A smart pacifier

Abstract

A smart pacifier is disclosed, comprising a replaceable detachable part including a nipple and a nipple- holding member, and an electronic part contained within a housing. The electronic part integrates one or more sensors, communication modules, and control electronics configured to monitor conditions of a baby and surrounding environment. The system collects and analyzes sensor data, such as audio, temperature, and motion, to differentiate between conditions requiring an alert and those that do not, and selectively generates visual, audible, or vibration alerts. The electronic part further communicates wirelessly with a dedicated application that provides monitoring, control, and service functions, including managing operating modes, facilitating location of the pacifier, and enabling additional services such as soothing music, medication monitoring, and access to a marketplace. The smart pacifier thereby improves safety, usability, and convenience by preventing pacifier loss, providing timely alerts, and enabling integration of baby care functions through the dedicated application.

Description

[0001] A SMART PACIFIER

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to baby products, and more specifically, to a smart pacifier designed to improve convenience and functionality for both parents and babies.

[0004] Background for the Invention

[0005] Pacifiers are an essential part of infant care, used by parents and caregivers to soothe babies. However, pacifiers are often misplaced, leading to difficulty in finding them when they are most needed— such as when the baby is crying or trying to fall asleep. In 2017, it was reported that 56% of parents in the United States give their baby a pacifier from birth, highlighting the widespread use of pacifiers in early childhood care.

[0006] The inability to locate a pacifier quickly can be especially frustrating in critical moments, such as when calming a crying baby. Moreover, while pacifiers help soothe infants, it is well-known that calming music or sounds also have a positive effect on babies, aiding in relaxation and sleep. Parents, however, face challenges in determining the optimal type, frequency, and intensity of the sounds that best suit their baby.

[0007] Beyond soothing, there is growing interest in using smart devices to assist with infant care. One important area of development is improving communication between parents / caregivers and babies. Being able to monitor the baby's health, detect reasons for crying, and provide real-time feedback to parents on how to respond effectively would greatly enhance infant care. Despite these potential advantages, there is currently no pacifier available that integrates all these features— locating, soothing, and health monitoring— into one smart solution.

[0008] It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a smart pacifier that can be easily and quickly located when misplaced.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart pacifier that helps soothe and calm the baby, assisting in falling asleep by incorporating features such as soothing music.

[0010] An additional object of the present invention is to enable communication between the pa rents / ca regiver and the baby through the smart pacifier. This communication may include detecting the baby's health condition, identifying the reason for crying, and offering methods to calm the baby, thereby facilitating a more informed response to the baby's needs. Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.

[0011] Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention relates to a smart pacifier system that integrates sensing, communication, and alerting functions to improve baby monitoring and caregiver interaction.

[0013] In one aspect, the invention provides a smart pacifier device comprising a replaceable detachable part including a nipple and a nipple-holding member, and an electronic part housed in a protective enclosure. The electronic part includes sensors, electronic components, and control circuitry configured to collect and analyze data to differentiate between conditions requiring an alert and those that do not. The device further comprises an attachment and release mechanism allowing secure engagement and safe detachment of the detachable part. The electronic part may include a temperature sensor, microphone, movement sensor, accelerometer, communication module, loudspeaker, buzzer, LED lights, rechargeable power supply, integrated display, and processor-based control logic. Alerts may be generated through the pacifier itself or through a connected application.

[0014] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of monitoring a baby using the smart pacifier. The method includes wirelessly connecting the pacifier to a dedicated application, collecting signals from one or more sensors, analyzing the signals to distinguish between different conditions, and activating appropriate alerts when predetermined thresholds are met. The method may include automatic detection of baby crying, temperature anomalies, or pacifier falls, with differentiated alert responses depending on indoor or outdoor modes.

[0015] In yet another aspect, the invention provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions for execution by a processor of a dedicated application. The instructions cause the application to connect with the pacifier, receive and analyze sensor data, differentiate between conditions requiring alerts and those that do not, and trigger alerts or notifications accordingly. Additional instructions may support management of operating modes, lost-pacifier location functions, presentation of device status, medication monitoring, and access to an integrated marketplace for baby- related products.

[0016] Collectively, these aspects enable a smart pacifier system that combines physical safety, intelligent monitoring, adaptive alerting, and software-enabled services to enhance baby care.

