Sensory apparatus system

WO2026167378A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-08-13GJD LTD
View PDF 0 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2026-02-09
Publication Date
2026-08-13

Smart Images

  • Figure GB2026050181_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
    Figure GB2026050181_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

A sensory learning system (300) includes one or more operational modules for delivering a multi-sensory learning programme to a user, wherein the modules include one or more of: a connection module (310), an analytics module (320), a development measurement module (330), a therapy pathway development platform (340), an artificial intelligence unit (350) and a cloud (360).
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

[0001] SENSORY APPARATUS SYSTEM

[0002] The present invention relates to a system for delivering sensory learning and to a sensory apparatus .

[0003] The term sensory apparatus is a broad one, intending to cover various devices that are used to aid the development of life skills such as motor skills, vocalisation, colour recognition and the understanding of the relationship between cause and effect . They can be used to engage with a user in various ways appealing to the user' s senses and encouraging interaction, for stimulation and teaching, though they may equally be used passively to aid relaxation and self regulation.

[0004] Schools, hospitals, clinics, hospices, airports, shopping centres, hotels and other pastoral facilities may employ sensory apparatus . Such apparatus may include (but is not limited to) interactive displays that provide auditory, tactile, visual and / or aromatic experiences, and others . These experiences may be automated or may be triggered by user interaction. The user interaction trigger may include, (but is not limited to) : a physical touch, such as pressing a button, or a verbal instruction. Examples of sensory apparatus include, (but are not limited to) : bubble tubes, bubble walls, proj ectors, fibreoptics devices, mirrors, switches, soft play equipment, tactile panels, lighting environments, music playback.

[0005] A dedicated room, known as a sensory room, may be provided to deliver multi-sensory stimulation to a user .Sensory devices are liable to suffer wear and tear as well as battery depletion, requiring repair or replacement . During repair down-time, the sensory devices are unavailable for use . Managing such apparatus can also be time consuming for repairers located remotely from a site employing the sensory devices .

[0006] Furthermore, previously considered sensory learning approaches are often inflexible and outcomes are poorly measured and understood.

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a sensory learning system in which problems of the prior art are addressed, and in which a tailored, optimised therapy experience can be provided.

[0008] The present invention is defined in the attached independent claims, to which reference should now be made . Further, preferred features may be found in the sub-claims appended thereto .

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sensory apparatus management system for electronic management of at least one item of sensory apparatus, the system being arranged for two-way communication between a management device and at least one item of sensory apparatus .

[0010] Communication from the management device may take the form of, (but is not limited to) : interrogation, firmware update, software updates, upgrades . Preferably, the communication istwo-way between the management device and the or each item of sensory apparatus .

[0011] The system preferably comprises a central hub device, which may be substantially local to the item (s) of sensory apparatus .

[0012] Preferably, the management device is arranged to communicate with the at least one item of sensory apparatus wirelessly. This may be achieved by any of, (but not limited to) : internet, Zigbee ®, radio, Bluetooth ®, Wi-Fi . Alternatively or in addition, the management device may be arranged to communicate with the at least one item of sensory apparatus by a wired connection.

[0013] Preferably, the management device is arranged for communication with a motion detection sensor . The sensor may comprise an infrared sensor or a Lidar or other proximity sensor . The sensor may be arranged to reduce power to the management device and / or sensory apparatus when no motion has been detected for a pre-determined time interval, T, which interval may be adjustable .

[0014] The interrogation of the at least one item of sensory apparatus may include an enquiry relating to at least one of : the status, power status, health, usage, or incidence of an emergency. The management device may be arranged to collect data on the or each enquiry. The interrogation may occur automatically and / or periodically at pre-determined intervals . Alternatively, or in addition, the interrogations may occur at the instigation of a management operative .The management device may comprise a remote / external station. Alternatively, or in addition, the management device may be situated locally to the sensory apparatus . The management device may be arranged for communication with one or more of the items of sensory apparatus and / or the motion sensor directly. Alternatively, or in addition, the management device may be arranged for communication with one or more of the sensory apparatus and / or the motion sensor indirectly via a substantially local hub .

