Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptable child movement and stability enhancement device that is capable of accommodating a child by dynamically adjust its dimensions to accommodate different sizes of children, ensuring a proper fit and support for enhanced safety and comfort.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] As children develop, their mobility and stability become critical factors in their overall growth and safety. When transitioning from one place to another, whether it’s moving around the home, navigating playgrounds, or exploring new environments, children require support that adapts to their physical and developmental needs. This need is particularly significant for young children who are still mastering coordination and balance. During these transitions, children are at a heightened risk of losing their balance or encountering obstacles that lead to falls or injuries. Ensuring stability and movement support during these activities is essential for preventing accidents and encouraging independent exploration. Traditional mobility aids often lack the flexibility to adapt to a child's changing body size and movement patterns, which result in inadequate support and increased risk of instability.

[0003] Traditional methods of child mobility, including manual strollers, walkers, and push toys, have long been used to assist children in moving from one place to another. While these methods provide basic support, they come with several notable drawbacks. Manual strollers, while convenient for transporting children over various distances, often require physical effort from caregivers to push and maneuver. They lack adaptability to changing environments or the child’s growth, necessitating frequent adjustments or replacements. Walkers, designed to help children develop walking skills, promote poor posture and offer limited stability, increasing the risk of falls if not used under close supervision. Additionally, walkers often do not adjust to the child’s size or gait changes, which lead to discomfort or inadequate support. Push toys, commonly used for toddlers learning to walk, generally provide minimal stability and are difficult to navigate over uneven surfaces. They often lack the ability to adapt to different movement needs or provide feedback on the child’s balance and posture.

[0004] US6863287B2 discloses about an invention that aids in a child walker is provided that includes a frame having a plurality of wheels. The walker includes a handle that is positionable in a first position and a second position. A seat is attached to the frame when the handle is in the first position. When the handle is in the second position, it is positioned to be gripped by a standing child.

[0005] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that aid the child in moving from one place to another. However, the cited invention lacks in limited adaptability, insufficient support for growth, and a lack of real-time adjustment features. This results in less effective assistance and increased safety concerns during transitions and exploration.

[0006] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of accommodating a child by dynamically adjust its dimensions to accommodate different sizes of children, ensuring a proper fit and support for enhanced safety and comfort. Also, the device is capable of controlling the movement and operation of the device using voice commands.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of accommodating a child by dynamically adjust its dimensions to accommodate different sizes of children, ensuring a proper fit and support for enhanced safety and comfort.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that automatically modify its height and positioning based on real-time measurements of the child’s body dimensions and proximity, ensuring that the device adapts effectively to the child’s physical needs as they move.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that control the movement and operation of the device using voice commands, making it easier for the child to interact with and operate the device without requiring manual adjustments.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that enhance safety by detecting any misorientation or imbalance during motion to prevent the device from tipping over and potentially causing injury.

[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 adaptable child movement and stability enhancement device that automatically modify its height and positioning based on real-time measurements of the child’s body dimensions and proximity, ensuring that the device adapts effectively to the child’s physical needs as they move.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable child movement and stability enhancement device, comprises of a frame having a pair of inverted U-shaped extendable members developed connected with each other via a rectangular plate, the frame is accessed by a child while moving from one place to another, plurality of suction cups are configured on the plate for gripping the child’s foot portion while the user attains a standing posture over the plate, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the frame to detect presence of a child in proximity to the frame, a motorized drawer arrangement integrated within the members to extend/ retract for modulating height of the members for facilitating proper accommodation of the child, a microphone installed on the frame for receiving voice commands of the child for initiating movement of the frame, a motorized wheel configured on lateral sides of the plate to rotate for providing optimal movement to the frame along with the child over the surface,

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a gyroscope mounted on the frame for detecting misorientation or misbalancing of the frame during motion, actuates a pair of pneumatic links configured with the members to extend for positioning a plate attached with free-ends of each of the links over the surface, plurality of suction units configured beneath the plate for affixing the frame over the surface, a moisture sensor is configured on the plate for detecting presence of water on the surface, a proximity sensor is configured on the frame for detecting presence of obstacles in path of the frame, a speaker mounted on the frame to notify the child and individuals in proximity to the frame regarding the obstacle, a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on the frame for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[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 adaptable child movement and stability enhancement 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 adaptable child movement and stability enhancement device that control the movement and operation of the device using voice commands, making it easier for the child to interact with and operate the device without requiring manual adjustments. Additionally, the proposed device is also capable of enhancing safety by detecting any misorientation or imbalance during motion to prevent the device from tipping over and potentially causing injury.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an adaptable child movement and stability enhancement device is illustrated, comprising a frame 101 having a pair of inverted U-shaped extendable members 102 developed connected with each other via a rectangular plate 103, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the frame 101, a microphone 105 installed on the frame 101, a motorized wheel 106 configured on lateral sides of the plate 103, a pair of pneumatic links 107 configured with the members 102 to extend for positioning a plate 108 attached with free-ends of each of the links 107 over the surface, plurality of suction cups 109 are configured on the plate 108 and plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 110 configured on the frame 101.