[0017] In one aspect, the present invention is a smart pacifier, comprising: a) a replaceable detachable part comprising a nipple and a nipple-holding member with one or more functional holes, including ventilation features, wherein said nipple is connected to said member by a secured connection to prevent said nipple from unintentionally detaching from said member for protecting the baby and preventing suffocation; and b) an electronic part, comprising: i. electronic components, sensors, and parts of the smart pacifier designed to collect and analyze data to differentiate between conditions that require an alert and those that do not, ensuring that alerts are issued only when necessary; ii. a housing designed to contain and safeguard the electronic components, sensors, and parts of the smart pacifier, wherein said housing includes ventilation features, such as holes, to allow airflow, and one or more holes corresponding to one or more functional holes of the replaceable detachable part; and ill. an attachment and release mechanism is designed to secure the replaceable detachable part to the electronic part and enable its detachment by exerting a force to push these parts away.

[0018] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] The above and other characteristics and advantages of the invention will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limitative detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

[0020] Fig. 1A shows a back-perspective view of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Fig. IB shows a front-perspective view of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Fig. 2A shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier, wherein the replaceable detachable part comprising a plastic member and a nipple is fully connected to the electronic part;

[0023] Fig. 2B shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier, wherein the replaceable detachable part comprising a plastic member and a nipple is partially connected to the electronic part;

[0024] Fig. 2C shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier, wherein the replaceable detachable part comprising a plastic member and a nipple is not connected to the electronic part; Fig. 3A shows a back perspective view of the replaceable detachable part comprising a plastic member and a nipple, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Fig. 3B shows a front perspective view of the replaceable detachable part comprising a plastic member and a nipple, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Fig. 4 shows a front view of the electronic part of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier with all its parts, including a ring connected to the electronic part, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Fig. 6 shows a front view of the smart pacifier housing, with an enlargement on the transparent parts, through which the LED lights illuminate to give a visual light indication;

[0029] Fig. 7 shows a side view of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Fig. 8 shows front, side, top, and perspective illustrations of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention, including sizes and dimensions, for example;

[0031] Fig. 9A shows a perspective view of the charging station of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the smart pacifier is connected to the charger;

[0032] Fig. 9B shows a perspective view of the charging station of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the smart pacifier is not connected to the charger;

[0033] Fig. 10 shows front, side, top, and perspective illustrations of the charging station of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention, including sizes and dimensions, for example;

[0034] Fig. 11 is a block diagram of the smart pacifier's main electronic assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention; and

[0035] Figs. 12 and 13 perspective views of the smart pacifier and corresponding charging stations, according to other embodiments of the invention.

[0036] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0037] The present invention provides a smart pacifier, combined and connected with a dedicated application, which includes various options and different modes, and a marketplace that makes available a new generation of innovative and useful pacifiers for babies. The smart pacifier contains a universal device of advanced detection technology, safely installed on the baby's smart pacifier. The component that is connected to the pacifier ring matches the variety of pacifiers offered on the market nowadays and solves the problem of pacifiers disappearing. In addition, the smart pacifier itself provides pleasant and soothing music in a low tone to the baby, through the dedicated application that can be controlled and configured by the user. The music playback can also be activated automatically as soon as the baby's cry is detected. The smart pacifier is connected to the dedicated application that operates a useful and interesting trade arena, which allows users to purchase complementary products and accessories for babies from various high-quality suppliers. For example, the application can include a link to a store for purchasing products from a third party, or a built-in store of the pacifier manufacturer.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the invention, the smart pacifier is designed to monitor the condition of a baby, and includes the two following parts:

[0039] A replaceable detachable part comprises a nipple and a nipple-holding member (e.g., a plastic member or a member made of other material suitable to engage with the nipple) with holes for breathing. The nipple is connected to the holding member by a secured connection to prevent the nipple from unintentionally detaching the plastic member (screwing connection, for example) to protect the baby and prevent suffocation. The replaceable detachable part also comprises one or more functional holes for a temperature sensor, microphone holes, and holes for the grippers, which enable the attachment or detachment of the replaceable detachable part of the smart pacifier from the electronic part; and

