WEARABLE ANXIETY MANAGEMENT DEVICE

Abstract

A wearable anxiety management device, comprising a cylindrical body 101 worn by a user over wrist portion and configured with a strap 102 for securing the body 101, a laser sensor 103 arranged with the body 101 for detecting user’s wrist dimensions to actuate a motorized roller 104 configured with the strap 102 to rotate for wrapping the strap 102, a sensing module 105 installed with the body 101 for detecting vital health parameters and electrical conductance of the user’s skin, an imaging unit 106 mounted on the body 101 for monitoring the surroundings, a humidity sensor 107 arranged on the body 101 for detecting weather conditions in the surroundings, a holographic projection unit 108 installed on the body 101 for projecting suitable images/videos, a speaker 109 mounted on the body 101 for playing audio clip corresponding to the images/videos to distract the user from surroundings and calming the user.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable anxiety management device that is capable of detecting vital health parameters and environment condition of a user to determine the user's anxiety levels and enables the user to experience calming effects that distracts the user from their surroundings to promote relaxation along with providing tactile stimulation for allowing the user to relieve stress, thereby helping the user to manage anxiety more effectively.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues worldwide, affecting millions of individuals across various age groups and demographics. These disorders can significantly impair daily functioning, leading to distress and decreased quality of life. Traditional methods for managing anxiety often include therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications; however, many individuals seek alternative or supplementary approaches to effectively cope with their anxiety in real-time.

[0003] Wearable technology has emerged as a promising solution for monitoring and managing mental health conditions, offering users a way to receive immediate feedback on their physiological and environmental states. By integrating sensors and advanced technologies, wearable devices detect changes in vital health parameters, such as heart rate and skin conductance, which are often associated with anxiety. Additionally, incorporating features that provide sensory distractions, such as visual and tactile stimuli, enhance the user experience by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety symptoms. Thus, there is a growing need for a comprehensive, user-friendly wearable device that not only monitors anxiety triggers but also actively assists users in managing their anxiety through real-time interventions and support.

[0004] US10994093B1 discloses about a therapeutic hand pouch assembly which through deep pressure therapy provides calm and soothing effects to the wearer. The assembly has a main body that includes an outer layer of fabric and defines an interior of gel, foam, glass beads, or combinations thereof. The assembly includes opposed straps or elastic bands having adjustment options so as to be wearable on a person's hand. Such assembly is inexpensive, durable, washable, portable, fully protective and ideally adapted to provide an improved experience to a user of any age under stress conditions. Although, US'093 effectively utilizes deep pressure therapy to alleviate stress, however the device lacks the comprehensive functionality and multi-faceted approach of the present invention.

[0005] KR102434222B1 discloses about a bracelet and is configured to be worn on the wrist, and on the surface exposed to the outside, basic information including the name, age, address, and guardian's contact information is printed on a wearable device that is attached through a sticker. In this case, a QR code containing the basic information and specific information on one side of the sticker, a beacon that is a short-range wireless communication device, a removable memory unit that records and stores the voice of a guardian, and the memory unit The voice output unit for outputting the voice of the guardian stored in, the heart rate sensor for sensing the heart rate of the protected person, the acceleration sensor for sensing the amount of activity or exercise of the protected person, the beacon), the memory unit, the voice output unit, the heart rate sensor and the power supply unit for supplying power required for the acceleration sensor, and the beacon, the memory unit , the voice output unit, the heart rate sensor, the acceleration sensor, and the power supply unit are controlled, and the identification information (ID) and the heart rate sensor are controlled through the beacon. It provides a wearable device including. Although, KR'222 provides a bracelet, intended to be worn on the wrist to monitor the wearer's health, however the device fails in detecting the anxiety levels of the user and so the device lacks the capability to manage the anxiety of the user.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed for managing anxiety and stress; however, these solutions often lack the comprehensive features necessary for effective real-time monitoring and intervention. Many existing devices focus solely on either physical relaxation techniques, such as weighted blankets or therapeutic pouches, or mental distraction methods, such as mobile applications and guided meditation tools. While these devices provide temporary relief, they often fail to integrate the physiological monitoring needed to understand the user's anxiety to deliver immediate responses as per the user's specific situation.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that not only monitors vital health parameters and environmental conditions, but also provides real-time interventions to manage anxiety effectively. The device also integrates multiple features for allowing the user to experience calming effects while receiving continuous feedback on their physiological state.

