Alert device and system for personal emergencies

A durable personal emergency response device with a flexible printed circuit antenna protected by epoxy resin and polyurethane ensures reliable signal transmission and robustness against mechanical impacts, addressing reliability and durability issues in existing devices.

WO2026062435A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-03-26CERRET SA
View PDF 2 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-21
Publication Date
2026-03-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing personal emergency response devices are not robust enough to withstand mechanical impacts and environmental exposure, and their alert signals are not reliably transmitted, posing reliability and durability issues.

Method used

A device with a housing containing a movable button and an integrated flexible printed circuit antenna, protected by a durable protective layer made of epoxy resin and polyurethane, which is applied at low temperatures to prevent signal attenuation and ensure reliable transmission.

Benefits of technology

The device provides robustness against mechanical impacts and environmental factors while maintaining reliable radio frequency signal transmission, suitable for industrial-scale production and daily wear.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure IB2025053023_26032026_PF_FP_ABST
    Figure IB2025053023_26032026_PF_FP_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The invention relates to a transmitter device (100) for an accessory intended to be worn on part of a user's body, which device comprises: a case with a case body (10) having an opening (14) that opens into the interior of the case; and a button (20) disposed in the opening (14) such that it can move inside same, the button comprising a protective layer (1), an antenna (3) configured to transmit an alert signal upon activation, and a support member (2), the antenna (3) being positioned between the protective layer (1) and the support member (2). The antenna (3) is activated when the button (20) is pressed deeper into the opening (14) of the case. The invention also relates to an accessory which comprises the transmitter device (100) and to a method for manufacturing the button (20) of the device.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Device and alert system for personal emergencies technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a personal emergency response device and system, in particular a device with an alert button. State of the art

[0002] Personal emergency response systems, particularly for frail, vulnerable, or elderly individuals, are designed to facilitate the quick and easy generation of an alert by the user to inform those around them or relevant parties of the emergency situation. Primarily, the alert is triggered using a device consisting of a simple connected alert button which, once activated, transmits an alert signal to a centralized system to notify an alert center or pre-defined individuals.

[0003] Modern alert devices often feature cellular connectivity, allowing them to operate independently of proximity to a base station or landline. For example, an alert signal can be transmitted to a wireless communication device worn by the user, which is then configured to trigger an alert message to predefined contacts.

[0004] To ensure immediate access to the alert button in case of emergency, the device is often provided on an accessory, such as a piece of jewelry, or an item of clothing worn by the user.

[0005] The continuous operation of this device is extremely important. It must be able to withstand sudden shocks, such as drops, as it needs to be activated in the event of an accident. Therefore, it is desirable that the device be easy to handle and robust enough to withstand mechanical and other environmental impacts. Cerret-l-PCT

[0006] For the alert system to function consistently, it is also essential that the alert signal is reliably received by a communication device suitable for notifying predefined contacts. Brief summary of the invention

[0007] One aim of the present invention is to provide an alert device with an alert button that is robust.

[0008] Another aim of the invention is to provide an alert device with an alert button that is reliable in transmitting an alert signal.

[0009] Another aim of the invention is to provide a robust alert button that can be easily produced on an industrial scale.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to offer an alternative solution to prior art warning devices.

[0011] According to the invention, one or more of these goals are achieved by the independent claims, the dependent claims providing for preferred embodiments.

[0012] One or more of these objectives are achieved in particular by means of a transmitting device with a housing comprising a body with an opening facing inwards on one of its faces. A button is movable within this opening. The button is equipped with an antenna configured to transmit an alert signal when the device is activated. The button is housed in the opening such that it can be pressed reversibly inwards towards the housing. The device is designed such that pressing the button inwards activates the device.

[0013] The device is designed to be integrated into an accessory intended to be worn on a part of a user's body. The accessory could, for example, be a Cerret-l-PCT A bracelet, a ring, a necklace, or another type of jewelry. The casing allows the transmitter device to be easily integrated into an accessory.

