Patent Application
20230267818
The present disclosure generally relates to identifying a condition associated with an individual in a home environment.
As individuals age, many develop cognitive conditions or health conditions making it difficult and/or unsafe for them to live independently in a home environment. However, because the signs of such cognitive conditions and/or health conditions may be subtle, or may develop slowly over time, it may be difficult for caregivers to determine whether an individual is capable of safely living independently.
In one aspect, a computer-implemented method for identifying a condition associated with an individual in a home environment may be provided. The method may include, via one or more local or remote processors, servers, transceivers, and/or sensors: (1) capturing data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a home environment; (2) analyzing, by a processor, the captured data to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies; and/or (3) determining, by a processor, based upon the identified one or more abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment. The method may additionally include (4) generating, by a processor, to a caregiver of the individual, a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual. The method may include additional, less, or alternate actions, including those discussed elsewhere herein.
In another aspect, a computer system for identifying a condition associated with an individual in a home environment may be provided. The computer system may include one or more sensors associated with a home environment, one or more processors configured to interface with the one or more sensors, and/or one or more memories storing non-transitory computer executable instructions. The non-transitory computer executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the computer system to (1) capture data detected by the one or more sensors; (2) analyze the captured data to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies; (3) determine, based upon the identified one or more abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment; and/or (4) generate, to a caregiver of the individual, a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual. The system may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
In still another aspect, a computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon a set of non-transitory instructions, executable by a processor, for identifying a condition associated with an individual in a home environment may be provided. The instructions include instructions for (1) obtaining data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a home environment; (2) analyzing the captured data to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies; (3) determining, based upon the identified one or more abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment; and/or (4) generating, to a caregiver of the individual, a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual. The instructions may direct additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
In still another aspect, a computer-implemented method for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The computer-implemented method may include (1) receiving, by a processor, historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receiving, by a processor, historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) analyzing, by a processor, using a machine learning module, the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; and/or (4) identifying, by a processor, using the machine learning module, based upon the analysis, one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments. The method may include additional, less, or alternate actions, including those discussed elsewhere herein.
In still another aspect, a computer system for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The computer system may include one or more processors and one or more memories storing non-transitory computer executable instructions. When executed by the one or more processors, the non-transitory computer executable instructions may cause the computer system to: (1) receive historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receive historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) analyze, using a machine learning module, the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; and/or (4) identify, using the machine learning module, based upon the analysis, one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments. The system may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
In still another aspect, a computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon a set of non-transitory instructions, executable by a processor, for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The instructions may include instructions for: (1) receiving historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receiving historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) analyzing, using a machine learning module, the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; and/or (4) identifying, using the machine learning module, based upon the analysis one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments. The instructions may direct additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
Advantages will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiments which have been shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the present embodiments may be capable of other and different embodiments, and their details are capable of modification in various respects. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
The Figures described below depict various aspects of the system and methods disclosed therein. It should be understood that each Figure depicts one embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed system and methods, and that each of the Figures is intended to accord with a possible embodiment thereof. Further, wherever possible, the following description refers to the reference numerals included in the following Figures, in which features depicted in multiple Figures are designated with consistent reference numerals.
There are shown in the drawings arrangements which are presently discussed, it being understood, however, that the present embodiments are not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown, wherein:
The Figures depict preferred embodiments for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the systems and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the invention described herein.
As discussed above, individuals may develop cognitive conditions or health conditions making it difficult and/or unsafe for them to live independently in a home environment. However, because the signs of such cognitive conditions and/or health conditions may be subtle, or may develop slowly over time, it may be difficult for caregivers to determine whether an individual is capable of safely living independently.
Accordingly, systems and methods for identifying conditions associated with an individual in a home environment are provided herein. Sensors associated with the home environment may passively detect data, which may be captured and analyzed by a processor in order to identify potential conditions associated with an individual in the home environment. In some instances, the sensors may include sensors configured to capture data indicative of electricity use by devices associated with the home environment, including, e.g., which devices are using electricity, what date/time electricity is used by each device, how long each device uses electricity, and/or the power source for the electricity used by each device. The processor may analyze the captured data to identify any abnormalities or anomalies, and, based upon any identified abnormalities or anomalies, the processor may determine a condition (e.g., a medical condition, or a deviation from normal routines or activity) associated with an individual in the home environment. The processor may generate a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual to a caregiver of the individual. Advantageously, the caregiver may be informed of any conditions associated with the individual that may arise.
Moreover, in some embodiments, the systems and methods for identifying conditions associated with an individual in a home environment may include systems and methods for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments. For instance, historical sensor data associated with home environments and corresponding historically identified conditions associated with individuals in the home environments may be used as inputs for a machine learning module to develop a predictive model identifying which a potential condition associated with an individual in a home environment using abnormalities or anomalies in the sensor data associated with the home environment.
The systems and methods provided herein therefore offer numerous benefits. In particular, the systems and methods effectively, efficiently, and non-intrusively, identify conditions associated with an individual in a home environment and provide a notification to a caregiver associated with the individual indicating any identified conditions, allowing a caregiver outside of the home environment to be informed of the status of the individual. In this way, the safety of the individual in the home environment may be improved. That is, because the caregiver will be alerted of conditions affecting the individual, which may include health conditions, cognitive conditions, etc., the caregiver may provide any assistance needed to the individual. Moreover, the caregiver outside the home environment may be able to use the information provided to continually assess whether the individual may continue to safely live independently in the home environment, and accordingly make changes in the individual’s care when needed.
Furthermore, according to certain implementations, the systems and methods may support a dynamic, real-time or near-real-time analysis of any captured, received, and/or detected data. In particular, in some embodiments, a caregiver device may receive an indication of a condition associated with the individual in the home environment in real-time or near real-time, and may automatically and dynamically take actions such as requesting emergency medical assistance when needed. In this regard, any caregiver is afforded the benefit of accurate and relevant data, and may provide immediate care and assistance as needed.
Turning to
The computer system 100 may include one or more sensors 102 associated with a home environment 104 such as, e.g., a house, apartment, condominium, or other living space associated with an individual. The computer system 100 further includes a server 106, and a caregiver device 108, each of which may communicate with one another (and/or with the sensors 102) using one or more network 110, which may be a wireless network, or which may include a combination of wireless and wired networks.