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 detect vital health parameters and environment condition of a user to determine the user's anxiety levels and enables the user to experience calming effects that distracts the user from their surroundings to promote relaxation along with providing tactile stimulation for allowing the user to relieve stress, thereby helping the user to manage anxiety properly.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provides soothing scents in the user's surroundings, thereby enhancing the overall calming experience for the user.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provide a means to allow the user to press so as to reduce anxiety levels.

[0012] 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

[0013] The present invention relates to a wearable anxiety management device that manage anxiety of both environmental and physiological parameters of a user by providing calming effects that distracts the user from their immediate surroundings, allowing the user to relieve stress.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wearable anxiety management device comprises of a cylindrical body worn by a user over wrist portion and configured with a strap for securing the body with the user's wrist, a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit is wirelessly associated with the device for enabling the user to give input commands regarding various conditions/surroundings in which the user faces anxiety, a microcontroller wirelessly linked with the computing unit that processes the input commands and activates a laser sensor arranged with the body for detecting dimensions of the user's wrist to actuate a motorized roller configured with the strap to rotate for wrapping the strap to fasten the body over the user's wrist, a sensing module installed with the body for detecting vital health parameters and electrical conductance of the user's skin, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit mounted on the body for monitoring the surroundings, a humidity sensor arranged on the body for detecting weather conditions in the surroundings, a holographic projection unit installed on the body for projecting suitable images/videos, a speaker mounted on the body for playing audio clip corresponding to the images/videos to distract the user from surroundings and calming the user, plurality of chambers arranged on the body for storing different fragrance liquids and each attached with an electronic nozzle for spraying one of the liquids to maintain an ambience in surroundings for distracting the user, an inflatable pouch configured with the body and paired with an air compressor for inflating the pouch to allow the user to press the pouch for relieving stress/anxiety, a pressure sensor arranged with the pouch for detecting pressure applied by the user for pressing the pouch, an electronic valve configured with the pouch to deflate the pouch/actuates the air compressor for inflating the pouch to maintain an optimum amount of air in the pouch and a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0015] 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

[0016] 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 wearable anxiety management device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] The present invention relates to a wearable anxiety management device that detect vital health parameters and the environmental conditions of a user to assess their anxiety levels and facilitates calming effects that divert the user's attention from their surroundings, promoting relaxation while also offering tactile stimulation to help relieve stress, thus aids the user in managing their anxiety more effectively.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a wearable anxiety management device is illustrated, comprising a cylindrical body 101 worn by a user over wrist portion and configured with a strap 102 for securing the body 101 with the user's wrist, a laser sensor 103 arranged with the body 101 for detecting dimensions of the user's wrist, a motorized roller 104 configured with the strap 102, a sensing module 105 installed with the body 101.

[0022] Figure 1 further illustrates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 mounted on the body 101, a humidity sensor 107 arranged on the body 101, a holographic projection unit 108 installed on the body 101, a speaker 109 mounted on the body 101, plurality of chambers 110 arranged on the body 101, an inflatable pouch 111 configured with the body 101, an air compressor 112 paired with the pouch 111, a pressure sensor 113 arranged with the pouch 111, an electronic valve 114 configured with the pouch 111.

[0023] The proposed device herein comprises of a cylindrical body 101 developed to be worn by a user over wrist portion and configured with a strap 102 for securing the body 101 with the user's wrist. The body 101 is constructed from a lightweight, durable material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone, which provides flexibility and comfort for extended wear.

[0024] Multiple textures are crafted on the body 101 that serve a vital role in enhancing the user experience by providing tactile feedback that promotes a sense of security, calmness, and comfort. These textures vary in design, such as smooth, ribbed, or soft surfaces, each engineered to evoke specific sensory responses when touched. The diverse tactile sensations encourage the user to engage with the device physically, allowing for a grounding effect during moments of anxiety or stress. When the user interacts with these textured surfaces, the textures help divert their attention from anxiety triggers, promoting a calming effect through sensory stimulation. The textures also create a reassuring feel, fostering a sense of familiarity and safety.

