to another aspect.

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of a bottle feeder and accessory to view some of the integral components.

[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates a wireless bottle feeder accessory system according to another aspect.

[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates bottle feeder accessory shaped as a fanciful item.

[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of a bottle feeder accessory shaped as a fanciful item.

[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates another view of a bottle feeder accessory shaped as a fanciful item.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] The detailed description of the preferred embodiments of this invention is presented here, with references to the accompanying drawings. The specific terms and words used in both the description and the claims of this invention should not be confined to their ordinary or dictionary definitions. Instead, their interpretation should align with the meanings and concepts relevant to the invention, reflecting the inventor(s)' ability to define terms uniquely to best convey the bottle feeder accessory system.

[0029] It should be noted that the embodiment of the bottle feeder accessory system illustrated and discussed in this document represents a preferred example, and does not intend to restrict the technical essence or boundaries of the invention. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge that various alterations and adaptations can be made to the accessory system, which are still within its spirit and scope. This may include, but is not limited to, variations in the design of the cap and sleeve sections, different methods of attaching the accessory system to various bottle types, alternative sensor technologies for detecting dispensation events, and diverse implementations of feedback mechanisms. The core concept of transforming standard feeding bottles into interactive, smart devices through an adaptable accessory system remains central to all such variations.

[0030] The embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a bottle feeder accessory system. The system comprises an accessorized bottle 1 which includes several components. A cap 20 having a feeding nipple 21 is shown at the top of the assembly. This cap is fitted onto a bottle 10. A sleeve 30 is provided, encasing the lower portion of the bottle 10 using a sleeve recess 12 (see FIG. 4). On the sleeve, there are buttons 15 visible. A connecting member is also shown, consisting of a top portion 50 that connects to the cap, and a bottom section 40 that connects to the sleeve.

[0031] On the other hand, the FIG. 2 presents a side view of the bottle feeder accessory system. In this view, the cap 20 is shown as having a nipple 21 disposed at the top of the assembly. The bottle 10 can be seen capped by the cap section 20. The sleeve 30 is shown encasing the lower part of the bottle 10. The connecting member 100 in this view is shaped into a handle, with a top portion 52 connecting to the cap and a bottom section 42 connecting to the sleeve, the top and bottom portions being substantially curved to form a handle-like connection. This handle design allows for holding the accessorized bottle via these connecting members. In some aspects, a single connecting member with fused top and bottom portions 52 and 42 respectively may also suffice.

[0032] Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which illustrates a view of the connecting member in the bottle feeder accessory system, showcasing its relationship with other components. On the figure, the cap 20 is shown at the top of the assembly, featuring a suction / feeding hole 27 on the nipple 21 through which fluid is dispensed. This cap serves a dual purpose: it securely closes the bottle 10 to prevent spills, and it houses the integrated sensor for detecting fluid dispensation. The cap is designed to interface directly with the feeding process and initiates the detection of dispensation events.

[0033] The bottle 10 is depicted as being capped by the cap section 20. This standard bottle serves as the fluid reservoir in the system. The sleeve 30 is shown at the lower portion of the assembly, encasing the bottle 10 through a recess formed on the sleeve (see 12 in FIG. 4). This sleeve is a key component of the accessory system, housing the electronic components including the memory device, hardware processors, and output devices. The cap and sleeve combination can transform any regular feeding bottle into a smart, interactive device.

[0034] Further still, the connecting member featured as consisting of a disconnected top portion 50 that is provided for connecting to the cap and a bottom section 40 that connects to the sleeve provides a physical link between the cap section and the sleeve section, enabling the assembly to function as a cohesive unit. Additionally, and in some non-limiting aspects, it also facilitates data communication between the sensor in the cap and the electronic components in the sleeve, which is essential for transmitting dispensation event data from the sensor to the processors for analysis and response. In some embodiments, it may serve as an electrical conduit, allowing power to be supplied from a battery in the sleeve to componentsin the cap if needed. In further aspects, it may add structural integrity to the overall assembly, providing stability during use.

[0035] Further aspects of the figure also highlight the connection mechanism between the cap and the connecting member. A socket 25 is shown on the cap 20, which interfaces with a corresponding socket 26 on the top portion of the connecting member 50. This detachable connection allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the accessory system, facilitating cleaning and maintenance. Overall, the connecting member bridges the gap between the sensing mechanism in the cap and the processing and output components in the sleeve, enabling the smart features of the system while maintaining the basic structure and usability of a standard feeding bottle.