The sensors 102 may include, for example, electrical use sensors configured to detect data indicating, e.g., which outlets within the home environment are using electricity, which devices within the home environment are using electricity, the amount of electricity used by each device, dates and/or times at which each device uses electricity, the duration of time for which each device uses electricity, the power source for each device’s electricity use (e.g., standard power sources versus generator in emergency situation), etc. Devices within the home environment may include appliances (e.g., stoves (including ignition sources for gas stoves), ovens, dishwashers, washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, etc.), electronic devices (e.g., televisions, telephones, computers, etc.), heating and cooling devices (e.g., HVAC unit, furnace, hot water heater, etc.), lighting devices (e.g., overhead lights, lamps, etc.), water pumps, garage door openers, alarm systems, exercise equipment (e.g., treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical machines, etc.), etc.
Additionally, in some instances, the sensors 102 associated with the home environment may also include smart sensors, or sensors associated with smart phones or other “smart” devices (i.e., devices connected to cellular and/or internet networks, or otherwise able to communicate with other devices, e.g., using Bluetooth) within the home environment, such as, e.g., virtual assistant devices, smart home devices, smart thermostats, smart appliances (e.g., smart ovens, smart dishwashers, smart washers, smart dryers, smart refrigerators, smart freezers, smart microwaves, etc.), smart lighting systems, smart speaker systems, smart robotics (e.g., smart robotic vacuums), smart motion sensors, smart water sensors, smart gas and ignition monitors, smart contact sensors, smart air movement and/or draft sensors, smart HVAC systems, smart pet monitor devices, smart medication dispensers, smart wearable electronics, smart alarm systems or security systems, smart scales, or any other suitable smart devices.
Moreover, in some instances, additional data may be captured by other suitable sensors 102 or other devices associated with the home environment (not shown), e.g., geo-locator tags associated with the home environment, weather monitoring devices associated with the home environment, vehicle sensors associated with the home environment (or with an individual within the home environment), wireless internet usage monitors, 3D printers, nanobots, fine motor control measurement devices, or any other suitable sensors or devices.
The sensors 102 may be configured to detect many different types of data, including but not limited to video data, image data, audio and/or decibel data, activity and/or movement data, vibration data, light data, arm/disarm data (i.e., with respect to an alarm system), body temperature data associated with the individual, home environment temperature data, moisture data, odor data, heart rate data associated with the individual, breathing rate data associated with the individual, hydration data associated with the individual, weight data associated with the individual, glucose/ketones levels associated with the individual, medication adherence data, travel and/or location data associated with the individual, socialization data associated with the individual, medical/health monitor device use data associated with the individual, appliance use data associated with the individual, electronics use data associated with the individual, air quality data, air quality data, sleep data associated with the individual, eye movement data associated with the individual, exercise data associated with the individual, body control data associated with the individual, fine motor control data associated with the individual, speech data associated with the individual, health and/or nutrition data associated with the individual, hygiene data associated with the individual, sight and/or hearing data associated with the individual, etc. Accordingly, this data may be communicated to the server 106 and/or caregiver device 108 via the network 110.
The server 106 may in some instances be a collection of multiple co-located or geographically distributed servers, etc. Additionally, although only one server 106 is shown in
For example, by analyzing the data detected by the sensors 102, the server 106 may determine indications of, e.g., presence (in particular locations or in the home environment generally), walking patterns, falls, hazards, imminent danger, evidence of atypical behavior (physical, mental, emotional, social), intruders in the home environment, theft in the home environment, fraud, abuse, position of furniture (e.g., for safety layout recommendations), trips, falls and other hazards, moisture and/or puddles on the floor or other surfaces or ceiling, whether lights are on or off, typical and atypical voice patterns (e.g., representing stoke, Alzheimer’s detection, hearing decline, cognitive decline), socialization (such as decline in conversation or detecting other people in the house), falls, behavioral change (e.g., more aggression, more arguing, less conversation than usual) laughter, crying, other sounds relating to emotion, vehicle coming and going, movements of the individual from room to room, pace and speed of movement of the individual, duration of time spent in a space by the individual, time the individual spends outside of the house, atypical movements (e.g., seizures, movements before or after a fall or injury) walking patterns and/or gaits, movements and activities related to cooking, cleaning, exercise, entertainment, socialization, movements associated with a trip or stumble, eye movement, fall and impact level of fall, items dropping or breaking, entrance and or exit of the individual into or out of the home environment, tornados, earthquakes, other disaster events, phone calls and/or texts, vehicles coming and/or going, locations in the home environment where lights are turned on or off, for time duration of lights turned on and/or off, date of activation, activity of automatic lights that activate when movement or other stimulus is detected, alarm activation and/or disarm, alarm activation with no disarm, number of times over an amount of time, such as hour or single day an alarm is armed and disarmed, frequency or amount of accidental alarm activations, exit times when alarm is armed, home environment temperature (e.g., highs, lows, averages), hot water temperature from heater, faucets, and bathtub/showers, oven or stovetop temperatures, body temperature of inhabitants, differentiation of temperature between rooms of the house, opening and/or closing of vents, plumbing leaks, sump pump activation/issue, humidity averages and out of average range in the home environment, bed wetting or accidents, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, air quality, smoke, stagnant air, mold/mildew, ammonia, body odor, feces, pet, urine, natural gas, burning food, presence of certain foods, medical information associated with the individual (such as heart rate, blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, ketones, weight, hydration, nutrition, medication adherence, medical device use or adherence, breathing rate), GPS location, travel itinerary, routine locations traveled to, mode of travel (e.g., plane, train, automobile, ride sharing services), travel services, duration of travel, travel delays, travel interruptions or difficulties, interaction routines, individuals with whom the individual frequently interacts, frequency of interactions, types of interactions, internet usage or activity, streaming television shows or movies, social media interaction or activity, social media postings, email usage, etc.
