CA 02487190 1998-12-04
INFANT SIMULATOR
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
S
This invention broadly relates to the field of simulated parenting. More
specifically, the invention relates to infant simulators used in educational
programs for
educating prospective parents about the realities of parenthood and assisting
in the
education and training of personnel in the child-care field.
10
BACKGROUND
Teen-age pregnancy is an ever increasing problem. Teen-age parents,
I 5 surveyed as to why they elected to have a baby, gave such reasons as
"babies are so
cute," "I wanted attention," and "I needed someone to love and love me back."
Such
romantic feelings toward having a baby almost never include an understanding
of the
responsibilities imposed by a baby, including loss of sleep, Loss of freedom,
the need
for constant attention, etc. Attempts to educate teen-agers about the trials
and
20 tribulations of caring for an infant and raising a child, using the
traditional educational
methods of lectures and readings, are rarely successful.
Some resourceful educators, realizing that traditional educational methods are
inadequate, have attempted to demonstrate the care requirements of an infant
by
2S requiring students to carry a sack of flour, an egg or a plant for several
days. While
somewhat exemplary of the care requirements of an infant, such grograms do not
fairly represent the care requirements of an actual infant and have proven to
be of
limited success,
30 United States Patents Nos. 3,190.038 issued to ICardon, 3,490,170 issued to
Wolf, 3,514,899 issued to Bonanno et al., 4,115,948 issued to Burks and
5,094,644
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
issued to Kelley describe dolls that wil! wet a diaper after being fed from a
bottle.
The dolls described in Kardon and Wolf each include electrical circuitry
capable of
initiating crying when a diaper on the doll is sufficiently wetted after being
fed from a
bottle, and terminating such crying upon removal of the wetted diaper.
Similarly, the
5 doll described in Bonanno et al. further includes electrical circuitry
capable of
initiating crying when the doll is diapered and a bottle is removed from the
mouth of
the doll, and terminating such crying by removing the diaper from the doll.
Such
dolls are not useful for educating students about the trials and tribulations
of caring for
an infant as the feeding and wetting cycle, with or without crying, is under
control of
10 the user. The student, unless under constant supervision by an educator,
can feed and
change the doll on a schedule selected by the student.
United States Patents No. 4,249,338 issued to Wexler discloses a doll which
emits a crying sound when a manually operated switch is actuated_ The user
must
15 then determine which of several switches, labeled with such actions as
feeding, diaper
changing or back patting, will turn off the crying sound. While interesting as
a
plaything, this doll suffers from the same drawback as the "feed and wet"
dolls in that
activation of crying is under control of the user. The student, unless under
constant
supervision by an educator, can activate crying on a schedule selected by the
student.
United States Patent No. 4,451,911 issued to Klose et al. discloses a doll
which can operate in two different modes. In a first mode, the doll enuts
different.
sounds based upon which of several switches, located at various positions on
the body
of the doll, is actuated (e.g., actuation of the mouth switch produces "yum-
yum,"
25 while actuation of the back switch produces "aahh'~. In a second mode the
doll emits
a sound and the user must then determine which of the switches will turn off
the
crying sound and produce a satisfaction signal, such as "mommy." The user can
deactivate the doll by pressing a specified switch on the doll or simply
failing to
activate the proper switch within a given time period. Again, while
interesting as a
30 plaything, this doll suffers from the same drawback as the "feed and wet"
dolls in that
activation and deactivation of the doll is under control of the user. The
student, unless
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
under constant supervision by an educator, can activate and deactivate the
doll on a
schedule selected by the student.
A particularly useful infant simulator system for use in educating students
5 about the care requirements of an infant is described in United States
Patent No.
5,443,388 issued to Jurmain et al. and assigned to the assignee of this
application.
The patent discloses an infant simulator capable of crying at intervals, with
the crying
continuing until a care key is inserted into the infant simulator and
continuously held
in position against a biasing means for a defined time period. The crying
schedule
I 0 may be changed to simulate a healthy, sick or ideal infant_ A tremblor may
be
included to cause the infant to shake at intervals for purposes of simulating
a drug-
affected infant. The infant simulator can also include indicators showing
rough
handling, improper positioning and the detection of a loud sound. The care key
may
include a means for securing the key to an assigned individual.
15
While the infant simulator described in United States Patent No. 5,443,388
and sold under the trademark BABY THINK IT OVER~ has proven extremely useful
as
an educational tool, a continuing need exists for an improved infant simulator
capable
of realistically demonstrating the variety of needs and care requirements of
an infant,
20 as well as the positive aspects of caring for and loving an infant.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
25 The infant simulator includes a variety of features designed to emulate the
care
requirements of an infant. 'The infant simulator can be designed and
programmed
with any combination of the described features, including the ability to
selectively
activate and deactivate individual features for each assignment period. The
infant
simulator is equipped to record and report the quality of care and
responsiveness of a
30 person caring for the infant simulator andlor signal the person caring for
the infant
simulator when care is required.
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The features can be conveniently grouped into the categories of (i)
environmental events, (ii) demand events, and (iii) ancillary features.
S ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS
INDIREC?"LY IND UCED
Temperature Sensor
Infants should not be exposed to temperature extremes. The infant simulator
can be equipped with a temperature sensor capable of sensing the environmental
temperatures to which the infant simulator is exposed.
In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is further equipped with a system
for recording and reporting the sensed temperature. In a second embodiment,
the
infant simulator is further equipped with a system for generating a
perceptible thermal
exposure signal when the sensed temperature falls about or below a defined
acceptable temperature range. A preferred embodiment combines both the
20 recording/reporting and signaling systems so that the person caring for the
infant
simulator is advised when the environmental temperature has reached an
unacceptable
level, and the recorded information can be reviewed by a program administrator
upon
completion of the assignment.
Smoke Detector
Infants should not be exposed to smoke. The infant simulator can be equipped
with a smoke detector capable of sensing environmental smoke from such sources
as a
bonfire, fireplace, cigarette, cigar, or pipe.
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In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for.
recording and reporting instances of detected exposures to smoke. In a second
embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for generating a
perceptible smoke exposure signal when smoke is detected. A preferred
embodiment
combines both the recordinglreporting and signaling systems so that the
student caring
for the infant simulator is advised when smoke is detected and the recorded
information can be reviewed by a program administrator upon completion of the
assignment.
10 Sunlight Sensor
Infants should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The eyes of an infant cannot
accommodate the intensity of direct sunlight, nor can the skin of an infant
withstand
any significant exposure to the sun without irritating the skin. The infant
simulator
15 can be equipped with a light sensor capable of sensing direct exposure to
sunlight.
In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for
recording and reporting instances when the simulator is exposed to direct
sunlight
(i.e., light having an iiluminance exceeding a defined threshold value such as
2,000
20 foot-candles.). In a second embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped
with a
system for generating a perceptible sunlight exposure signal when the
simulator is
exposed to direct sunlight. A preferred embodiment combines both the
recording/reporting and signaling systems so that the student caring for the
infant
simulator is advised when the infant is being exposed to direct sunlight and
the
25 recorded information can .be reviewed by a program administrator upon
completion of
the assignment.
Loud Noise Sensor
30 Infants should not be exposed to loud noises. The ears of an infant cannot
accommodate loud noises such as experienced when proximately exposed to
airplane
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engines during takeoff, firecrackers, firetruck sirens, loud rock music,
shouting,
screaming, etc. The infant simulator can be equipped with a sound sensor
capable of
sensing loud noises.
5 In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for
recording and reporting instances when the simulator is exposed to loud noises
(i.e.,
noise exceeding a defined threshold value such as about 80 decibels.). In a
second
embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for generating a .
perceptible loud sound exposure signal when the simulator is exposed to an
10 excessively loud sound. A preferred embodiment combines both the
recording/reporting and signaling systems so that the student caring for the
infant
simulator is advised when the infant is being exposed to excessive levels of
noise and
the recorded information can be reviewed by a program administrator upon
completion of the assignment.
IS
Overstimulatian
Infants can be overstimulated by prolonged periods of auditory and/or visual
stimulation and/or movement. The infant simulator can be equipped with a sound
20 and/or motion detector far sensing prolonged exposure to noise and/or
prolonged
periods of movement.
In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for
recording and reporting instances of overstimulation. In a second embodiment,
the
25 infant simulator is equipped with a system for generating a perceptible
overstimulation signal when overstimulation is sensed. A preferred embodiment
combines both the recordinglreporting and signaling systems so that the
student caring
for the infant simulator is advised when overstimulation has occurred and the
recorded
information can be reviewed by a program administrator upon completion of the
30 assignment.
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DIRECTLYINDUCED
Infants must be handled with care at all times and should never be
intentionally or unintentionally dropped, shaken, squeezed, struck or
otherwise
5 physically harmed. Two of the more prevalent abuses are the result of a
frustrated
care provider shaking and/or squeezing the infant; usually shaking the body
while
allowing the appendages to flop back-and-forth, andlor squeezing the infant's
arm, leg
or head. The infant simulator can be equipped with (i) an impact sensor
capable of
sensing a potentially injurious impact upon the infant simulator indicative of
being
10 dropped, shaken or struck, and/or (ii) a compression sensor capable of
sensing
potentially injurious compression of the infant simulator.
Impact Sensor
15 In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for
recording and reporting an abusive impact. In a second embodiment, the infant
simulator is equipped with a system for generating a perceptible impact
distress signal
when abusive impact is sensed. A preferred embodiment combines both the
recordinglreporting and signaling systems so that the student caring for the
infant
20 simulator is immediately notified that they have injured the infant
simulator, and the
recorded information can be reviewed by a program administrator upon
completion of
the assignment.
The infant simulator is preferably equipped with multiple impact sensors
25 and/or provided with appropriate programming so as to allow the infant
simulator to
differentiate between (i) a single impact indicative of a single intentional
or
unintentional strike or fall, and (ii) rapid multiple impacts indicative of
intentional
striking or shaking of the infant simulator.
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Compression Sensor
In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a compression
sensor and a system for recording and reporting the sensed compression. In a
second
5 embodiment, the infant simulator is further equipped with a system for
generating a
perceptible distress signal when compression is sensed. A preferred embodiment
combines both the recording/reporting and signaling systems so that the
student caring
for the infant simulator is immediately notified that they have injured the
infant
simulator, and the recorded information can be reviewed by a program
administrator
10 upon completion of the assignment.
Position Sensor
An infant should sleep and rest while lying on its back or side. An infant
15 should rarely lie face down or be hung upside down. 'The infant simulator
can be
equipped with a position sensor capable of sensing the vertical and horizontal
positioning of the infant simulator.
In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is further equipped with a system
20 for recording and reporting the sensed positioning. In a second embodiment,
the
infant simulator is further equipped with a system for generating a
perceptible
positioning distress signal when the infant simulator is improperly
positioned. A
preferred embodiment combines both the recording/reporting and signaling
systems
so that the student caring for the infant simulator is advised when the infant
is
25 improperly positioned, and the recorded information can be reviewed by a
program
administrator upon completion of the assignment.
