NECK-MASSAGING ASSISTIVE DEVICE

Abstract

A neck-massaging assistive device, comprising a cardioid shaped body 101 developed to be positioned underneath a user’s neck, a cushioned member 102 for providing a comfortable experience to the user, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 to determine dimensions of the user’s neck, a computing unit accessed by a user to provide input specifications regarding requirement of a massage, a sensing module to determine the user’s health parameters, plurality of motorized pop-out balls 104 arranged in the body 101 to rotate for inducing a synchronized movement in a silicon- spherical unit 105 attached to each of the balls 104 , a display panel 106 by means of a L-shaped telescopically operated rod 107 to extend/retract for positioning the display panel 106 in front of the user’s face for enabling the user to view a user-desired displays on the panel, thereby providing means for entertaining the user while massaging.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a neck-massaging assistive device that is capable of enabling a user to experience neck massage in view of curing any sore muscles and providing means for relaxation. Additionally, the proposed device is capable of monitoring the health parameters of the users such as heart rate, body temperature and brain activity of the user for tracking user's health alongside improves blood circulation of the neck.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A neck massage offers various benefits that extend beyond just relaxation. The neck often holds tension due to poor posture, stress and bad lifestyles that leads to discomfort and even pain. Massage therapy targets these tense muscles, promoting relaxation and improving circulation which eliminates headaches, reduce stiffness, and enhance flexibility. Additionally, neck massage helps in relieving neck pain caused by conditions like cervical and severe injuries. The gentle kneading and manipulation of muscles also stimulate the release of body's natural painkillers that aids in reducing anxiety. Regular neck massages improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing insomnia. Ultimately, the neck massage not only provides immediate relief but also contributes to long-term health and wellness by promoting overall relaxation and rejuvenation.

[0003] Conventional neck massage methods like manually massaging the neck with hands have several drawbacks such as they lack the depth needed to relieve severe muscle tension effectively. Correct techniques and precautions are to be implemented while massaging the neck as applying excessive pressure on some areas of neck may cause pain instead of relieving the pain. Individuals with specific health conditions require modified approaches to avoid worsening symptoms. Tailored massage sessions reduce risks and enhance benefits that ensures a safe and beneficial experience. Furthermore, exploring alternative methods or consulting healthcare professionals for personalized recommendations help individuals navigate potential concerns and optimize the benefits of neck massage for their specific needs and preferences.

[0004] US11890254B2 discloses about an invention that includes an elastic arm, a handle, a connecting member, an electrode assembly, and an electric pulse generating device. The handle includes a first outer shell and a first inner shell. The first outer shell includes a connecting end and a free end opposite to the connecting end, and the first inner shell is buckled with the first outer shell. The connecting member is for connecting the handle to the elastic arm. The connecting member is connected to the connecting end of the handle and buckled with the first inner shell. The electric pulse generating device is electrically connected with the electrode assembly. The free end of the handle may swing with the connecting member as a pivot under an action of external force to drive the first inner shell to be separated from the connecting member. Although, US'254 discloses about an invention that offers neck massage. However, the cited invention lacks in determining the health parameters of the users such as heart rate, body temperature and brain activity of the user in view of keeping a track of user's health.

