Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an assistive teaching device that is developed to enhance learning experience for users, particularly for children or individuals facing learning challenges, by providing personalized assistance, and adapting to the the learning environment based on the user's specific needs and capabilities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In classrooms, teachers have always tried to find ways to help students learn better, especially those who struggle with certain concepts. In the past, teachers relied on tools like chalkboards, textbooks, and simple flashcards to explain lessons. However, these tools were often one-size-fits-all, which didn’t work for every student. Some students needed more hands-on help or visual aids to fully understand the material. Unfortunately, these methods were limited and didn’t offer the personal interaction or engagement needed for better learning. Teachers often had to spend a lot of time helping individual students, which made learning slower for everyone.

[0003] Traditionally, teachers use audio-visual aids, including projectors, overhead transparencies, and film strips, to assist teachers in teaching. These tools helped visually engage students but still lacked the personalization needed for students with specific learning challenges. So, educational modules were used as these allows more interactive learning experiences. These were developed to assist students with visual impairments, and other learning disabilities. However, the main limitation of these modules was their inability to adapt in real-time to individual student needs. Moreover, these were often expensive, and schools struggled with obtaining enough resources to provide personalized learning experiences for all students.

[0004] US10290229B1 discloses an example system includes a flexible sleeve to be worn on a user's finger. A first end of the flexible sleeve is disposed near a tip of the finger. The system also includes a camera disposed at the first end of the flexible sleeve atop the finger. A lens of the camera is pointed distally along the finger. The system additionally includes a proximity-sensing device disposed at the first end of the flexible sleeve and configured to generate a proximity signal when brought within a threshold distance of an object. The system further includes a computing device connected to the flexible sleeve and configured to receive the proximity signal indicating that the object is within the threshold distance of the proximity-sensing device. While the object is within the threshold distance, the computing device receives image data from the camera and subsequently transmits the image data.

[0005] CN108062876A discloses a kind of auxiliary teaching devices, including the first instructional device, the second instructional device, control device, interactive display screen, signal receiving device, embedded grooves arranged, information gathering mechanism, connection shaft and operation collecting board, first instructional device is hollow tetragonous rod structure, first instructional device is fixed on the control device, is equipped with chamfering at the top corner of the first instructional device respectively；First instructional device is electrically connected with the control device, and interactive display screen insertion is arranged on the front end face of the first instructional device；The bottom insertion of second instructional device is mounted on the center of top of the first instructional device, and the second instructional device rotates at the top of the first instructional device, and the second instructional device is electrically connected with control device. Auxiliary teaching device provided by the invention is simple in structure, multiple functional, can enhance the interaction of teacher and student before the teaching of teacher, after teaching and in teaching process, can greatly improve the efficiency of teaching of teacher and the learning initiative of student.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of aiding user in teaching. However, these devices are incapable of performing real-time tracking of user progress, which leads to challenges in identifying areas where the user may be struggling. Additionally, these existing devices also fail to adapt to their cognitive and physical capabilities, that makes device accessibility range short.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to enable real-time tracking of user progress, for identifying areas where the user faces difficulty and providing assistance to overcome challenges effectively. In addition, the developed device also needs to adapt to their cognitive and physical capabilities, in view of ensuring accessibility for a wide range of learners, including children, individuals with disabilities, and those with varying learning needs.

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 delivering customized educational support to the user, based on their identity, learning preferences, and specific needs.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that enables real-time tracking of user progress, for identifying areas where the user faces difficulty and providing assistance to overcome challenges effectively.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that adapts to their cognitive and physical capabilities, in view of ensuring accessibility for a wide range of learners, including children, individuals with disabilities, and those with varying learning needs.