[0015] Data collected in response to the transmission may be forwarded to the management device . The data may be forwarded to the management device via the internet / cloud . Alternatively, or in addition, the data may be forwarded to the management device via SMS .

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an item of sensory apparatus arranged for two-way communication with a sensory apparatus management device .

[0017] The item of sensory apparatus is preferably arranged for communication, more preferably two-way communication, within a system according to any statement herein, or with a management device according to any statement herein.

[0018] The sensory apparatus may be arranged to provide passive and / or interactive sensory effects to a user . The sensory effects may include one or more of (but not limited to) : visual stimuli, auditory stimuli, tactile stimuli and / or aromatic stimuli . Alternatively, or in addition, the sensoryapparatus may comprise a user input device for receiving an input from a user . The input device may include voice-activated or touch-sensitive input (s) .

[0019] In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sensory apparatus management device arranged for communication with at least one item of sensory apparatus .

[0020] Preferably, either the management device or the at least one item of sensory apparatus may initiate the communication.

[0021] Preferably the system comprises a management device which is arranged to receive communication from the one or more items of sensory apparatus and / or a motion sensor, either directly and or via a local hub . The management device may be arranged to alert a management operative when information is received, for example concerning an issue that requires attention. The management device may be arranged to provide a report periodically .

[0022] The system may also comprise a graphical user interface (GUI ) . The GUI may be arranged to facilitate the alteration of settings of the management device and / or sensory apparatus . Alternatively, or in addition, the GUI may comprise a 'read-only' version. This version may display statuses and usages of the sensory apparatus .

[0023] The sensory apparatus management system may comprise a connection module of a sensory learning system according to any statement herein.According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a usage analytics module for use in a sensory learning system, the module comprising an electronic processor and being arranged in use to perform one or more of the following: usage analytics : in which the frequency, duration, and / or type of sensory sessions is determined; engagement patterns : in which it is identified which devices, modes, or activities receive the most interaction from a user; operational health: in which maintenance needs, declining device performance, or environmental irregularities are detected; outcome support which may help demonstrate utilisation for funding justification, audits, and reporting; multi-site oversight which provides MAT-level insight across a plurality of locations .

[0024] A key purpose of the analytics module is to provide clear, actionable visibility into what is happening in every sensory space and to support data-led decision making.

[0025] The invention also includes a method of analysing usage of a sensory learning system, the method comprising one or more of the following steps : a usage analytics step in which the frequency, duration, and / or type of sensory sessions is determined; an engagement patterns step : in which it is identified which devices, modes, or activities receive the most interaction from a user; an operational health step : in which maintenance needs, declining device performance, or environmental irregularities are detected; an outcome support step which helps demonstrate utilisation for funding justification, audits, and reporting; a multi-site oversight step which provides MAT-level insight across a plurality of locations .According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a development measurement module for use in a sensory learning system, the module comprising a processor, and being arranged to perform one or more of the following tasks : skill mapping, in which sensory activities are structured around defined developmental skill categories ; provision of adaptive learning guidance in which activity sequences are suggested based on learner engagement and response; insightful progress tracking, in which participation, engagement level, and / or skill indicators are automatically recorded; environmental adaptation, in which device behaviour is modified to suit predetermined sensory profiles (e . g. , calming vs stimulating) ; provision of inclusive session tools in which group sessions, one to one interventions, and / or independent exploration are supported. A key purpose of the development measurement module is to ensure that every sensory moment supports measurable developmental progress .