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Diaper Sensor
Infants should usually be diapered during most of the day, with the exception
of certain limited activities such as bathing. Hence, a realistic simulation
should
require that the infant simulator remain diapered throughout the assignment
period.
In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is equipped with a system for
recording and reporting the sensed absence of a diaper on the infant
simulator. In a
second embodiment, the infant simulator is further equipped with a system for
10 generating a perceptible missing-diaper signal when the infant simulator is
not
diapered. A preferred embodiment combines both the recording/reporting and
signaling systems so that the student caring for the infant simulator is
advised when
the infant is not diapered, and the recorded information can be reviewed by a
program
administrator upon completion of the assignment.
15
More specifically, the infant simulator can be equipped with (i) a sensor for
detecting the presence and absence of a diaper on the infant simulator, (ii) a
system in
communication with the diaper sensor for generating a perceptible missing
diaper
signal when the diaper sensor detects a prolonged (e.g., greater than twenty
minutes)
20 absence of a diaper on the infant simulator, (iii) a system in
communication with the
missing diaper signal generating system for arresting the diaper-missing
signal in
response to receipt of a diaper-present satisfaction signal, and (iv) a diaper
configured
and arranged to be fitted over the lower torso of the infant simulator as a
diaper, with
the diaper having a means effective for being detected by the diaper sensor
and
25 transmitting the diaper-present satisfaction signal to the diaper-missing
signal
arresting system when the diaper is fitted on the infant simulator.
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DEMAND EVENTS
Diaper Change
S Infants require periodic diaper changes. A realistic simulation of a diaper
change should include the actual changing of a diaper. By requiring a first
"soiled"
diaper to be removed and a new "clean" diaper placed upon the infant
simulator, the
person caring for the infant simulator learns that you must carry an extra
diaper at all
times, and gains a more complete understanding of the requirements of an
actual
10 diaper change (e,g., a person carrying the infant simulator into a
restaurant would,
assuming some level of modesty and etiquette, take the infant simulator to the
rest
room to change the diaper).
The infant simulator can be equipped with (i) a system for generating a
15 perceptible diaper-change signal, (ii) a system in communication with the
diaper-
change signal generating system for arresting the diaper-change signal in
response to
receipt of a diaper-change satisfaction signal, and (iii) a diaper configured
and
arranged to be fitted over the lower torso of the infant simulator as a
diaper, with the
diaper having a means effective for transmitting the diaper-change
satisfaction signal
20 to the diaper-change signal arresting system when the diaper is fitted on
the infant
simulator.
The infant simulator can further be equipped with a system for measuring,
recording and reporting the number and duration of each diaper-change episode
(i.e.,
25 the number of times the perceptible diaper-change signal is generated and
the time
periods between initiation of the perceptible diaper-change signal and
completion of a
diaper change effective for transmitting the diaper-change satisfaction
signal.)
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Rocking
Infants often like to be gently rocked. Parents and other care providers will
often rock an infant when the infant is fidgety or fussy, or when the person
simply
wants to comfort the infant. A realistic simulation of rocking should require
actual
rocking of the infant simulator.
The infant simulator can be equipped with (i) a system for generating a
perceptible rocking-request signal, and (ii) a system in communication with
the
10 rocking-request signal generating system for detecting rocking of the
infant simulator
and arresting the rocking-request signal when rocking is detected.
The infant simulator can further be equipped with a system for measuring,
recording and reporting the number andlor duration of rocking-request episodes
(i. e.,
15 the number of times the perceptible rocking-request signal is generated and
the time
periods between initiation of the perceptible rocking-request signal and the
commencement of rocking.)
Feeding with Burp
20
Infants must be regularly fed. A realistic simulation of a feeding should
require both feeding and burping of the infant simulator. In order to
accurately
emulate a feeding, the infant simulator can be equipped with both a feeding-
request
module and a burping-request module, with the burping-request module requiring
25 actual patting of the infant simulator.
The feeding module can include (i) a system for generating a perceptible
feeding-request signal, (ii) a system in communication with the feeding-
request signal
generating system for arresting the feeding-request signal in response to
receipt of a .
30 feeding signal, and (iii) a device for transmitting the feeding signal to
the feeding-
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request signal arresting system when placed in communicative proximity to the
infant
simulator whereby the feeding-request signal is arrested.
The burping module can include (i) a system for generating a perceptible
5 burping-request signal, (ii) a system for initiating generation of the
burping-request
signal in communication with both the feeding-request module and the burping-
request signal generating system for initiating generation of the burping-
request signal
after the feeding signal is received by the feeding-request, module, and (iii)
a system in
communication with the burping-request signal generating system for detecting
10 patting of the infant simulator and arresting the burping-request signal
when patting is
detected.
The infant simulator can further be equipped with a means for individually or
separately measuring, recording and reporting the number and/or duration of
each
1 S feeding-request episode (i, e. , the number of times the perceptible
feeding-request
signal is generated and the time periods between initiation of the perceptible
feeding-
request signal and the commencement of feeding) and each burping-request
episode
(i.e., the number of times the perceptible burping-request signal is generated
and the
time periods between initiation of the perceptible burping-request signs! and
the
20 commencement of patting.)
Fussy and Demand Events
Infants will occasionally fuss for one reason or another and, despite every
25 effort by the parent or other care-provider, cannot be comforted. In such
situations,
the infant tends to continue fussing until the unknown cause of the fussing
dissipates
of its own accord. In order to accurately emulate the frustration encountered
by
parents and other care-providers in such situations, the infant simulator can
be
equipped with a demand event module (e.g., a diaper-change module, a rocking
30 module, a feeding module, etc.) and a fussing module, wherein only the
demand event
module is capable of being satisfied.
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The demand event module can include (i) a system for generating a perceptible
demand signal, (ii) a system in communication with the demand signal
generating
system for arresting the demand signal in response to receipt of a
satisfaction signal,
and (iii) a device for transmitting the satisfaction signal to the demand
signal arresting
system when placed in communicative proximity to the infant simulator whereby
the
demand signal is arrested.
The fussing module can include (i) a system for generating a perceptible
10 fussing signal, (ii) a fussing interval timer in communication with the
fussing signal
generating system fox initiating generation of the fussing signal at
intervals; and (iii) a
fussing duration timer in communication with the fussing signal generating
system for
terminating generation of the fussing signal at the end of a fussing period.
15 Since the fussing module does not include a system capable of arresting the
fussing signal, the fussing signal will necessarily continue until the end of
the fussing
period regardless of the actions of the student.
Rest
20
Infants need frequent rest periods and naps during which the infant should not
be stimulated (e.g., limited movement of the infant and limited noise levels
reaching
the infant). A realistic simulation of caring for an infant should include
rest periods
during which interaction with the infant simulator must be minimized (e.g., no
25 movement above a threshold force and no sounds above a threshold decibel
level).
The infant simulator can be equipped with (i) a system for generating a
perceptible rest-request signal, and (ii} a system in communication with the
rest-
request signal generating system for detecting resting of the infant simulator
(i.e.,
30 limited movement and sounds) and arresting the rest-request signal when
resting is
detected.
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The infant simulator can further be equipped with a system for measuring,
recording and reporting the number andlor duration of each rest-request
episode (i.e.,
the number of times the perceptible rest-request signal is generated and the
time
periods between initiation of the perceptible rest-request signal and the
commencement of resting.)
ANCILLARY FEATURES
10 The features described below are labeled as ancillary features because they
function to enhance performance of an infant simulator exhibiting at least one
type of
an environmental or demand event. For practical purposes, the disclosed
ancillary
features are operable in combination with the modules disclosed herein as well
as any
other modules requiring the student to interact with the infant simulator
(i.e., remove
15 the infant simulator from the unacceptable environment or provide the
infant
simulator with the appropriate satisfaction signal.)
Multiple Behavior Modes Feature
20 Infants have different care requirements, dependent upon several factors
such
as the age of the infant, the disposition of the infant, the level of care
historically
provided the infant, whether it is daytime or night time, whether the child
is. sick or
healthy, etc. For example, some infants will sleep continuously for several
hours at
night, while others will wake almost every hour and require some type of
attention. In
25 order to emulate the different care requirements of infants, the infant
simulator can be
equipped to (i) permit a program administrator to select between several
programming
options which require different types and/or levels of care, and/or (ii)
change the
behavior of the infant simulator during the course of an assignment period due
to such
factors as time of day, sickness, or level of care provided by the student.
30
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Selected at the Beginning
of an Assignment Period
The care requirements of an infant change as they age. For example, newborn
infants generally require more frequent care than a six month old infant. In
order to
emulate the different care requirements of infants as they age, the infant
simulator can
be equipped to permit a program administrator to select between several
programs
10 which require different age appropriate types of care. In a preferred
embodiment, the
types of care can be set to represent the care requirements of a newborn
infant, a three
month old infant and a six month old infant, thereby allowing the program
administrator to change the simulation for each student.
15 This feature can also enhance a student's sense of participation and
involvement in the program by allowing the student to select the age of the
infant.
F~~iNG METHOD
20 The care requirements of a breast fed infant are generally different than
those
of a bottle fed infant. For example, breast fed infants tend to require more
frequent
feedings and diaper changes, while bottle feeding requires preparation time
before and
clean-up time after each feeding. In order to emulate the different care
requirements
of breast fed and bottle fed infants, the infant simulator can be equipped to
permit a
25 program administrator to select between a breast fed program and a bottle
fed
program. In a preferred embodiment, the breast fed program would provide a
greater
frequency of feeding and diaper change periods, while the bottle fed program
would
provide for longer feeding and diaper change periods. In addition, the breast
fed
program could require that feeding occur in a private location (e.g., feeding
can only
30 be provided with limited noise levels), while the bottle fed program could
require
morning and/or evening attendance periods, designed to simulate the time
required to
prepare the bottles, andlor the insertion of an actual bottle in order to feed
the infant.
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This feature can also enhance a student's sense of participation and
involvement in the program by allowing the student to select whether to breast
feed or
bottle feed the infant.
Different infants have different care requirements due to the disposition of
the
infant. These different levels of care can be produced by altering the time
interval
10 between demand events (i.e., increase or decrease the number of events
occurnng
within an assignment period) and/or altering the duration of each demand
period (i.e.,
increase or decrease the length of each period). The different levels of care
can be set
to represent the care requirements of an easy, an average and a di~cult
infant, thereby
allowing the program administrator to change the simulation for each student.
15
Occurring During an Assignment Period
DAYT1ME/N~H~' TIME FEATURE
20 Infants tend to have different care requirements during the daytime (e.g.,
between the hours of about 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., more preferably between
the core
hours of about 9:00 a.m, and 6:00 p.m.) and the night time (e.g., between the
hours of
about 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., more preferably between the core hours of about
10:00
p.m. and 6:00 a.m.). As a general matter, night time care requirements are
less than
25 daytime requirements, with longer intervals between demand events and
shorter
demand periods during the night time hours.
In order to emulate the different care requirements of an infant during night
. time hours, the infant simulator can be equipped with an internal clock, set
to the
30 actual time of day, and the microcontroller unit programmed to decrease the
duration
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of demand periods andlor increase tlae time intervals between demand events
occurring during night time hours.