[0014] It is also possible that the device could be integrated into clothing worn by a user.

[0015] The antenna is an integral part of the button.

[0016] In one embodiment, the antenna is a flexible printed circuit (FPC) antenna. The FPC antenna has the advantage of being easily applied to a substrate and molded into the desired shape. The flexible casing also protects the antenna from damage, particularly during the manufacturing process.

[0017] In one embodiment, the antenna transmits a radio frequency (RF) signal, preferably a short-range RF signal such as a Bluetooth (BT) signal. An appropriate signal range corresponds to the maximum typical distance between the user and their personal communication device, for example, their smartphone. A signal range of approximately 10 to 12 meters, corresponding to the BT range of commercially available electronic devices, including smartphones, is considered sufficient.

[0018] According to the present invention, the antenna is interposed between a protective layer and a button support element.

[0019] When the device is worn by a user, the opening of the housing cavity faces outwards, so that the protective layer is oriented outwards and accessible to the user. The user can touch the protective layer to apply downward pressure to depress the button into the cavity.

[0020] The protective layer serves to protect the antenna from adverse environmental exposure, such as mechanical impacts, humidity, and also Cerret-l-PCT than contamination. Preferably, it also provides protection against chemical, corrosive and / or abrasive substances.

[0021] To achieve these objectives, the layer must be made of a hard and durable material or composition.

[0022] A Shore D hardness of at least 50 adequately meets these requirements. The protective layer is even more robust if it has a Shore D hardness of at least 60 or at least 70.

[0023] Shore D hardness can be measured using a durometer with a D scale for rubbers in the high hardness range, in accordance with the standardized method ISO 7619-1:2010.

[0024] The protective top layer of the button can, for example, be made of a polymer or composite material with the required hardness. It can also be made of other materials, such as enamel.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, the protective layer comprises epoxy resin and polyurethane. These components constitute the relevant part of the layer, which may, for example, be entirely composed of these components.

[0026] A protective coating comprising at least 40%, 45%, or 50% by weight of epoxy resin and at least 35%, 40%, or 45% by weight of polyurethane perfectly meets the necessary hardness and resilience requirements. Preferably, the epoxy resin and polyurethane are present in equal proportions or have a maximum concentration difference of 10% by weight in the total coating composition. A protective coating comprising this composition provides increased surface resistance, effectively protecting against corrosion, abrasion, and chemicals, making it an ideal option for a device that will be worn daily and must be lightweight. Cerret-l-PCT

[0027] This composition can be applied by liquid deposition at relatively low temperatures, specifically at temperatures of 50°C or lower, 45°C or lower, or 40°C or lower during deposition. This is particularly advantageous because these low temperatures are unlikely to damage the antenna, especially if it is an FPC-type antenna.

[0028] In addition, a layer of this composition which is applied by liquid deposition results in a smooth and non-porous surface, which prevents the accumulation of dirt and bacteria, and also contributes to the good hygiene of the device worn permanently or regularly on the user's body.

[0029] Preferably, the layer has no effect or only a relatively minor effect on the attenuation of the signal emitted by the antenna.

[0030] A layer composed of epoxy resin and polyurethane, as described above, offers the significant advantage of not significantly attenuating a radio frequency (RF) signal, particularly a short-range RF signal like Bluetooth (BT), emitted by the antenna. This is a significant advantage over other hard materials, such as glass, which can negatively impact BT signal strength. A glass layer can reflect and scatter BT signals, causing interference and weakening overall connectivity.

[0031] A protective layer according to the invention, in particular a layer of suitable hardness, enhances the durability of the button and the antenna, which is protected by this hard and resistant layer. The layer not only protects the antenna but also contributes to the longevity of the button. It therefore improves the reliability and robustness of the transmitting device.