Moreover, the memory 114 may include multiple memories, which may be implemented as semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, optically readable memories, biologically readable memories, and/or any other suitable type(s) of non-transitory, computer-readable storage media. Additionally, the server may be configured to access a database 116 (e.g., via the network 110), which may store data related to, inter alia, behavioral patterns of individuals in the home environment 104, conditions associated with individuals in the home environment 104, or other suitable information associated with individuals in the home environment 104, etc. In some instances, blockchain encryption may be implemented to securely store this data. The data stored by the database 116 may be used by any software applications stored in the memory 114.
For example, various software applications stored in the memory 114 may be configured to analyze the information associated with the individual to identify abnormalities or anomalies associated with the individual (e.g., abnormalities or anomalies in the individual’s behaviors). Based upon the identified abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment may be determined. Specifically, the condition (e.g., a medical condition, cognitive condition, etc.) may be determined based upon atypical behaviors of the individual indicated by the identified abnormalities or anomalies. Based upon the condition, the software applications may be configured to generate a notification for a caregiver of the individual, and/or transmit the notification to a caregiver device 108.
The caregiver device 108 may be, for instance, a personal computer, cellular phone, smart phone, tablet computer, smart watch, a wearable electronic device such as a fitness tracker, a dedicated caregiver device, or any other suitable mobile device associated with a caregiver of an individual in the home environment 104. Furthermore, the caregiver device 108 may include a processor 118 and a memory 120. The processor 118 may in some embodiments include multiple processors, and may be configured to execute any software applications residing on the memory 120. Moreover, the memory 120 may include multiple memories, which may be implemented as semiconductor memories, magnetically readable memories, optically readable memories, biologically readable memories, and/or any other suitable type(s) of non-transitory, computer-readable storage media. Additionally, the caregiver device 108 may include a user interface 122 (e.g., a display configured to display a user interface), upon which notifications, alerts, etc. may be displayed, as discussed in greater detail with respect to
Turning now to
Data captured by electrical use sensors (or other sensors in the home environment) 102 indicating the typical usage of each of these devices within the home environment 200 may be utilized to establish patterns and/or routines associated with the individual 202. For example, data captured by electrical use sensors indicating that the lamp 204 uses electricity starting every morning at 6:00 a.m. may indicate that the individual 202 has a pattern or routine of waking every morning at 6:00 a.m. As another example, data captured by electrical use sensors indicating that the television 214 uses energy for 2-3 hours per day may indicate that the individual 202 has a pattern or routine of watching 2-3 hours of television per day.
Of course, other of the sensors 102 may also be utilized to establish patterns and/or routines associated with the individual 202 in various embodiments. For instance, data stored by smart lighting may indicate usage times of various lamps within the home environment, data stored by a smart television may indicate the duration of use of the television, data stored by a laptop or other computer may indicate usage times of the internet or streaming television shows, internet usage may also indicate social media usage or time-of-day usage, etc.
By analyzing the captured data, information about the behaviors of the individual within the home environment may be determined. Specifically, the captured data may be analyzed to identify abnormalities or anomalies. Based upon the identified abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment may be determined. Specifically, the condition (in some instances, a medical condition) may be determined based upon atypical behaviors of the individual indicated by the identified abnormalities, abnormalities, or shifts in behavior patterns. Consequently, a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual 202 may be generated and/or displayed for a caregiver of the individual (such as a parent, child, spouse, doctor, nurse, or other medical caregiver, assisted living facility caregiver or other professional caregiver, etc.), e.g., via a caregiver device 108.
As another example, user interface display 302 displays an update indicating that a snapshot report for June 2018 is available for caregiver review. User interface display 304 displays an exemplary June 2018 Snapshot report associated with the individual in the home environment, generated for the caregiver of the individual.
In various embodiments, snapshot reports as shown in user interface display 304 may be generated periodically (e.g., daily, weekly, and/or yearly), showing the individual’s progress or decline in various areas, as well as items of potential concern. In some instances, the snapshot report may further include an indication of, e.g., whether the individual is able to live independently, whether the individual may need assistance, whether a fall or injury may have occurred, whether the individual is bathing, eating, or sleeping, potential cognitive or medical issues, whether the individual is taking his or her medication and/or whether the medication is helping the individual, etc. For example, as shown in exemplary user interface display 304, the snapshot report includes a notification that early signs of Alzheimer’s disease have been detected in the individual, and that a possible fall has been detected.
In various embodiments the report may include one or more of customized time period reports, comparative timeframe reports, an indication of the number of notifications sent to caregiver and for what, medication taken, for what, and if that medication is working, areas of concern, areas of decline, areas where intervention or improvement needs to take place, areas where the individual needs assistance or additional assistance, suggested and/or recommend actions to be taken by an individual or by a caregiver, recommended services, support, and resources within a certain proximity of the location, number ranges of optimal (based upon age/ability) levels of physical, mental, social, and emotional engagement, activity, and/or ability, goals and/or goal setting/meeting features, etc. In some instances, the report may include an independent living overall score (e.g., with 100 representing ideal independent living capability, 70 representing family/support services interaction needed for independent living capability, 60 representing significant family/support services interaction needed to live independently, 50 and below representing professional assistance needed, etc.). For example, as shown in exemplary user interface display 304, the snapshot report includes an independent living score of 50.
Turning now to
At block 402, data detected by a plurality of sensors (e.g., sensors 102) associated with a home environment (e.g., home environment 104) is captured. For example, an electrical use sensor may detect that, at a given time, an oven in the home environment is currently using electricity. As another example, an electrical use sensor may detect data indicating that a lamp in the home environment uses power on weekdays starting at 6:00 a.m., and on weekends starting at 8:00 a.m. As still another example, an electrical use sensor may detect data indicating that a water pump in the home environment has been operating for a certain amount of time (e.g., 15 minutes, one hour, all day, etc.). As an additional example, an electrical use sensor may detect that a furnace in the home environment is using power from a power generator.
By analyzing the captured data, information about the behaviors of the individual within the home environment may be determined. In some instances, the information indicated by the captured data may relate to current behaviors of the individual. For example, data from an electrical use sensor indicating that an oven in the home environment is currently using electricity may indicate that an individual in the home environment is currently cooking a meal. As another example, from an electrical use sensor indicating that a water pump in the home environment has been operating for a certain amount of time (e.g., 15 minutes, one hour, all day, etc.) may indicate that an individual within the home environment is currently taking a shower or a bath.