[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of development measurement for use in a sensory learning system, the method comprising one or more of the following steps : skill mapping, in which sensory activities are structured around defined developmental skill categories; provision of adaptive learning guidance in which activity sequences are suggested based on learner engagement and response; insightful progress tracking, in which participation, engagement level, and / or skill indicators are automatically recorded; environmental adaptation, in which device behaviour is modified to suit predetermined sensory profiles (e . g. , calming vs stimulating) ; provision ofinclusive session tools in which group sessions, one to one interventions, and / or independent exploration are supported. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a therapy pathway development platform for use in a sensory learning system, the unit comprising a processor and a database and including one or more of the following: OT-designed programmes : wherein each pathway is structured by registered Occupational Therapists using evidence-based developmental models (sensory integration, motor planning, regulation strategies, sequencing, functional skills ) ; multi-disciplinary input : SALTs and behavioural specialists contribute to pathways focused on communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction; progressive skill development : wherein pathways follow clear, graded steps from baseline engagement to skill mastery; automatic assessment markers : wherein built-in checkpoints are provided to help practitioners identify progress without needing clinical training; adaptive recommendations : wherein the system is arranged to suggest next steps based on child response, ensuring consistency with therapeutic best practice; classroom-friendly delivery: designed so teachers, support staff, and parents can deliver high-quality therapeutic sessions confidently.

[0027] A key purpose of the therapy platform is to bring clinically informed, therapist-level guidance into every sensory session, ensuring consistency, structure, and measurable progress .

[0028] Initially a number of these would be created by a host . However, any therapist can use a skills marketplace wherethey can create and upload essions and charge the end user for use .

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a therapy pathway development method for use in a sensory learning system, the method including one or more of the following steps : using OT-Designed Programmes : wherein each pathway is structured by registered Occupational Therapists using evidence-based developmental models (sensory integration, motor planning, regulation strategies, sequencing, functional skills) ; multidisciplinary input : SALTs and behavioural specialists contribute to pathways focused on communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction; progressive skill development : wherein pathways follow clear, graded steps from baseline engagement to skill mastery; automatic assessment markers : wherein built-in checkpoints are provided to help practitioners identify progress without needing clinical training; adaptive recommendations : wherein the system is arranged to suggest next steps based on child response, ensuring consistency with therapeutic best practice; classroom-friendly delivery: designed so teachers, support staff, and parents can deliver high-quality therapeutic sessions confidently.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an artificial intelligence unit for use in a sensory learning system, the unit comprising a processor and one or more of the following: adaptive programme suggestions unit arranged in use to learn from a learner' s responses, behaviour patterns, emotional state indicators, and interaction history.The unit may be arranged to suggest the most appropriate skill pathway, calming sequence, and / or developmental activity at the right time .

[0031] The unit may be arranged automatically to adjust one or more of : pacing, intensity, repetition, and complexity based on real-time feedback.

[0032] The unit may be arranged in use to provide personalised regulation profiles and may build a dynamic sensory profile for each user . The unit may also be arranged to identify one or more of : calming triggers, overstimulation risks, most-engaged devices, and preferred sensory modalities . The unit is preferably arranged to recommend calming or alerting sequences tailored to needs such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, or communication delay.

[0033] In a preferred arrangement, the unit provides real-time Al session assistance, including one or more of : modifying an environment during a session based on engagement, increasing focus, reduce anxiety, or restore calm using adaptive sensory adj ustments .

[0034] In addition, the unit may be used in skill development prediction. It may be arranged to use historical session data to forecast likely developmental progress .

[0035] Emerging strengths may be highlighted and the unit may identify when a learner is ready for the next developmental stage .The Al unit may be arranged to provide therapist-level insights, such as one or more of : providing suggestions aligned with OT, SALT, and behavioural best practice .

[0036] The unit may offer consistent guidance even in non-clinical settings and / or environment-level learning, including identifying wider usage patterns, e . g. to help schools optimise sensory spaces and session planning.

[0037] A key purpose of the artificial intelligence unit is to provide intelligent, personalised guidance that helps every learner regulate, grow, and succeed.