[0040] An electronic part (i.e., a main electronic assembly), which contains: o Housing is designed to contain and safeguard electronic components, sensors, and parts of the smart pacifier. This housing may include ventilation features, such as holes, to allow airflow (e.g., for facilitating the breathing of the baby). The electronic components, sensors, and parts of the smart pacifier are designed to collect and analyze data to differentiate between conditions that require an alert and those that do not, ensuring that alerts are issued only when necessary. o Attachment and release mechanism for securing the replaceable detachable part to the main electronic assembly, potentially using a locking mechanism. This mechanism could include features that allow easy detachment of the replaceable detachable part. An example implementation might involve grippers that attach via a "click pushing" mechanism and release through a "pushing away" mechanism, activated by pressing a button connected to the grippers. The grippers enable attachment of the replaceable detachable part to the electronic part (by a "click pushing" attaching mechanism, for example). These grippers also have a mechanism that enables easy detachment of the replaceable detachable part from the electronic part (for example, a "pushing away" mechanism by pressing a button connected to the grippers). o A mechanism that enables the detachment of a replaceable component from the electronic part by exerting a force to push the component away. This mechanism can be implemented using a spring-loaded actuator, among other possible designs. For example, a button with a spring inside can be used to detach (by pressing the button) the replaceable plastic member from the electronic part by a "pushing away" mechanism.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the electronic part comprises a processor configured to execute decisionmaking logic. The logic processes inputs from multiple sensors, including the microphone, temperature sensor, and movement sensor, and applies predetermined thresholds and pattern-recognition algorithms to distinguish between situations requiring an alert and those that do not. For example, the system differentiates between a pacifier falling from a significant height versus slipping from the baby's mouth, between normal baby noises and crying sounds, and between body temperatures within a normal range versus temperatures exceeding a medical threshold. This differentiation ensures that alerts are issued only when necessary, thereby reducing false alarms and improving usability.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the invention, the electronic part comprises one or more of the following components:

[0043] A temperature sensor is used to measure the body temperature of the baby and alert in case the body temperature is above the normal predetermined threshold. The alert may be visual, by light indication, or vocal, by playing an alarm through a loudspeaker.

[0044] A loudspeaker, for giving a vocal indication to find the pacifier location, or playing an alarm in case of measurement of baby's body temperature which is above the normal predetermined threshold.

[0045] A buzzer, for giving a vocal indication (by beep, sound, and / or vibrations, for example) to find the pacifier location if it got lost, or playing an alarm in case of measurement of baby's body temperature, which is above the normal predetermined threshold.

[0046] LED lights, for giving a visual indication, which helps to find the pacifier location, or alerting (in red light, for example) in case of measurement of baby's body temperature which is above the normal predetermined threshold. A communication module for wireless connectivity, which may include a transceiver for establishing a connection between the smart specifier and a dedicated application. For instance, this module could be a Bluetooth module. This can be implemented using a pairing button, which could establish a connection via Bluetooth, for example.

[0047] A pairing mechanism for initiating the pairing process between the smart pacifier and the dedicated application.

[0048] A power supply that provides energy to the smart pacifier. An example of this could be a battery, which might be capable of powering the smart pacifier for several hours when fully charged.

[0049] An interface for recharging the device's power supply. This could be exemplified by a connection to a charging station (for example, a desktop portable magnet charger), for charging the battery of the smart pacifier.

[0050] An audio input and output system that facilitates two-way communication between the smart pacifier and the dedicated application, which might include components such as a microphone for capturing audio input, analyzing it, and triggering corresponding alerts. For example, the system could detect baby noises and issue alerts through a speaker, buzzer, or LED lights. The system enables two-way communication between the dedicated application, which is connected to the smart pacifier (by Bluetooth, for example), and between the user (the baby's parents, for example). The microphone receives noises made by the baby (for example, crying) as an input, analyzes them using dedicated software that performs speech signal processing, and activates a corresponding, audible, or visual alert through the speaker, buzzer, or LED lights.

[0051] A movement sensor that continuously monitors the movement of the device along multiple axes and detects specific conditions, such as a fall from a certain height. An example implementation could include an accelerometer (acceleration sensor) that distinguishes between different scenarios, such as whether the device has simply fallen or been displaced in a way that requires attention. The sensor continuously measures the movements of the smart pacifier in the three axes in space (X, Y, and Z coordinates). It also detects the fall of the pacifier from a height above a certain predetermined threshold, to distinguish between a situation that requires alerting and a situation that does not require alerting (e.g., a situation where the pacifier falls and can be lost and a situation where the pacifier came out of the baby's mouth and was left next to the baby in the bed, for example, or in the stroller). A user interface that allows the operation and management of the device, such as turning it on or initiating pairing with an application. An example could be a power and control button configured to perform one or more tasks, including turning on the smart pacifier and pairing it with a dedicated application.

[0052] A charging connection that links the device to a power source for recharging. An example might include a charging socket, for connecting the electronic part of the smart pacifier to the charger. An attachment feature - a component that enables the smart pacifier to be connected to other items, such as conventional accessories or holders. This could be implemented as a ring that attaches the smart pacifier to various types of pacifiers or holders using an adapter, e.g., for connecting said smart pacifier to any type of conventional pacifier, using a special adapter, and to any kind of pacifier catcher / holder.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the invention, the smart pacifier comprises an integrated display adapted to show information about or associated with the baby, including its physical condition (e.g., body temperature) or personal details (e.g., baby's name).