The infant simulator can be programmed to increase or decrease the level of
care required by the infant simulator based upon the level of care provided by
the
student during an assignment period. For example, failure to provide a
satisfaction
signal within a defined time limit (e.g., two minutes) for a defined number of
10 consecutive demand events (e.g., three demand events), failure to respond
to a single
demand event within a demand period, or subjecting the infant simulator to
physical
abuse, can cause the infant simulator to increase the level of care required
from easy
to average (e.g., decreasing the time interval between events and/or
increasing the
duration of each period).
15
Sick Period Feature
Infants tend to zequire additional care when they are sick. In order to
emulate
the increased care requirements of a sick infant, the infant simulator can be
20 programmed to initiate a sick period, during which the duration of demand
periods
occurring within the sick period are increased and/or the time interval
between
demand periods occurring within the sick period are decreased.
The infant simulator can further be equipped with (i) a system for generating
a
25 perceptible sick signal, and (ii) a system for recording and reporting the
occurrence of
a sick period.
Comatose Feature
30 The infant simulator can include a sensor and/or programming to detect
severe
abuse or neglect rising to the level of a pernicious event (e.g., extreme
thermal
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exposure, abusive compression, an abusive impact, or prolonged failure to
feed),
measured in terms of the duration and/or force of the abuse and/or neglect,
and
causing the infant simulator to enter into a coma (e.g., recording and
reporting of
severe abuse/neglect and cessation of all program functions). The infant
simulator can
5 also optionally (i) signal the student to seek immediate medical attention
for the
comatose infant (e.g., a password or medical care key possessed by a "medical
representative" such as the program administrator) to prevent the infant from
dying,
and/or (ii) measure, record and report the occur ence and/or duration of the
medical
request episode (i.e., the occurrence of such an incident and the time period
between
10 initiation of the perceptible medical attention-request signal and receipt
of the medical
attention-received signal)
Contented Signal Feature
15 The responsibility of caring for an infant can engender the contrasting
emotions of fidfillment and frustration. A realistic simulation of caring for
an infant
should include environmental events, demand events and ancillary features
emulating
both the positive and negative aspects of caring for an infant.
20 1'he infant simulator can be equipped with a contented condition submodule
for providing positive feedback to the student when proper care is provided.
The
contented submodule can include (i) a system for generating a perceptible
contented
signal, and (ii) a system in communication with a demand event module and the
perceptible contented signal generating system for initiating generation of
the
25 contented signal after a satisfaction signal has been timely received by
the demand
event module.
Grace Period Feature
30 Those caring for an infant cannot be expected to remain within arms reach
of
the infant at all times, but are expected to remain close enough to promptly
respond to
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the infant. Hence, in order to provide meaningful and realistic information to
the
program administrator as to the level of care provided by a student caring for
the
infant simulator, the simulator can be programmed to provide a grace period
(e.g.,
about 1 to 3 minutes, preferably 2 minutes) after the initiation of a demand
signal,
S within which the student can provide the appropriate satisfaction signal and
the
duration of the demand episode is recorded as zero. The recorded and reported
duration of those demand episodes having a duration longer than the grace
period can
include or exclude the grace period as desired, with the program administrator
advised
as to the option selected so that they may accurately interpret the recorded
and
reported data and provide appropriate feedback to the student.
A grace period can also be usefully implemented in connection with certain
environmental events (e.g., exposure to unacceptable environmental conditions
of
temperature, smoke, sunlight ar position) where a limited period of exposure
(e.g.,
1 S exposure to coal conditions of between OS-15 °C for less than 30
seconds) is generally
not harmful to the infant. However, a grace period should not be implemented
for
those unacceptable environmental conditions capable of immediately resulting
in
injury to an infant, such as an abusive impact or abusive compression.
20 In a preferred embodiment, the infant simulator provides the student with a
positive signal whenever the student has responded to the demand signal within
the
grace period, thereby immediately advising the student that they have provided
prompt care and the report provided to the program administrator at the end of
the
assignment period will reflect that the duration of the demand episode was
zero.
25
Identification System Feature
In order for a student to fully appreciate the responsibility of caring for an
infant, and for a teacher to provide meaningful feedback to the student, it is
important
30 that the student to whom the infant simulator is assigned tend to the
comfort, safety
and demands of the infant simulator. In other words, it is important that the
infant
19
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
simulator be equipped with some type of system which requires the assigned
student
to care for the infant simulator, or at least be present when the duties are
discharged.
For purposes of ensuring that the assigned student is at least present when
the
5 demands of the infant simulator are being satisfied as required by the
demand event
module, the infant simulator can be equipped with an identification feature
including
at least, (i) a system for receiving an identification signal personal to the
assigned
student, and (ii) a system in communication with the identification-signal
receiving
system and the demand event module effective for preventing arresting of the
demand
10 signal until the identification signal is received by the identification-
signal receiving
system.
Escalating DistresslDemand Signal Feature
15 Infants can provide a variety of perceptible signals to parents and other
care-
providers indicating that an environmental condition is making the infant
uncomfortable, or requesting that a need be satisfied. While the most common
signal
is crying, other signals include fidgeting, fussing, gasping, repeated side-to-
side
shaking of the head, rubbing of the eyes and face, and whining. In addition,
infants
20 will usually escalate the signal over time when the condition continues or
the need
remains unsatisfied. Hence, a realistic simulation of caring for an infant
should
provide for an escalation in the strength, intensity and/or severity of a
discomfort,
distress or demand signal as the condition/need remains unsatisfied over time.
25 An infant simulator having an environmental event module or a demand event
module can be further equipped with a system in communication with the module
for
escalating the perceptible discomfort, distress or demand signal generated by
the
discomfort, distress or demand signal generating system as the duration of the
environmental discomfort period or demand period increases.
30
20
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
In addition, an infant simulator having an environmental event module or a
demand event module can. also be equipped with a system in communication with
the
module for de-escalating an escalated perceptible discomfort, distress or
demand
signal generated by the discomfort, distress or demand signal generating
system once
the appropriate satisfaction signal has been transmitted to the infant
simulator.
Self-Directed Expression
Infants will occasionally generate a sound and/or action on their own
initiative
10 even though they are not seeking any type of interaction with a parent or
other care-
provider. A myriad of different self directed expressions are possible,
including
specifically, but not exclusively, babbling, blinking of the eyes, flailing of
the arms
and/or legs, giggling, gurgling, hiccuping, laughing, screaming with joy,
sighing,
smiling, sneezing, spitting, squinting, sucking fingers and/or toes, wrinkling-
up of the
15 nose, etc.
In order to emulate these self directed expressions, and enhance the reality
of
the simulation, the infant simulator can be equipped with a module
(hereinafter
"expression module") capable of periodically generating a self directed
expression
20 without regard to any effort on the part of the student to elicit such an
expression.
The expression module comprises a system for periodically generating a
perceptible self directed expression. Since the self directed expressions wilt
generally
be of the type which occurs briefly and is not typically perceived by a parent
as
25 requiring satisfaction, the self directed expression module need not
include a system
capable of arresting the sound and/or action. Hence, the self directed
expression will
necessarily continue until completed, regardless of the actions of the
student.
21
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Sound Recording
The infant simulator may optionally be equipped with a sound recorder (e.g., a
standard tape recorder or a solid state sound recording device) for purposes
of
5 recording the verbal reaction of a student and others near the infant
simulator to the
various requirements of the infant simulator, for later review by the student
and/or the
program administrator. In order to provide a recording of useful duration, the
sound
recorder should be configured and arranged to record only when (i) a verbal
reaction
can be expected from the student (e.g., a three minute period after
commencement of a
10 demand event or during a pernicious event), and/or (ii) loud sounds are
detected (e.g.,
yelling, screaming or shouting). The infant simulator can also include a voice
recognition system in communication with the sound recorder for activating the
sound
recorder whenever the assigned student's voice is detected.
15
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the infant simulator
including one embodiment of an identification key and tamper indicating
wristband.
20
Figures 2a-2t are a flowchart of one embodiment of the infant simulator.
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the infant simulator shown in
Figure
1, showing one embodiment of the internal electronic components of the infant
25 simulator.
Figure 4a is a perspective view of one embodiment of a first diaper for use in
combination with the infant simulator for initiating transmission of a diaper-
change
satisfaction signal.
30
22
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Figure 4b is a perspective view of one embodiment of a second diaper for use
in combination with the infant simulator for initiating transmission of a
diaper-change
satisfaction signal.
Figure S is a perspective view of one embodiment of a bottle for use in
combination with the infant simulator for initiating transmission of a feeding-
request
satisfaction signal.
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of a motion and
10 position sensor.
Figure 7 is an electronic circuit diagram for an alternative embodiment of a
motion and position sensor.
IS
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
INCLUDING A BEST MODE
DEFINITIONS
20
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "abusive impact " means
an impact of a magnitude such that discomfort or injury would normally be
inflicted
upon an actual infant. An impact having a magnitude insufficient to be
classified as
an "abusive impact" includes specifically, but not exclusively, an impact
resulting
25 from such routine activities as bathing, patting to elicit a burp, ordinary
handling,
rocking, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "activated," when used to
describe the condition of an infant simulator, means that (i) at least one of
the
30 environmental sensors and associated means for recording the sensed
environmental
variable are sensing and recording (e.g., environmental temperature or
compression),
23
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
andlor (ii) at least one of the demand events is capable of occurring at any
time or the
time interval to such occurrence is being timed (e.g., diaper-change, feeding,
or fussy
event).
S As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "arrested," when used to
describe the condition of a perceptible signal generating means, means that
the
perceptible signal is no longer expressed, optionally after a wind-down period
of
diminishing intensity, and includes both termination of the signal (i, e., the
perceptible
signal will not be generated until reinitiated by the occurrence of a defined
10 environmental condition or demand event), and inhibition of the signal (i.
e., the
perceptible signal will be expressed upon the removal or cessation of a
specific
condition or generation of a satisfaction signal).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "assignment period,"
15 means the period of time during which the infant simulator is activated and
the
assigned person or team is given custody of the infant simulator (e.g.,
overnight, 48
hours, one week, etc.).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the terms "brief' and "prolonged"
are
20 used as complementary relative terms wherein neither is specifically
limited in
duration, but brief is always of a shorter duration than prolonged.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "burping-re9uest
episode,"
refers to that portion of a burping-request event beginning when a perceptible
2S burping-request signal is initiated and ending when patting of the infant
simulator is
commenced. It is noted for purposes of clarity that this definition is not
intended to
mandate the specific signal received by the burping-request episode duration
measuring means for initiating the timing of a burping-request episode (e.g.,
timing of
a burping-request episode can be initiated by a signal emanating from the
burping-
30 request interval timer or a signal generated by the perceptible burping-
request signal
generating means), nor specify the particular sequence by which an electrical
signal
z4
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
must travel through the burping-request module (e.g., the burping-request
module
may be configured and arranged so that the burping-request episode duration
measuring means receives a signal to start timing a burping-request episode
before,
after or simultaneously with the receipt of a corresponding signal by the
perceptible
burping-request signal generating means).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "burpJng-reguest event,"
means generation of a burping-request signal capable of being arrested upon
receipt of
a burping-request satisfaction signal (e.g., rocking of the infant simulator),
and
10 optionally followed by the measuring and recording of data effective far
reporting the
occurrence of a burping-request event and the level of care provided by a
student in
response to the burping-request signal.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "burping-reguest period,"
1S means the period of time during which the burping-request signal will be
generated
and expressed by the infant simulator unless a burping-request satisfaction
signal is
being continuously received by the infant sirnulatar.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "abusive compression,"
20 means compression of a magnitude such that discomfort or injury would
normally be
inflicted upon an actual infant. A compression having.a magnitude insufficient
to be
classified as an "abusive compression" include specifically, but not
exclusively, a
compression resulting from such routine activities as bathing, patting to
elicit a burp,
ordinary handling, hugging, lying on a carpeted floor, rubbing of the stomach,
light
2S tickling, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "continuous," when used in
connection with the activity of feeding the infant simulator, means that the
feeding
signal transmitting means (e.g., a bottle) is held in communicative position
relative to
30 the infant simulator by a student so as to transmit the feeding signal to
the feeding-
request system (e.g., the bottle is inserted into the mouth of the infant
simulator)
2S
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
without release of the feeding signal transmitting means by the student for
any
appreciable time period (i.e., from a fraction of a second up to as long as
about five
seconds).