[0038] The unit also includes a method of delivering a sensory learning experience using an artificial intelligence unit according to any statement herein.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computing cloud for use in a sensory learning system, the computing cloud comprising a processor, and arranged in use to provide one or more of : unified progress dashboards, for providing clear visualisation of a learner' s development over time; evidence capture arranged to automatically gather data needed for e . g. EHCPs, annual reviews, therapy reports, and parental updates ; multi-level analytics for providing learner, class, school, and MAT-level reporting.

[0040] The computing cloud may provide secure access and may be encrypted, GDPR-compliant , and / or with role-specific permissions .

[0041] The computing cloud may be arranged to provide one or more of : configuration and management, optionally including centralised control for device settings, pathways, andlearning modules; interoperability allowing seamless bridging with protocol-enabled hardware and proprietory environments .

[0042] A key purpose of the computing cloud is to turn sensory interaction data into meaningful, accessible insights that support decision-making, reporting, and long-term planning. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sensory learning system, including one or more of the modules described herein.

[0043] The modules may share one or more processors .

[0044] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sensory apparatus comprising a vessel for containing a bubble medium, such as a liquid, a pump for generating bubbles in the medium, and a medium treatment module located in a circulatory fluid path with the vessel, for purifying the bubble medium.

[0045] The treatment module may be located externally of the vessel . The treatment module may include a pump for encouraging circulation of the bubble medium through the module . The treatment module preferably includes a purification apparatus arranged in use to destroy bacteria and / or other microorganisms in the bubble medium. The purification apparatus may comprise a radiation source, such as a source of UV radiation and / or a filter .

[0046] The sensory apparatus is preferably controlled by an electronic controller and may be used in a system or with a management device according to any statement herein.The treatment module may be arranged for operation automatically on a timed basis, for example in periods when the sensory apparatus is not in use . Alternatively, or in addition, activation of the treatment module may be initiated remotely .

[0047] The invention may include any combination of the features or limitations referred to herein, except such a combination of features as are mutually exclusive, or mutually inconsistent .

[0048] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings, in which:

[0049] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a sensory apparatus management apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a sensory apparatus management apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figures 3 (a) and 3 (b) show schematically a particular item of sensory apparatus; and

[0052] Figure 4 shows, schematically, a sensory learning system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Turning to Figure 1, an intelligent sensory apparatus management system according to one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown generally at 100. Within a room is a plurality of items of sensory apparatus 100. Examples of the sensory apparatus may include (but are not limited to) : bubble tubes, bubble walls, proj ectors, fibreoptics devices, mirrors, switches, soft play equipment, tactile panels, lighting environments, music playback, and controller devices that control any of the above (or other) sensory equipment .

[0054] In this embodiment, the apparatus 10 are in direct, two-way communication with a management device 20, which in this example is connected via internet / cloud 30. The management device 20 can transmit information to the sensory apparatus 10 such as an update or an interrogation and can receive information back from the sensory apparatus 10. The sensory apparatus 10 can also initiate communication with the management device 20 and can transmit information to it, such as a status update and / or usage information.

[0055] An optional motion detector 40 is also present in the room, and is connected for two-way communication with the management device 20, via the cloud 30. The motion detector 40 detects the motion of a user (not shown) within a predetermined space, for example using passive infrared radiation 40.

[0056] Once the motion detector 40 has detected no motion for a predetermined period of time, T, the sensory apparatus 10 can be made to reduce power to a standby level, so as to minimise the wasting of power .Based on information obtained from the sensory apparatus itself, and in particular the usage thereof, maintenance and / or cleaning routines may be set and optimised and can be instigated / actioned remotely.

[0057] Data from the motion detector may help to inform decisions regarding the usage of the sensory room.

[0058] Figure 2 shows, schematically, a second embodiment of the present invention, generally at 100' . In this embodiment, the items of sensory apparatus 10' and the optional motion detector 40' are in communication with a local hub 50, through which they connect to the management device, which is in this example is connected via a internet / cloud 30' .