[0036] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which presents an exploded view of the bottle feeder accessory system, revealing its integral components and their relationships. The cap 20 is shown detached from the bottle, displaying an internal threaded portion 28. This threading allows for secure attachment of the cap 20 to the bottle 10, ensuring a secure seal. In further aspects, the cap could attach to the bottle through friction fitting, wherein the sleeve could be designed to grip the bottle tightly through surface friction. Even further, the cap could be substantially elastic to accommodate various bottle sizes, providing versatility to the accessory system.

[0037] The cap houses the integrated sensor for detecting fluid dispensation, which is part of the system's smart functionality. Further, the bottle 10 is depicted as separate from the cap, featuring an external threaded portion 11 that corresponds to the cap's internal threading. This standard bottle serves as the fluid reservoir in the accessory system.

[0038] Also shown is the connecting member 100 detached, comprising of a top portion 50 that connects to the cap and a bottom section 40 that connects to the sleeve. This member facilitates data communication between the cap 20 and sleeve sections. The sleeve 30 is illustrated disassembled from the bottle. The sleeve could attach to the bottle through various means, including threading, wherein it might have an internal threaded portion to match an external threading on the bottle. Alternatively, it may work by friction fitting, wherein the sleeve could be designed to grip the bottle tightly through surface friction in a recessed portion 12 thereof. Even further, the sleeve recess could be substantially elastic to accommodate various bottle sizes, providing versatility to the accessory system.

[0039] Further, a bottom casing 36 for the sleeve section is shown, which encloses the electronic components. In preferred aspects, these components could include a memory device for storing feedback data, output devices such as speakers, LEDs, or mechanical actuators or wireless communication modules. Also shown is the processor / controller module 31, which in non-limiting aspects could be one or more hardware processors configured by machine-readable instructions to register detected dispensing of fluid as a dispensation event, and cause the emission of feedback associated with the dispensation event. In other aspects, the processor / controller module may be configured to analyze dispensation rates and determine compliance with pre-stored data. The electrical components may derive electric power form a battery module. These battery module and output modules 32 are also shown. The battery would power all electronic components in the system. The output modules may include an audio output device for emitting sounds, or a visual output device like LEDs or a display screen, or a mechanical actuator for producing physical motions, or even a sensory feedback device for providing other types of sensory feedback. In some aspects, one or more components of the output module may be disposed at the cap 20.

[0040] In preferred aspects, the electrical sensing element is positioned within the cap section (20) adjacent to the nipple aperture (27) to maximize sensitivity to fluid flow. In preferred embodiments, the sensor comprises a capacitive sensing element with conductive plates arranged to detect changes in dielectric properties as fluid passes through the nipple. The sensing element may be embedded within the internal threaded portion (28) or positioned as a ring-shaped sensor around the nipple base. When fluid moves through the aperture (27), the capacitive coupling between sensor plates changes measurably, generating electrical signals proportional to flow rate and volume. Alternative implementations include pressure-sensitive membranes or optical beam-break sensors positioned to intercept the fluid path as disclosed in PCT / KE2025 / 050001.

[0041] Further, the processor / controller module (31) executes programmed algorithms to correlate sensor data with stored feedback patterns in real-time. Upon detecting dispensation events, the controller triggers coordinated responses through the output modules (32), which may include synchronized audio playback through micro-speakers, LED light sequences programmed to match feeding rhythms, and mechanical actuators (38) that animate external features such as tails or ears. The feedback timing and intensity are dynamically adjusted based on dispensation rate analysis, creating contextually appropriate responses thatencourage continued feeding activity while providing caregivers with intuitive visual and auditory indicators of feeding progress.