[0005] CN203874071U discloses about a method that comprises a U-shaped massager body, a plurality of massaging heads arranged on the inner side of the U-shaped massager body, a massaging mechanism driving the massaging heads to vibrate, messaging holes formed in the massaging heads, a medicine cavity formed in the U-shaped massager body and communicated with the massaging holes, and a heater used for heating the medicine cavity. According to the neck massaging device, on one hand, mechanical massaging on the neck can be achieved by arranging the massaging mechanism and the massaging heads, on the other hand, medicine physical therapy on the neck is achieved by forming the massaging holes in the massage heads in cooperation with the medicine cavity and the heater, and therefore the whole massaging device has the advantages that the massaging modes are various, and the massaging effect is better. Although, CN'071 discloses about a method that provides neck massage to the user in various modes. However, the cited invention lacks in enabling a user to entertain themselves by viewing user-desired display and listening audio signals during the massaging.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that aid the user in providing massage to the neck. However, the cited invention lacks in monitoring the health parameters of the users such as heart rate, body temperature and brain activity of the user in view of keeping a track of user's health. In addition, the mentioned device falls inappropriate in regulating the blood circulation of the neck for reducing the stiffness of the sore muscles.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of providing a means to the user for imparting massaging sensations to the user's neck in order to provide massage to the neck in a secured manner. Additionally, the device also facilitates the user to entertain themselves by watching specific visuals with audio signals while experiencing neck massage.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of facilitating a user in providing neck massage by imparting massaging sensations to the user in an appropriate manner thereby reducing chances of strain to the neck.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of determining the health parameters of the users such as heart rate, body temperature and brain activity of the user in view of keeping a track of user's health.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing a user to entertain themselves by viewing user-desired display and listening audio signals during the massaging.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enhancing blood circulation in the neck while massaging, thereby reducing stiffness of the sore muscles.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a neck-massaging assistive device tat is capable of enabling a user in providing neck massage by imparting massaging sensations to the user in an appropriate manner thereby reducing chances of strain to the neck. Furthermore, the proposed device is capable of enhancing blood circulation in the neck while massaging in view of reducing stiffness of the sore muscles.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a neck-massaging assistive device comprising a cardioid shaped body developed to be positioned underneath a user's neck, a cushioned member for providing a comfortable experience to the user, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit integrated in the frame to determine dimensions of the user's neck, a drawer arrangement integrated in the body for increasing/decreasing dimensions of the body, in order to allow the body to properly accommodate the user's neck, a user interface installed on a computing unit wirelessly linked to the microcontroller that is accessed by a user to provide input specifications regarding requirement of a massage, a sensing module may include but not limited to a heart rate sensor, human-body temperature sensor and an electroencephalography sensor for determining the heart rate, body temperature and brain activity of the user and plurality of motorized pop-out balls arranged in the body to rotate for inducing a synchronized movement in a silicon-spherical unit attached to each of the balls.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a display panel integrated with the body by means of a L-shaped telescopically operated rod to extend/retract for positioning the display panel in front of the user's face for enabling the user to view a user-desired displays on the panel, thereby providing means for entertaining the user while massaging, plurality of Peltier units are integrated with the body for providing an optimum cooling and heating effect to the cushioned member, an eye gaze sensor is embedded on the rod for monitoring the user's eye movement and position, a motorized ball and socket joint integrated in between the rod and the panel for adjusting orientation of the panel for maintaining an optimal viewing angle to the user, a pair of hearing units are connected with the rod for enabling the user to listen audio signals associated with the displays, a pair of hearing units are connected with the rod for enabling the user to listen audio signals associated with the displays and a battery is configured with the device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the device

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a neck-massaging assistive device is illustrated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises," and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having" and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a neck-massaging assistive device that is capable of providing massaging sensation to the user's neck, thereby facilitating the user with neck massage in an efficient manner. In addition, the proposed device is capable of monitoring the health parameters of the body and regulating the blood circulation while providing massage to the neck along with entertaining the user by watching user-specified visuals and audio signals.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a neck-massaging assistive device is illustrated, comprising a cardioid shaped body 101 developed to be positioned underneath a user's neck, the body 101 is fabricated with a cushioned member 102, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 integrated in the frame, plurality of motorized pop-out balls 104 arranged in the body 101, a silicon-spherical unit 105 attached to each of the balls 104 , a display panel 106 integrated with the body 101 by means of a L-shaped telescopically operated rod 107 and plurality of Peltier units 108 are integrated with the body 101.

[0024] The device disclosed herein includes a cardioid shaped body 101 that is developed to be positioned underneath a user's neck. The cardioid shape is a two-dimensional plane figure and craved with a heart-shaped curve. The body 101 offers a large storage capacity for several mechanical and electrical units to be placed within the body 101. Also, the body 101 is light in weight and is cast with highly durable materials which are easy to be used as per the requirement of the user. The outer surface of the body 101 is furnished with a cushioned member 102 in view of enabling a user to experience comfort during usage. The cushioned member 102 softens the hardness and angularity of the body 101 appropriately. The device is equipped with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 for determining the dimensions of the user's neck in a secured manner.