Additionally, over time, the information indicated by the captured data may be used to determine patterns in the behaviors of the individual. In other words, the captured data may be analyzed to identify data patterns indicative of behavior patterns. For instance, data from an electrical use sensor indicating that a lamp in the home environment uses power every day starting at 6:00 a.m. may indicate that an individual within the home environment wakes up around 6:00 a.m. each morning. Similarly, data from an electrical use sensor indicating that a water pump in the home environment typically operates for 15 minutes at 6:30 a.m. may indicate that the individual typically showers at 6:30 a.m. each morning.
At block 404, the captured data is analyzed to identify abnormalities or anomalies. The captured data may be compared against identified patterns in order to identify instances in which the data is inconsistent with the identified patterns, which may in turn indicate abnormalities or anomalies in the behaviors of the individual. For instance, in the example described above, an identified pattern in the electrical usage of a lamp in the home environment starting at 6:00 a.m. may indicate a typical wake-up time of 6:00 a.m. for an individual in the home environment. However, if the captured data indicates that one day the lamp does not use electricity until 8:00 a.m., an anomaly or abnormality may be identified for that day. This captured data may in turn indicate an anomaly or abnormality in the behavior of the individual, i.e., that the individual woke up later than usual on that day.
As another example, data from an electrical use sensor may indicate that a water pump in the home environment operates once per day for 15 minutes, which may in turn indicate that the user showers every day. However, if the captured data indicates that one day the water pump does not operate, or operates for a time duration shorter than a typical shower (e.g., only operates for 2 minutes), an abnormality or anomaly may be identified for that day. This captured data may in turn indicate an abnormality or anomaly in the behavior of the individual, i.e., that the individual did not shower on that day.
In some instances, analyzing the captured data to identify abnormalities or anomalies may include analyzing the captured data to identify the emergence of new behavior patterns, or shifts in behavior patterns of the individual. For instance, using the example described above, over several years, an identified pattern in the electrical usage of a lamp (or television or computer) in the home environment starting at 6:00 a.m. may indicate a typical wake-up time of 6:00 a.m. for an individual in the home environment over those several years. However, over the most recent month, a new pattern in the electrical usage of the lamp may emerge, indicating a new typical wake-up time of 8:00 a.m. for the individual in the home environment.
As another example, a pattern in the electrical usage of a stove or oven may indicate that an individual in the home environment uses the stove or oven (likely to cook a meal) five times per week over the course of six months. However, over the most recent six months, a new pattern in the electrical usage of the stove or oven may emerge, indicating that the individual in the home environment uses the stove or oven (likely to cook a meal) only one time per week.
At block 406, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment is determined based upon the identified abnormalities or anomalies. Specifically, the condition (in some instances, a medical condition) may be determined based upon atypical behaviors of the individual indicated by the identified abnormalities, abnormalities, or shifts in behavior patterns. For example, if the captured data indicates that a user has left a stove or oven on for an atypically long time, a forgetfulness condition associated with the individual may be determined (i.e., because the user likely forgot that the stove or oven was on).
As another example, if the captured data previously indicated that the individual likely showered once per day, and the capture data indicates that the individual currently showers only once per week, a hygiene condition associated with the individual may be determined (i.e., because the individual is likely bathing less frequently). As still another example, if the captured data indicates that the individual wakes up at a time that is atypically late, an insomnia or fatigue condition associated with the individual may be determined.
Other atypical behaviors that may be detected based upon identified abnormalities or anomalies may include, for instance, lights not being turned on/off, changes in laundry habits, refrigerator not opening and closing, alarm not armed or disarmed, slurred speech when using a voice assistant or passive listening, change in gait, water running too long (i.e., suggesting a shower fall or cognitive failure), sensing a large mass has quickly flattened (i.e., suggesting a fall has occurred).
At block 408, a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual is generated. The notification may be displayed to a caregiver of the individual, such as a parent, child, spouse, doctor, nurse, or other medical caregiver, assisted living facility caregiver or other professional caregiver, etc. In some instances, the notification may indicate a specific event, such as a fall, an entrance or an exit, a travel event, a medical event, or another critical event associated with the individual.
In some examples, when the condition associated with the individual is an emergency medical condition or other urgent condition, a request for emergency services to be provided to the individual may be generated. For instance, ambulance, police, or fire services may be requested.
In some instances, e.g., as shown in
Turning now to
At block 502, historical data detected by a plurality of sensors (e.g., sensors 102) associated with a plurality of home environments (e.g., home environment 104) may be received. In some instances, the historical sensor data may be received upon accessing a database (e.g., database 116). Similarly, at block 504, historical data indicating one or more conditions associated with the individuals in each home environment may be received. In some instances, the historical data may be received upon accessing a database (e.g., database 116).
At block 506, the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each home environment may be analyzed using a machine learning module (or artificial intelligence, or other machine learning models, programs, or algorithms). That is, the historical sensor data and/or the historical condition data may be used as input for the machine learning module, which may employ a neural network, which may be a convolutional neural network, a deep learning neural network, or a combined learning module or program that learns in two or more fields or areas of interest. Re-inforced or reinforcement learning techniques may also be used.
The machine learning module’s analysis of the historical sensor data and the historical condition data may include identifying and recognizing patterns in the data, including the types of data and usage data discussed herein. In some embodiments, existing data, including usage, text or voice/speech data may be used in order to facilitate making predictions for subsequent data. Voice recognition and/or word recognition techniques may also be used. Models may be created based upon example inputs in order to make valid and reliable predictions for novel inputs.
Additionally or alternatively, the machine learning programs may be trained by inputting sample data sets or certain data into the programs, such as mobile device, smart home, smart home sensor, drone, autonomous or semi-autonomous drone, image, vehicle telematics, smart or autonomous vehicle, and/or intelligent home telematics data. In general, training the neural network model may include establishing a network architecture, or topology, and adding layers that may be associated with one or more activation functions (e.g., a rectified linear unit, softmax, etc.), loss functions and/or optimization functions. Data sets used to train the artificial neural network(s) may be divided into training, validation, and testing subsets; these subsets may be encoded in an N-dimensional tensor, array, matrix, or other suitable data structures.