[0042] Now reference is made to FIG. 5, which illustrates an alternative configuration of the bottle feeder accessory system, highlighting a wireless communication approach. The cap 20 is shown attached to the bottle 10, which is arranged within the sleeve 30. The sleeve features buttons 15 for user interaction. One aspect of this configuration is the wireless connection 7 between the cap and the sleeve, eliminating or partially eliminating the need for a physical connecting member. This wireless communication could be implemented using various techniques such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, ZigBee, or Near Field Communication (NFC). Each of these technologies offers different ranges, data transfer rates, and power consumption profiles, allowing for flexibility in design based on specific requirements. The choice of wireless technology would depend on factors such as desired range, data throughput, and power efficiency. To power the electronic components in the cap, including the sensor and wireless module, two approaches may be utilized. One option is to include wiring bridges that run along the bottle's exterior, connecting the power supply in the sleeve to the cap. Alternatively, the cap may be equipped with its own battery module, making it a fully self-contained unit. This self-powered approach would increase the modularity of the system, allowing the cap to function independently if needed, but would require periodic recharging or battery replacement. The wireless design offers advantages in terms of flexibility and ease of cleaning, as the cap and sleeve can be easily separated without dealing with physical connections.

[0043] Further still, the FIG. 6 showcases an iteration of the bottle feeder accessory system, formed into a fanciful object to enhance its appeal to children. The nipple 21 is attached to the feeder bottle’s cap 20, which may be shaped to resemble the head of a fanciful animal, in this case, a duck. However, it is to be noted that the cap could be designed to represent various other animal heads or parts of fanciful items, offering versatility in design. The bottle 10 is nestled within the sleeve 35, which is creatively molded to depict the body of the duck, completing the whimsical animal motif. The sleeve incorporates a bottom section 31 that serves as a compartment to house the necessary electronic components. This design disguises the functional elements of the accessory system within an engaging, child-friendly form. The connecting member is shown detached, featuring a top portion 51 designed to connect to the cap and a bottom section 41 that attaches to the sleeve. To facilitate easy assembly anddisassembly, the figure displays socket 25 on the cap 20 for the connecting member, and socket 26 on the connecting member portion 51 to attach to the bottom portion 41 and socket 25. The modular design allows for easy cleaning and maintenance while preserving the playful aesthetic. The fanciful shape not only makes the feeding bottle more appealing to children but also aligns with the accessory system's capability to provide themed audiovisual feedback, creating a more immersive and engaging feeding experience. Further, the cap could include an internally threaded portion for secure attachment to the bottle's external threads 11, ensuring a secure seal. In other aspects, the cap might utilize a friction fit mechanism, designed to grip the bottle tightly through surface friction.

[0044] Additionally, the cap could be substantially elastic to accommodate various bottle sizes, further increasing the system's adaptability. These design options allow the accessory system to transform a range of standard feeding bottles into interactive, fanciful creatures while maintaining secure and leak-proof assemblies.

[0045] Reference is now made to FIG. 7 which presents an exploded view of the bottle feeder accessory system, designed as a fanciful item to captivate young users. The cap 20, detached from the bottle, is creatively shaped to represent the head of a fanciful animal, in this case, a duck. This design element could be adapted to portray various animal heads or parts of fanciful items, offering versatility in the product's appeal. The bottle 10 is shown separate from both the cap and sleeve, featuring an external threaded portion 11 for secure attachment to the cap. The sleeve 35 is fashioned to mimic the body of the fanciful creature, complementing the cap's design to create a cohesive, whimsical appearance. Within the sleeve is a chamber or recess 12 specifically designed to receive and encase the bottle, further enhancing the illusion of the fanciful creature's body.

[0046] In some aspects, the sleeve could attach to the bottle through various means. It might feature an internal threaded portion to match the external threading 11 on the bottle for a secure fit. Alternatively, it could employ a friction fit design, gripping the bottle tightly through surface friction.

[0047] The connecting member is depicted detached, with a top portion 51 for connecting to the cap and a bottom section 41 for attaching to the sleeve, maintaining the system's modularity. The bottom casing 36 for the sleeve section is designed to enclose the electroniccomponents, which, based on the claims, could include a memory device for storing feedback data, processors for event registration and feedback emission, and various output devices such as speakers, LEDs, or mechanical actuators for providing interactive responses. The feedback mechanism is discussed in great detail in the application PCT / KE2025 / 050001, for which the present disclosure is a continuation of, and these embodiments incorporated in their entirety by reference.

[0048] Buttons 39 are also visible, which in some aspects allow user interface controls for the accessory system's smart features. This exploded view effectively illustrates how the accessory system combines functionality with an engaging, child-friendly design, transforming a standard feeding bottle into an interactive, fanciful creature that can provide audiovisual feedback and encourage positive feeding behaviors.