[0032] Integrating the antenna directly into the button and covering it with the protective layer ensures excellent robustness of the device as well as reliability of the transmission of the alert signal. Cerret-l-PCT

[0033] In one embodiment, the protective layer has a thickness of 0.2 mm to 2 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1 mm. A protective layer of this thickness is particularly suitable for transmitting devices designed to be integrated into jewelry, such as a bracelet. A protective layer composed of epoxy resin and polyurethane, as described above, of this thickness does not attenuate the BT signal emitted by the antenna.

[0034] The support element serves as a support for the antenna and the protective top layer. It is preferably made of a non-conductive material, for example, a synthetic polymer or a composite material. The support element may be made of a plastic material, for example, recycled plastic.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the device includes a printed circuit board (PCB) for generating and / or processing a signal.

[0036] In one embodiment, the electrical connection between the PCB and the antenna is established via a connecting pin. In this embodiment, the support element interposed between the PCB and the antenna has a through-hole appropriately sized to accommodate the pin. The pin passes through this through-hole to establish the electrical connection between the printed circuit board and the antenna.

[0037] The connecting pin can, for example, be a spring-loaded pin, preferably a pogo-type pin. The spring mechanism pushes the button upwards into an inactive position. To activate the device, the button is pressed against the spring force. Other actuation mechanisms can be used to push the button into its inactive position.

[0038] In one embodiment, the device includes an actuation member arranged to push the button outward from the cavity when no counter-pressure force is applied. The actuation member may be a spring, for example, a helical leaf spring. The actuation member moves the button from its depressed position to a relaxed position. Cerret-l-PCT in which the device is no longer activated. The transmission of the alert signal is no longer activated when the button is in this relaxed and inactive position.

[0039] To prevent the button from being ejected, sliding out of the housing, or protruding excessively, the housing may be equipped with a retaining element positioned to prevent the button from being pulled out of the cavity. This retaining element may be, for example, a lip or one or more protruding elements extending radially inward from the side wall of the housing opening, so as to retain the button within the cavity.

[0040] In one embodiment the body of the case includes a base floor and a side wall or side walls.

[0041] The housing can, for example, be conical. This shape would be suitable for a button with a circular cross-section. However, neither the housing nor the button is limited to a particular shape. The button can have a rounded shape, such as a circular or elliptical cross-section, or an angular cross-section, like a square or a polygon.

[0042] The casing can be made of various materials. As good strength and rigidity of the casing are desirable, metal casings or casings coated with a metallic finish are particularly advantageous.

[0043] In addition, a metallic material in the casing acts as capacitive shielding to contain the RF signal emitted by the antenna. This metallic material can also redirect the signal through the protective layer of the button, resulting in an increase in signal strength.

[0044] The present invention also relates to an emergency response system comprising a transmitting device for transmitting an alert signal when activated, a receiving device adapted to receive said alert signal from said transmitting device and equipped with a processor configured to drive a Cerret-l-PCT wireless connection with one or more predetermined remote devices when an alert signal is received.

[0045] For the system to function properly, the receiving device is located in a place within signal range of the transmitter.

[0046] The system further includes one or more predetermined remote devices suitable for wireless contact by the receiving device. These predetermined devices are preferably located at a second location that is not within signal range of the transmitting device.

[0047] The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the alert button with integrated antenna which is housed in the body of the casing.

[0048] In this process, the protective top layer is deposited as a liquid protective suspension containing epoxy resin and polyurethane onto the support structure with the antenna. The liquid protective suspension is designed to solidify upon drying.

[0049] In one embodiment, the liquid protective solution is provided in the form of a first liquid solution comprising epoxy resin and a second liquid solution comprising polyurethane, which are mixed to obtain said liquid protective solution. The first and second liquid solutions are preferably applied simultaneously to the support structure with the antenna so as to mix and form the liquid solution during the application process.