Training may be performed by iteratively training the network using labeled training samples. Training of the artificial neural network may produce byproduct weights, or parameters which may be initialized to random values. The weights may be modified as the network is iteratively trained, by using one of several gradient descent algorithms, to reduce loss and to cause the values output by the network to converge to expected, or “learned”, values. In an embodiment, a regression neural network may be selected which lacks an activation function, wherein input data may be normalized by mean centering, to determine loss and quantify the accuracy of outputs. Such normalization may use a mean squared error loss function and mean absolute error. The artificial neural network model may be validated and cross-validated using standard techniques such as hold-out, K-fold, etc. In some embodiments, multiple artificial neural networks may be separately trained and operated, and/or separately trained and operated in conjunction.
Furthermore, the machine learning programs may utilize deep learning algorithms that may be primarily focused on pattern recognition, and may be trained after processing multiple examples. The machine learning programs may include Bayesian program learning (BPL), voice recognition and synthesis, image or object recognition, optical character recognition, and/or natural language processing - either individually or in combination. The machine learning programs may also include natural language processing, semantic analysis, automatic reasoning, and/or other machine learning techniques, including those discussed elsewhere herein.
In supervised machine learning, a processing element may be provided with example inputs and their associated outputs, and may seek to discover a general rule that maps inputs to outputs, so that when subsequent novel inputs are provided the processing element may, based upon the discovered rule, accurately predict the correct output. In unsupervised machine learning, the processing element may be required to find its own structure in unlabeled example inputs.
At block 508, one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to the conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments may be identified using a machine learning module, based upon the analysis. The identified abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data and their corresponding conditions may comprise a predictive model to be used to analyze current sensor data. For example, the model may include a prediction of a condition associated with an individual in the home environment based upon certain abnormal or anomalous patterns in current sensor data.
In some instances, certain aspects of the exemplary computer-implemented method 500 may be combined with aspects of the exemplary computer-implemented method 400. For example, the identified abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data and their corresponding conditions discussed with respect to block 508 may be utilized in the analysis discussed with respect to block 404 of the method 400, e.g., by comparing the one or more abnormalities or anomalies in current sensor data to the identified abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data and their corresponding conditions. Of course, additional or alternative combinations of these methods may be envisioned in various embodiments.
In one aspect, a computer-implemented method for identifying a condition associated with an individual in a home environment may be provided. The method may include (1) capturing or receiving data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a home environment, such as at one or more transceivers associated with one or more local or remote processors via wireless transmission or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links; (2) analyzing, by the one or more local or remote processors, the captured or received sensor data to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies; (3) determining, by the one or more local or remote processors, based upon the identified one or more abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment; (4) generating, by the one or more local or remote processors a notification indicating the condition associated with the individual; and/or (5) transmitting, by the one or more local or remote processors and/or associated transceivers the notification to a caregiver mobile device, the caregiver being associated with the individual. The method may include additional, less, or alternate actions, including those discussed elsewhere herein.
In another aspect, a computer system for identifying a condition associated with an individual in a home environment may be provided. The system may include one or more sensors associated with a home environment; one or more local or remote processors and/or associated transceivers configured to interface with the one or more sensors; and one or more memories storing non-transitory computer executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the computer system to: (1) capture data detected by the one or more sensors, or receive data generated by the one or more sensors, such as data wirelessly communicated over one or more radio frequency links; (2) analyze the captured data to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies; (3) determine, based upon the identified one or more abnormalities or anomalies, a condition associated with an individual in the home environment; (4) generate an electronic notification indicating the condition associated with the individual; and/or (5) transmit the electronic notification, such as via wireless communication or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links to a mobile device or other computing device associated with a caregiver associated with the individual. The system may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
In another aspect, a computer-implemented method for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The method may include (1) receiving, by one or more local or remote processors, historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receiving, by the one or more local or remote processors, historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) analyzing, by the one or more local or remote processors, using a machine learning module, (i) the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments, and/or (ii) the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; and/or (4) identifying, by the one or more local or remote processors, using the machine learning module, based upon the analysis, one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments. The method may also include (5) capturing or receiving current data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a home environment; (6) analyzing, by the one or more local or remote processors and/or the trained machine learning module, the captured current data to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the current data; (7) comparing, by the one or more local or remote processors and/or the trained machine learning module, the one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the current data to the abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments; and/or (8) determining, by the one or more local or remote processors and/or the trained machine learning module, based upon the comparison, a current condition associated with an individual in the home environment. The method may include additional, less, or alternate actions, including those discussed elsewhere herein.
In one aspect, a computer system for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The system may include one or more local or remote processors and/or associated transceivers; and one or more memories storing non-transitory computer executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors and/or associated transceivers, cause the computer system to: (1) receive historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receive historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) analyze, using a machine learning module, (i) the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and/or (ii) the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; and/or (4) identify, using the machine learning module, based upon the analysis, one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments. The system may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
In one aspect, a computer-implemented method for training a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The method may include (1) receiving, by one or more local or remote processors and/or associated transceivers (such as via wireless communication or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links or communication channels), historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receiving, by the one or more local or remote processors and/or associated transceivers, historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) inputting, by the one or more local or remote processors, into a machine learning module (i) the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and/or (ii) the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments to train the machine learning module to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments; (4) capturing current data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a home environment, or receiving current data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the home environment, via the one or more local or remote processors and/or associated transceivers; (5) inputting, by the one or more local or remote processors, the current data into the trained machine learning module to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the current data and/or an individual in the current data; (6) generating, by the one or more local or remote processors, a notification regarding the one or more abnormalities or anomalies and/or the individual; and/or (7) transmitting, by the one or more local or remote processors and/or transceivers, the notification to a mobile or other computing device of a caregiver for the individual. The method may include additional, less, or alternate actions, including those discussed elsewhere herein.