5 As utilized heroin, including the claims, the term "continuous," when used
in
connection with the activities of rocking the infant simulator and burping the
infant
simulator for purposes of responding to a rocking-request signal or a burping-
request
signal, means that the infant simulator is subjected to appropriate levels of
accelerative motion without stop, or accelerative motion separated only by
stationary
10 periods of modest duration (i.e., from a fraction of a second up to as long
as about five
seconds).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "continuous," when used in
connection with the recording of temperature values, means that the
temperature is
15 recorded on a predetermine schedule (e.g., every nanosecond, every second,
every ten
seconds, every two minutes, etc.) without interruption.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "demand episode," refers
to that portion of a demand event beginning when a perceptible demand signal
is
20 generated and ending when an appropriate satisfaction signal is provided.
Exemplary,
demand episodes include specifically, but not exclusively, diaper-change
episodes,
feeding-request episodes, burping-request episodes, rest-request episodes and
rocking-
request episodes.
25 As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "demand event," means
generation of a demand signal capable of being arrested upon receipt of an
appropriate
satisfaction signal, and optionally followed by the measuring and recording of
data
effective for reporting the occurrence of a demand event and the level of care
provided
by a student in response to the demand signal.
30
26
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "unsatlsfred demand
event," refers to a demand event of timed duration which reaches the end of
the
demand event (i. e. , the end of the demand period) without receipt of the
appropriate
satisfaction signal. In other words, the student did not transmit the
satisfaction signal
in a timely fashion.
As utilized herein, including the claims the phrase "demand event module"
references a module which includes at least (i) a means for generating a
perceptible
demand signal, and (ii) a means in communication with the demand signal
generating
10 means for arresting the demand signal in response to receipt of a
satisfaction signal.
As a general matter, a "demand event module" signals a student that some type
of
interaction is required between the student and the infant, and arrests the
signal when
the required interaction is provided.
15 As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "demand period," means
the period of time during which the demand signal will be generated and
expressed by
the infant simulator unless a satisfaction signal is being received by the
infant
simulator. Exemplary, demand periods include specifically, but not
exclusively,
diaper-change periods, feeding-periods, burping periods, resting periods and
rocking
20 periods.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "diaper-change episode,"
refers to that portion of a diaper-change event beginning when a perceptible
diaper-
change signal is initiated and ending when a diaper-change satisfaction signal
is
25 transmitted. It is noted for purposes of clarity that this definition is
not intended to
mandate the specific signal received by the diaper-change module for
initiating or
terminating the timing of a diaper-change episode (e.g., timing of a diaper-
change
episode can be initiated by a signal emanating from the diaper-change interval
timer
or a signal generated by the perceptible diaper-change signal generating
means), nor
30 specify the particular sequence by which an electrical signal must travel
through the
diaper-change module (e.g., the diaper-change module may be configured and
27
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
arranged so that the diaper-change duration timer receives a signal to start
timing a
diaper-change episode before, after or simultaneously with the receipt of a
corresponding signal by the perceptible diaper-change signal generating
means).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "diaper-change event,"
means generation of a diaper-change signal capable of being arrested upon
receipt of a
diaper-change satisfaction signal (e_g., changing of the diaper on the infant
simulator),
and optionally followed by the measuring and recording of data effective for
reporting
the occurrence of a diaper-change event and the level of care provided by a
student in
responding to the diaper-change signal.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "diaper-change perfod,"
means the period of time during which the diaper-change signal will be
generated and
expressed by the infant simulator unless a diaper-change satisfaction signal
is received
by the infant simulator.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "missing diaper period,"
means the time period beginning when the absence of a diaper is detected
(i.e., the
presence of a diaper fitted onto the torso of the infant simulator as a diaper
is not
20 detected) and ending when a diaper is fitted onto the torso of the infant
simulator as a
diaper and the presence of the diaper is detected.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "distress period," when
used in connection with the generation of a distress signal, means a time
period
25 beginning immediately or shortly after sensing of an abusive compression or
abusive
impact, and ending after a time period of predetermined or bounded random
duration
measured fram either commencement or termination of the abuse. When the end of
a
distress period is measured from commencement of the abuse , the distress
period
should be selected so as to have a longer duration than any anticipated
abusive
30 compression or abusive impact (e.g., a minimum distress period of 15
seconds when
the typical duration of an abusive compression is about 5 to 10 seconds) in
order to
28
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
avoid an anomalous situation in which the distress period (i.e., the distress
signal)
ends before the abuse stops. Alternatively, when the end of a distress period
is
measured from termination of abuse, the distress period may have any desired
duration since the distress period, by definition, cannot end before the abuse
ends.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "manneguin" means a figure
representative of a human being and including at least a portion representing
a head
and a portion representing a torso. A device providing an electronic
representation of
a human being (e.g., an LCD screen displaying a human figure), and a device
10 displaying a printed image of a human (e.g., an egg shaped base with a
picture of a
human infant laminated to a flattened surface of the base) are specifically
included
within the definition of a "mannequin." The figure is preferably shaped as an
infant
and includes arms and legs. Other physical features can be represented as
desired,
including specifically, but not exclusively, hair, eyes, eye lashes; eyebrows,
ears,
15 nose, mouth, hands, fingers, fingernails, aureole, bellybutton, genitalia,
feet, toes,
toenails, skin pigmentation, and physical deformities.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "environmental
condition," means an external condition imposed upon the infant simulator.
20 Exemplary environmental conditions include specifically, but not
exclusively, (i)
horizontal and vertical positioning of the infant simulator, (ii) the
temperature to
which the infant simulator is exposed, (iii) compression of the infant
simulator, (iv)
exposure of the infant simulator to smoke, (v) physical abuse of the infant
simulator,
(vi) verbal abuse of the infant simulator, (vii) exposure of the infant
simulator to
25 bright light, (viii) overstimulation of the infant simulator, (ix) complete
submersion of
the infant simulator in water, (x) exposure of the infant simulator to loud
noises, (xi)
maintaining a diaper on the infant simulator, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "unacceptable
30 environmental condition," means an environmental condition to which an
actual
human infant should not be subjected due to the discomfort and/or possibility
of
29
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
injury imposed by such exposure. Exemplary unacceptable environmental
conditions
include specifically, but not exclusively, (i) positioning of the infant
simulator on its
stomach during a rest period, (ii) exposing the infant simulator to
temperatures in
excess of 40°C, (iii) abusive compression of the infant simulator, (iv)
exposing the
infant simulator to cigarette smoke, (v) striking or dropping of the infant
simulator,
(vi) screaming at the infant simulator, (vii) exposing the infant simulator to
direct
sunlight, (viii) completely submersing the infant simulator in water, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "environmental discomfort
10 period," means the time period beginning when an unacceptable environmental
condition is sensed (e.g., temperature outside acceptable temperature range or
abusive
impacts sensed), and ending when the environmental condition returns to an
acceptable level (e.g., temperature within acceptable temperature range or
absence of
abusive impacts).
15
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "environmental event,"
means the sensing of an unacceptable environmental condition followed by the
generation of a distress or discomfort signal and/or the measuring and
recording of
data effective for reporting the sensing of an unacceptable environmental
condition
20 and/or evaluating the extent of the distress or discomfort created by the
unacceptable
environmental condition.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase ' feeding reguest
episode,"
refers to that portion of a feeding-request event beginning when a perceptible
feeding-
2S request signal is initiated and ending upon transmission of a feeding
satisfaction
signal. It is noted for purposes of clarity that this definition is not
intended to mandate
the specific signal received by the feeding-request module for initiating or
arresting
the timing of a feeding-request episode (e.g., timing of a feeding-request
episode can
be initiated by a signal emanating from the feeding-request interval timer or
a signal
30 generated by the perceptible feeding-request signal generating means), nor
specify the
particular sequence by which an electrical signal must travel through the
feeding
30
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
request module (e.g., the feeding-request module may be configured and
arranged so
that the feeding-request duration timer receives a signal to start timing a
feeding-
request episode before, after or simultaneously with the receipt of a
corresponding
signal by the perceptible feeding-request signal generating means).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase 'feeding-reguest event,"
means generation of a feeding-request signal capable of being arrested upon
receipt of
a feeding-request satisfaction signal (e.g., placement of a bottle into the
mouth of the
infant simulator), and optionally followed by the measuring and recording of
data
effective for reporting the occurrence of a feeding-request event and the
level of care
provided by a student in response to the feeding-request signal.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase 'feeding request period,"
means the period of time during which the feeding-request signal will be
generated
and expressed by the infant simulator unless the appropriate satisfaction
signal (i.e., a
feeding signal) is being continuously received by the infant simulator.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "infant" refers io a young
human ranging in age from a newborn, including a premature newborn, to an
approximately one year old child.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "key" refers to any device
configured and arranged to fit within and communicate with a complementary
keyhole, including specifically, but not exclusively a passkey,of specified
configuration, a card having holes in a specified pattern, a card bearing
information on
a magnetic strip, a magnet of specified strength and configuration, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "medical attention
signal"
means a perceptible signal effective for conveying notice to a student that
the infant
simulator is in need of professional medical attention. Exemplary medical
attention
signals including specifically, hut not exclusively audible signals (e.g.,
prolonged
31
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
intense screaming), olfactory signals (e.g., continuous emission of odorous
stench),
tactile signals (e.g., bumps on the skin), visual signals (e.g., rubbing the
stomach or
LCD display), and multimedia signals (e.g., screaming and rubbing the
stomach).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "medical attention
episode," refers to that portion of a medical attention event beginning when a
perceptible medical attention-request signal is initiated by the infant
simulator and
ending when a medical attention-received signal is transmitted to the infant
simulator.