[0050] Preferably, the liquid protective solution, or the first and second solutions, should have a temperature of 50°C or lower, 45°C or lower, or 40°C or lower during deposition. Depositing the liquid protective solution at these relatively low temperatures prevents heat damage to the antenna or the material in which the antenna is embedded. This is particularly important for FPC antennas, which contain materials Cerret-l-PCT Plastics that are not heat-resistant and can melt at temperatures above 80°C or 100°C. Liquefied glass, for example, would be completely unsuitable for forming the button's outer layer, as its temperature would destroy the button's antenna.

[0051] The drying stage is preferably carried out at a temperature less than or equal to 50°C degrees, or less than or equal to 40°C degrees, for example at 35°C.

[0052] Drying can be carried out under atmospheric pressure or vacuum. Infrared radiation can be applied to support the drying process. The buttons can, for example, be placed on a moderately heated surface, such as one with a constant temperature between 20°C and 50°C or between 25°C and 40°C, or 35°C.

[0053] Liquid deposition on surfaces, including small ones, is a well-established and rapidly executed industrial process that can be easily scaled up. Liquid deposition can be fully automated, enabling precise application of the protective layer. The process also allows for high-precision work, even on small surfaces. Therefore, manufacturing buttons with antennas using this process is well-suited for high-volume industrial production.

[0054] To avoid damaging the antenna and / or base plate, neither the button nor the protective layer is heated above 80°C during the manufacturing process. The protective top layer is therefore hardened by drying at moderate temperatures. No baking process is used.

[0055] To allow satisfactory hardening of the layer composed of epoxy resin and polyurethane, it is preferable to dry the layer for at least 10 hours, preferably for at least 15 hours or for at least 20 hours, for example for 24h. Cerret-l-PCT Brief description of the figures

[0056] Examples of implementation of the invention are given in the description illustrated by the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a top view of an example of the transmitting device according to the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of an example of the transmitting device according to the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates an explosion view of an example of the transmitting device according to the present invention; Figure 4 illustrates an explosion view of a button and a printed circuit board of the example of the transmitting device shown in Figures 1 to 3; Figure 5 illustrates an example of an emergency response system according to the present invention; Figure 6 shows a flow diagram of a possible manufacturing process for an alert button according to the present invention. Example(s) of an embodiment of the invention

[0057] The present invention relates to a device with an alert button having an antenna integrated into the button, configured to emit an alert signal as soon as Cerret-l-PCT that activated. The device is sized to be supplied on an accessory, such as jewelry, or in clothing worn by a user.

[0058] As shown in Figure 1, the device comprises a housing 10A, 10B, which can be composed of several components. The device also includes a button 20 with an integrated antenna 2 (Figures 3 and 4) which is housed in the housing in an accessible manner so that it can be pushed into the housing.

[0059] The enclosure of the exemplary device shown here comprises a lower part 10B and an upper part 10A, which are separate units configured to be screwed together. To allow access to the device components inside the enclosure, it can be easily disassembled by unscrewing it.

[0060] The housing can be provided with one or more attachments 16, for example one or more eyelets, for attaching or integrating the device into an accessory.

[0061] The casing in this example has a generally cylindrical shape. However, it is not limited to this shape. It can also take other forms.

[0062] As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, showing exploded views of the device (Figure 3), the face of the upper part 10A of the housing has an opening 14 that leads to the inside of the housing. The button 10 is housed in this opening 14 so that it can be pushed inwards. To activate the device, the user pushes the button further into the housing, which activates the antenna to transmit a radio frequency signal, specifically in the Bluetooth (BT) frequencies.

[0063] The signal emitted by the activated device can therefore be received by receiving devices within the BT range, for example smart devices such as electronic tablets, smartphones and smartwatches. Cerret-l-PCT

[0064] The exploded view of the button is illustrated in Figure 4. It consists of a support element 2, an antenna 3 and a protective layer 1.

[0065] The support member 2 is provided with an outwardly projecting radial ridge 21. When the button is inserted into the assembled housing, the radial ridge 21 cooperates with a radial rim 12 of the upper part 10A of the housing so as to prevent the bottom from falling or sliding out of the opening 14 of the housing. The radial ridge 21 is arranged circumferentially around a central portion 22 of the surface of the support member.