In another aspect, a computer system configured to train a machine learning module to identify abnormalities or anomalies in sensor data corresponding to conditions associated with individuals in home environments may be provided. The system may include one or more local or remote processors, memories, sensors, transceivers, and/or servers configured to: (1) receive, such as via wireless communication or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links or communication channels, historical data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a plurality of home environments; (2) receive, such as via wireless communication or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links or communication channels, historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments; (3) input, into a machine learning module, (i) the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the plurality of home environments and/or (ii) the historical data indicating conditions associated with individuals in each of the plurality of home environments to train the machine learning module to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies (and/or conditions associated with an individual) in the historical data detected by the plurality of sensors corresponding to conditions associated with the individuals in the home environments; (4) capture current data detected by a plurality of sensors associated with a home environment, or receive, such as via wireless communication or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links or communication channels, current data detected by the plurality of sensors associated with the home environment; (5) input the current data into the trained machine learning module to identify one or more abnormalities or anomalies in the current data and/or an individual in the current data; (6) generate an electronic notification regarding the one or more abnormalities or anomalies and/or the individual; and/or (7) transmit the electronic notification, such as via wireless communication or data transmission over one or more radio frequency links or communication channels, to a mobile or other computing device of a caregiver for the individual. The system may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein.
The computer-implemented methods discussed herein may include additional, less, or alternate actions, including those discussed elsewhere herein. The methods may be implemented via one or more local or remote processors, transceivers, servers, and/or sensors (such as processors, transceivers, servers, and/or sensors mounted on homes, mobile devices, vehicles, computers, televisions, drones, or associated with smart infrastructure or remote servers), and/or via computer-executable instructions stored on non-transitory computer-readable media or medium.
Additionally, the computer systems discussed herein may include additional, less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhere herein. The computer systems discussed herein may include or be implemented via computer-executable instructions stored on non-transitory computer-readable media or medium.
In some embodiments, a processor or a processing element may be trained using supervised or unsupervised machine learning, and the machine learning program may employ a neural network, which may be a convolutional neural network, a deep learning neural network, or a combined learning module or program that learns in two or more fields or areas of interest.
In one embodiment, a SPHERES system may be provided. SPHERES - or Sensing Peripheral Heuristic Evidence, Reinforcement, and Engagement System - may be a network of passive smart systems (i.e., Electric use monitoring sensors, connected home assistant, connected smart home systems, connected video security and more) combined with AI/software to form a solution which autonomously and passively monitors and measures spheres of information, behaviors, and data points, looking for routines and changes to those routines. In one embodiment, the sensor or other data collected may provide actionable insights to caregivers based upon discrete data points, and may monitor routines of certain individuals at risk of medical or other issues.
From passive data collection, SPHERES enables live tracking and notification of the routine norms and abnormalities/anomalies, impacts and dangers within the data and provides instant digital notification when the system senses a change which could cause harm, injury, or loss, is an emergency, or needs immediate additional human interaction and follow-up.
The system also produces on-demand, daily, monthly, yearly, and custom time period-over-time period digital snapshots of collected data to easily understand changes (and red flags) in norms, routines, and behaviors. SPHERES reports include recommendations based upon the collected data points to improve user experience and engagement, increase safety or efficiency, decrease time to intervention/action, save money, or otherwise decrease negative aspects or improve positive impacts. To keep all this personal data safe, it is stored using Blockchain encryption.
One exemplary embodiment may be related to independent/senior living. Here, SPHERES, using electric monitoring sensors, connected smart home devices and assistants (such as Nest, Google Home, Amazon Alexa), and security devices (such as Canary and ADT), and a PERS device (such as Life Alert), a family caregiver could understand the daily routine of a semi-independent loved one, know instantly or within a short period of time, if there are red flags or emergencies which need interaction, and over time, have information they need to help the care recipient make informed independent living or enhanced caregiving environment choices.
In this example, SPHERES would monitor energy use within the home, such as when lights are turned on or off, when computers are activated, when water pumps are running, and when large appliances or TVs and devices are running, when a smart light activates or senses presence, and/or when a garage or other door open. SPHERES may also monitor security features such as cameras and alarm systems, and/or monitor home assistants, such as a voice-activated assistant.
SPHERES, using passive monitoring, keeps track of an independent living consumer’s daily routine. Because humans are creatures of habit, trends/routines - such as sleep and wake time, breakfast, lunch, and dinner routines, entertainment themes, enter/exit themes, movement around house or property patterns, personal hygiene themes, etc. - may be formed. Additionally, everyone has their own walking pattern, speech pattern, and other patterns which are unique.
By using a connected network of smart appliances, devices, and systems, sensor technology, and AI/software data sorting and analysis, SPHERES can understand when something is typical or atypical, such as: lights not being turned on/off; changes in laundry habits; refrigerator not opening and closing; alarm not armed or disarmed; when speech is slurred when using a voice assistant or passive listening; a camera could sense a person’s gate has changed maybe due to injury; water running too long could suggest a shower fall or cognitive failure; sensing a large mass similar to that of the resident has quickly flattened suggesting a fall has occurred; and/or many other data points and abnormalities in routine (including those mentioned elsewhere herein) suggesting action and caregiver instant notification is needed.
SPHERES may also include reporting, recommendations, and action plan functionality. Using multiple data points over time, digital reports may be generated showing progress or decline and items of concern. These snapshot reports may be used to understand the whole picture of a loved one’s Independent Living situation. Are they able to live independently? Do they need assistance? Has a fall or injury happened? Are they depressed and staying in bed longer/not eating? Are there cognitive issues? Is medication being taken? Is the medication beneficial or affective? Based upon passive monitoring of routines and behaviors, these and more are questions SPHERES can help a family and professional caregivers understand an independent living environment, make comparisons to progress and decline, and which can inform discussions and decisions for or with a loved one.
SPHERES may also include equipment and devices used to passively monitor a home and/or occupants. A first and primary source monitored may be Electrical Use Monitoring System (such as one that may be tied into, or a part of, a home’s main breaker box) may be used to monitor time used, duration, what device is asking for power (e.g., appliance, furnace, hot water heater, devices, garage door, overhead lights/lamp, alarm, electrical outlet, water pump, ignition source), and/or what is providing external power (e.g., generator for emergencies). Other sources monitored may include smart phones, mobile devices, connected devices, connected assistants, connected appliances, connected home controls, connected safety systems, connected lighting or speaker systems, connected robotics or sensors, connected motion sensors, connected water sensors, connected gas and ignition monitors, connected contact sensors, connected air movement/draft sensors, connected pet monitoring, geo locator tags, weather monitor, connected vehicle sensors, Wi-Fi activity, medication dispensers or medical dispenser sensors, 3D printers, nano-bots, fine motor control measurements, and/or smart toilets/drains.