[0054] In case the pacifier falls while the baby is sleeping (this situation is recognized by the microphone, which does not receive any noises as an input; only a visual alert will be activated by the LED lights in order not to wake the baby). The visual alert is especially effective for finding the pacifier in the dark.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the invention, the smart pacifier is used to monitor medications, issue alerts for medication administration, detect drops in temperature after medication is given, and track key indicators of the baby's condition following medication administration. The smart pacifier is capable of comprehensive medication monitoring, including tracking the dosage, timing, and type of medication administered to ensure accurate adherence to prescribed schedules. For example, it can monitor whether a medication has been given at the correct intervals and in the appropriate dosage, and it can provide reminders or alerts if a dose is missed or administered incorrectly. Additionally, the system can log historical data on medication administration, allowing caregivers to review the baby's medication history, assess trends, and adjust treatment plans as needed. This detailed monitoring helps ensure that the baby's health is managed effectively and that any deviations from the prescribed medication regimen are promptly addressed.

[0056] In some embodiments, the smart pacifier and application provide a medication monitoring function in which sensor data such as body temperature trends, crying patterns, and movement data are correlated with medication administration records. The application records the timing, dosage, and type of medication administered, and generates alerts if a dose is missed, administered incorrectly, or if abnormal physiological changes occur after medication. Historical data may be displayed to caregivers and shared with healthcare providers to improve treatment adherence and safety.

[0057] In some embodiments, the system further incorporates an Al-based cry detection and classification module (e.g., see module 1025 in Fig. 11). Audio signals captured by the pacifier's embedded microphone are processed through trained machine learning algorithms that distinguish crying from other environmental sounds and categorize the type of cry based on acoustic features such as pitch, duration, intensity, and modulation patterns. The trained models, which may be continuously updated through cloud-based learning, can differentiate between cries associated with hunger, discomfort, pain, or other stressors. The application can display real-time cry analysis to caregivers, generate alerts for urgent conditions (e.g., pain-related cries), and correlate cry patterns with physiological and behavioral data such as temperature fluctuations or medication intake. Over time, the system builds individualized cry profiles for each infant, enabling more accurate detection and personalized insights that support early intervention and improved caregiving decisions.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the invention, the dedicated application is connected to the smart pacifier by a wireless connection (e.g., a Bluetooth connection) and has the following options, services, and modes:

[0059] A connection button is used to connect the smart pacifier by pairing the connection (by Bluetooth, for example).

[0060] Battery service, which displays the battery charging percentage / the battery's level.

[0061] Two different modes for inside and outside: indoor mode, which is activated when the smart pacifier is at home, and outside mode, which is activated when the smart pacifier is outside. Usually, when people are at home, they connect to the wireless internet (Wi-Fi) of the house, and thus, it is possible to distinguish between a situation where the smart pacifier is at home and a situation where the smart pacifier is outside. If, for example, a home Wi-Fi connection is detected, the conclusion is that the pacifier is at home and the mode indoor mode is activated, and when the pacifier is outside, and no Wi-Fi connection is detected, or a lot of background noise is detected by the microphone, the conclusion is that the smart pacifier is outside and outdoor mode is activated. Each of the different modes (the outside mode and the indoor mode) can be activated automatically, or manually by the user (by pressing a specific button in the application). When the indoor mode is activated (the pacifier is at home) and a fall of the pacifier is detected, only a notification appears in the application (for example, a notification in the shape of a red flag, a notification in the shape of a bell, etc.). In the indoor mode, there is also an option to activate an alarm with low intensity or in the form of vibration only without a beep, by the buzzer. When the outside mode is activated, and the fall of the pacifier from a height is detected, the lost mode is activated automatically, and an alarm is activated in the form of a beep in the buzzer or sounds in the loudspeaker, for example, and a flashing light is turned on in the LED lights. In this case, the alarm will be of a high intensity, allowing it to be heard considering the background noise of the environment outside the house. The user can press the power button to turn off the beep from the buzzer, the sounds from the loudspeaker and the flashing LED lights (for example, when the smart pacifier was found).

[0062] Lost mode- enables finding the smart pacifier's location when it is lost. When the lost mode is activated manually to find the pacifier, the buzzer is activated and activates an alarm in the form of a beep, for example, and a flashing light in the LED lights turns on. When the pacifier is found, the user can press the power button to turn off Lost Mode.