[0059] The central hub 50 may communicate with the sensory apparatus 10' by one or more of (but not limited to) : internet, Zigbee ®, radio, Bluetooth ®, Wi-Fi . Alternatively or in addition, the hub 50 may be arranged to communicate with the at least one item of sensory apparatus by a wired connection .

[0060] Examples of information transmitted between the management device 20 or 20' (whether or not via the management hub 50) and the sensory apparatus may include (but is not limited to) : an enquiry relating to at least one of the status, power status, health, usage, or incidence of an emergency.

[0061] Whilst in the above-described embodiments, the communication between the sensory apparatus and / or the motion detector (where used) and the management device, whether directly( first embodiment) or via the local hub (second embodiment) is via the cloud - e . g. internet - this could be via alternative means, such as radio, SMS or other.

[0062] The management device 20 or 20' , and / or the local hub 50, may comprise one or more servers . The management device may comprise a personal computer, console, hand held device such as a telephone, or a wearable article such as virtual reality headset .

[0063] Turning to Figures 3 (a) and 3 (b) , these show, schematically one particular type of sensory apparatus, known as a bubble tube .

[0064] Figure 3 (a) shows a known bubble tube, generally at 200, which comprises a vessel 210, usually of transparent acrylic, containing a fluid medium, such as water, in which is produced a formation of bubbles (not shown) from an air pump 220 creating an interesting visual effect . The effect is usually enhanced by the use of coloured lighting from an LED array 230. An electronic processor 240 controls the apparatus .

[0065] The example shown is in the form of a tube, but similar apparatus in different configurations, such as bubble "walls" are also used.

[0066] Bubble devices of this kind must have the water changed periodically, due to the build up of potentially harmful bacteria, and this laborious operation must be conducted according to a schedule . To facilitate the water change,manufacturers sometimes include taps at the bottom of the vessel, or even an external pump . The inclusion of a biocide in the water may extend the refresh intervals, but the water will still have to be replaced at some point . Unfortunately, some operators fail to keep to the required schedules and, as a result, the bubble devices are sometimes viewed as undesirable by authorities .

[0067] Figure 3 (b) shows an embodiment of bubble device, generally at 200' , according to the present invention.

[0068] The device 200' comprises a vessel 210' for containing a bubble medium, such as water . An air pump 220' provides the bubbles and a lighting unit 230' , which is in this case an LED array, enhances the effect .

[0069] A water treatment module 250 is in a circulatory path with the water of the vessel 210' so that water is drawn from the vessel, passes through the module 250 and is then returned to the vessel in a loop . Water is treated inside the module 250 so that bacteria and / or other potentially harmful microorganisms are destroyed. In this example, the treatment is provided by a UV filter (not shown) inside the module 250, which filters the water and irradiates the filter using UV radiation. As an alternative, or in addition, Ozone or nitric oxide could be used to treat the water . Circulation of the water is achieved by a water pump (not shown) inside the module 250.

[0070] An electronic processor 240' controls the air pump 220' , lighting unit 230' and treatment module 250 in this example .The treatment module may be operated manually or may be arranged to operate automatically, for example according to a predetermined schedule . Alternatively, the module 250 may be activated according to detected levels of impurities in the water . The detector (not shown) may be located within the module, or in the tank itself, for example .

[0071] The apparatus 200' may be used with the management system described above .

[0072] Figure 4 shows schematically, generally at 300, a sensory learning system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 300 inludes a connection module 310, an analytics module 320, a development measurement module 330, a therapy pathway development platform 340, an artificial intelligence unit 350 and a cloud 360.

[0073] The connection module 310 is the operational foundation of the system. It ensures that every sensory device, pod, controller, and interactive element is online, synchronised, and functioning at its best .