SPHERES may include sensors that may detect and measure video and still pictures, audio and decibel levels, activity and movement, vibration, light, arm/disarm functionality, temperature (body and house), moisture, odor, heart rate, breathing rate, hydration, weight, glucose/ketones levels, medical adherence, travel and location, socialization, medical/health monitor use, appliance and electronics use, air quality, sleep, eye movement, exercise, body control, fine motor control, speech, health, nutrition, hygiene, and/or sight and hearing.
The data collected by SPHERES may be analyzed by one or more artificial intelligence or machine learning models, modules, algorithms, or programs, including the types of machine learning techniques discussed elsewhere herein. For instance, the artificial intelligence or machine learning models, modules, algorithms, or programs may be trained using sample image, audio, home telematics, or other types of data, including video and still images. Once trained, current or near real-time data, including video, image, audio, home telematics, or other data, may be input into trained models, modules, algorithms, or programs to identify abnormal or normal conditions or events, such as presence, walking patterns, falls, hazards, imminent danger, evidence of atypical behavior (physical, mental, emotional, social), intruders, theft, fraud, abuse, detecting position of furniture for safety layout recommendations, detecting trip and/or other hazards. Also detected may be moisture/puddles on the floor or other surfaces or ceiling, and/or when lights are on and off.
Audio and decibel conditions or events may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms, such as typical and atypical voice patterns (representing stoke, Alzheimer’s detection, hearing decline - increased TV volume, cognitive decline - such as repeating), social (such as decline in conversation or detecting other people in the house), fall detection, behavioral change (such as more aggression, arguing or less conversation than normal), laughter, crying, other sounds relating to emotion, vehicle coming and going.
Activity and movement may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms, such as moving from room to room, pace and speed of movement, time spent in a space, time spent outside of the house, atypical movement (such as a seizure or movement before or after a fall or injury), patterned walking style, movements and activities related to cooking, cleaning, exercise, entertainment, social, detecting movements associated with a trip or stumble, and/or eye movement.
Activity and movement may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms, such as detecting fall and impact level of fall, detect an item drop/breaking, detecting entry/exit, detecting tornado, earthquake, or other disaster event, phone text/call, and/or a vehicle coming going.
Light switch/light activation may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms, such as detecting when lights turn on and off for individual locations, for what amount of time, and date of activation. The sensor or other data collected may also be used to detect activity of automatic lights that activate when movement or other stimulus is detected.
Arming and disarming functionality may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, conditions that may be identified or detected include entry/exit, alarm activation/disarm, alarm activation with no disarm, number of times over an amount of time, such as hour or single day a home security alarm is armed and disarmed. Also detected may be the amount of accidental alarm activations, and/or the amount of times exiting a home with arming.
Home, home systems, and body temperature may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, conditions that may be identified or detected include, home temperature highs, lows, and averages; hot water temperature from heater, faucets, and bathtub/showers; oven or stovetop temperatures; body temperature of inhabitants to understand if a notification is needed due to illness, accident, or death; differentiation of temperature between rooms of the house; and/or if vents or windows are open or closed.
Moisture may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, conditions that may be identified or detected include plumbing or other leaks, sump pump activation/issue, humidity averages and out of average range in the home, and/or bed wetting or accidents.
Odor may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, conditions that may be identified or detected may include carbon monoxide/dioxide, air quality, smoke, stagnant air, mold/mildew, ammonia, body odor, feces, pet, urine, natural gas, burning food, and/or the presence of certain foods which cause allergic reactions.
Medical/bio data may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, conditions that may be identified or detected may include medical information or characteristics, such as heart rate, BP, cholesterol, glucose, ketones, weight, hydration, nutrition, medication adherence or non-adherence, medical/health monitor device use/adherence at home, and/or breathing rate.
Travel and location may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, GPS, travel itinerary, routine locations, mode or service, purchases of travel, airline, train, or Uber, length and time of travel, travel delays, interruptions, and/or difficulties.
Socialization may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms. For instance, conditions that may be identified or detected may include interaction routines, who interaction is with, how many times a day/week/month, and/or types/categories of conversations.
Appliance and electronics use may also be identified or detected by artificial intelligence programs or trained machine learning models, modules, programs, or algorithms.
In the event that a condition, event, or abnormal condition is detected or identified, a caregiver may receive a digital notification. For instance, digital messages may be received, such as via a mobile device, for fall, medical, emergency, or critical event, entry/exit, travel, or a list of caregiver selected events for anything outside of norms or recommended norms in the above document.
Digital reports may be generated and transmitted to a caregiver’s mobile or other computing device. The digital reports may be easy to scan, read, print, share, and analyze Daily, Weekly, and Yearly snapshot reports; customized time period reports; and/or comparative timeframe reports. The reports may detail the number of notifications sent to caregiver and for what; and/or medication taken, for what, and if that medication is working. The reports may highlight areas of concern, areas of decline, and areas where intervention or improvement needs to take place or needs assistance or additional assistance. The reports may suggest/recommend actions to be taken, and/or may feature recommended services, support, and resources within a certain proximity of the location. The reports may feature number ranges of optimal (based upon age/ability) levels of physical, mental, social, and emotional engagement, activity, and ability and where recipients of care rank.
The reports may further suggest goals and goal setting/meeting features and/or provide an Independent Living overall score - as an example for demonstration: 100 representing ideal independent living capability, 70 representing family/support services interaction needed for independent living capability, 60 representing significant family/support services interaction needed to live independently, and 50 and below representing professional assistance needed. The reports may be able to be shared with doctors and selected family members but secured with a rotating generated password provided by the designated primary family caregiver or Power of Attorney. Additionally or alternatively, the reports may be encrypted using blockchain or similar technology.
With the foregoing, an insurance customer may opt-in to a rewards, insurance discount, or other type of program. After the insurance customer provides their affirmative consent, an insurance provider remote server may collect data from the customer’s mobile device, smart home controller, smart vehicles, computers, televisions, or other smart devices - such as with the customer’s permission or affirmative consent. The data collected may be related to insured assets before (and/or after) an insurance-related event, including those events discussed elsewhere herein. In return, risk averse insureds may receive discounts or insurance cost savings related to home, renters, personal articles, auto, and other types of insurance from the insurance provider.