10 As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "medical attention
event,"
means generation of a medical attention-request signal capable of being
arrested upon
receipt of a medical attention received signal (e.g., insertion of a key
marked
"doctor"), and optionally followed by the measuring and recording of data
effective
for reporting the occurrence of a medical attention event and the level of
care provided
15 by a student in response to the medical attention-request signal.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "unsatisfied medical
attention event," refers to a medical attention event of timed duration which
reaches
the end of the medical attention event (i. e:, the end of the medical
attention period)
20 without receipt of the medical attention-received signal. In other wards,
the student
did not transmit the medical attention-received signal in a timely fashion).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "medical auention-
period," means the period of time available for a student to transmit a
medical-
25 attention-received signal to the infant simulator in response to a medical
attention-
request signal in order to prevent death of the infant simulator.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "overstimulated," means to
be exposed to elevated but generally accepted types and levels of noise andlor
motion
30 for such an extended continuous duration andlor prolonged periodicity that
an actual
infant could become irritable. Examples include specifically, but not
exclusively,
32
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
sitting through an amplified concert, continuous passing of the infant from
person to
person at a family reunion, watching a long parade, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "overstimulation period,"
means the time period beginning when the extent of recent stimulatory actions
become overstimulation, and ending when the extent of recent stimulatory
actions is
reduced below a defined extent of stimulation.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "pernicious event" means
10 an event of such a nature (e.g., thermal exposure, abusive compression of
the head,
shaking, etc.) and magnitude (e.g., extreme force and/or prolonged duration)
that an
actual infant experiencing such an event would be expected to experience
severe
injuries. Pernicious events include pernicious thermal exposure, pernicious
compression, pernicious impact, pernicious exposure to smoke, etc.
15
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "predetermined value"
means a specific value (e.g., 10 minutes) and includes both permanently
assigned
values (e.g., a duration period which is always 10 minutes) and values
assigned for an
assignment period and capable of being reassigned for subsequent assignment
periods
20 (e.g., a time interval predetermined at the start of an assignment period
as 2, 5 or ?
minutes).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "random variable" is used
in accordance with the dictionary definition of random variable (i.e., a
variable that is
25 a function of the result of a statistical experiment in which each outcome
has a
definite probability of occurrence, such as the number of spots showing if two
dice are
thrown). The phrase "bounded random variable" means that the random variable
must fall within defined minimum and maximum values (i.e., the variable must
be
greater than 0 and less than 13).
30
33
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "rest period," means the
period of time during which a rest-request signal will be generated and
expressed
should the infant simulator detect movement of the infant simulator and/or
sounds
above a defined threshold value.
5
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "restricted" means limited
access, with access generally achievable only upon the exercise of intentional
and
deliberate actions directed toward the objective of achieving such access
(e.g.,
removing a machine screw, cutting a closure band, entering an access code,
removing
10 a tamper indicating label, etc.).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "rocking reguest
episode,"
refers to that portion of a rocking-request event beginning when a perceptible
rocking-
request signal is initiated and ending upon transmission of a rocking-request
1 S satisfaction signal (i. e., commencement of rocking). It is noted for
purposes of clarity
that this definition is not intended to mandate the specific signal received
by the
rocking-request module for initiating or arresting the timing of a rocking-
request
episode (e.g., timing of a rocking-request episode can be initiated by a
signal
emanating from the rocking-request interval timer or a signal generated by the
20 perceptible rocking-request signal generating means), nor specify the
particular
sequence by which an electrical signal must travel through the rocking-request
moduie (e.g., the rocking-request module may be configured and arranged so
that the
rocking-request duration timer receives a signal to start timing a rocking-
request
episode before, after or simultaneously with the receipt of a corresponding
signal by
25 the perceptible rocking-request signal generating means).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "rocking reguest event,"
means generation of a rocking-request signal capable of being arrested upon
receipt of
a rocking-request satisfaction signal (e.g., racking of the infant simulator),
and
30 optionally followed by the measuring and recording of data effective for
reporting the
34
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
occurrence of a rocking-request event and the level of care provided by a
student in
response to the rocking-request signal.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "rocking period," means
the period of time during which the rocking-request signal will be generated
and
expressed by the infant simulator unless the appropriate satisfaction signal
(I. e., a
rocking motion) is being continuously received by the infant simulator.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "normal room lighting"
10 refers to the interior lighting of a dwelling typically provided by
incandescent,
fluorescent andlor halogen light fixtures. As a general matter, such interior
lighting is
less than 1,000 foot-candles, typically less than 500 foot-candles, and
frequently less
than 100 foot-candles.
15 As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrases "adjusting the
potential
duration of a period," and "adjusting the potential duration oja time
Interval"
means changing the probability of occurrence such that a longer or shorter
duration is
more likely to occur. Such adjustment can occur by (i) changing one or both of
the
endpoints of the time range from which the duration of the period or interval
can be
20 selected (e.g., a change from a 10 to 20 minute time range to a 10 to 50
minute time
range or a change from a 10 to 20 minute time range to a 40 to 50 minute time
range),
and/or (ii) changing the statistical preference for a time value within a
defined time
range (e.g., a change from a 10 to 20 minute time range with a 40% chance of
selecting a duration of 15 to 20 minutes to a 10 to 20 minute time range with
an 80%
25 chance of selecting a duration of 15 to 20 minutes).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "selected periods" means
a
portion of the total number of periods, chosen at random or according to
. predetermined selection criteria (e.g., every third period, only fussy and
diaper change
30 periods, only periods occurring between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., etc.).
35
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "perceptible signal"
means
any and all means of communication capable of conveying notice or warning to a
student, including specifically, but not exclusively audible signals (e.g.,
crying),
olfactory signals (e.g., emission of odorous gas), tactile signals (e.g., wet
diaper),
visual signals (e.g., gesture), and multimedia signals (e.g., crying and
tears).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "sick period," means the
period of time during which the care requirements of the infant simulator are
altered
to reflect the additional care required by a sick infant (i.e., time interval
between
10 sequential demand events is decreased and/or duration of demand periods is
increased).
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "stimulation sensor"
refers
to sensors effective for sensing stimulation of an infant (i.e., an
environmental
1 S condition effective for stimulating the senses of an infant). Exemplary
stimulations
include specifically, but not exclusively contact with water, noise, movement,
touching the infant, etc.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "discomfort signal' means
20 a perceptible signal effective for conveying notice to a student that the
infant
simulator is being subjected to an unacceptable environmental condition.
Exemplary
discomfort signals including specifically, but not exclusively, audible
signals (e.g.,
crying), tactile signals (e.~ , bumps on the skin), visual signals (e.g., an
LCD display),
and multimedia signals (e.g., screaming and an LCD display).
25
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "substantially identical
signals," refers to signals perceived by the same sense (e.g., audible
signals) and of
the same general type (e.g., crying sound, shaking body, floral smell, etc.)
with some
aspect of the signals perceptibly different (e.g., different pitch, different
rate, different
30 intervals between repetitions, different volumes, etc.).
36
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "self-derected
expression,"
means an action, gesture, sound or other perceptible sign capable of being
generated
by an actual human infant and of a nature which a reasonable care-provider
would not
typically perceive as either requiring an interactive response from the care-
provider or
signaling a need or demand of the infant. Exemplary self directed expressions
include
babbling, blinking of the eyes, flailing of the arms and/or legs, giggling,
gurgling,
hiccuping, laughing, screaming with joy, sighing, smiling, sneezing, spitting,
squinting, sucking fingers and/or toes, wrinkling-up of the nose.
10 As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "smoke exposure
period,"
means the time period beginning when smoke is detected and ending when smoke
is
no longer detected.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the term "student," means a person
15 participating in a parenting or child-care educational program including
traditional
school age children and adults.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "sunlight exposure
period," means the time period beginning when exposure to direct sunlight
(i,e., light
20 having a luminance exceeding a defined threshold value) is detected and
ending when
direct exposure to sunlight is no longer detected.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "thermal exposure
period," means the time period beginning when a sensed temperature falls
outside a
25 defined acceptable temperature range and ending when a subsequently sensed
temperature falls within the defined acceptable temperature range.
As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase "cold temperature thermal
exposure period," means the time period beginning when a sensed temperature
falls
30 ~ below a defined acceptable minimum temperature and ending when a
subsequently
sensed temperature falls above the defined acceptable minimum temperature.
37
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
NOMEIVCL.AT~3RE
OS Infant Simulator
5 10 Mannequin
I1 Head
12 Torso
13 Arms
14 Legs
10 16 Back of Mannequin
20 Central Microcontroller Unit
21 Tamper Indicating Label
30 Position Sensor
40 Temperature Sensor
1 50 Compression Sensing System
S
51 Electrical Circuit
51a First Contact
51b Second Contact
60 Diaper
20 60a_ First Diaper
60b Second Diaper
61 Magnet Attached to Diaper
62 Diaper-Change Switches
62a First Diaper-Change Switch
25 62b Second Diaper-Chai.ae Switch
70 Motion Sensor (Rocking, Burping, Overstimulation
and Abuse)
70' Motion/Position Sensor
71 Housing
72 Chamber
30 73 Reflective Sphere
74 Infrared light source
75 Infrared phototransistor
80 Bottle
80n Nipple of Bottle
35 81 Magnet Attached to Bottle
82 Feed Switch
90 Identification Key
91 Tamper Indication Wristband
40 ~ 100 Initiation Module
110 Position Sensing Module
120 Temperature Sensing Module
130 Compression Sensing Module
140 Diaper-Change Module
45 150 Rocking Module
38
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
160 Feeding Module
170 Burping Module
180 Fussy Module
190 Assignment Period Module
5
210 Demand Signal Generating Feature
220 Recording Feature
225 Sound Recording Feature
230 Contented Signal Feature
10 240 Escalating Demand Signal Feature
250 Identification System Feature
260 Multiple Time Interval Duration Feature
270 Multiple Period Duration Feature
280 Comatose Feature
15
320 Smoke Detector
330 Impact Sensing System
340 Sound Sensor (Overstimulation, Rest)
350 Light Sensor
20 3b0 Sound Recorder
370 Missing Diaper Sensor
410 Expression Module
420 Smoke Detector Module
25 430 Impact Sensing Module
431 Dropped Infant Submodule
432 Shaken Infant Submodule
440 Overstimulatian Module
450 Rest Module
30 460 Sick Infant Module
4~0 Sun Exposure Module
480 Loud Sound Sensing System
490 Missing Diaper Module
35 S, Repositioning-Request Signal Generated
by the Infant Simulator
Si Thermal Exposure Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
S~ Compression Distress Signal Generated
by the Infant Simulator
S, Diaper-Change Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
St' Diaper-Change Satisfaction Signal Provided
by Student
40 St,+ First Diaper-Change Satisfaction Signal
St; Second Diaper-Change Satisfaction Signal
Ss Rocking-Request Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
Sts Rocking-Request Satisfaction Signal Provided
by Student
S6 Feeding-Request Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
4S St6 Feeding-Request Satisfaction Signal Provided
by Student
S, Burping-Request Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
St, Burping-Request Satisfaction Signal Provided
by Student
39
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
S8 Fussy Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator
S9 Smoke Exposure Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
S,o Impact Distress Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
S" Comatose Signal Generated by the Infant
Simulator
5 St" Medical Attention Signal Provided by Student
S,~ Overstimulation Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
S" Rest Request Signal Generated by the Infant
Simulator
S" Sick Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator
S,s Sun Exposure Signal Generated by the Infant
Simulator
10 S,6 Laud Sound Exposure Signal Generated by
the Infant Simulator
S" Missing Diaper Signal Generated by the
Infant Simulator
SD,,y Daytime/Night Time Signal Generated by
the Infant Simulator
E, Self Directed Expression Generated by
the Infant Simulator
15 + Positive ("Contented") Signal Generated
by Infant Simulator
S'D Identification Signal
Sw' Identification Switch
Swi Positive Signal Switch
'' Bypass
20
CONSTRUCTION
As shown in Figure I, the infant simulator 05 comprises a mannequin 10
having a recess (unnumbered) within the back 16 of the mannequin 10 capable of
25 retaining a central microcontroller unit 20 and a battery pack 25 for
powering the
central microcontroller unit 20.