[0063] LED service- enables activation of the lost mode, which turns on the LED lights in the pacifier, to give a visual indication of the location of the pacifier. The LED service also enables the activation of the low-power mode to save the battery's power and to activate the outside mode. The outside mode is activated when the baby is outside the house. In this mode, when the smart pacifier falls from a high height (a height above a predetermined threshold), the smart pacifier activates an alert (visual, by the LED lights, or vocal by the loudspeaker or the buzzer). In this case, the voice alarm from the loudspeaker will be in high intensity and / or in the form of strong vibrations / strong sounds, by the buzzer. When the smart pacifier is at home, the outside mode is turned off (not activated), and the indoor mode is activated. In the indoor mode, only when the smart pacifier falls from a high height (a height above a predetermined threshold), an alert (visual, by the LED lights, or vocal by the loudspeaker or the buzzer) is activated. In this case, the voice alarm from the loudspeaker will be in low intensity, or in the form of vibrations only (by the buzzer).

[0064] Alert service- activates a vocal alert by vibrations, using the buzzer, or by playing an alarm by the loudspeaker.

[0065] Mic service- allows speaking and calming the baby if necessary, allows reading the microphone information (a baby's cry detection, for example). When a baby's cry is detected (by performing speech signal processing of the signals received in the microphone as input, using dedicated software), the buzzer in the pacifier is activated, and soothing music is played to calm the baby. The user can turn on / turn off the microphone manually through the dedicated application.

[0066] Accelerometer service, which allows viewing the accelerometer data, as a response to the movements of the smart pacifier in the three axes in space (X, Y, and Z coordinates), allows checking if the fall detection is activated for detecting falling from a height of the smart pacifier and, if necessary, activating the lost mode automatically (when the outside mode is active). The user can turn on / turn off the accelerometer manually through the application.

[0067] Temperature service- allows checking the body temperature of the baby by the temperature sensor, to check the ambient temperature of the smart pacifier itself or the ambient temperature of the environment surrounding the smart pacifier.

[0068] High-temperature service- is activated when the temperature sensor measures a baby's body temperature above a predetermined threshold (above 35 Celsius degrees, for example), and a flag / notification about high temperature is turned on. The user can turn on / turn off the temperature sensor manually through the application.

[0069] Low power mode- this mode turns off the accelerometer and the temperature sensor, while they are still connected to activate the lost mode, if necessary.

[0070] In some embodiments, the smart pacifier and the dedicated application implement an automatic modeselection algorithm. When the application detects the presence of a known Wi-Fi network, it sets the system to an indoor mode with low-intensity notifications. In the absence of such a network, or when ambient background noise exceeds a predetermined level, the system automatically switches to outdoor mode. This ensures that alerts are tailored to the baby's environment and avoids unnecessarily disturbing the baby indoors while providing stronger alerts when outdoors.

[0071] In addition to the alert which is automatically activated at the smart pacifier itself (for example, when a baby's cry is detected, when a baby's body temperature above the normal predetermined threshold is measured, when the accelerometer detects falling of the smart pacifier from high height in the outside mode, etc.), there is an option that an alert will also be activated in the dedicated application (for example, vibrations in the smartphone on which the dedicated application is installed, beeps / sounds that are played in the loudspeaker of the smartphone, flashing light in the flashlight of the smartphone's camera / flashlight, etc.).

[0072] According to an embodiment, the dedicated application is implemented as computer-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as flash memory or server- based storage. When executed by a processor of a smartphone or tablet, the instructions configure the device to establish wireless communication with the smart pacifier, receive and analyze sensor data, differentiate between conditions requiring an alert and conditions not requiring an alert, and trigger alerts or notifications accordingly. The instructions may further enable additional services, such as switching between indoor and outdoor modes, providing a lost mode, or offering a marketplace interface.

[0073] Fig. 1A shows a back perspective view of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The smart pacifier has a replaceable detachable part 1, which comprises a plastic member la connected to a nipple lb. The nipple lb is connected by secured connection li to prevent nipple lc from unintentionally detaching the plastic member la (screwing connection, for example), to protect the baby and prevent suffocation. On the plastic member surface la, there are two holes for breathing lc, microphone and loudspeaker holes Id, for the two-way communication between the smart pacifier and the dedicated application, two holes for attaching the replaceable detachable part 1 to the electronic part 2 (using a "click pushing" connecting mechanism and a "pushing away" disconnecting mechanism by grippers 2e, for example), and a hole for a temperature sensor If, for measuring the body temperature of the baby.

[0074] Fig. IB shows a front-perspective view of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The smart pacifier has transparent parts 2j, which enable the user to see the lights from the LED lights when it turns on, buttons 2a for detaching the electronic part 2 from the replaceable part 1 by "pushing away" mechanism, for example, and a ring 2b. Ring 2b can be connected to any type of conventional pacifier, by a special adapter, and to any kind of pacifier catcher / holder.

[0075] Fig. 2A shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier, wherein the detachable part 1 comprising a plastic member la and a nipple lb is fully connected to the electronic part 2. The two buttons 2a allow the replacement part 1 to be detached from the electronic part 2 by a "pushing away" mechanism, using grippers 2e.