[0023] The device disclosed herein includes a frame 101 designed to facilitate the movement and stability of a child through a specific structural configuration. At its core, the frame 101 consists of a pair of inverted U-shaped extendable members 102. These members 102 are articulated in a way that allows them to adjust in height and configuration. They are joined together by a rectangular plate 103, which forms the base or platform of the frame 101. This plate 103 provides structural support and a stable surface for the child's interaction with the device.

[0024] The inverted U-shaped members 102 are strategically designed to encase and support the child from both sides while allowing access from the front and back. The extendable feature of these members 102 means that they are adjusted to accommodate children of varying sizes and heights. This adjustability ensures that the frame 101 provide a secure and comfortable fit for the child regardless of their growth or changes in posture. The rectangular plate 103, connecting the two U-shaped members 102, serves multiple purposes. It acts as the central support structure for the entire frame 101, distributing the weight of the child evenly and maintaining stability during movement.

[0025] An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 integrated into the frame 101 of the device, paired with a sophisticated processor. This imaging unit 104 is strategically installed to capture and analyze multiple images in the vicinity of the frame 101. Its primary function is to detect the presence of a child in close proximity to the device. This is achieved through a combination of high-resolution cameras and AI protocols capable of recognizing and interpreting visual data in real time. Once the imaging unit 104 identifies a child near the frame 101, it further processes the captured images to assess the child's body dimensions, such as height and width. This analysis is crucial for determining the appropriate adjustments needed to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The processor, which is linked to the imaging unit 104, performs complex computations to accurately measure the child’s size and position relative to the frame 101.

[0026] Based on the data processed by the imaging unit 104, an inbuilt microcontroller comes into play. The microcontroller is responsible for commanding a motorized drawer arrangement that is integrated within the extendable U-shaped members 102 of the frame 101. This drawer arrangement extend or retract to adjust the height of these members 102 according to the detected body dimensions of the child.

[0027] A microphone 105 is strategically positioned on the frame 101 to capture spoken instructions clearly and accurately, ensuring effective communication between the child and the device. When the child issues a voice command, the microphone 105 picks up the sound and transmits it to a connected microcontroller. This microcontroller acts as the central processing unit for interpreting the voice commands. It is programmed with protocols capable of distinguishing between different types of commands and executing corresponding actions. Upon receiving a command, the microcontroller processes the audio input to determine the appropriate response. If the command involves initiating movement, the microcontroller sends signals to a motorized wheel 106 integrated into the lateral sides of the rectangular plate 103 that forms the base of the frame 101. These wheel 106 are engineered to provide smooth and controlled movement of the frame 101 across various surfaces.

[0028] The motorized wheel 106 are equipped with mechanisms that allow them to rotate and propel the frame 101 forward, backward, or in any desired direction based on the child's instructions. The microcontroller precisely controls the speed and direction of these wheel 106 to ensure optimal movement and stability of the frame 101 as it transports the child. This feature enhances the overall user experience by allowing the child to easily navigate and maneuver the frame 101 with simple voice commands, thus making the device more interactive and intuitive to use.

[0029] A gyroscope mounted specifically to monitor its orientation and balance during motion. This gyroscope plays a critical role in maintaining the stability of the frame 101 by continuously measuring its angular velocity and detecting any deviations from a stable, upright position. As the frame 101 moves, the gyroscope provides real-time data on its alignment and balance. When the gyroscope detects any misorientation or imbalance such as tilting or tipping that compromise the stability of the frame 101, it sends this information to the microcontroller. The microcontroller, acting on this data, triggers a response to address the imbalance and prevent potential falls.

[0030] To counteract the detected instability, the microcontroller activates a pair of pneumatic links 107 that are integrated into the frame 101's extendable members 102. These pneumatic links 107 are designed to extend and retract as needed. Each link is connected to a plate 108 at its free end, and when extended, these plate 108 lower down to make contact with the surface beneath the frame 101. The extension of these pneumatic links 107 and their attached plate 108 creates additional support points that stabilize the frame 101. By providing a broader base of support, these plate 108 help to counterbalance the frame 101’s weight and prevent it from tipping over. This mechanism ensures that even if the gyroscope detects significant misorientation, the pneumatic unit automatically adjust to maintain stability, thereby safeguarding both the frame 101 and the child from potential falls or accidents.