[0049] Further reference is now made to FIG. 8 which is an assembled view of the bottle feeder accessory system, ingeniously designed as a fanciful duck to captivate young users. The cap 20 is attached to the bottle and skillfully crafted to resemble the head of a duck, complete with eyes and a beak forming a nipple 21, enhancing the overall charm of the design. The bottle 10 is integrated within the assembly, its presence subtly disguised by the fanciful exterior. The sleeve 35 envelops the bottle, shaped to mimic the body of the duck, preferably but not necessarily with contours and textures that suggest feathers and wings. This design transforms the entire feeding apparatus into an engaging, toy-like object. A notable feature is the tail 40, which adds an extra dimension of interactivity to the accessory.

[0050] Further, within the sleeve, an actuator or servo motor 38 is housed, capable of causing the tail 40 to wag or play in response to feeding events. This movement not only enhances the realism of the duck motif but also provides tactile feedback to the child during feeding. The integration of this mechanical element showcases the accessory's ability to offer multi- sensory engagement. In further aspects, the design could be adapted to represent various animals or characters, such as a bunny with movable ears, a elephant with a swinging trunk, or a fish with a swishing tail. The actuator could be programmed to produce different movement patterns based on feeding rates or volumes, adding an educational element to the feeding process. Additionally, the system could incorporate LED lights in the eyes or body to provide visual feedback, or a speaker in the base to emit appropriate animal sounds or encouraging phrases. These features collectively transform the feeding experience into aninteractive, playful activity that encourages positive feeding behaviors while delighting the child with its whimsical design and responsive elements.

[0051] In some aspects, the disclosure may also include a heating functionality within the sleeve section. This feature may allow for warming the fluid in the bottle, providing comfort to the infant and potentially encouraging feeding. The heater could be designed with adjustable temperature settings to suit different preferences and fluid types.

[0052] In other aspects, while the figures primarily depict a connecting member between the cap and sleeve sections, the invention also encompasses a wireless communication option. This alternative design eliminates the need for a physical connection, with wireless transmitters and receivers arranged in the cap and sleeve sections respectively. This wireless capability could offer benefits in terms of ease of cleaning and assembly.

[0053] In further aspects, it is anticipated that the output system of the accessory may be multi-faceted, capable of providing various types of feedback. In addition to audio and visual feedback, the system may produce mechanical motions and other sensory feedback, either singularly or in combination. This could include vibrations, temperature changes, or even olfactory stimuli, creating a rich, multi-sensory experience for the child.

[0054] In further aspects, the aesthetic design of the accessory system may comprise shaping either the cap section, the sleeve section, or both to resemble fanciful items or parts of an item's body. This could range from animal shapes to popular cartoon characters, adding an element of play and engagement to the feeding process.

[0055] While the descriptions and figures showcase an integrated sensor in the cap for detecting dispensation events, a variety of additional or alternative sensor types may be incorporated in embodiments for this purpose without departing from the spirit of the feeding accessory system concepts. Other liquid flow detection options applicable to the cap section include, but are not limited to, infrared emitter / receiver sets registering light beam obstruction, resistive and conductive polymer networks altered by fluid contact, microfluidic channels with readout ports, ultrasonic echo time analysis, thermal sensing of consumption based changes, optical recognition of moving fluid fronts, and other demonstrated methods that provide reliable structure-integrated monitoring. These allow the control electronics in thesleeve to derive dispensation metrics related to feeding activity through changes tied directly or indirectly to the motion of fluids, whether based on electrical, mechanical, optical, thermal or other properties amenable to miniaturization, durability, safe exposure and computational interpretation.

[0056] Therefore, it is expressly disclosed that in addition to or even in place of the example sensor techniques mentioned in the claims, alternative sensor types may be integrated into the cap section of the accessory system to achieve the same ends of registering fluid motion related to bottle suction and feeding events. Such implementable alternatives, expressly disclosed as functionally equivalent options fully available for integration in the present feeding accessory systems without limitation, include but are not limited to flow detection means based on infrared beam breaks, polymer resistivity switching, microfluidic channel observation, ultrasonic time-of-flight analysis, thermal transfer recognition, visual fluid front motion analysis, and other compact sensor varieties proving applicable for miniaturized integration within said systems' caps, configured to monitor liquid transit as an indication of bottle use and feeding activity.