[0076] Fig. 2B shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier, wherein the detachable part 1 comprising a plastic member la and a nipple lb is partially connected to the electronic part 2. By simultaneously pressing the two buttons 2a, the top part of the plastic member la is disconnected from the grippers 2e, and the replaceable part 1 is partially disconnected (partially detached) from the electronic part 2.

[0077] Fig. 2C shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier, wherein the detachable part 1 comprising a plastic member la and a nipple lb is not connected to the electronic part 2. By simultaneously pressing buttons 2a, and then disconnecting the bottom part of the plastic member from the bottom grasp 2e, part 1 is fully disconnected (fully detached) from the electronic part 2.

[0078] Fig. 3A shows a back perspective view of the detachable part 1 comprising a plastic member la and a nipple lb, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The plastic member la has two holes le at the top, and one hole le at the bottom, into which the grippers 2e are connected by a "click pushing" mechanism (when the user wants to connect the replaceable part 1 to the electronic part 2). The nipple lb is attached to plastic member la by secured connection li, which is shown in Fig. 3B (a screwing connection, for example) to prevent the nipple from unintentionally detaching the plastic member, for protecting the baby and preventing suffocation. The plastic member la also has two holes lc for breathing, a microphone / loudspeaker holes Id and a hole If for the temperature sensor.

[0079] Fig. 3B shows a front perspective view of the detachable part 1 comprising a plastic member la and a nipple lb, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Fig. 4 shows a front view of the electronic part 2 of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The housing of the electronic part 2 includes the grippers 2e, the breathing holes 2c, the ring 2b, the microphone holes 2d, the temperature sensor 2f, which continuously measures the body temperature of the baby, the ambient temperature of the smart pacifier itself and the ambient temperature of the surrounding environment near the smart pacifier. The housing of the electronic part also comprises a recessed space li to leave room for connecting the nipple lb of the replaceable part 1, a charging socket 2h (for example, a socket suitable to a magnet charger) for connecting the battery charging surface (of the charging station) to the electronic part 2, and a power and pairing button 2g, for pairing (by Bluetooth connection, for example) between the smart pacifier to the dedicated application and for turning on / off the smart pacifier and the vocal / visual alerts of the various modes / options in the dedicated application, when being activated.

[0081] The electronic part may further comprise a microcontroller or processor configured to coordinate the operation of sensors, execute signal-processing algorithms, manage communication with the dedicated application, and control output devices including the LED lights, loudspeaker, and buzzer. The processor ensures synchronized operation between hardware functions and software logic, enabling real-time responsiveness to changes in the baby's condition.

[0082] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the smart pacifier with all its parts, including a ring 2b connected to the electronic part, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The_ring 2b is used for connecting the smart pacifier to any type of conventional pacifier, using a special adapter, and to any kind of pacifier catcher / holder.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows a front view of the smart pacifier housing, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The housing is produced using the double injection method and has transparent parts 2j, through which the LED lights illuminate to give a visual light indication, enabling to find the pacifier location, or alerting (in a flashing red light, for example) in case of measurement of the baby's body temperature which is above the normal predetermined threshold. The transparent parts 2j are also shown in Fig. 6 in an enlarged view.

[0084] In some embodiments, alerts are generated locally on the pacifier itself (e.g., via LEDs, buzzer, or loudspeaker) and simultaneously on the dedicated application installed on a caregiver's device (e.g., through vibrations, flashing light, or sound). This dual-alert approach ensures that caregivers are notified even when the pacifier is not in direct view or hearing range, thereby improving reliability of monitoring.

[0085] Fig. 7 shows a side view of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Buttons 2a have a "pushing away" mechanism using a spring 2ai, which enables detaching the replaceable plastic member la with the nipple lb from the electronic part 2 of the smart pacifier and replacing it with a new one.

[0086] Fig. 8 shows front view (A), side view (B), top view (C), and perspective view (D) illustrations of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figures illustrate the replaceable part 1 (i.e., the nipple and nipple-holding member) attached to the electronic part 2 (i.e., the housing containing the electronic assembly). In one embodiment, the overall dimensions of the smart pacifier are approximately 66 x 50 x 46 mm, and the total weight is approximately 47 grams.