In one aspect, data, including the types of data discussed elsewhere herein, may be collected or received by an insurance provider remote server, such as via direct or indirect wireless communication or data transmission from a smart home controller, mobile device, or other customer computing device, after a customer affirmatively consents or otherwise opts-in to an insurance discount, reward, or other program. The insurance provider may then analyze the data received with the customer’s permission to provide benefits to the customer. As a result, risk averse customers may receive insurance discounts or other insurance cost savings based upon data that reflects low risk behavior and/or technology that mitigates or prevents risk to (i) insured assets, such as homes, personal belongings, or vehicles, and/or (ii) home or apartment occupants.
Although the foregoing text sets forth a detailed description of numerous different embodiments, it should be understood that the legal scope of the invention may be defined by the words of the claims set forth at the end of this patent. The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment, as describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. One could implement numerous alternate embodiments, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.
Throughout this specification, plural instances may implement components, operations, or structures described as a single instance. Although individual operations of one or more methods are illustrated and described as separate operations, one or more of the individual operations may be performed concurrently, and nothing requires that the operations be performed in the order illustrated. Structures and functionality presented as separate components in example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single component may be implemented as separate components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the subject matter herein.
Additionally, certain embodiments are described herein as including logic or a number of routines, subroutines, applications, or instructions. These may constitute either software (e.g., code embodied on a non-transitory, machine-readable medium) or hardware. In hardware, the routines, etc., are tangible units capable of performing certain operations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. In example embodiments, one or more computer systems (e.g., a standalone, client or server computer system) or one or more hardware modules of a computer system (e.g., a processor or a group of processors) may be configured by software (e.g., an application or application portion) as a hardware module that operates to perform certain operations as described herein.
In various embodiments, a hardware module may be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module may comprise dedicated circuitry or logic that may be permanently configured (e.g., as a special-purpose processor, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) to perform certain operations. A hardware module may also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that may be temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. It will be appreciated that the decision to implement a hardware module mechanically, in dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, or in temporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may be driven by cost and time considerations.
Accordingly, the term “hardware module” should be understood to encompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physically constructed, permanently configured (e.g., hardwired), or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) to operate in a certain manner or to perform certain operations described herein. Considering embodiments in which hardware modules are temporarily configured (e.g., programmed), each of the hardware modules need not be configured or instantiated at any one instance in time. For example, where the hardware modules comprise a general-purpose processor configured using software, the general-purpose processor may be configured as respective different hardware modules at different times. Software may accordingly configure a processor, for example, to constitute a particular hardware module at one instance of time and to constitute a different hardware module at a different instance of time.
Hardware modules may provide information to, and receive information from, other hardware modules. Accordingly, the described hardware modules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. Where multiple of such hardware modules exist contemporaneously, communications may be achieved through signal transmission (e.g., over appropriate circuits and buses) that connect the hardware modules. In embodiments in which multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communications between such hardware modules may be achieved, for example, through the storage and retrieval of information in memory structures to which the multiple hardware modules have access. For example, one hardware module may perform an operation and store the output of that operation in a memory device to which it may be communicatively coupled. A further hardware module may then, at a later time, access the memory device to retrieve and process the stored output. Hardware modules may also initiate communications with input or output devices, and may operate on a resource (e.g., a collection of information).
The various operations of example methods described herein may be performed, at least partially, by one or more processors that are temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the relevant operations. Whether temporarily or permanently configured, such processors may constitute processor-implemented modules that operate to perform one or more operations or functions. The modules referred to herein may, in some example embodiments, comprise processor-implemented modules.
Similarly, the methods or routines described herein may be at least partially processor-implemented. For example, at least some of the operations of a method may be performed by one or more processors or processor-implemented hardware modules. The performance of certain of the operations may be distributed among the one or more processors, not only residing within a single machine, but deployed across a number of machines. In some example embodiments, the processor or processors may be located in a single location (e.g., within an office environment, or as a server farm), while in other embodiments the processors may be distributed across a number of locations.
Unless specifically stated otherwise, discussions herein using words such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “presenting,” “displaying,” or the like may refer to actions or processes of a machine (e.g., a computer) that manipulates or transforms data represented as physical (e.g., electronic, magnetic, or optical) quantities within one or more memories (e.g., volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof), registers, or other machine components that receive, store, transmit, or display information.
As used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “may include,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).
In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the description. This description, and the claims that follow, should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also may include the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.
This detailed description is to be construed as examples and does not describe every possible embodiment, as describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. One could implement numerous alternate embodiments, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this application.
Unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word “means” and a function without the recital of any structure, it is not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted based upon the application of 35 U.S.C. §112(f). The systems and methods described herein are directed to an improvement to computer functionality, and improve the functioning of conventional computers.
This application is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 17/874,010, filed Jul. 26, 2022, entitled “SENSING PERIPHERAL HEURISTIC EVIDENCE, REINFORCEMENT, AND ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM,” which is a continuation application of U.S. Application No. 17/574,874, filed Jan. 13, 2022, entitled “SENSING PERIPHERAL HEURISTIC EVIDENCE, REINFORCEMENT, AND ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM,” which is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 17/077,785, filed Oct. 22, 2020, entitled “SENSING PERIPHERAL HEURISTIC EVIDENCE, REINFORCEMENT, AND ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM,” which is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 16/169,544, filed Oct. 24, 2018, which claims priority to and the benefit of: U.S. Application No. 62/654,975, filed Apr. 9, 2018, and entitled “SENSING PERIPHERAL HEURISTIC EVIDENCE, REINFORCEMENT, AND ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety; and U.S. Application No. 62/658,682, filed Apr. 17, 2018, and entitled “SENSING PERIPHERAL HEURISTIC EVIDENCE, REINFORCEMENT, AND ENGAGEMENT SYSTEM,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62658682 | Apr 2018 | US | |
| 62654975 | Apr 2018 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17874010 | Jul 2022 | US |
| Child | 18138558 | US | |
| Parent | 17574874 | Jan 2022 | US |
| Child | 17874010 | US | |
| Parent | 17077785 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | 17574874 | US | |
| Parent | 16169544 | Oct 2018 | US |
| Child | 17077785 | US |