[0025] The artificial intelligence (AI)-based imaging unit 103 installed in the frame refers to a camera that incorporates AI protocols to enhance its functionality and capabilities. AI protocols are used to process and analyses the images or videos captured by the camera, enabling it to perform various tasks beyond traditional image capturing. The AI analysis is performed locally on the camera itself and the real-time processing on the camera enables immediate responses and faster decision- making. The camera captures images or records videos by the help of specialized lenses designed to capture high-quality visuals.

[0026] The captured data is pre-processed to enhance its quality and prepare it for artificial intelligence (AI) analysis. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, images stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data that is further transmitted to an inbuilt microcontroller pre-fed with the instructions required to control the operation of various components associated with the proposed device.

[0027] Based on the received data, the microcontroller directs a drawer arrangement incorporated in the body 101 in such a manner that the body 101 is capable of increasing/decreasing the dimensions accordingly for accommodating the user's neck in a proper manner. The drawer arrangement employed herein includes sliding racks and rails, such that the plate is mounted over the racks that are electronically operated by the microcontroller for moving over the rails. Such that the microcontroller actuates the drawer arrangement. The drawer arrangement is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller by providing required electric current to the motor. The motor comprises of a coil that converts the received electric current into mechanical force by generating magnetic field, thus the mechanical force provides the required power to the racks to provide sliding movement to the plate for extending/retracting as required for accommodating the user's neck in a proper manner.

[0028] Post accommodation of the user's neck, the user is required to access computing unit in view of accessing a user interface that is wirelessly linked to the microcontroller for providing input specifications regarding requirement of a massage. The computing unit used herein is wirelessly linked with a microcontroller via a communication module which includes but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

[0029] The communication module employed herein acts as an intermediate between various electronic components, wherein the module is used to establish the communication between the user's computing unit and the microcontroller. The customized Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) module is designed for establishing a wireless connection between computing unit and the microcontroller. This module is able to receive serial data regarding requirement of a massage, from radiation monitoring devices such as computing unit and transmit the data as text SMS to the microcontroller.

[0030] After receiving the input from user's end via computing unit, the microcontroller activates a sensing module having a heart rate sensor, human-body 101 temperature sensor and an electroencephalography sensor, is installed in the body 101 for determining user's health parameters such as heart rate, body temperature and brain activity of the user.

[0031] The heart rate sensor works by detecting and measuring the electrical signals generated by the heart's contractions. The sensor uses a method called photoplethysmography (PPG), which involves shining light into the skin and measuring the amount of light that is absorbed or reflected by blood vessels. The sensor emits light that is usually green or infrared onto the skin and a photodetector measures the intensity of light that is reflected back. As blood flows through the blood vessels, they absorb some of the light that causes fluctuations in the detected light intensity. These fluctuations result to change in blood volume with each heartbeat. By analyzing these changes over a period of time, the sensor is capable of accurately determining the heart rate.

[0032] The human-body temperature sensor employed herein is preferably an infrared based temperature sensor that includes an IR thermometers or pyrometers which work based on the principle of detecting and measuring the thermal radiation emitted by human. As all human with a temperature above absolute zero (-273.15°C or -459.67°F) emit thermal radiation in the form of infrared energy. The amount of IR radiation emitted is directly related to the human's temperature. The IR based temperature sensor comprises of a lens and a sensor element that detects infrared radiation emitted by human. The lens focuses the IR radiation onto the sensor element. The sensor element is usually made of a material, such as a thermopile and when it is exposed under the radiation then it converts the radiation into the electrical signal which is proportional to the amount of IR radiation received. Further the signal is processed by the microcontroller and based on which the temperature of human is determined without even touching.