[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 an assistive teaching device that is capable of providing tailored educational assistance to the user, based on their identity, learning style, and individual requirements, thereby providing assistance in teaching.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an assistive teaching device comprises of a rectangular base supported on a ground surface by means of four telescopic rods attached underneath the base, a proximity sensor embedded on the base detects the user in vicinity of the base, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, installed on the base and in synchronisation with a facial recognition module, to determine identity of the user to trigger a microcontroller to fetch profile data regarding the user including class, section, subjects, a touch enabled display unit mounted on the base to display assistive information a user and is to prompt the new user to enter information regarding profile data, via the display unit, an OCR (optical character recognition) module integrated with the imaging unit, scans study notes in front of the imaging unit, to fetch relevant information from databases connected with the microcontroller to aid the user with study of the notes, a wireless communication unit, linked with the microcontroller, is provided on the base to enable wireless access to databases and enable guardians of user to track learning of the user by wirelessly connecting from a computing unit, and a holographic projection unit, disposed on the base, projects images to assist the user with study if the imaging unit determines the user to be facing difficulty while studying the notes.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a microphone provided on the base to record responses of the user in test situations simulated in accordance with user’s input via the display unit, regarding subject and time limit, to aid with learning, a cuboidal box provide on the base for storing response sheets, configured with a pair of parallel motorised rollers, to dispense the sheet onto the base to enable the user to provide written response in simulated tests, an L-shaped telescopic link mounted on the base via a ball and socket joint, having a plate at an end, a dual axis lead screw mechanism is incorporated on the plate having a telescopic gripper to grip a child user’s hand and guide with writing, if the imaging unit detects the user to be a child and a GPS (global positioning system) unit connected with the microcontroller detects a location of the user to display current affairs relevant to the location, on the display unit.

[0016] 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

[0017] 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 an assistive teaching device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The present invention relates to an assistive teaching device that facilitates continuous monitoring of the user's progress, in view of identifying areas where they may struggle, and offering targeted assistance to address these challenges. Additionally, the proposed device adapts to user's cognitive and physical abilities, to ensure accessibility for a wide spectrum of learners, encompassing children, individuals with disabilities, and those with different learning needs.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an assistive teaching device is illustrated, comprising a rectangular base 101 supported on a ground surface by means of four telescopic rods 102 attached underneath the base 101, a touch enabled display unit 103 mounted on the base 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed on the base 101, a holographic projection unit 105, disposed on the base 101, a microphone 106 provided on the base 101, a cuboidal box 107 provide on the base 101 and configured with a pair of parallel motorised rollers 108, an L-shaped telescopic link 109 mounted on the base 101 having a plate 110 at an end and a dual axis lead screw mechanism 111 is incorporated on the plate 110 having a telescopic gripper 112 mounted on the lead screw mechanism 111.

[0023] The device disclosed herein comprising a rectangular base 101 is positioned on a ground surface, supported by four telescopic rods 102 attached underneath the base 101. These rods 102 are designed to extend or retract, allowing for adjustable height and positioning of the base 101. The telescopic rods 102 provide stability and support, for ensuring that the base 101 remains level and secure on various types of ground surfaces. This configuration enables the base 101 to be easily adjusted as needed, facilitating its use in different environments or applications while maintaining structural integrity.

[0024] The rods 102 are pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the rods 102 comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic rods 102, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the rods 102. The actuated compressor allows extension of the rods 102 to provide stability and support to the base 101 over the surface.

[0025] The base 101 is integrated with a proximity sensor which detects the presence of user in vicinity of the base 101. The proximity sensor consists of an emitter and a receiver. The sensor emits infrared rays through an emitter, towards the user and receives the bounced back rays via receiver and convert the detected data into an electric signal that is sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received signal from the proximity sensor in order to detect the presence of user in vicinity of the base 101.

[0026] Synchronously the microcontroller actuates an an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 which is installed on said base 101 and integrated with a facial recognition module. The imaging unit 104 disclosed herein 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 memory of the imaging unit 104 in form of an optical data.

[0027] The imaging unit 104 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image 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 which are processed by the microcontroller to determine identity of the user.

[0028] The facial recognition module operates by capturing an image or video of a person's face using the imaging unit 104. The module then processes this data using protocols determine identity of the user. Next, it compares these features with a database of known faces to verify the individual's identity. The facial recognition module triggers microcontroller to fetch profile data related to the user, including class, section, and subjects. In the event that a new user is detected, a touch enabled display unit 103 that is mounted on the base 101, is activated to prompt the new user to input their profile information.

