Download Children`s Biofeedback Sleep Device

CHILDREN’S BIOFEEDBACK SLEEP DEVICE
Introduction
Studies have found many health problems related to stress, one of which is sleep dysfunction.
Nowhere is this more worrisome than when a child is affected. Loss of sleep is detrimental to
a child’s mental and physical development and can cause serious behavioural issues. While
the direct cost of sleep deprivation on a child’s cognitive and developmental state cannot be
measured, its impact on society is significant.
The global market for sleep aids reached US$58.5 billion in 2014 and is estimated to grow to
US$76.7 billion by 2019. However, most products on the market involve medication or are not
responsive to the child’s current wakeful state or relaxation levels. A safer, low cost solution is required.
The global market for wearable devices is expected to reach US$30 billion by 2020 with at least
US$700 million dedicated to wearables for pets and children.
Innovation
We have developed a disruptive, one-of-a-kind wearable bio-adaptive relaxation device designed to
train the user to control his or her own relaxation level, and thus assist them in falling asleep or calming
down without the use of medication. It functions as a biofeedback activity monitor. Although it can be
used by people of all ages, the current generation is designed mainly for children.
Advantages
•Portable: A compact biofeedback bracelet that easily syncs with mobile devices or
computers.
•Engaging for children: App developed to engage children and to make relaxation feel like a
game.
• Safe: The device turns off as the user falls asleep and is radiation free.
•Alternative to medication: Can be used without danger of dependency or altering
physiological or hormonal balances.
• Low cost: Less expensive than therapy, medication and other wearable/interactive devices.
Opportunity
We are looking for a co-development and/or investment partner.
Our goals are:
1. Attract funding to develop our technology further.
2.Access young customers and their parents as well as
specialized health care organizations
for clinical trials.
We anticipate a two-year development process before reaching
commercialization readiness.
T H E I N ST I T U T E FO R
D I AG N O ST I C
I M AG I N G R E S E A R C H
Established in 2008, The Institute for Diagnostic
Imaging Research (IDIR) is a multi-disciplinary,
collaborative research and innovation centre whose
primary focus is the development of innovative
diagnostic imaging technologies and products.
Affiliated with the University of Windsor in Ontario,
Canada, the Institute has been consistently
recognized as a world leader in the development
of technologies that save time, money and lives.
ICE Ventures is a global commercialization entity
supporting IDIR innovations and start-up activities
that include business development, deal brokering
and company creation. ICE Ventures leverages its vast
global network of recognized professionals to build
strong international partnerships for its companies.
Technology
Bio-adaptive devices are currently available only for healthcare professionals, such as
psychologists and psychotherapists, in a clinical environment. Our device will be available directly
to consumers and provide professional-level treatment for sleeping disorders and hyperactivity.
Our device works as a real-time biofeedback activity indicator. The user’s physiological activity
level is represented visually on-screen through proprietary software. The system is designed to
be engaging and is tailored specifically to each target age group through carefully engineered
gamification. Training occurs through user interaction with the software.
This device has two biofeedback sensor rings which are worn on the index and ring fingers. The
sensors constantly monitor the child’s wakeful state. This data is transmitted to the software
wirelessly, which responds to the user input and modifies the on-screen activity.
Current Development Stage
A prototype has been developed and is currently being miniaturized by at least 50% and made
compatible with a range of mobile devices. The graphical user interface is being optimized for
young age groups.
Currently the prototype is comprised of two biofeedback rings attached to a battery pack and
transponder that are worn on the wrist. Data is sent to a computer running our software.
This technology can be also be customized to be used for adults in both professional and general
applications. For instance, the device can be used by professional athletes to:
•
•
•
adopt or improve self-relaxation methods
reduce high inner tension levels
self-monitor and detect inner tension in stressful conditions.
Patent Status
A U.S. provisional patent application has been filed.
© Queen’s Printer for Ontario, 2015.
Printed in Ontario, Canada on recycled paper.
For research-related and
collaboration inquiries:
Dr. Roman Maev, Director General, IDIR
[email protected]
For business-related and
commercialization inquiries:
Dr. Lincoln Kim, CEO, ICE Ventures
[email protected]