[0057] Use of these equivalent options for instrumented detection presents equal derivative claim standing per the linked material detection objectives and control electronics utility improvements disclosed, regardless of the specific technique elected for implementation in the cap section of the accessory system.INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

[0058] The present invention has significant utility in the baby and infant products industry, specifically in the design and manufacture of interactive feeding bottle accessories and systems. The integration of dispensation monitoring sensors in the cap section and audio, visual, haptic and / or mechanical feedback features in the sleeve section allows for an engaged user experience that encourages infant feeding participation. The ability to track and react to feeding metrics enables the accessory system to coach effective feeding habits. The playful embodiment as fanciful characters and incorporation of ambient sounds provides a naturalistic form factor babies can relate to. Additionally, the audio, visual, haptic and / or mechanical reinforcement and compliance features present opportunities to assist caregivers in infant feeding tracking and training regimens. Thus, this interactive feeding bottle accessory system has industrial applicability in the child-rearing consumer market by directlyimproving capabilities to coach infant feeding ability and participation, while offering the flexibility to work with a variety of standard feeding bottles. The system's adaptability to different bottle sizes and its modular design further enhance its market potential and practical utility for caregivers.

Claims

Title: REMOVABLE FEEDER BOTTLE ACCESSORYWhat is claimed is:

1. A feeder bottle accessory system comprising: a cap section (20) having a nipple (21) with an aperture (27) adapted for fluid dispensation, the cap section being adapted to cap a feeding bottle (10); a sleeve section (30) adapted to couple to a portion of the feeding bottle (10) and having electronic components comprising a memory storing feedback data, one or more processors, an output system configured to provide perceptible feedback, and a power source (32); and a communication interface connecting the cap section (20) and the sleeve section (30); characterized in that the cap section (20) includes an electrical sensing element configured to react electrically to fluid dispensation through the aperture (27), the electrical sensing element having electrical characteristics that change measurably in response to fluid interaction, and the one or more processors are in sensing communication with the electrical sensing element and are configured to detect the electrical characteristic changes to identify a fluid dispensing event and trigger emission of feedback upon detecting the dispensation event.

2. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein the communication interface is a connecting member (100) extending from the cap section (20) to the sleeve section (30), electrically connecting the cap section and the sleeve section.

3. The accessory system of claim 2, wherein the connecting member (100) is formed into a handle.

4. The accessory system of claim 2, wherein the connecting member (100) is detachable from the cap section (20) and the sleeve section (30).

5. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve section (30) is substantially elastic to accommodate varying bottle sizes.

6. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein the communication interface comprises a wireless connection (7) with a wireless transmitter and receiver arranged at the cap section (20) and the sleeve section (30) to enable wireless data communication.

7. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the cap section (20) or the sleeve section (30) is formed in the shape of a fanciful item or a part of an item's body.

8. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein the feedback data comprises at least one of audio data, visual data, mechanical actuation data, or sensory feedback data.

9. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve section (30) couples to the bottle (10) by friction fit, threading, or magnetism.

10. The accessory system of claim 1, wherein the output system comprises at least one of an audio output device, a visual output device, a mechanical actuator, or a sensory feedback device.

11. A method for operating a feeder bottle accessory system having a cap section (20) with an electrical sensing element and a sleeve section (30) with electronic components including one or more processors, a memory, and an output system, the method comprising: monitoring electrical characteristics of the electrical sensing element in the cap section (20) during bottle use; processing electrical signals from the electrical sensing element; and emitting feedback through the output system; characterized in that the method further comprises detecting changes in the electrical characteristics indicative of fluid dispensation through the cap section (20), registering the detected changes as a dispensation event, retrieving feedback data from the memory based on the dispensation event, and triggering emission of perceptible feedback corresponding to the dispensation event.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising analyzing dispensation rate data to determine feeding patterns.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising comparing the determined feeding patterns with pre-stored reference data to assess feeding compliance.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising selecting feedback type based on the assessed feeding compliance.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the feedback data comprises at least one of audio data, visual data, mechanical actuation data, or sensory feedback data.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising recording dispensation event data for tracking feeding metrics over time.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein emitting feedback comprises providing at least one of audio output, visual output, mechanical actuation, or sensory feedback.

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