[0025] A user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit is wirelessly associated with the device for enabling the user to give input commands regarding various conditions/surroundings in which the user faces anxiety. The computing unit is linked with an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device via the integrated communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module for establishing a wireless network between the microcontroller and computing unit. The computing unit used herein is capable of computing operations according to the user's desire with the help of the user interface and thus the user remotely give input commands regarding various conditions/surroundings in which the user faces anxiety.

[0026] Based on the user's input commands, the microcontroller activates a laser sensor 103 arranged with the body 101 for detecting dimensions of the user's wrist. The laser sensor 103 comprises two main components: a laser diode that emits the laser beam, a photodiode that detects the reflected light. When the sensor 103 is activated as commanded by the microcontroller, the laser diode emits a short pulse of laser light towards the user's wrist. The light reflects off the surface and returns to the sensor 103.

[0027] The photodiode then detects this reflected light. By precisely measuring the time it takes for the laser pulse to travel to the target and back, the sensor 103 calculates the distance. The pattern of the received pulse gets converted into an analog value which is further converted into an electrical signal, wherein the electrical signal is send to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then processes the received signal from the sensor 103, thus detecting dimensions of the user's wrist.

[0028] Based on the detected dimensions of the user's wrist, the microcontroller actuates a motorized roller 104 configured with a strap 102 configured with the body 101 to rotate for wrapping the strap 102 to fasten the body 101 over the user's wrist. The roller 104 is linked with a DC (direct current) motor to provide the required power to the roller 104 to rotate in a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction in order to wrap or unwrap the strap 102. The motor comprises of a coil that converts the received electric current into mechanical force by generating magnetic field, thus providing the required power to the roller 104 to rotate on its own axis thereby unwrapping the strap 102 to fasten the body 101 over the user's wrist.

[0029] A sensing module 105 is installed with the body 101 for detecting vital health parameters and electrical conductance of the user's skin. The sensing module 105 includes a heart rate sensor, temperature sensor and galvanic skin response sensor for detecting heart rate, body temperature, and electrical conductance of the user's skin.

[0030] The heart rate sensor operates using photoplethysmography (PPG), which involves a light source, usually a light-emitting diode (LED), and a photodetector. The LED emits light into the skin, and the photodetector measures the amount of light that reflects back. As blood flows through the capillaries, the volume of blood changes with each heartbeat, altering the amount of light absorbed and reflected. The sensor processes these variations in light intensity to calculate the heart rate, providing real-time data on the user's cardiovascular activity.

[0031] The temperature sensor used in a thermistor to measure body temperature which is a temperature-sensitive resistor whose resistance changes with temperature. As the temperature of the skin increases or decreases, the resistance of the thermistor changes accordingly. The sensor circuit detects this change and converts it into a temperature reading, usually displayed in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit. The sensor is integrated with the microcontroller that processes the data and provides feedback on the user's thermal state.

[0032] The galvanic skin response sensor operates based on the principle of measuring the electrical conductance of the skin, which varies with moisture levels. The galvanic skin response sensor consists of two electrodes placed on the skin's surface, forming a circuit. When the skin is moist, such as during sweating, the electrical conductance between the electrodes increases. The sensor applies a small, constant voltage between the electrodes and measures the resulting current, which correlates to the skin's conductance. This data is processed to provide insights into the user's emotional state, as changes in GSR are often associated with stress or anxiety levels.

[0033] If the microcontroller determines a sudden change in the above mentioned health parameters or electrical conductance of the user's skin, then the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 mounted on the body 101 for monitoring the user's surroundings. The imaging unit 106 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 106 in form of an optical data.

[0034] The imaging unit 106 also comprises of a processor that is encrypted with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and monitor the user's surroundings.