A lock-and-key system (not shown) or tamper indicating device, such as a
tamper indicating label 21, can be provided for purposes of signaling and/or
30 recording/reporting efforts to remove or otherwise access the central
microcontroller
unit 20 and/or battery pack 25 from the mannequin 10. Alternatively, the
central
microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to record and report the duration of
the
assignment period, with timing of the assignment period stopped when the
microcontroller unit 20 and/or the battery pack 25 is removed from the
mannequin 10.
35
The mannequin 10 preferably has the appearance of a young infant (e.g.,
approximately 40 to $0 cm in length and approximately 3 to 5 kg in weight)
with a
head 11, torso 12, arms 13, and legs 14. The mannequin 10 can be sculpted to
depict
40
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
the skin color and facial features of various ethnic groups including
specifically, but
not exclusively, African American, Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic, and American
Indian.
The infant simulator 05 can include a variety of modules designed to emulate
5 the care requirements of an infant. These modules include (i) a position
sensing
module 110, (ii) a temperature sensing module 120, (iii) a compression sensing
module 130, (iv) a diaper-change module 140, (v) a rocking module 150, (vi) a
feeding module 160 with or without an associated burping module 170, (vii) a
fussy
module 180, (viii) an expression module 410, (ix) a smoke detector module 420,
(x)
10 an impact sensing module 430, (xi) an overstimulation module 440, (xii) a
rest
module 450, (xiii) a sickness module 460, and (xiv) a sunlight exposure module
470.
The infant simulator 05 can be designed and programmed with any combination of
the
described modules, including the ability for a program administrator to
selectively
activate and deactivate individual modules for each assignment period.
15
The infant simulator 05 is equipped to record and report the quality of care
and
responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator 05 (e.g., recording
and
reporting the duration of the assignment period and the total duration of all
events and
episodes) and/or signal the person caring for the infant simulator 05 when
care is
20 required.
The modules can be conveniently grouped into the categories of (i)
environmental events and (ii) demand events. In addition, the specifics of
each event
can be adjusted by the use of ane or more ancillary features which can be
programmed
25 into the central microcontroller unit 20.
ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS
- The environmental conditions of physical abuse (i.e., compression and
30 impact), verbal abuse, improper positioning, overstimulation, exposure to
smoke,
41
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
exposure to direct sunlight, and exposure to temperature extremes can be
sensed,
signaled, recorded and reported.
PhysicalAbuse Sensing Systems
COMPRESSION
The infant simulator OS can be equipped with a compression sensing system
50 capable of sensing compression of the mannequin 10, such as squeezing of
the
10 mannequin's head 11, arms 13 andlor legs 14, and communicating any sensed
compression to the central microcontroller unit 20.
Referring to Figure 3, a compression sensing system 50 is provided in the head
1 i of the mannequin 10 for sensing squeezing or striking of the head 11. The
head 11
15 is constructed of a pliant material, such as a soft vinyl material, with a
normally open
electrical circuit 51 provided within the head 11. The first contact 51a of
the
electrical circuit 51 is a thin layer of conductive material laminated to the
inside
surface (unnumbered) of the head 11 such that the conductive material moves in
concert with the head 11 when the head 11 is deformed The second contact 51b
of the
20 electrical circuit 51 is a cage of conductive material inwardly spaced from
the first
contact 51a of the electrical circuit 51. The spacing between the first 51a
and second
51b contacts of the normally open electrical circuit 51 is selected so that
the contacts
51a and 51b will engage one another and close the electrical circuit 51 when
the head
11 is subjected to a compressive force or an impact force reflective of
abusive
25 squeezing .or striking of the head 11. Spacing between the first 51 a and
second 51b
contacts should be selected so that the compression sensing system 50 will
consistently sense compressive and impact farces reflective of physical abuse
without
sensing compressive and impact forces reflective of normal handling. The
spacing
necessary to achieve these desired sensing parameters is dependent upon a
number of
30 factors, including the type of material used to construct the head 11, the
thickness of
the material forming the head 11, the size and shape of the head 11, the
flexibility of
42
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
the material laminated to the inside surface of the head 11 to form the first
contact
51a, etc. By way of illustration, when the head lI is molded from
approximately'/,
inch thick plasticized polyvinyl chloride, and the first contact 51a is a 3 to
4 mil thick
aluminum foil, a spacing of approximately'h to 1 inch should generally provide
the
5 desired sensing parameters (i.e., consistently sensing compressive and
impact forces
reflective of abuse without sensing compressive and impact forces reflective
of
normal handling).
Optionally, a flexible second cage (not shown) comprising a third contact (not
shown) could be positioned intermediate the first 51a and second 51b contacts
to form
a secondary electrical circuit (not shown) with the first contact 51a in
electrical
communication with the central microcontroller unit 20. The third contact (not
shown) would be constructed of a material sufficiently flexible to permit the
first 51a
and third (not shown) contacts to engage the second contact 51b when the head
11
15 experienced an abusive level of compressive or impact force. When such a
secondary
electrical circuit (not shown) is employed, the compression sensing system 50
is
capable of sensing different levels of compressive or impact force (e.g., the
secondary
circuit is closed when a "mild" or 'low" compressive or impact force is
experienced,
while the primary circuit 51 is closed when an "abusive" or 'high" compressive
or
impact force is experienced).
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records sensed compression events for later review by the program
administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the central
25 microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the
complex. For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report the occurrence of at least one sensed abusive compression event during
the
assignment period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit 20 can
record and
report the number of sensed abusive compression events. occurring during an
assignment period and the duration of each sensed abusive compression period.
A
43
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
nonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting abusive compression
event
data is set forth in Table One, provided below.
TABLE ONE
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
ABUSIVE COMPRESSION EVENT DATA)
::..:.. :::: : : .. ;.. ..":.:......, . , :: :...::.:
. . .: ::,...;.,::.::: :::.: '""""""'"" .. ......
; ,..:. .: . ....,:., .. .:, D.A''~' ' S;~Mk't~
.. : . . .:. .. ~ ~"":
:~#~1~ ~ I3~S~'~.I~E,~1~T ; ' .
~xt , ..
~ . : ..
~ ' .
'': '\T :...
. .
~' .
'
.,. . : ,.rn
p~. . ~ ; .:. ,
; . ,: . . .:::,.
.t. ~ n:::.: .y:n~::
~ .... a ':\:.~~:: .,.,),
. .. . vf.:: , .t;y.i,
. > $ . :!,-0. . . it;:
' ~2i'a::Ka!:!.:SY: . : kr!.;w;.
: nt:u v...;::. : _
:'v,:,>x,v.
.~Kf::: .:
',?
.:... .,
.., ~
....,~( .. f.4.,..:::.
'N .. . \ ...i',..c: '
C,~.:.. . ... '.' . ,; ...,..
< "=r. . vt>. '::.
w..:C ." .'C1 :it.>
... . V.: s :. .p.~: ..... ~.
.>!.,, .:..\:. a ... . :.,'-.... ".,
, 5::.:.,:.. .......... ~ .. ..:.."
- \rA.: .. v... ~ r. : .'!~ :M9
, .:::kv:.: : n. ''.:..\,. ,..._. ~,...
\ .r . ... !n~~-.. ' .:.,;':~.,'..~:;-".::::'.
-..,...: , .. , : .. . .. ..':.,;.::.".
.,h.. ..~..: .:. .~ ....... .u
. , S ." :.... .:":.';,'.:.:~n...,.:->:,.-........,..,.. ....,.
.. . R \ z,..., ..,.:.....: .. . ...~::,::.:.,.....,.
...::.,..r,..,- ....:.:: ,... !...:
u.,~.....,slv: \: !~.~ 'v. ... ~'..:.:~~~. .....,..:::-s
.... ...<.: .. . .... ..... .......,: .,..,.;...,....,.:.:....h...n....
.............. .:. ............. .... . ...........
..... ....:.. ...:': .:':...,....,. . . ..::...:.:.:..
.... n.......,...k.,~.:!:~........s........ .. ...::::.
: .. ..>.a .v.M)..........'n.:.....::.:.,... . :v:N: . ...
: ::.:.a...: . ..... ... ... ..: .: ::.: .:.:..
. ... : ...
::n~::::::.;~:.,a..:::.;..::.....................
n ..:: .n..;.u. :... :::::.. . .:.~..:....,a;.,~:nb:.,:..y,>,:.,
! v ..: .. v ..:::.: . : .,-:::h.:.,,.:.
::.:: ......:.. . 'E
...... :....... .
. ...:~y
.. p ..::
.,
.;:,..:v:: - ..':.:::....n
.tcY.dk:!:.::::.y:.:::::,v.:::v:::::::..:::::.:
sx
ro
Aa
?
:....:. ! .:. :... ..... ..............
.....,.:.:,". .. . . . . . ,.
.; ::.: ,. C ~ r:::a ..w ,. _ .,..
.:: . :.." ,.
.... s.......:... ::...... .........d . t
. .....:...., .................
..:: ::. : :::-;;:~:,:~
.:..: ~ ,. .. ,
_ ~':>. .
'~,:: .W: ,l:n.>;x,s:~~::\~.. .,.\
x:;,:::: ....;.};'y__ n.
:: <;x: ...1... 7 f
?:~:;:j '(:i'vi . .3t... . :....?....
\ n
':.,
an ~W:. A\..:. v; . '.: .-k,
'\-i!. . . : ...
\..: v' .:: 1::
v:< ~i~'t:::i-X~ FV:: :
C: ~ i i;~:- h
v: r \ !
: '
s' >\
\\ v~
2 ::
KW
1
<:~ -
'
'
v'
'
~
..
., . , ,~:
1, : . ......... ::::::::::
: . . :
~.a...?....,:>.. . .. ...........:.,....:
....... . . . . :,. r.
, ... .: :': ~. :::..;:.
. :t" lk.,, 1., ,..:3 " ::,.~ ::.!4n
, .... .~ . , . . . ..,.........
.. ... . ... 'v.: . ,.:: :a.,1. .. .... ...... nf..,.,~
. ........:4 v . . :... ......