[0066] An antenna, such as the FCP 3 antenna shown in this example, is arranged on the central part 22 of the surface of the button support organ.

[0067] The antenna 3 and the central part 22 of the surface of the support organ are completely covered by a protective layer 1. The protective layer 1 constitutes the outer surface of the button which will serve as a haptic interface to the user when he presses the button.

[0068] The example shown in the figures has a rim 23 around the central portion 22 of the surface. The rim 23 is designed to delimit the central portion 22 of the surface, so that the protective layer 1 can be inserted into the recess 24 formed by the central portion 22 of the surface and the rim. The rim 23 guides the correct positioning of the protective layer. The defined recess 24 is particularly advantageous if the protective layer is molded or cast into the cavity and solidified directly in place.

[0069] The button's antenna 3 is arranged to connect conductively to an electrical component that generates warning signals when the device is activated.

[0070] As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the electrical component can be a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB is positioned below the button and is electrically connected to the antenna. The PCB is Cerret-l-PCT configured to generate the alert signal when the device is activated. The alert signal is transmitted to the antenna via the electrical connection and then emitted by the antenna.

[0071] Contact between the antenna and the PCB's conductive lines can be established via a conductive element. This conductive element could, for example, be a connecting brush 5.

[0072] The conductive element passes through the support body via a suitable opening in order to establish the electrical connection between the PCB and the antenna.

[0073] As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the connection opening can be a through hole 25 in the support member through which a connecting pin 5 passes.

[0074] The connection pin 5 can, for example, be a spring-loaded pin, preferably a pogo pin, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. The spring mechanism allows the pin to push the button outward, so a pressure force must be applied to press the button against the spring. Pressing the button pushes the upper part of the pogo pin into a lower hollow part, thus establishing an electrical connection between the PCB and the antenna to transmit the signal generated on the PCB to the antenna for transmission.

[0075] The PCB can also include additional functions. For example, the PCB can be equipped with a GPS tracker to allow for its geolocation and consequently that of its user.

[0076] It can also be equipped with sensors, for example, a shock sensor configured to detect a user fall. Other sensors and / or trackers can be integrated into the device via the PCB. In Figure 4, several electrical components 41 of the PCB 4 are shown. Cerret-l-PCT

[0077] The PCB is preferably powered by a power source integrated into the device, for example a lithium battery. A standard 3-volt lithium battery is suitable, for example.

[0078] The energy source is preferably suitable to provide energy for an extended period, preferably at least one year during normal, i.e. non-abusive, use of the device.

[0079] The battery 6 is contained in the case 10 and can be disposed on a support layer 61, which is interposed between the bottom of the case and the battery.

[0080] Figure 5 demonstrates a personal emergency response alert system using the device described above.

[0081] A user who finds themselves in a situation requiring rapid intervention presses the button on the transmitting device of this invention to transmit an RF alert signal, preferably a BT signal, which will be received by one or more receiving devices. The receiving devices are located in a first location L1, which is defined by the range of the transmitted RF signal. Preferably, the first location L1 is defined by the range of the BT signal. The first location L1 could, for example, be the user's home, if the user is at home when they activate the alert. However, it is also possible that the first location L1 could be elsewhere, for example, if the user is away from home, such as on a walk.

[0082] The receiving device is preferably a personal smart device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. One or more receiving devices can be configured to receive the signal transmitted by the sending device.

[0083] Upon receiving the signal, the receiving device establishes a wireless connection with a remote device to transmit an alert message. The remote devices are predetermined, and the method for establishing the connection with these remote devices is programmed into the receiving device's processor. The devices to Cerret-l-PCT distances can, for example, be pre-selected by the user, for example by means of an application interface.