[0033] Alongside, the electroencephalography sensor that comprises of multiple electrodes have small metal discs with multiple thin wires that are stick over the user head portion that detects the tiny electric charges transports within the brain cells (neurons) along with speed and strength of neuron signals traveling between two or more points within the brain of user and send to the microcontroller linked to the device. The received electric signals are analyzed by the microcontroller in order to determine the intellectual capability of remembering information and knowledge, reflect reaction towards headaches and pains that is saved within the database associated with the microcontroller.

[0034] On the basis of output generated by the electroencephalography electrodes the microcontroller determines the real time brain activity of user during the time of trauma and compares the determined real time brain activity of the user from the fetched pre-saved information stored in the database for determining the exact body 101 temperature and brain activity of the user appropriately.

[0035] Based on the monitored health parameters of the user, the microcontroller actuates multiple (preferably four to six) motorized pop-out balls 104 arranged in the body 101 in view of providing massaging sensation to the user's neck. The massaging sensation is provided to the neck by rotating the pop out balls 104 for producing a synchronized movement in a silicon- spherical unit 105 attached to each of the balls 104 in an appropriate manner. The pop-out ball works on a simple mechanism that are powered by motor that is activated by the microcontroller, producing rotational motion. This force is then transmitted to a mechanism that forces the ball out of the body 101 that provide massaging sensation to the user's neck in view of curing any soring muscles of the user's neck while providing means for relaxation.

[0036] Further, a display panel 106 that is wirelessly connected to the computing unit is installed with the body 101 via an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 107 that gets actuated by the microcontroller in order to extend/retract for positioning the display panel 106 in front of the user's face. The L-shaped telescopic operated rod 107 used herein is powered by a pneumatic unit including a pneumatic cylinder, air compressor, electronic valve, cylinder and piston. The valve is an electronic valve that allows entry/exit of compressed air from the compressor. Furthermore, the valve opens and the compressed air enters inside the cylinder thereby increasing the air pressure of the cylinder. The piston is connected to the cylinder and due to the increase in the air pressure, the piston extends. For the retraction of the piston, air is released from the cylinder to the air compressor via the valve. Thus, providing the required extension/retraction of the rod, for positioning the display panel 106 in front of the user's face.

[0037] The display panel 106 employed herein includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel comprises of two layers of glass and aligned in a specific manner. The panel works by manipulating liquid crystals, which are positioned in between two layers of glass. These liquid crystals twisted or aligned by an electric current, altering their light-polarizing properties. Upon getting the command from the microcontroller, an electric charge is applied to specific areas of the panel, which alters the alignment of the liquid crystals, allowing light to pass through or be blocked accordingly. This modulation of light creates the images and colors that are displayed on the panel in view of providing means for entertaining the user while massaging.

[0038] An eye gaze detection sensor is positioned on the rod 107 in view of monitoring the user's eye movement and position. The eye gaze detection sensor works by utilizing infrared lights and cameras to monitor and analyze the orientation of the user' eyes. The infrared light sources illuminate the eyes, and specialized cameras capture the reflections of this light from the corneas. By tracking the positions of these corneal reflections or glints, the sensor determines the direction of the user's gaze.

[0039] Based on the determined eye's movement and position, the microcontroller actuates a motorized ball and socket joint integrated in between the rod 107 and the panel for adjusting orientation of the panel for maintaining an optimal viewing angle to the user. The motorized ball and socket joint provides a 360-degree rotation to the shaft for adjusting the orientation of the panel. The ball and socket joint are a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, where the ball joint is able to move in a 360-degree rotation within the socket thus, providing the required rotational motion to the panel. The ball and socket joint are powered by a DC (Direct Current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller for providing the required movement to the panel. Alongside, a pair of hearing units are attached with the rod 107 for allowing the user to listen audio signals associated with the displays.

[0040] The pair of hearing units works by transmitting electrical signals from the display through a cable to the earphones. Inside the hearing units, these electrical signals are converted into sound waves by tiny speakers called drivers. The sound wave travels through the hearing unit's components and into your ear canal, where the user perceives them as audio.