[0074] This purpose of this module is to focus on reliability, stability, and seamless operation — aiming to eliminate the kind of friction that can otherwise disrupt sensory sessions . Key functions of the connection module 310 include : - Live sensory device monitoring, enabling real-time visibility of online status, connectivity quality, and battery levels ; smart firmware management facilitating automatic update checks and notifications to ensure all devices operate with the latest features and stability improvements ; system integrity checks : including background diagnostics thatalert staff to issues before they affect a session with a user . - unified device view: a streamlined dashboard showing the readiness of every system-enabled environment . - failsafe design: ensures devices remain functional even during network interruptions .

[0075] A key purpose of the connection module 310 is to ensure that sensory environments are always ready for learning, regulation, and therapy.

[0076] The connection module 310 may in some implementations comprise a management system such as is described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0077] The analytics module 320 provides the intelligence needed to manage sensory environments efficiently and transparently. It builds on the connection module 310 by bringing deeper insights into how sensory spaces are used, how devices perform, and where improvements can be made .

[0078] Designed for school leaders, medication assisted therapies - MATs, therapy services, and centre managers, the analytics module turns hidden patterns into actionable intelligence . Key features of the analytics module 320 include : - usage analytics : tracks frequency, duration, and type of sensory sessions . - engagement patterns : identifies which devices, modes, or activities receive the most interaction, operational health: flags maintenance needs, declining device performance, or environmental irregularities , outcome support : helps demonstrate utilisation for funding justification, audits, and reporting. - multi-site oversight : provides MAT-level insight across numerous schools or centres .A key purpose of the analytics module 320 is to provide clear, actionable visibility into what is happening in every sensory space and to support data-led decision making.

[0079] The development measurement module 330 is the educational and developmental part of the sensory learning system. It transforms sensory experiences into intentional learning opportunities, mapped directly to core life-skill areas . It ensures sensory sessions contribute meaningfully to communication, emotional regulation, motor development, cognition, independence, and social participation.

[0080] Key features include : - skill mapping: all activities are structured around defined developmental skill categories . -adaptive learning guidance : suggests activity sequences based on learner engagement and response . - insightful progress tracking: automatically records participation, engagement level, and skill indicators . - environmental adaptation: modifies device behaviour to suit sensory profiles (e . g. , calming vs stimulating) . - inclusive session tools : supports group sessions, 1 : 1 interventions, and independent exploration.

[0081] A key purpose of the development measurement module 330 is to ensure that every sensory moment supports measurable developmental progress .

[0082] The therapy pathway development platform 340 provides professionally authored developmental programmes created in collaboration with Occupational Therapists (OTs) , Speech & Language Therapists (SALTs) , behaviour specialists, and sensory-integration practitioners .This module represents the clinical intelligence layer of the system, embedding therapeutic expertise directly into everyday sensory learning.

[0083] Key features include : - OT-Designed Programmes : Each pathway is structured by registered Occupational Therapists using evidence-based developmental models (sensory integration, motor planning, regulation strategies, sequencing, functional skills) .

[0084] Multi-Disciplinary Input : SALTs and behavioural specialists contribute to pathways focused on communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction.

[0085] Progressive Skill Development : pathways follow clear, graded steps from baseline engagement to skill mastery.

[0086] Automatic Assessment Markers : built-in checkpoints help practitioners identify progress without needing clinical training .

[0087] Adaptive Recommendations : suggests next steps based on child response, ensuring consistency with therapeutic best practice .

[0088] Classroom- Friendly Delivery: designed so teachers, support staff, and parents can deliver high-quality therapeutic sessions confidently.

[0089] A key purpose is to bring clinically informed, therapistlevel guidance into every sensory session, ensuring consistency, structure, and measurable progress .

[0090] Initially a number of these pathways would be created by the provider of the system. However, therapists can use a skillsmarketplace where they can create and upload sessions and charge a fee to the end user for use .