[0084] Generally, remote devices are located at a second L2 location, which is outside the BT range. However, it is also possible for the first L1 location and the second L2 location to overlap, for example, if a person intended to receive the alert message on their mobile phone, which is the predetermined remote device, is in the vicinity of the user of the sending device when the latter is activated.

[0085] The devices are equipped with a processor configured to establish a wireless connection with one or more predetermined remote devices when an alert signal is received, provided the receiving device is located within signal range of the transmitter. The remote devices are controlled or accessible by a person or an automated system, which can then arrange for a rapid response or assistance.

[0086] The alert system can be activated in various emergency situations. Such a situation could be, for example, a medical emergency. It could also be another distressing situation, such as experiencing a physical assault or a burglary.

[0087] The predetermined remote device can be chosen according to the personal urgency expected to be alerted by means of the transmitting device of this invention.

[0088] A method for manufacturing a button with an integrated antenna according to this invention is illustrated in Figure 6.

[0089] In a first step, the support member 2 is provided (S1). The support member is preferably provided with a rim 23 defining a recess 24 in the support member. The antenna 3, preferably an FCB antenna, is then placed on a central part 22 of the surface of the support member (S2). In modes of Cerret-l-PCT realizations with a rim 23, the central part 22 of the surface corresponds to the hollow 24 defined by the rim.

[0090] Subsequently, a liquid protective suspension, designed to solidify and harden upon drying, is molded or poured onto the upper surface of the support member 2 on which the antenna is placed. The liquid protective suspension is applied so that it completely covers the antenna and at least the central portion 22 of the surface of the support member to provide a finished surface intended to serve as a haptic interface for the button. In embodiments with a recess 24 delimited by a rim 23, the liquid protective suspension is poured into the recess 24 until it is filled with the solution.

[0091] In a subsequent drying step (S4), the solution is dried to solidify and reach its final hardness.

[0092] When applying the protective coating, it is particularly important to avoid damaging the antenna. For example, the temperature of the applied solution must be within an appropriate range, otherwise the plastic component of an FPC antenna may melt.

[0093] A liquid protective solution containing epoxy resin and polyurethane is well-suited for creating the protective layer, as this mixture solidifies to a hardness perfectly suited to the layer's protective purpose. Furthermore, this composite material allows the Bluetooth signal to pass through without significant interference.

[0094] To obtain a liquid protective solution comprising epoxy resin and polyurethane, two separate solutions, one containing epoxy resin and the other containing polyurethane, can be deposited simultaneously and mixed during application. The two solutions can, for example, be applied in an automated deposition process, using nozzles to apply both solutions to the surface. Cerret-l-PCT

[0095] Particularly favorable properties of the solidified protective layer were obtained with a first solution comprising 90% epoxy resin by volume containing 10% diluent, and a second solution comprising 85% polyurethane by volume containing 15% diluent.

[0096] The diluent allows adjustment of the viscosity and fluidity of solutions. The diluent can be composed of ethylene oxide and / or butanol.

[0097] These solutions can easily be poured at moderate temperatures. Pouring these solutions at a temperature of 40°C, for example, resulted in very homogeneous and reproducible surfaces.

[0098] The protective liquid solution layer, based on the solutions described in the preceding paragraphs, was dried for 24 hours while the buttons remained on a surface heated to 35°C. Negative pressure or a vacuum can be applied to accelerate the drying and hardening process.

[0099] A Shore D hardness of approximately 70 was achieved for protective coatings manufactured according to the procedure and with the solutions described in the preceding paragraphs.

[0100] For the transmission of BT signals, excellent transmission ranges of approximately 12m were obtained with FPC antennas covered by a protective layer 0.1mm thick manufactured according to the process described above.