:: . ,, ......... .... . .
..,...:h,..:....:.x.::....:...: .. :.. ..-,.,...
..............,.........
. .. . n'::::2.,:?:~ .~ : :.. 2 ... .....:.....:
.:..........,..........., b.r. ........ . . .........
. . . '!... . .,................ ..... .:.r...
. . ~ :?... ... . ..... . .........:...:.:..::.......h:.a.. .........
. .:..:.....: ;.:: .:..:.:...:.. .r..
,... ..::..,.:......... ..:. .. . ..,...........:.,.......r
..::.:.:.........,~...................................:..:.: .
,......:..Yc.....
.. ..:. .... . ~ . . ......... .:
: ....... ,..:. ......r.... ..... .. ..... ..
....:, ............... ...... . .. ..... .. .
.... . .................. :.-....::.:::.:...:.......:...,...... . .:. .
.: ...... . ........., . . ..:.
. .. .,.... ...,........
. .. .. . .s.. .... .. ... . ...:...J',
.............r.... ... .........:.. ....,:.s...
. ....: ... .. .............:............. . . .
. ...... . .........
...,..:.,:......:>......:..
..... .......... ..S
..... x...,... ...
.................::
:...:::.. .
.
...
. .
. : .. .......:..
.
.
:
<
6
r
... . : ..............................
..:. ...... ............. .....
..",.:...,.....".....,..........;..~~:.";:.:::,.-:.:.x,~.\:V.~::!.2:~..::."-
.:>.,;,,
C:.:.::.~.. ... . "
......:..:::
-..... :
:
.. .::
..
...;.,.:.:......:.w
::...
:..,.,.......:....:.
,!...................:.::,...::::......
.
1 Records and reports YES/NO Light ON/OFF
occurrence of
first abusive compression
event
only.
2 Records and reports Number "3."
number of
separate abusive compression
events.
3 Records and reports Force Level High
highest relative
strength of abusive (LowlHigh)
compressive
force sensed during
an assignment
period.
S Records and reports # 1: Low
the number of
abusive compression Force Level 2: Low
events sensed
during an assignment
period and
(Low/High) 3: High
the highest relative
strength of the
compressive force sensed 4: Low
for each
abusive compression
event.
6 Records and reports # Low 3 Low
the number of
abusive compression # High 1 High
events of each
type (i.e., high and
low) sensed
during an assignment
period.
44
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
M,..'~ ~.~:.::;
v:it~roNv.,~t~. ~sr,.~ t,, 'DAT nl~i~ ~: ~
A . ~ ~ :;..
S~ hv : ~S z. ,ice
:: : y;: : :;: ~tn~
y ::. \':" ::J.:,1
,. \ .?02
\;
w .;~x::..;;;:~,:~..\..
~:.:
\...kix
'R'....
~CJ>.jjiY.\15 .~,...: ,
,SQS' .'.k! ~ t \ .t-:
Yp. 4 .,.:.
v.....,. . fi .
~.>:.q.NA".,..~,.~..Ø.,..;, ;
v:., yyM~:i.:> :"I
....,:3:.::;:~-.:~. .G ,.'%'.~.n . .. <
w';j:qYy,
:,: ,t..... s ..r .N .::e. ' ,.
.: ; v.
'.. .t.....
::.:k:: CQ~r~'i3
SX'.
:.,\-f
4,Y:.,~;',~. a .
,s. .. ..,: Yw'.''h?i:::i ~',-.; . :..
.'. . ~.... . .t.\.. ~.:-.:'.
.tp!)y, .~..'. S . ~.:f..,.
- >.is~.n i, . 1 :::~C,\V.
- \,i;u\ p. a~ ,x:~\';:,:...:' - ,.. ,,
. .~,~.'a,~~Y:: ~..~/, ~.v:.'' ~'Si...1,
~.~,' ..,\ .v, . ~ Y~ . <
,~:,~:; .:p,.;.:'.; i, . . ' ..': : :,
,.Y.,.. Myt,.: . .~ :::,.~,;.." , 1 ~ ..":
.". .Yi: . ~,
~;.:.:..i:. . .. . ' .,.. -.;.:
?: :".i:..x.::'.'::'.. .: Z" . ;.. .t.
... ..; ..."a ....:..' t,
.. .
7 Records and reports #/Seconds 1: O1
the number and
duration of each abusive
2: O1
compression event sensed
during an
3: 08
assignment period.
4: 02
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is connected to a
system (not shown) capable of generating a perceptible compression distress
signal S3,
such as an audible cry or scream. The central microcontroller unit 20 is
programmed
to generate the perceptible compression distress signal S, when abusive
compression
is sensed. Generation of the perceptible compression distress signal S, warns
the
student caring for the infant simulator OS that the infant simulator 05 is
being
subjected to an abusive compression. The compression distress signal S, can be
terminated, optionally after an appropriate delay, and timing of the abusive
10 compression period ended, by removing the external event responsible for
the abusive
compression (e.g., removing the hand of a young sibling squeezing the head 11
of the
infant simulator 05), thereby reopening the compression sensing electrical
circuit 51
and terminating transmission of an electrical signal from the electrical
circuit 51 to the
central microcontroIler unit 20.
IS
The central microcontroller unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
rocking-request event immediately after termination of the compression
distress signal
S, for purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator 05
after the
infliction of such an abusive event.
20
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible compression distress signal S, only at the beginning of an abusive
compression event (r.e., generate a three second signal as soon as abusive
compression
is sensed), continuously throughout an abusive compression period, or
continuously
45
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
throughout an abusive compression period and for an additional time period
after
abusive compression of the infant simulator 0S has ceased, for purposes of
simulating
injury to the infant simulator OS.
5 A preferred embodiment of the compression sensing system 50 combines both
the recordinglreporting and signaling systems.
The compression distress signal S3 may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon (i)
an
10 increase in the maximum sensed compressive force , and/or (ii) an increase
in the
duration of the abusive compression period. An example of each is set forth in
Tabie
Two, provided below.
TABLE TWO
1 S ~ESCAGATING DISTRESS SIGNAL
1 st Intensity (cry) < S Low
2nd Intensity (scream) > 5 High
The compression sensing module I30 may optionally communicate with a
sound recorder 360 far initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon
detection
20 of abusive compression, and recording any verbal comments or statements
made near
the infant simulator OS during an abusive compression period.
The compression sensing module 130 may also include an ancillary comatose
feature 280 based upon(i) the sensing of a compressive force in excess of a
defined
46
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
threshold (e.g., 100 N), and/or (ii) a duration of an abusive compression
period in
excess of a defined threshold (e.g., 10 seconds).
IMPACT
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a motion sensor 70 capable of
detecting physical abuse of the mannequin 10 such as by shaking, striking or
throwing
of the infant simulator 05. Such an abuse sensing system is described in
United States
Patent No. 5,443,388 issued to Jurmain et al.
A number of different types and styles of motion sensors 70 may be
effectively used to sense and report physical abuse. One such sensor, capable
of
providing variable output dependent upon the force of the motion to which the
infant
simulator 05 is subjected, is a magnetic field induced shock sensor
manufactured by
I S Directed Electronics, lnc. under Part No. 504IC, wherein movement of a
magnet,
resulting from a corresponding movement of the mannequin 10, generates an
electrical current in an induction coil, with the strength of the electrical
current
proportional to the speed and distance traveled by the magnet.
An alternative motion sensor 70', effective for sensing gentle motions (e.g.,
rocking and patting), rough handling (e.g., accidental abuse and intentional
abuse), as
well as position (e.g., right side up or down) is shown in Figure 6. Briefly,
the
alternative motion sensor 70' comprises a plastic housing 71 defining a
generally
spherical chamber 72 and containing a metal sphere 73 which is free to move
within
the chamber 72 at the slightest accelerative movement of the housing 71. The
housing
71 is constructed from a material transparent to infrared (IR) light. An
element
combining an IR light source 74 and IR phototransistor 75, such as a QRD1113
element available from QT Optoelectronics or an EE-SY124 element available
from
Omron, are mounted directly under the housing 71. The IR light source 74
shines IR
light into the chamber 72 through the transparent plastic housing 71, where
the light is
reflected by the metal sphere 73 and the reflected IR light received by the
47
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
phototransistor 75. Movement of the sphere 73 within the chamber 72 changes
the
amount of IR light reflected to the phototransistor 75, causing the electrical
current
flowing through the phototransistor 75 to fluctuate. If the sphere 73 is
motionless, the
reflected light is constant, and the current through the phototransistor 75
remains
constant. Furthermore, when the sphere 73 is stationary, the sphere 73 will
reflect
more light towards the phototransistor 75 the closer the sphere 73 is to the
IR light
source 74, thereby causing a higher current to flow through the
phototransistor 75.
Hence, motion can be sensed by measuring and evaluating fluctuations in the
electrical current flowing through the phototransistor 75, and position can be
sensed
10 by measuring and evaluating the amount of current flowing through the
phototransistor 75 when the current is not fluctuating.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to look for five
characteristic patterns of current flow through the phototransistor 75 and
equate such
15 patterns with a particular condition as set forth below in Table Three.
TABLE THREE
(CONDITIONS EQUATED ii'ITH CURRENT PATTERNN)
:..:.:::::.:::_ .,_
.,_...'~~::::.,.......,:.,::.>;.::.......:::::>:::..:.:....~:...::
;., : .....,.. ;. :..,..;>:~:.:-:,::,:-
;::.::...,::..::.:.:
; ,
~ ,> '::::;;~:>:>.H::~::
::
' ':i~~~.::".
C T ,C: .t ~.",..2....
~ y'~,-
~ ;
~
~
~
~
'
~
~ ~
-
;.
. ;.:.
: : ,
. ' ,.:.
" . , .,,\., : ....:
( \ :~,:......,..: .:.:
. ' ' .... ~ ' :
-.v. " -. .a. ... ,. :
., . . . . , - ...,.,..., h -
. ..., ,. .-.,. . ...,... T: :.,.. .
.\ ....\. ....v.. . .,. . . . :"~
.....".-i..." -.,...,,r.. ':
... . : :. ,.... .. .. ;: :i";;:-:>;-
...:.. ........ ............ .'L..':.,:...:..:..,y ....,.,
.................... r:
........., ....:.......,...,... . .:. ... . .... . .. ?: :..
. . ..>. ...,...... :..>..:......:......,..,.... . ... ....:......... ....,
................,... .n .
. ..... . ... n ..:... ....... . ..................
. -..... n...,.............:: . .,................... ...
... . ..: . ...:..........................,.......n................., .. .,
. . .. ..
m..... i....:.... :. .:...,.. : ::
.. ,. ....,.:.. ....................................
... ........~. ....... ,... ... ....... . . . .:.:.
. ....~. ..... . . .:: .:..,.
. ..:, ........... . ............-.
. ........,.......,...,i..
, .... ...n.-:. ,: , . .
. ...,...... . .:
. .............,....... . ...
. ,.. ,:.
. .. .
, .
~ .
.,
,i
~1
~
'
, . .. . . ..
. ....
. , ..-
... .. ..
