Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptable health monitoring and mobility assistive device that is capable of assisting a user to ascend to an upright position with ease and further monitors vital health parameters to the user in order to alert the user’s caregiver if the health parameters fall outside safe limits, thus ensuring timely intervention.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In contemporary healthcare and assistive technology, there is a growing need for devices that not only support individuals with mobility challenges but also monitor their health in real-time. Traditional mobility aids, such as walkers and canes, provide physical support but often lack integrated health monitoring capabilities. Similarly, health monitoring devices typically focus on tracking vital signs but do not offer assistance with mobility.

[0003] Existing solutions in the field of mobility assistance often require users to manually adjust or reposition the device, which can be challenging for those with limited dexterity or strength. Furthermore, while wearable health monitoring devices have made significant advances in tracking parameters such as heart rate, body temperature, and blood oxygen levels, they frequently operate independently of mobility aids. thus, there is a need to develop a device that not only facilitate the user's ability to rise to an upright position but also continuously monitor vital health parameters, ensuring that any deviations from safe limits trigger timely alerts to caregivers.

[0004] CN214630474U discloses about a multifunctional action assistive device, which belongs to the technical field of action assistive devices and comprises a circular base, an expansion component, a supporting bracket, an expansion component and a telescopic component, wherein the telescopic component comprises a plurality of groups of short rods with different thicknesses, the adjacent short rods are mutually matched in a sliding way, the expansion component is arranged at the periphery of the circular base, the telescopic component is arranged above the circular base, the supporting bracket is arranged at the top of the telescopic component, and the expansion component is arranged inside the supporting bracket, the utility model improves the prior action assistive device, can rapidly expand and pack the assistive device under the action of the telescopic component, can greatly compress the space, is convenient for a patient to carry, can expand the assistive device under the action of the expansion component and the expansion component, can enable the patient to lean against or sit upright for a short time so as to relieve the sudden arthralgia symptom, the arrangement of the pedometer and the medicine storage cup can better improve the practicability of the device. Although, CN’474 discloses a multifunctional action assistive device designed for enhancing user mobility and providing support, however the device does not address the need for real-time monitoring of vital health parameters, nor does it provide automated alerts to caregivers if health indicators fall outside safe limits.

[0005] US10576009B2 discloses about a mobility device designed to extend the usable field of movement for people with physical limitations by allowing them to descend to the ground and ascend to an upright position with ease. A user may bring the device within their vicinity, grab onto the articulating handles and safely reach the ground to engage in a ground activity. When the ground activity is completed, the user simply grabs onto the sloping handholds and ascends step-by-step until they have made their way to a standing position. The device is portable and can be stowed around the home. It is likely to be close to the user at all times, thus it is a safe means of ensuring support when a caretaker is not present. Although, US’009 provides valuable mobility support by enabling users to manage transitions between seated and standing positions, however the device does not address the need for real-time monitoring of vital health parameters, nor does it provide automated alerts to caregivers if health indicators fall outside safe limits.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to assist individuals with mobility challenges, however these devices lack integrated health monitoring capabilities, while health monitors do not offer physical support for users. Furthermore, existing mobility devices often require manual adjustment and lack automated features to enhance user comfort and security.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that provide users with reliable support for transitioning between seated and standing positions while simultaneously monitoring vital health parameters in real-time, thus ensures both effective physical support and proactive health management.

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 assist a user to ascend to an upright position with ease and further monitors vital health parameters to the user in order to alert the user’s caregiver if the health parameters fall outside safe limits, thus ensuring timely intervention.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that monitor ambient light conditions and provide optimal illumination to the user in low-light environments.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is reliable, user-friendly and easy-to-operate.

[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 health monitoring and mobility assistive device that monitor vital health parameters such as heart rate, body temperature, and blood flow intensity, while also offering physical support to users in need of assistance with mobility, particularly when getting up from a seated or lying position.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable health monitoring and mobility assistive device comprises of an elongated body developed to be hand-held by a user, a pair of straps attached with the body for securing the body around wrist portion of the user, multiple pressure sensors installed on the body and straps for detecting pressure applied by the body and straps on the wrist portion, respectively, a pair of motorized rollers integrated within the body for rotating on its axis to properly fit the body and straps around the user, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit mounted on the body to detect height of the user, a suction unit paired with a of suction cup installed on bottom portion of the body in contact with ground surface, a microphone embedded on the body for receiving voice commands of the for providing support while getting up, a sensing module embedded on the body for detecting vital health parameters of the user along with blood flow intensity of the user, wherein in case detected parameters as well as the blood flow intensity mismatches with a threshold limit, the microcontroller transmits an alert notification to a computing unit accessed by caretaker of the user, a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) configured on the body for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding, plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights configured on the body to glow for providing optimal illumination to the user and a battery is associated with the device for powering up 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 an adaptable health monitoring and mobility assistive 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 an adaptable health monitoring and mobility assistive device that is capable of facilitating a user's transition to an upright position with ease and continuously monitors critical health parameters to detect any deviations from safe limits, and alerts the user’s caregiver if necessary, thereby ensuring timely intervention and support.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an adaptable health monitoring and mobility assistive device is illustrated, respectively comprising an elongated body 101 developed to be hand-held by a user, an inverted U-shaped handle 102 strategically positioned at the apex of the body 101, a pair of straps 103 attached with the body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 mounted on the body 101, a suction unit 105 installed on bottom portion of the body 101, a microphone 106 embedded on the body 101, sensing module 107 is embedded on the body 101, and plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 108 configured on the body 101.