[0091] The artificial intelligence (Al ) unit 350 comprises a processor and includes a trained, machine-learning model (MLM) . The unit provides one or more of the following: Adaptive Programme Suggestions unit arranged in use to Learn from a learner' s responses, behaviour patterns, emotional state indicators, and interaction history

[0092] The unit may be arranged to Suggest the most appropriate skill pathway, calming sequence, and / or developmental activity at the right time .

[0093] The unit may be arranged automatically to adjust one or more of : pacing, intensity, repetition, and complexity based on real-time feedback.

[0094] The unit may be arranged in use to provide personalised regulation profiles and may build a dynamic sensory profile for each user . The unit may also be arranged to identify one or more of : calming triggers, overstimulation risks, most-engaged devices, and preferred sensory modalities .

[0095] The unit is preferably arranged to recommend calming or alerting sequences tailored to needs such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, or communication delay.

[0096] In a preferred arrangement, the unit provides real-time Al session assistance, including one or more of : modifying an environment during a session based on engagement, increasing focus, reduce anxiety, or restore calm using adaptive sensory adj ustments .In addition, the unit may be used in skill development prediction. It may be arranged to use historical session data to forecast likely developmental progress .

[0097] Emerging strengths may be highlighted and the unit may identify when a learner is ready for the next developmental stage .

[0098] The Al unit may be arranged to provide therapist-level insights, such as suggestions aligned with OT, SALT, and behavioural best practice .

[0099] The unit may offer consistent guidance even in non-clinical settings and / or environment-level learning, including identifying wider usage patterns, e . g. to help schools optimise sensory spaces and session planning.

[0100] A key purpose of the artificial intelligence unit is to provide intelligent, personalised guidance that helps every learner regulate, grow, and succeed.

[0101] The computing cloud 360 comprises a processor, and is arranged in use to provide one or more of : unified progress dashboards, for providing clear visualisation of a learner' s development over time; evidence capture arranged to automatically gather data needed for e . g. EHCPs, annual reviews, therapy reports, and parental updates; multi-level analytics for providing learner, class, school, and MAT-level reporting.

[0102] The computing cloud may provide secure access and may be encrypted, GDPR-compliant , and / or with role-specific permissions .The computing cloud may be arranged to provide one or more of : configuration and management, optionally including centralised control for device settings, pathways, and learning modules; interoperability allowing seamless bridging with protocol-enabled hardware and proprietory environments .

[0103] A key purpose of the computing cloud is to turn sensory interaction data into meaningful, accessible insights that support decision-making, reporting, and long-term planning.

[0104] The modules 310-360 may share one or more processors .

[0105] The various items of hardware, such as the sensory apparatus itself and the physical components of the system are used by the software to obtain data necessary for the learning and improvement of the system. This fed-back data can then be used (with suitable anonymization) for the evaluation and refinement of the hardware by providers and / or practitioners .

[0106] Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance, it should be understood that the applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features referred to herein, and / or shown in the drawings, whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A sensory learning system, including one or more operational modules for delivering a multi-sensory learning programme to a user, wherein the modules include one or more of : a connection module for monitoring the status and connectivity of a plurality of sensory devices, a usage analytics module, a development measurement module, a therapy pathway development platform, an artificial intelligence unit, a computing cloud.

2. A system according to Claim 1 , wherein the usage analytics module comprises an electronic processor and is arranged in use to perform one or more of the following: usage analytics : in which the frequency, duration, and / or type of sensory sessions is determined; engagement patterns : in which it is identified which devices, modes, or activities receive the most interaction from a user; operational health: in which maintenance needs, declining device performance, or environmental irregularities are detected; outcome support which helps demonstrate utilisation for funding justification, audits, and reporting; multi-site oversight which provides MAT- level insight across a plurality of locations .