[0035] A humidity sensor 107 is arranged on the body 101 for detecting weather conditions in the surroundings, wherein the humidity sensor 107 is preferably BME280 sensor. The BME280 humidity sensor 107 operates using a capacitive humidity sensing element, which consists of a polymer dielectric material sandwiched between two conductive electrodes. As humidity levels in the surrounding air change, the dielectric material absorbs moisture, causing a change in its electrical capacitance. This variation in capacitance is proportional to the relative humidity (RH) of the air.

[0036] The humidity sensor 107 includes an integrated digital interface, typically I²C or SPI, which allows the sensor 107 to communicate with the microcontroller and processes the data to determine the current humidity level accurately. The microcontroller compares the detected humidity levels against the predefined thresholds set by the user. If the monitored weather conditions align with the user's specified anxiety triggers, the microcontroller recognizes this correlation and determines that the user is experiencing heightened anxiety. For instance, a sudden increase in humidity correlate with an impending storm, which trigger anxiety in some user.

[0037] A holographic projection unit 108 is installed on the body 101 that is activated by the microcontroller for projecting suitable images/videos. The holographic projection unit 108 employs a laser to create high-resolution images or videos. These light sources illuminate a specially designed optical element, such as a holographic diffuser or a micro-mirror array, which manipulates the light to form a three-dimensional projection. The microcontroller coordinates this process by processing the data related to the images or videos to be displayed, determining the timing and sequence of the projections based on user interactions or detected anxiety triggers.

[0038] Simultaneously, the microcontroller activates a speaker 109 mounted on the body 101 that plays corresponding audio clips designed to enhance the calming effect of the visual projections. This synchronized operation of visuals and sound creates an immersive experience, effectively distracting the user from their immediate surroundings and promoting relaxation.

[0039] Plurality of chambers 110 are arranged on the body 101 for storing different fragrance liquids and each attached with an electronic nozzle. The microcontroller actuates one of the nozzles to actuate for spraying one of the liquids to maintain an ambience in surroundings for distracting the user. The electronic nozzle operates through precise control facilitated by a solenoid valve actuated by the microcontroller.

[0040] When the microcontroller sends an electrical signal to the solenoid coil, it generates a magnetic field that moves the valve's armature, allowing pressurized fragrance liquid to flow through the nozzle to help create a calming and pleasant atmosphere for the user. The use of varied fragrances increases positive emotions and distract the user from their anxiety, enhancing their overall experience.

[0041] An inflatable pouch 111 is configured with the body 101 and paired with an air compressor 112 that is activated by the microcontroller for inflating the pouch 111 to allow the user to press the pouch 111 for relieving stress/anxiety. The air compressor 112 works by compressing atmospheric air and storing air in the inflatable pouch 111, which is then inflated. The compressor 112 works by converting the potential energy of the air into kinetic energy. This is done by compressing the air, which increases the air pressure and temperature. The air is then released through a nozzle and directed into the inflatable pouch 111 thus aiding in inflating of the inflatable pouch 111 to press the pouch 111 for relieving stress/anxiety, providing a calming effect.

[0042] A pressure sensor 113 is arranged with the pouch 111 for detecting pressure applied by the user for pressing the pouch 111. The pressure sensor 113 includes a transducer, such that when the user presses the pouch 111, then force is exerted by the user for pressing the pouch 111. The exerted force causes deflection within a diaphragm inside the transducer. The deflection is monitored by the transducer and is further converted into an electric signal that is received by the microcontroller.

[0043] The microcontroller processes the received pressure and detects the pressure applied by the user for pressing the pouch 111 in accordance to which the microcontroller actuates an electronic valve 114 configured with the pouch 111 to deflate the pouch 111/actuates the air compressor 112 for inflating the pouch 111 to maintain an optimum amount of air in the pouch 111.

[0044] The electronic valve 114 consists of a housing that encloses the valve 114 mechanism, an inlet and outlet for air or fluid flow, and a movable diaphragm or plunger that regulates this flow. At its core, the valve 114 features an actuator, which is responsible for controlling the movement of the diaphragm. When an electrical signal is received from the microcontroller, the actuator energizes, causing the diaphragm to shift from its default position. This movement either opens or closes the valve 114, allowing air to flow through the inlet and outlet as needed. The precise operation of the electronic valve 114 enables efficient control over inflation and deflation processes to maintain an optimum amount of air in the pouch 111.