[0022] The proposed device herein comprises of an elongated body 101 designed for hand-held use by a user, wherein the upper end of the body 101 is configured with an inverted U-shaped handle 102 strategically positioned at the apex of the body 101 to facilitate an ergonomic grip, enabling the user to securely hold and maneuver the device with ease. The elongated body 101 is constructed from a durable and lightweight composite material, such as high-strength aluminum or advanced polymer, chosen for its balance of strength, weight, and resilience. This material is selected to ensure that the body 101 can withstand daily use and potential impacts while remaining easy for the user to handle 102.

[0023] A pair of straps 103 is attached with the body 101 for securing the body 101 around wrist portion of the user. The user is then required to press a push button integrated with the device, such that when the user presses the push button, it initiates an electrical circuit mechanism. Inside the push button, there is a spring-loaded contact mechanism that, under normal circumstances, maintains an open circuit. When the button is pressed, it compresses the spring, causing the contacts to meet and complete the circuit. This closure then sends an electrical signal to an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device to either power up or shut down. Conversely, releasing the button allows the spring to return to its original position, breaking the circuit and sending the signal to deactivate the device.

[0024] On activation of the device, the microcontroller activates multiple pressure sensors are installed on the body 101 and straps 103 for detecting pressure applied by the body 101 and straps 103 on the wrist portion, respectively. The pressure sensor includes a transducer, such that when the user accommodates the body 101, then force is exerted by the body 101 and straps 103 on the wrist portion. 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. The microcontroller processes the received pressure and detects the pressure applied by the body 101 and straps 103 on the wrist portion.

[0025] Based on the detected pressure, the microcontroller actuates a pair of motorized rollers integrated within the body 101 and coiled with straps 103 for rotating on its axis to properly fit the body 101 and straps 103 around the user. The roller is linked with a DC (direct current) motor to provide the required power to the roller to rotate in a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction in order to wrap or unwrap the straps 103. 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 to rotate on its own axis thereby unwrapping the straps 103 to properly fit the body 101 and straps 103 around the user.

[0026] The microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 mounted on the body 101 to detect height of the user. The imaging unit 104 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the user, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 104 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 104 also comprises of a processor that is integrated 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 detect height of the user.

[0027] Based on the detected height of the user, the microcontroller actuates the body 101 to extend/ retract in view of positioning a suction unit 105 paired with a suction cup installed on bottom portion of the body 101 in contact with ground surface. The elongated body 101 is integrated with a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the body 101. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller. Such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the body 101 and due to applied pressure the body 101 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the body 101 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the body 101 in order to position the suction unit 105 in contact with ground surface.

[0028] The user then provide voice commands via a microphone 106 embedded on the body 101 for providing support while getting up. The microphone 106 consists of a diaphragm, typically made of a thin, flexible material such as metal or plastic. When sound waves reach the microphone 106, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate. These vibrations are directly proportional to the variations in air pressure caused by the sound waves. The diaphragm is coupled to a coil of wire, as the diaphragm vibrates, the coil moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the wire. This current is proportional to the amplitude and frequency of the sound waves. The electrical signal generated by the diaphragm-coil is transmitted to the microcontroller.

[0029] The microcontroller on receiving the signals actuates the suction unit 105 for generating suction pressure underneath the cup for adhering the cups on the surface, followed by actuation of the body 101 to extend for assisting the user in getting up from the surface. The suction unit 105 consists of a vacuum pump, a sealed chamber, and the flexible suction cup. When activated by the microcontroller, the vacuum pump creates a negative pressure within the sealed chamber by drawing air out. This negative pressure generates suction force, causing the suction cup to tightly adhere to the ground surface.

[0030] A sensing module 107 is embedded on the body 101 that is activated by the microcontroller for detecting vital health parameters of the user along with blood flow intensity of the user. The sensing module 107 includes a FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor, heart rate sensor, temperature sensors and a PPG (Photoplethysmography) sensor. The FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor consists of distributed brag reflectors in a short segment of optical fiber that reflects a particular wavelength of light while transmitting the other wavelengths. Thus, the sensor corresponds to the changes in the diameter of the arteries present within the user and monitors the detected change to measure the vital parameters including pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure and alike of the user. The sensor further converts the measured parameters into an electric signal that is received by the microcontroller.