[0101] The manufacture of these buttons for alert devices is therefore not only easily scalable, since it can be easily automated, but it also saves energy, since it is not necessary to supply materials at very high temperatures. Cerret-l-PCT Reference numbers used in the figures 1 Protective layer 2 support organ 3 antennas 4 printed circuit board 5-pin connection 6 stacks 10 cases 10A upper part of the case 10B lower part of the case 12 edge of the upper part of the case 14. Opening towards the inside of the box 16 attachments 20 buttons 21 radial projection of the support element 22 central part of the surface of the support element 23 edge of the support organ 24 hollows of the support organ 25 through holes for connection pin 41 electrical components of the PCB 61 stack support layer 100 Transmitter device Cerret-l-PCT

Claims

Demands 1. A device for transmitting an alert signal for an accessory to be worn on a part of a user's body, comprising a housing (10) with a housing body having an opening (14) on one of its faces, the opening leading to the inside of the housing (10), a button (20) movablely disposed in said opening (14), said button (20) comprising an antenna (3) configured to transmit an alert signal when the transmitting device is activated, said button (20) further comprising a protective layer (1) facing outwards from the opening (14) and a support member (2), the antenna (3) being disposed between the protective layer (1) and the support member (2), and the transmitting device being activated when the button (20) is pressed into the opening (14) of the housing.

2. The device according to claim 1, the antenna (3) being a flexible printed circuit antenna (FPC antenna).

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, the signal transmitted by the antenna (3) being in the short-range radio frequency (RF) band, preferably the alert signal being a Bluetooth (BT) signal.

4. The device according to any one of claims 2 or 3, comprising a printed circuit board (PCB) (4) for generating the signal, said PCB being disposed inside the housing under the button (20) and electrically connected to the antenna. Cerret-l-PCT 5. The device according to claim 4, the electrical connection between the PCB (4) and the antenna (3) being established via a connecting pin (5), said conductive connecting pin passing through a through hole (25) disposed in the support member (25).

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the protective layer (1) comprising epoxy resin and polyurethane or consisting of epoxy resin and polyurethane preferably having a Shore D hardness of at least 50, or better of at least 60, or more preferably of at least 70.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the housing comprising a base floor and side walls, said base floor and said side walls being made of metal or being covered with a metallic coating.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the protective layer having a thickness of 0.2m to 2mm, or 0.5mm to 1mm.

9. An accessory, for example a bracelet, a ring, a necklace or other piece of jewelry, intended to be worn on a part of the body of a user comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. An emergency response system comprising the transmitting device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 8 adapted to transmit an alert signal when activated, a receiving device adapted to receive said alert signal from said transmitting device and equipped with a processor configured to establish a wireless connection with one or more predetermined remote devices when an alert signal is received, said receiving device being located within signal range of the transmitter, Cerret-l-PCT one or more predetermined remote devices adapted to be contacted wirelessly by the receiving device.

11. A method for generating a button (20) for the transmitting device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 comprising the following steps: providing a support member (2), placing an antenna (3) on said support member (2), depositing on the support member (2) with the antenna (3) a liquid protective suspension configured to solidify upon drying, drying said layer (1) to solidify it for a period of time in order to form a protective top layer of the button.

12. A method according to claim 11, the liquid protective solution being supplied in the form of a first liquid solution comprising the epoxy resin and a second liquid solution comprising the polyurethane, the first liquid solution and the second liquid solution being disposed simultaneously on the support member (2) with the antenna (3) so as to mix and form the liquid solution during the disposition process.

13. A process according to claim 11 or 12, the liquid protective solution or the first and second solutions having a temperature less than or equal to 50°C, less than or equal to 45°C, or less than or equal to 40°C at the time of deposition.

14. A process according to any one of claims 11 to 13, the drying step being carried out at a temperature less than or equal to 50°C degrees, or less than or equal to 40°C degrees, for example at 35°C. Cerret-l-PCT 15. A process according to any one of claims 11 to 14, the drying step being carried out for a period of at least 10h, or at least 15h, or at least 20h, for example for 24h. Cerret-l-PCT

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • wireless transceiver

    CN105207688B

  • User control interface button flex antenna system

    WO2014144422A1