[0087] Fig. 9A shows a perspective view of the charging station 3 of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the smart pacifier is connected to the charger. The charging station 3 has a charging surface 3a, on which the electronic part 2 needs to be put. The charging station 3 (for example, a desktop portable magnet charger with a charging surface and USB-C power supply) is equipped with a USB-C power supply connected to the type C socket 3b. To charge the smart pacifier, the user needs to first detach the replaceable part 1 (i.e., the nipple) from the electronic part 2, and then, put the electronic part 2 on the charging surface 3a, so that the charging socket 3h (for example, a socket suitable to a magnet charger) will touch it in the corresponding charging hole 2h in the electronic part 2. When the smart pacifier is connected to charger 3, the LED lights are turned on, and there is light in the transparent parts 2j of the pacifier's housing. Fig. 9B shows a perspective view of the charging station 3 of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the smart pacifier is not connected to the charger. When the smart pacifier is not connected to charger 3, the LED lights are turned off, and there is no light in the transparent parts 2j of the pacifier's housing.

[0088] Fig. 10 shows front view (A), side view (B), top view (C), and perspective view (D) illustrations of the charging station 3 of the smart pacifier, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure includes an example of the physical dimensions of the station, which in one embodiment are approximately 100 x 80 x 32 mm. The charging station further comprises a charging port 3b, such as a USB-C input, and may optionally include electrical contacts 3h configured to provide a direct electrical interface in versions that do not employ wireless magnetic charging.

[0089] Fig. 11 is a block diagram of the smart pacifier's main electronic assembly 1001, according to an embodiment of the invention. A processing unit (PU) 1002 (e.g., microcontroller / processor) communicates with memory 1003 and a sensor interface / ADC 1018. Power is supplied by a rechargeable battery 1004 managed by a power-management / charging IC 1005, which also interfaces to a charging interface 1006 (e.g., magnetic or pogo / USB-C contacts, such as USB-C charging port 3b). A wireless communication module (WCM) 1007 (e.g., Bluetooth) links the assembly 1001 to a dedicated application 1030 on a caregiver device 200. The sensor suite includes a microphone (mic) 1008, a temperature sensor 1014, and a movement sensor 1015 (e.g., a three-axis accelerometer), each coupled to the processor 1002 via the interface 1018. Audio and indication outputs include a speaker 1010, a buzzer / vibration driver 1011, and an LED indicator array 1013. User inputs include a power / pairing button or similar user interface (Ul) 1016. An optional spring-loaded attachment / release actuator 1017 and an optional mechanical / electrical interface 1019 couple the electronic assembly to a replaceable pacifier part. Processor-executed software modules include a signal-processing (SP) module 1025 (e.g., cry detection that may involve Al-based cry detection and classification), decision logic (DL) 1026 implementing threshold / pattern criteria, an alert controller (AC) 1027 governing LEDs / speaker / buzzer, a mode manager 1028 (e.g., indoor / outdoor), and a medication monitoring (MM) module 1029. The wireless module 1007 exchanges data and control with the application 1030 to provide monitoring, alerts, configuration, and services.

[0090] Figs. 12 and 13 are perspective views of smart pacifiers and corresponding charging stations, according to other embodiments of the invention. In the embodiment of Fig. 12, the smart pacifier 3 is formed with a generally circular housing, while in the embodiment of Fig. 13, the smart pacifier has a heart-like housing shape. Each pacifier is configured to be detachably received in a corresponding wireless magnetic charging base, the base having a docking recess shaped to conform with the electronic part of the pacifier (i.e., the housing without the nipple portion). This arrangement enables secure placement of the electronic part on the base for reliable wireless charging, while maintaining compatibility with different external form factors of the pacifier.

[0091] The main customers of the smart pacifier are parents of babies and business owners of baby products. Parents will be able to use the smart pacifier to prevent the loss of pacifiers, thus being calm and satisfied that their baby calms down and / or falls asleep more quickly. The product is safe for babies to the highest standard, so parents can rest assured that their babies are safe and protected. The dedicated application provides direction and guidance regarding the baby's musical envelope, which is considered a significant thing in development, and will enable the automatic activation of soothing music if a baby's cry is detected. Business owners for baby products will be able to integrate into the marketplace in the dedicated application, sell products through it, and increase exposure and revenue.

[0092] As various embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated, it should be understood that variations will be apparent to one skilled in the art without departing from the principles herein. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments described and illustrated in the drawings.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A smart pacifier, comprising: a) a replaceable detachable part, comprising: i. a nipple; and ii. a nipple-holding member having one or more functional holes, wherein said nipple is connected to said nipple-holding member by a secured connection configured to prevent unintentional detachment of the nipple for protecting the baby and preventing suffocation; and b) an electronic part, comprising: i. a housing configured to contain and safeguard electronic components, sensors, and parts of the pacifier, the housing including ventilation features and one or more holes corresponding to the functional holes of the replaceable detachable part; ii. electronic components and sensors configured to collect and analyze data to differentiate between conditions that require an alert and conditions that do not; and ill. an attachment and release mechanism configured to secure the replaceable detachable part to the electronic part, and to enable detachment by exerting a force to push the parts away.

2. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic part further comprises a temperature sensor configured to measure body temperature of the baby and to trigger an alert when the body temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold.

3. The smart pacifier of claim 2, wherein the alert comprises at least one of: a visual indication via LED lights; an audible indication via a loudspeaker; and a vibration indication via a buzzer.

4. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic part comprises a communication module configured for wireless connectivity with a dedicated application.

5. The smart pacifier of claim 4, wherein the communication module comprises a Bluetooth transceiver and a pairing mechanism.

6. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic part further comprises a microphone configured to detect baby sounds and trigger playback of soothing music through a loudspeaker.

7. The smart pacifier of claim 6, wherein playback of the soothing music is automatically activated upon detection of a baby cry.

8. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic part further comprises a movement sensor configured to detect a fall of the pacifier from a height above a predetermined threshold.

9. The smart pacifier of claim 8, wherein the movement sensor comprises an accelerometer configured to monitor movement along three axes.

10. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, further comprising LED lights disposed in the housing and visible through transparent portions of the housing, configured to provide visual alerts or assist in locating the pacifier in the dark.

11. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, further comprising an integrated display configured to present information about the baby, including at least one of: body temperature, baby's name, or medication schedule.

12. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a rechargeable power supply and a charging interface configured to connect to a charging station.

13. The smart pacifier of claim 12, wherein the charging interface comprises a magnetic charging socket.

14. The smart pacifier of claim 4, wherein the dedicated application is configured to provide one or more monitoring, control, or service functions associated with the smart pacifier, including at least one of: displaying device status information; managing operating modes; facilitating location of the pacifier when misplaced; and enabling user interaction with alerts, sensors, or additional services.

15. The smart pacifier of claim 14, wherein the different modes including indoor mode and outdoor mode, wherein in outdoor mode, upon detecting a fall from a predetermined height, the pacifier activates high-intensity alerts, and wherein in indoor mode, upon detecting a fall, the pacifier provides a low-intensity notification through the dedicated application.

16. The smart pacifier of claim 4, wherein the dedicated application further provides a marketplace interface enabling users to purchase complementary baby products and accessories.Y1. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the system is further configured to monitor medication administration, track dosage and timing, and issue alerts for ensuring adherence to prescribed schedules.

18. The smart pacifier of any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic part is configured to differentiate between conditions requiring an alert and conditions not requiring an alert, based on sensor data including at least one of: audio signals from a microphone; temperature measurements from a temperature sensor, motion data from a movement sensor, and to issue alerts only when predetermined thresholds or criteria are satisfied.

19. A method of monitoring a baby using a smart pacifier, the method comprising: a) providing a pacifier comprising a replaceable detachable part having a nipple and a nipple-holding member, and an electronic part having a housing, sensors, and electronic components; b) securely attaching the nipple to the nipple-holding member by a secured connection that prevents unintentional detachment; c) wirelessly connecting the electronic part to a dedicated application; d) collecting signals from one or more sensors of the electronic part, the sensors comprising at least one of: a temperature sensor, a microphone, and a movement sensor; e) analyzing the collected signals to differentiate between conditions that require an alert and conditions that do not; and f) activating at least one alert through the pacifier or the dedicated application in response to detection of a condition requiring attention.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein analyzing the signals comprises detecting a baby cry using the microphone, and automatically initiating playback of soothing music through a loudspeaker.

21. The method of claim 19 or 22, wherein analyzing the signals comprises detecting a baby's body temperature above a predetermined threshold using the temperature sensor, and issuing an alert selected from: a visual alert via LED lights, an audible alarm via a loudspeaker, or a vibration alert via a buzzer.

22. The method of any of claims 19-21, wherein analyzing the signals comprises detecting movement of the pacifier using an accelerometer, and upon detecting a fall from a height above a predetermined threshold, issuing a fall alert.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein in an outdoor mode, the fall alert comprises activating a high- intensity notification, and in an indoor mode the fall alert comprises generating a low-intensity notification through the dedicated application.

24. The method of any of claims 22-23, further comprising switching between indoor and outdoor modes automatically based on detection of a home wireless network or ambient noise conditions.

25. The method of any of claims 19-24, further comprising analyzing sensor data to differentiate between conditions requiring an alert and conditions not requiring an alert, wherein said analyzing comprises processing at least one of: audio signals from a microphone; body temperature readings from a temperature sensor to detect a temperature above a predetermined threshold; and motion data from a movement sensor, and wherein an alert is issued only when the corresponding predetermined criteria are satisfied.

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