[0029] The display unit 103 comprises an LED or LCD screen, a control board, a backlight arrangement, and input connectors. The LED/LCD screen serves as the main visual output, while the control board manages data input and image processing. The backlight arrangement, often made of LEDs, illuminates the screen, ensuring visibility. When information is sent to the display, the control board processes the data and directs the LED/LCD pixels to show specific colours, creating images or text. The backlight adjusts brightness for optimal clarity. This combined functionality enables the display unit 103 to display assistive information of the user and is to prompt the new user to enter information regarding profile data, via the display unit 103.

[0030] The imaging unit 104 is integrated with an OCR (optical character recognition) module which scans study notes in front of the imaging unit 104. The OCR module works in synchronization with the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 and scans the study notes. The OCR module identifies and locates text regions within the image using techniques like edge detection, and contour analysis. The OCR module processes the text regions to recognize individual characters and words. After text recognition, the OCR module performs post-processing tasks to enhance the accuracy of the recognized text. After scanning study notes, the OCR module fetch relevant information from databases connected with the microcontroller to aid the user with study of the notes.

[0031] In order to allow the guardians of user to track learning of the user, a wireless connection between the device and a computing unit of the user is established via a communication module which is integrated in the microcontroller and installed on the base 101. The computing unit includes but not limited to a mobile and laptop that comprises a processor where the input received from the user is stored to process and retrieve the output data in order to display in the computing unit. The microcontroller is wirelessly linked with the 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). The communication module acts as a medium between various electronic unit for establishing communication between the computing unit and device to enable guardians of user to track learning of the user.

[0032] 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 from radiation monitoring devices such as computing unit and transmit the data as text SMS to the microcontroller.

[0033] The device uses real-time monitoring to assess the user's progress with their homework. If the microcontroller detects the user is struggling with a specific word or number, the microcontroller actuates a projection unit 105 that is installed on the base 101 to display helpful instructions or guidance on the nearby wall surface. This projection can include step-by-step instructions, hints, or visual aids relevant to the task at hand. The device continually monitors the user's actions, adjusting the level of assistance based on their interactions with the homework. This ensures the user receives the necessary support to complete the task effectively, promoting independent learning and reducing frustration.

[0034] The holographic projection unit 105 disclosed herein, comprises of multiple lens. After getting the actuation command from the microcontroller, a light source integrated in the projection unit 105 emits various combination of lights toward the lens which is further portrayed to project images in order to assist the user with study. In the event imaging unit 104 determines the user to be facing difficulty while studying the notes.

[0035] The device continuously monitors the user's emotional and cognitive responses during the learning process. If signs of frustration are detected, such as slowing down, errors, or physical signs like fidgeting, the microcontroller pauses the current task and prompts a brief relaxation exercise or switches to a more engaging mode. If the user appears bored or distracted, the microcontroller transitions to dynamic lessons featuring visuals, animations, or interactive content to rekindle interest. In cases of confusion, the microcontroller adjusts by providing clearer explanations or offering alternative methods to explain the material, ensuring that learning remains effective and tailored to the user's needs.

[0036] The base 101 is installed with a microphone 106 which facilitates a user to record responses of the user in test situations. The user is enabled to provide responses in test by means of voice command which is being directed to get recorded via a microphone 106 positioned over the base 101. The microphone 106 turns the sound energy emitted by the user into electrical energy. The sound waves created by the user carry energy towards the microphone 106. Inside the microphone 106, a diaphragm, made of plastic, is present and moves back and forth when the sound wave hits the diaphragm.

[0037] The coil attached to the diaphragm also moves in same way. The magnetic field produced by the permanent magnet cuts through the coil. As the coil moves, the electric current flows. The electric current from coil flows to an amplifier which convert the sound into electrical signal. The microcontroller linked to the microphone 106 recognize the voice and perform the operations according to the answers responded by the user and accordingly as per the user’s input via the display unit 103, regarding subject and time limit, to aid with learning.