3. A system according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the development measurement module comprises a processor, and is arranged to perform one or more of the following tasks : skill mapping, in which all sensory activitiesare structured around defined developmental skill categories; provision of adaptive learning guidance in which activity sequences are suggested based on learner engagement and response; insightful progress tracking, in which participation, engagement level, and / or skill indicators are automatically recorded; environmental adaptation, in which device behaviour is modified to suit predetermined sensory profiles (e . g. , calming vs stimulating) ; provision of inclusive session tools in which group sessions, one to one interventions, and / or independent exploration are supported.

4. A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the therapy pathway development platform comprises a processor and a database and including one or more of the following: OT-designed programmes : wherein each pathway is structured by registered Occupational Therapists using evidence-based developmental models (sensory integration, motor planning, regulation strategies, sequencing, functional skills) ; multi-disciplinary input : SALTs and behavioural specialists contribute to pathways focused on communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction; progressive skill development : wherein pathways follow clear, graded steps from baseline engagement to skill mastery; automatic assessment markers : wherein built-in checkpoints are provided to help practitioners identify progress without needing clinical training; adaptive recommendations : wherein the system is arranged to suggest next steps based on child response, ensuring consistency with therapeutic best practice; classroom-friendly delivery: designed soteachers, support staff, and parents can deliver high- quality therapeutic sessions confidently.

5. A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the artificial intelligence unit comprises a processor and one or more of the following: adaptive programme suggestions unit arranged in use to learn from a learner' s responses, behaviour patterns, emotional state indicators, and interaction history.

6. A system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the computing cloud comprises a processor, and is arranged in use to provide one or more of : unified progress dashboards, for providing clear visualisation of a learner' s development over time; evidence capture arranged to automatically gather data needed for e . g. EHCPs, annual reviews, therapy reports, and parental updates; multi-level analytics for providing learner, class, school, and MAT-level reporting.7 . A sensory apparatus management system for electronic management of at least one item of sensory apparatus, the system being arranged for two-way communication between a management device and at least one item of sensory apparatus .8 . A sensory apparatus management system according to Claim 7, wherein communication from the management device may take the form of, but is not limited to : interrogation, firmware update, software updates, upgrades .

9. A sensory apparatus management system according to Claim 7 or 8, wherein the system comprises a central hub device, which is substantially local to the items of sensory apparatus .

10. A sensory apparatus management apparatus according to any of Claims 7-9, wherein the management device is arranged to communicate with the at least one item of sensory apparatus wirelessly.

11. A sensory apparatus management apparatus according to any of Claims 7-10, wherein the management device is arranged for communication with a motion detection sensor .

12. A sensory apparatus management system according to Claim 11, wherein the sensor comprises an infrared sensor or a Lidar or other proximity sensor .

13. A sensory apparatus management system according to Claim 11 or 12, wherein the sensor is arranged to reduce power to the management device and / or sensory apparatus when no motion has been detected for a pre-determined time interval, T .

14. A sensory apparatus management system according to any of the Claims 7-13, wherein the interrogation of the at least one item of sensory apparatus may include an enquiry relating to at least one of the status, power status, health, usage, or incidence of an emergency.

15. A sensory apparatus management system according to any of the Claims 7-14, wherein the management device comprises a remote / external station.

16. A sensory apparatus management apparatus according to any of the Claims 7-15, wherein the management device is arranged for communication with one or more of the items of sensory apparatus directly.

17. A sensory apparatus management system according to any of the Claims 7-16, wherein the management device is arranged for communication with one or more of the sensory apparatus and / or the motion sensor indirectly via a local hub .

18. A sensory apparatus management system according to any of the Claims 7-17, wherein data collected in response to a transmission is forwarded to the management device via the internet .

19. A sensory apparatus management system according to any of the Claims 7-18, wherein data is forwarded from sensory apparatus to the management device via SMS or similar .

20. A sensory apparatus management system according to any of Claims 7-19 wherein the sensory management system comprises a connection module according to Claim 1.