[0031] Multiple suction units are strategically installed to enhance the device’s stability when stationary. These suction units are designed to create a strong adhesive force between the plate 103 and the surface on which the frame 101 rests. When activated, these units generate suction that firmly attaches the frame 101 to the floor or ground, preventing any unintended movement. The activation of these suction units is controlled by a microcontroller, which is programmed to respond to specific commands from the child. When the child issues a voice command through the built-in microphone 105, indicating the desire to remain stationery and practice stability in one place, the microcontroller processes this command and engages the suction units.

[0032] By triggering the suction units, the microcontroller ensures that the frame 101 remains securely affixed to the surface, providing a stable and immobile base for the child. This stabilization is crucial for exercises or activities where the child needs to focus on maintaining balance and practicing stability without the distraction or risk of the frame 101 moving. The secure attachment of the frame 101 allows the child to confidently perform activities while the frame 101 stays firmly in place, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the stability exercises and contributing to the child's overall safety and practice experience.

[0033] Multiple suction cups 109 strategically arranged on the underside of the rectangular plate 103 to secure the child's feet when they are standing on it. These suction cups 109 are designed to create a strong vacuum seal between the plate 103 and the child's footwear, ensuring a firm grip that stabilizes the child in place. When the child steps onto the plate 103 and assumes a standing posture, the suction cups 109 adhere to the soles of their shoes, applying a consistent force that holds the feet securely against the plate 103. This design prevents the child's feet from shifting or sliding during use, thereby enhancing their stability and balance. The secure attachment provided by the suction cups 109 helps the child maintain their position on the plate 103, which is particularly beneficial during exercises or activities that require a stable stance.

[0034] The suction cups 109 are engineered to be effective on various types of footwear and surfaces, ensuring that they provide a reliable grip regardless of the child's movement or the type of surface the plate 103 is placed on. The integration of these suction cups 109 into the plate 103’s design not only enhances the child's safety by preventing accidental slips but also contributes to their overall confidence as they engage in movement or stability practices. By securely anchoring the child's feet, the suction cups 109 facilitate a more controlled and stable experience, allowing the child to focus on their activity without concern for their footing.

[0035] A moisture sensor strategically positioned on the underside of the rectangular plate 103 to detect the presence of water on the surface beneath it. This sensor is crucial for ensuring the safety of the device, particularly in environments where water or other liquids might be present. The moisture sensor continuously monitors the surface for any signs of dampness or standing water. When the sensor detects the presence of water, it measures the moisture levels and sends this data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is programmed to compare the detected moisture levels against a predefined threshold limit. This threshold is set to determine the maximum acceptable level of moisture that the device safely handle without compromising stability.

[0036] If the moisture level exceeds this threshold, indicating a potentially hazardous condition such as excessive water on the surface, the microcontroller responds by halting the actuation of the motorized wheel 106. This precautionary measure prevents the frame 101 from moving across the wet area, thus mitigating the risk of slipping or losing balance, which lead to a fall. By stopping the wheel 106 movement, the microcontroller effectively prevents the device from traversing unstable or unsafe surfaces, thereby protecting both the child and the frame 101.

[0037] A proximity sensor designed to detect obstacles in the path of the frame 101 as it moves. This sensor is positioned on the frame 101 to continuously scan the area directly ahead and around the device for any objects or barriers that obstruct its movement. The proximity sensor employs various technologies, such as ultrasonic or infrared, to measure the distance between the frame 101 and potential obstacles, providing real-time data on the proximity of objects within its detection range. When the proximity sensor identifies an obstacle within its specified range, it sends this information to the microcontroller, which processes the sensor data to assess the situation. The microcontroller, which manages the overall functionality of the device, is programmed to respond promptly to such alerts. Upon receiving the notification of an obstacle, the microcontroller activates a speaker mounted on the frame 101. This speaker is designed to emit audible alerts or warnings to inform both the child using the device and any nearby individuals about the presence of the obstacle.

[0038] The activation of the speaker serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it notifies the child, providing them with an audible cue to either stop or navigate around the obstacle, thereby preventing accidental collisions or injuries. Secondly, it alerts individuals in the vicinity of the frame 101, such as caregivers or bystanders, ensuring they are aware of the potential hazard and can take appropriate action to assist or avoid the area. The speaker consists of a set of magnets. One of the magnet is permanent magnate and another one is an electromagnet which made of a conducting coil which is fixed with the diaphragm of the speaker. Whenever, the electric current is passed across the coil, the electromagnet either attracted towards the permanent magnets or repelled away from the electromagnet. This back and forth movement causes the diaphragm to vibrate and that results in generation of the sound wave which is heard by the user.