[0045] The device is associated with a battery for providing the required power to the electronically and electrically operated components including the microcontroller, electrically powered sensors, motorized components and alike of the device. The battery within the device is preferably a lithium-ion-battery which is a rechargeable battery and recharges by deriving the required power from an external power source. The derived power is further stored in form of chemical energy within the battery, which when required by the components of the device derive the required energy in the form of electric current for ensuring smooth and proper functioning of the device.

[0046] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the user first wears the device over the wrist portion, wherein the microcontroller initializes and connects wirelessly to the user-interface, allowing the user to input their specific trigger condition and preferences. The humidity sensor 107 continuously monitors environmental conditions, while the sensing module 105 detects vital health parameters, including heart rate and skin conductance. If the humidity or health readings indicate the potential anxiety trigger such as high humidity or an abnormal heart rate, the microcontroller processes this information and determines the user's state of anxiety. Simultaneously, the holographic projection unit 108 activates, projecting calming images or videos, synchronized with audio clips played through the speaker 109 to provide the multi-sensory distraction. The inflatable pouch 111 inflates to a comfortable level for allowing the user to press the inflatable pouch 111, while the electronic valve 114 regulates air flow, ensuring optimal pressure for tactile relief. The multiple textures crafted on the body 101 enhance the user's sensory experience, offering a comforting touch that promotes feelings of security and calmness.

[0047] 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. , C , Claims:1) A wearable anxiety management device, comprising:

i) a cylindrical body 101 developed to be worn by a user over wrist portion and configured with a strap 102 for securing said body 101 with said user's wrist, wherein a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit is wirelessly associated with said device for enabling said user to give input commands regarding various conditions/surroundings in which said user faces anxiety;
ii) a microcontroller wirelessly linked with said computing unit that processes said input commands and activates a laser sensor 103 arranged with said body 101 for detecting dimensions of said user's wrist, wherein based on said detected dimensions, said microcontroller actuates a motorized roller 104 configured with said strap 102 to rotate for wrapping said strap 102 to fasten said body 101 over said user's wrist;
iii) a sensing module 105 installed with said body 101 for detecting vital health parameters and electrical conductance of said user's skin, wherein in case said microcontroller determines a sudden change in said health parameters or electrical conductance of said user's skin, said microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 paired with a processor mounted on said body 101 for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively, for monitoring said surroundings;
iv) a humidity sensor 107 arranged on said body 101 for detecting weather conditions in said surroundings, wherein in case said detected weather conditions/monitored weather conditions corresponds to said conditions/surroundings specified by said user, said microcontroller determines anxiety to said user;
v) a holographic projection unit 108 installed on said body 101 that is activated by said microcontroller for projecting suitable images/videos, wherein said microcontroller synchronously activates a speaker 109 mounted on said body 101 for playing audio clip corresponding to said images/videos to distract said user from surroundings and calming said user;
vi) plurality of chambers 110 arranged on said body 101 for storing different fragrance liquids and each attached with an electronic nozzle, wherein said microcontroller actuates one of said nozzles to actuates for spraying one of said liquids to maintain an ambience in surroundings for distracting said user; and
vii) an inflatable pouch 111 configured with said body 101 and paired with an air compressor 112, wherein said microcontroller actuates said air compressor 112 for inflating said pouch 111 to allow said user to press said pouch 111 for relieving stress/anxiety.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module 105 includes a heart rate sensor, temperature sensor and galvanic skin response sensor for detecting heart rate, body temperature, and electrical conductance of said user's skin.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said humidity sensor 107 is preferably BME280 sensor.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a pressure sensor 113 is arranged with said pouch 111 for detecting pressure applied by said user for pressing said pouch 111, based on which said microcontroller actuates an electronic valve 114 configured with said pouch 111 to deflate said pouch 111/actuates said air compressor 112 for inflating said pouch 111 to maintain an optimum amount of air in said pouch 111.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein multiple textures are crafted on said body 101 for proving sense of security, calmness, and comfort to said user.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is wirelessly linked with said computing unit via a communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.

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