[0038] The base 101 is arranged with a cuboidal box 107 which is develop to store response sheets. The box 107 is configured with a pair of parallel motorised rollers 108. The pair of motorized rollers 108 mentioned above is a mechanical unit designed to rotate on its axis with the help of an integrated electric motor. The cylindrical roller tube serves as a surface for supporting, and unwinding the sheet. The motorized rollers 108 is equipped with an electric motor that provides the rotational power necessary to turn the rollers 108. The motor is connected to the roller tube through a drive mechanism, which involves gears, belts to transfer the motor’s rotational force to the rollers 108, causing it to rotate to dispense the sheet onto the base 101 to enable the user to provide written response in simulated tests.

[0039] The OCR module and the imaging unit 104 work together to scan the response sheet for evaluation. The OCR unit processes the scanned image, converting written or marked responses into digital data, which is then analyzed by the device. Based on the evaluation of the responses, the microcontroller calculates the results and displays them on the display unit 103. This process enables quick and accurate evaluation of the user's responses, allowing the results to be instantly presented for review or further action.

[0040] The base 101 is installed with an L-shaped telescopic link 109, wherein the link 109 is installed via a ball and socket joint. The link 109 works in the similar manner as of rods 102 and on actuation gets extend and positions a plate 110 that is present at an end of the link 109, at an appropriate position.

[0041] The motorized ball and socket joint mentioned here consists of a ball-shaped element that fits into a socket, which provides rotational freedom in various directions. The ball is connected to a motor, typically a servo motor which provides the controlled movement. The link 109 is attached to the socket of the motorized ball and socket joint, the microcontroller sends precise instructions to the motor of the motorized ball and socket joint. The motor responds by adjusting the ball and socket joint and rotates the ball in the desired direction, and this motion is transferred to the socket that holds the link 109. As the ball and socket joint move, it provides the necessary movement to the link 109 to aid the link 109 in positioning the plate 110 appropriately.

[0042] A dual-axis lead screw mechanism 111 is integrated into the plate 110, where a telescopic gripper 112 is mounted on the mechanism. When the imaging unit 104 detects the user as a child, the microcontroller automatically actuates the lead screw mechanism 111, which adjusts the position of the gripper 112. The gripper 112 that works similar as rods 102, gently grasps the child's hand and guides it through the writing process. The dual-axis movement allows for precise control and adjustment of the gripper 112 position, providing support and ensuring proper writing technique, thereby helping the child with the physical aspect of writing while enhancing the learning experience.

[0043] The dual-axis lead screw mechanism 111 consists of two perpendicular lead screws, each controlled by a motor. The motors rotate the lead screws, which drive a nut connected to the gripper 112. As the motors rotate the lead screws, the nut moves along the threads, causing the gripper 112 to adjust its position along both the horizontal and vertical axes. This movement allows the gripper 112 to precisely guide the child’s hand in multiple directions for controlled writing assistance. The mechanism operates smoothly, providing both forward-backward and side-to-side motion to ensure accurate hand positioning during the writing process.

[0044] If the user is identified as a child, the device adapts by projecting animated videos that align with their current subjects. These videos are designed to simplify complex concepts, using engaging visuals and storytelling techniques that make the material more relatable and easier to understand. The microcontroller aims to maintain the child's attention by presenting information in a fun and interactive format, ensuring that the learning experience is both enjoyable and educational. This approach helps reinforce the subject matter while making the study process more engaging, ultimately improving focus and retention.

[0045] The device comprises a GPS unit, interfaced with the microcontroller, which is designed to detect the geographic location of the user in real time. Upon determining the user’s current location, the microcontroller processes this data and triggers the display unit 103 to present information relevant to that specific location. The display unit 103 is configured to show current affairs, news, or other contextually pertinent content based on the geographical coordinates provided by the GPS unit.

[0046] The GPS (Global Positioning System) module is a satellite-based navigation system. The satellites present in space moving in fixed orbits transmits information about the real-time location of the user. The signals travel at the speed of light and are intercepted by the GPS module such that the GPS module calculates the distance of each satellite and based on the time taken by the information to arrive at the receiver. The GPS module locates four or more satellites and calculates the distance between each of them. Using this information, the GPS module finds out the current location of the user. Once the distance is determined, the GPS module uses a trilateration method to determine the exact position of the user and thus display current affairs relevant to the location, on the display unit 103.