[0031] The heart rate sensor consists of a light-emitting diode (LED) and a photodetector. The LED emits light, usually in the green or infrared spectrum, which penetrates the skin and underlying tissue. As the heart pumps blood, the volume of blood in the capillaries varies, causing changes in light absorption. The photodetector measures the amount of light that is either transmitted through or reflected by the tissue. These fluctuations in light intensity correspond to the pulsatile flow of blood, allowing the sensor's processing unit to calculate the user's heart rate by analyzing the timing of these changes. The sensor's accuracy is enhanced by filtering out noise and compensating for motion artifacts, ensuring reliable heart rate measurements of the user.

[0032] The temperature sensor used herein is preferably an infrared temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensor detects the infrared radiation naturally emitted by the skin. The sensor consists of a thermopile that absorbs this infrared energy and converts it into a voltage. The amount of voltage generated corresponds to the temperature of the skin. The microcontroller then processes this voltage to calculate the body 101 temperature of the user.

[0033] The Photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor works by using an LED to emit light into the skin, where it penetrates and interacts with blood vessels. As the heart beats, blood flow in these vessels changes, causing variations in how much light is absorbed or reflected by the tissue. A photodetector, positioned near the LED, measures the amount of light that is reflected back or transmitted through the tissue. These fluctuations in light intensity are analyzed by the microcontroller to blood flow intensity of the user.

[0034] If the sensing module detects any irregularities or deviations in the user's health parameters or blood flow intensity that fall outside of predefined safe limits, then the microcontroller send an alert notification to a computing unit accessed by caretaker of the user. The computing unit is linked with the microcontroller via an integrated communication module that includes but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module which is capable of establishing a wireless network between the microcontroller and the computing unit, thus sending notification to the caregiver regarding the user’s health conditions.

[0035] A LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on the body 101 for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding. The LDR is a special type of resistor that works on the photoconductivity principle. When the light is incident on the LDR, its resistance changes according to the intensity of light. The resistance decreases with an increase in the intensity of light. The measured light intensity is then converted in the form of electrical signal and is sent to the microcontroller and on receiving the measured light intensity from the LDR, the microcontroller processes and detects the intensity of light on the frame. In case the detected intensity recedes a threshold value, the microcontroller actuates plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights 108 mounted on the frame for illuminating light in the surroundings to maintain proper visibility.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the body 101 having the U-shaped handle 102 allows the user to grip the device securely. The body 101 is equipped with the pair of straps 103 that secure it around the user's wrist, with pressure sensors embedded in both the body 101 and straps 103. The pressure sensors continuously monitor the pressure applied to the wrist, ensuring a comfortable fit. If the pressure is too high or too low, a microcontroller actuates motorized rollers within the body 101 to adjust the straps 103 automatically, enhancing user comfort and security. The imaging unit 104 captures and processes images of the surroundings to determine the user's height to adjust the length of the body 101 and positioning the suction cup in contact with the ground. The cup, controlled by the suction unit 105, provides a stable base for the user when needed, especially when receiving voice commands via an embedded microphone 106 to assist the user in standing up. The microcontroller then generates suction pressure and extends the rod to help the user rise from a seated or lying position. The sensing module 107 monitors vital health parameters such as heart rate, temperature, and blood flow intensity using sensors like the PPG and thermistors. If any of these parameters deviate from safe thresholds, the microcontroller sends an alert to the computing unit accessed by the user's caretaker, ensuring timely medical intervention.

[0038] 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 health monitoring and mobility assistive device, comprising:

i) an elongated body 101 developed to be hand-held by a user, wherein apex of said body 101 is arranged with an inverted U-shaped handle 102 that is accessed by said user for acquiring a grip over said body 101;
ii) a pair of straps 103 attached with said body 101 for securing said body 101 around wrist portion of said user, wherein multiple pressure sensors are installed on said body 101 and straps 103 for detecting pressure applied by said body 101 and straps 103 on said wrist portion, respectively, wherein based on said detected pressure, an inbuilt microcontroller actuates a pair of motorized rollers integrated within said body 101 and coiled with straps 103 for rotating on its axis to properly fit said body 101 and straps 103 around said user;
iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 mounted on said body 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively to detect height of said user, wherein based on which said microcontroller actuates said body 101 to extend/ retract in view of positioning a suction unit 105 paired with a of suction cup installed on bottom portion of said body 101 in contact with ground surface;
iv) a microphone 106 embedded on said body 101 for receiving voice commands of said for providing support while getting up, wherein said microcontroller upon receiving said voice commands actuates said suction unit 105 for generating suction pressure underneath said cup for adhering said cups on said surface, followed by actuation of said body 101 to extend for assisting said user in getting up from said surface; and
v) a sensing module 107 embedded on said body 101 for detecting vital health parameters of said user along with blood flow intensity of said pet, wherein in case detected parameters as well as said blood flow intensity mismatches with a threshold limit, said microcontroller transmits an alert notification to a computing unit accessed by caretaker of said user.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein sensing module 107 includes a FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor, heart rate sensor, temperature sensors and a PPG (Photoplethysmography) sensor.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on said body 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 108 configured on said body 101 to glow for providing optimal illumination to said user.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said elongated body 101 is powered by a pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of said body 101.

5) 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.