[0039] A Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) specifically designed to monitor the intensity of ambient light in the surrounding environment. The LDR is a type of light sensor that varies its resistance based on the amount of light it detects. Positioned on the frame 101, this sensor continuously measures the light levels around the device and provides real-time feedback to the microcontroller about the surrounding illumination. When the LDR detects that the ambient light intensity falls below a predetermined threshold, indicating low light conditions that compromise visibility, it sends a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller, which is programmed to respond to changes in light levels, processes this signal and determines that additional lighting is required.

[0040] In response, the microcontroller activates a set of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) integrated into the frame 101. These LEDs are strategically arranged to provide optimal illumination around the child. The LEDs are designed to emit bright, focused light that enhances visibility and ensures that the child see clearly, even in dim or poorly lit conditions. By illuminating the area around the frame 101, the LED lights 110 not only improve the child’s ability to see and navigate safely but also enhance the overall safety of the device by reducing the risk of accidents caused by insufficient lighting.

[0041] Lastly, a battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0042] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the frame 101 having frame 101 having the pair of inverted U-shaped extendable members 102 as disclosed in the proposed invention is connected with each other via the rectangular plate 103 accessed by the child while moving from one place to another. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 continuously captures and processes images of the child’s presence and body dimensions, allowing the microcontroller to automatically adjust the height of the frame 101 via the motorized drawer mechanism for the proper fit. The child control the movement of the frame 101 using voice commands detected by the microphone 105, which the microcontroller processes to activate motorized wheel 106 on the frame 101’s sides, enabling smooth navigation. To ensure stability, the gyroscope detects any imbalance or misorientation, prompting the microcontroller to extend pneumatic links 107 with attached stabilizing plate 108 to maintain equilibrium. Additionally, suction units beneath the plate 103 secure the frame 101 to the surface when stationary, based on further voice commands for practicing in place. The moisture sensor that halts wheel 106 movement if water levels exceed the safe threshold, the proximity sensor that triggers an alert speaker if obstacles are detected, and an LDR that activates LED lights 110 when ambient light falls below the certain level, ensuring optimal visibility. Together, these components work in harmony to provide the dynamic, safe, and responsive environment for the child, addressing various environmental and operational challenges effectively.

[0043] 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 individuals skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An adaptable child movement and stability enhancement device, comprising:

i) a frame 101 having a pair of inverted U-shaped extendable members 102 developed connected with each other via a rectangular plate 103, wherein said frame 101 is accessed by a child while moving from one place to another;

ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on said frame 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity to said frame 101, respectively, to detect presence of a child in proximity to said frame 101, along with body dimensions of said child, based on which an inbuilt microcontroller actuates a motorized drawer arrangement integrated within said members 102 to extend/ retract for modulating height of said members 102 for facilitating proper accommodation of said child over said frame 101;

iii) a microphone 105 installed on said frame 101 for receiving voice commands of said child for initiating movement of said frame 101, wherein said microcontroller processes said commands and accordingly actuates a motorized wheel 106 configured on lateral sides of said plate 103 to rotate for providing optimal movement to said frame 101 along with said child over said surface;

iv) a gyroscope mounted on said frame 101 for detecting misorientation or misbalancing of said frame 101 during motion, wherein upon successful detection, said microcontroller actuates a pair of pneumatic links 107 configured with said members 102 to extend for positioning a plate 108 attached with free-ends of each of said links 107 over said surface, in view of stabilizing said frame 101, and eliminate chances of falling of said frame 101 and child; and

v) plurality of suction units configured beneath said plate 103 that are actuated by said microcontroller for affixing said frame 101 over said surface, in view of allowing said child to enhance body stability, only in case said child via said microphone 105 provides voice commands to practice in one place.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of suction cups 109 are configured on said plate 103 for gripping said child’s foot portion while said user attains a standing posture over said plate 103, in view of securing said child over said plate 103.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a moisture sensor is configured on said plate 103 for detecting presence of water on said surface, and in case said detected water exceeds a threshold limit, said microcontroller halts further actuation of the wheel 106 for preventing maneuvering of said frame 101 over area that could cause a fall.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a proximity sensor is configured on said frame 101 for detecting presence of obstacles in path of said frame 101, and upon detection of obstacle, said microcontroller activates a speaker mounted on said frame 101 to notify said child and individuals in proximity to said frame 101 regarding said obstacle.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on said frame 101 for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding, and in case said detected intensity of light in surroundings recedes a threshold level, said microcontroller actuates plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 110 configured on said frame 101 to glow for providing optimal illumination to child in low light conditions.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.