[0047] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0048] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the rectangular base 101 as disclosed in the invention is supported on the ground surface by means of four telescopic rods 102 attached underneath the base 101. The proximity sensor embedded on the base 101 detects presence of user in vicinity of the base 101. And after detection, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, in synchronisation with the facial recognition module, determines identity of the user to trigger the microcontroller to fetch profile data regarding the user including class, section, subjects. The touch enabled display unit is mounted on the base 101 to display assistive information to the user and prompts the new user to enter information regarding profile data, via display unit 103. The OCR (optical character recognition) module integrated with the imaging unit 104, scans study notes in front of the imaging unit 104, to fetch relevant information from databases connected with the microcontroller to aid the user with study of the notes. Afterwards the wireless communication unit, linked with the microcontroller, enables wireless access to databases and enable guardians of user to track learning of the user by wirelessly connecting from the computing unit. The holographic projection unit 105, projects images to assist the user with study if the imaging unit 104 determines the user to be facing difficulty while studying the notes.

[0049] In continuation, then the microphone 106 records responses of the user in test situations simulated in accordance to user’s input via the display unit 103, regarding subject and time limit, to aid with learning. Thereafter the cuboidal box 107 stores response sheets. Now the configured pair of parallel motorized rollers 108, dispenses the sheet onto the base 101 to enable the user to provide written response in simulated tests. The L-shaped telescopic link 109 mounted on the base 101 by means of the ball and socket joint, having the plate 110 at the end. The dual axis lead screw mechanism 111 is incorporated on the plate 110 having telescopic gripper 112 to grip the child user’s hand and guide with writing, if the imaging unit 104 detects the user to be child. Moreover, the GPS (global positioning system) unit connected with the microcontroller detects the location of the user to display current affairs relevant to the location, on the display unit 103.

[0050] 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) An assistive teaching device, comprising:

i) a rectangular base 101 supported on a ground surface by means of four telescopic rods 102 attached underneath said base 101;
ii) a touch enabled display unit 103 mounted on said base 101 to display assistive information to a user;
iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed on said base 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said base 101, in synchronisation with a facial recognition module, to determine identity of said user to trigger a microcontroller to fetch profile data regarding said user including class, section, subjects, wherein if a new user is detected, said display unit 103 is actuated to prompt said new user to enter information regarding profile data, via said display unit 103;
iv) an OCR (optical character recognition) module integrated with said imaging unit 104, scans study notes in front of said imaging unit 104, to fetch relevant information from databases connected with said microcontroller to aid said user with study of said notes;
v) a holographic projection unit 105, disposed on said base 101, projects images to assist said user with study if said imaging unit 104 determines said user to be facing difficulty while studying said notes;
vi) a microphone 106 provided on said base 101 to record responses of said user in test situations simulated in accordance with user’s input via said display unit 103, regarding subject and time limit, to aid with learning;
vii) a cuboidal box 107 provided on said base 101 for storing response sheets, configured with a pair of parallel motorized rollers 108, to dispense said sheet onto said base 101 to enable said user to provide written response in simulated tests, wherein said OCR unit and said imaging unit 104 scans said response sheet for evaluation to display results on said display unit 103; and
viii) an L-shaped telescopic link 109 mounted on said base 101 by means of a ball and socket joint, having a plate 110 at an end, wherein a dual axis lead screw mechanism 111 is incorporated on said plate 110 having a telescopic gripper 112 mounted on said lead screw mechanism 111 to grip a child user’s hand and guide with writing, if said imaging unit 104 detects said user to be a child.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a proximity sensor embedded on said base 101 detects said user in vicinity of said base 101 to actuate said display unit 103 and said imaging unit 104 to initiate assistance to said user.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (global positioning system) unit connected with said microcontroller detects a location of said user to display current affairs relevant to said location, on said display unit 103.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a wireless communication unit, linked with said microcontroller, is provided on said base 101 to enable wireless access to databases and enable guardians of user to track learning of said user by wirelessly connecting from a computing unit.