[0041] Herein, multiple Peltier units 108 (preferably two to four in number) are fabricated with the body 101 in view of providing an optimum cooling and heating effect to the member 102 in various alternating patterns for inducing the effect on the user's neck. The Peltier units 108 employed herein is based on the Peltier effect that stated that the cooling of one junction and the heating of the other when electric current is maintained in a circuit of material consisting of two dissimilar conductors. The Peltier effect related to production or absorption of heat at the junction of two metals on the passage of a current. Based on the user-specified temperature, the Peltier units 108 generates the heating/cooling effect in order to maintain the user-specified temperature of the cushioned member 102, thereby increasing blood circulation and reducing the stiffness of the sore muscles appropriately.

[0042] The device is associated with a battery (not shown in fig.) integrated with the device for supplying a continuous DC (direct current) voltage to the components such as motors, microcontrollers and various other components that are associated with it. The battery used in the invention is preferably Lithium-ion battery that is rechargeable once again after getting drained out for proper functioning of the components.

[0043] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cardioid shaped body 101 positioned underneath a user's neck as disclosed in the proposed invention is fabricated with the cushioned member 102 for providing comfortable experience to the user. Now, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 determines the dimensions of the user's neck and accordingly increase/decrease the dimension via drawer arrangement for properly accommodating the user's neck. Then, the user provides the input specification regarding requirement of the massage and the sensing module determines the health parameters such as body 101 temperature and brain activity of the user. Further, multiple motorized pop-out balls 104 rotate for providing massaging sensation to the user's neck and curing any sore muscles of the user's neck along with providing relaxation. Also, the L-shaped telescopically operated rod 107 attached with the display panel 106 enable the user to view user-desired displays on the panel in view of entertaining the user while massaging. Further, multiple Peltier units 108 provide optimum cooling and heating effect to the cushioned member 102 for increasing blood circulation in view of reducing the stiffness of the sore muscles.

[0044] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A neck-massaging assistive device, comprising:

i) a cardioid shaped body 101 developed to be positioned underneath a user's neck, wherein said body 101 is fabricated with a cushioned member 102 for providing a comfortable experience to said user;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 integrated in said frame and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said frame, respectively to determine dimensions of said user's neck, in accordance to which an inbuilt microcontroller actuates a drawer arrangement integrated in said body 101 for increasing/decreasing dimensions of said body 101, in order to allow said body 101 to properly accommodate said user's neck;
iii) an user interface installed on a computing unit wirelessly linked to said microcontroller that is accessed by a user to provide input specifications regarding requirement of a massage, wherein a sensing module is integrated in said body 101 to determine said user's health parameters which includes but is not limited to heart rate, body 101 temperature and brain activity of said user;
iv) plurality of motorized pop-out balls 104 arranged in said body 101 that are actuated by said microcontroller to rotate for inducing a synchronized movement in a silicon- spherical unit 105 attached to each of said balls 104 , based on said determined health parameters of said user, wherein said movement provides massaging sensations to said user's neck, thereby curing any sore muscles of said user's neck while providing means for relaxation; and
v) a display panel 106 integrated with said body 101 by means of a L-shaped telescopically operated rod 107 that is actuated by said microcontroller to extend/retract for positioning said display panel 106 in front of said user's face, wherein said display panel 106 is wirelessly connected to said computing unit for enabling said user to view a user-desired displays on said panel, thereby providing means for entertaining said user while massaging.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module corresponds to a heart rate sensor, human-body 101 temperature sensor and an electroencephalography sensor for determining said heart rate, body 101 temperature and brain activity of said user, respectively.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said determined parameters are saved in a database linked with said microcontroller for enabling said user to access said database through said user interface, thereby tracking said user's health.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of Peltier units 108 are integrated with said body 101 for providing an optimum cooling and heating effect to said cushioned member 102 in alternating patterns to induce said effect on said user's neck, for increasing blood circulation, in order to reduce stiffness of said sore muscles.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an eye gaze detection sensor is embedded on said rod 107 for monitoring said user's eye movement and position, based on which said microcontroller actuates a motorized ball and socket joint integrated in between said rod 107 and said panel for adjusting orientation of said panel for maintaining an optimal viewing angle to said user.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a pair of hearing units are connected with said rod 107 for enabling said user to listen audio signals associated with said displays.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.

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