..... .....-...
...... . ...
;, ...
. . ... ... ..... ... ,., :: .. .
........... .. .,......... .:. .. .. .:.-....
. ...:..-,... ..n. ..... ..........
::.::.~,:: ...-nv n.... ,-.
., ........ ...; .
. . ........... , ....., :... ... :. :.:.."::.: ..
. .. ... .,.. . .-.. :..,:v .n. ..... \..........."....:
, . ..v..,...,., r..... .:....:
..... ... ~....................: .:~...> :
.. . . .., :..<. : ..:.::,.. . ..
.......-..... .:.. ........... .
~.........
Constant Current Infant
Simulator is Motionless.
I
Slow and Sinall Changes Rocking or Patting of Infant
in Current Simulator
Rapid and Large Changes Rough Handling of Infant
in Current
High Current Levels Infant simulator Resting in
First Position
(e.g., Face Up)
Low Current Levels Infant simulator Resting in
Second Position
(e.g., Face Down) i
20
Referring generally to Figure 7, the microcontroller unit 20 can generally
receive and evaluate current changes and high current levels directly from the
EE-
SY124 element. An inductor 7b and operational amplifier 77 (op amp), such as a
48
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
CA3130AE element available from DigiKey, tuned to amplify the slightest change
in
current flow into a full-scale square wave at the output of the op amp 77, is
provided
where constant current and low current levels need to be received and
evaluated by the
central microcontroller unit 20.
The motion sensor 70 is electrically connected to the central microcontroller
unit 20 wherein the strength of the electrical signal generated by the motion
sensor 70
can be checked against predefined threshold limitations for producing
different
signals. This permits a single motion sensor ~0 to differentiate between a
modest
force, such as produced by normal handling, rocking and burping of the infant
simulator 05, and excessive force, such as experienced when the infant
simulator 05 is
thrown, shaken or otherwise abused. This allows use of the same motion sensor
70 to
sense rocking, patting and abuse. When motion exceeding a defined amplitude is
sensed, an electrical physical injury signal is sent to the central
microconiroller unit 20
and an injury event reported.
As a general matter, intentional abuse can, with certain exception, be
differentiated from accidental or unintentional abuse based upon the duration
of the
motion. A singular brief impact (e.g., lasting less than about 2 seconds) is
usually
20 indicative of an accidentally or unintentionally imposed injury. Exemplary
of such
accidental brief abuses are dropping an infant onto the floor or banging an
infant's
head when entering an automobile. In contrast, multiple impacts over a
prolonged
period (e.g., more than about 3 seconds) are usually the result of intentional
abuse.
Exemplary of such intentional prolonged abuses are striking and/or shaking an
infant.
25 While certain exceptions apply to these general statements, as exemplified
by
throwing an infant against a wall (a brief but intentional abuse) and falling
down a
flight of stairs while holding an infant (a prolonged but accidental event),
separately
reporting each of these types of abuse would assist program administrators in
providing meaningful feedback to the student and appropriate follow-up
training
30 andlor counseling. An exemplary dual abuse detection and reporting system
is shown
in connection with the impact sensing module 430 shown in Figure 2n.
49
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As generally represented in Figure 2n, when a single impact of sufficient
force
is detected by the motion sensor 70, the impact sensing module 430 is
activated and,
after a short delay of a second or two, the module 430 checks for any
subsequent
abusive impacts. In the event that no subsequent abusive impacts are detected
(i.e., a
single brief impact is detected) the impact sensing module 430 enters the
dropped
infant submodule 431. In the event that subsequent abusive impacts are
detected (i.e.,
prolonged abuse is detected) the impact sensor module 430 enters the shaken
infant
submodule 432.
10
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontrolIer
unit 20 records the occurrence of an accidental abuse event whenever the
dropped
infant submodule 431 is entered, and the occurrence of an intentional abuse
event
whenever the shaken infant submodule 432 is entered, for later review by the
program
1 S administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the
central
microcontrolIer unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report the occurrence of each type of event during the assignment period.
Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the
number of
20 each type of event sensed during an assignment period and the duration of
each sensed
event. A nonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting accidental
and
intentional abuse event data is set forth in Table Four, provided below.
50
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE FOUR
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
ACCIDENTAL AND INTENTIONAL ABUSE EVENT DATA
~t~rto~r ' 1?~iurr;it~~t g~~r~ ~~ I~r~Li~
~'
~~~." ;, ~a '
: ~~ '
. . ... .
1 Records and reports occurrenceYES/NO ACCIDENTAL
of
ABUSE:
first event of each type
only.
Light ON/OFF
INTENTIONAL
ABUSE:
Light ON/OFF
2 Records and reports numberNumber ACCIDENTAL
of 2
INTENTIONAL
separate events of each 1
type.
3 Records and reports the #/Seconds ACCIDENTAL
number and 1: 02
duration of each event
of each type
ACCIDENTAL
2: 01
sensed during an assignment
period. INTENTIONAL
1: 18
ACCIDENTAL
3: 02
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is connected to a
system (not shown) capable of generating a perceptible impact distress signal
S,o, such
as an audible cry or scream. The central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed
to
generate the perceptible impact distress signal S,o when abuse is sensed.
Generation
10 of the perceptible impact distress signal Sao informs the student caring
fQr the infant
simulator 05 that the infant simulator 05 is being abused. The impact distress
signal
S,o can be terminated, optionally after an appropriate delay, and any timing
of the
abuse period under the shaken infant submodule 432 ended, by removing the
external
event responsible for the impacts) {e.g., stop shaking the infant simulator
05) thereby
15 ending movement of the magnet within the motion sensor 70 and terminating
S1
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
transmission of an electrical signal from the motion sensor 70 to the central
microcontroller unit 20.
The central microcontroIler unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
rocking-request event immediately after termination of the impact distress
signal S,o
for purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator OS
after the
infliction of such an abusive event.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
10 perceptible impact distress signal S,o only at the beginning of an abuse
period (i.e.,
generate a three second signal as soon as an impact is sensed), continuously
throughout an abuse period, or continuously throughout an abuse period and for
an
additional time period after abuse of the infant simulator 05 has ceased for
purposes of
simulating injury to the infant simulator 05.
15
A preferred embodiment of the physical abuse sensing system 50 combines
both the recording/reporting and signaling systems for each of the dropped
infant
submodule 431 and shaken infant submodule 432.
20 The impact distress signal S,o may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon (i)
an
increase in the maximum sensed impact, and/or (ii) an increase in the duration
of the
abuse period. An example of each is set forth in Table Five, provided below.
52
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE FIVE
(ESCALATING DISTRESS SIGNAL)
I 1 s' Intensity (cry) < 5 Low
2°d Intensity (scream) > 5 High
5 The motion sensor 70 and/or the central microcontroller unit 20 may
optionally communicate with a sound recorder 360 for initiating operation of
the
sound recorder 360 upon detection of physical abuse and thereby recording any
verbal
comments or statements made near the infant simulator OS during a physical
abuse
period.
10
The shaken infant submodule 432 may also include an ancillary comatose
feature 280 based upon (i) an impact of a force in excess of a defined
threshold (e.g.,
100 N), and/or (ii) an abuse period lasting in excess of a defined threshold
(e.g., 10
seconds).
15
Position Sensing System 30
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a position sensor 30, such as a
mercury switch or roller ball switch, capable of sensing the vertical and
horizontal
20 positioning of the infant simulator OS and communicating the sensed
position as
between an acceptable position (switch open) and an unacceptable position
(switch
closed) to the central microcontroller unit 20. Acceptable positioning
includes laying
on its back or side, while unacceptable positioning includes laying face down
or
upside down. Suitable positioning sensors are available from a number of
25 manufacturers. One suitable position sensing switch is an SPST SMT normally
open
53
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
switch manufactured by ITT Canon under Part No. KSC421JD. An alternative
position sensing switch is the sensor 70' shown in Figures 6 and 7 and
described in
connection with the impact physical abuse sensing system.
S In order to avoid the sensing of routine handling as an unacceptable
positioning of the infant simulator 05, the central microcontroller unit 20 is
preferably
programmed with a threshold time value, such as 3 to 10 seconds, which must be
exceeded before a sensed unacceptable positioning is recordedlreported and/or
signaled as an unacceptable positioning of the infant simulator 05.
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records occurrences of unacceptable positioning for later review by
the
program administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the
central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report that the infant simulator 05 was unacceptably positioned at least once
during
the assignment period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit 20 can
record
and report the number of times the infant simulator 05 was unacceptably
positioned
and the duration of each occurrence. A nonexhaustive list of options for
recording
and reporting positioning data is set forth in Table Six, provided below.
54
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE SIX
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
UNACCEPTABLE POSI7IONING DATA
~l(!~ s ~~~R~"'C~l3N ~1A'Y'~, '~.~4.l~IPh~,
: RE,I~IR'3'
.',.
Y
:::: r >i ~~~I~
v" <u,i. .~.':.n . ::.. ... '..'::::
~ ..~. ..:.... ., .: ' ':::
. :.:'.
I Records and reports thatYES/NO Light ON/OFF
the infant
simulator was unacceptably
positioned at least once
during the
assignment period.
2 Records and reports the Number "S."
number of
times the infant simulator
was
unacceptably positioned.
3 Records and reports totalMinutes 45
amount of
time the infant simulator
was
unacceptably positioned
during an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports the #/Minutes 5:45
number of
times the infant simulator
was
unacceptably positioned
and the
total amount of time
the infant
simulator was unacceptably
positioned.
S Records and reports the #/Minutes 5:45
number of
times the infant simulatorMinutes
was
03
unacceptably positioned,
the total
amount of time the infant
simulator
was unacceptably positioned,
and
the mean duration of
each
occurrence.
SS
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~.~0h1 Dk~SCRIPTIt;rT~F DATA SAMPI:k1'.OR'i''..
CORDEII .. "
~ . 0
6 Separately records and #/Minutes I : 03
reports the .
amount of time the infant
simulator
2: 18
remained in an unacceptable
position for each occurrence
during 3: 20
an assignment period. 4: 02
S: 02
7 Records and reports #/Minutes 5: 4S
the number of
times the infant simulatorMinutes
was
03:18:20:02:02
unacceptably positioned,
the total
amount of time the infant
simulator
was unacceptably positioned,
and
the amount of time the
infant
simulator remained in
an
unacceptable position
for each
occurrence during an
assignment
period.
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is connected to a
system (not shown) capable of generating a repositioning-request signal S,,
such as an
audible cry or scream. The central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to
generate
5 the repositioning-request signal S, whenever the infant simulator 05 is
placed in an
unacceptable position (e.g., laying face down or upside down) and left in that
position
beyond a minimum threshold time period (e.g., ten seconds). Generation of the
repositioning-request signal S, warns the person caring for the infant
simulator 05 that
the infant simulator OS is in an improper position and corrective action is
required.
10 The repositioning-request signal S, and timing of the positioning-request
episode can
be terminated by simply repositioning the infant simulator OS into an
acceptable
56
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
position, thereby opening the position sensor 30 and terminating transmission
of an
electrical signal from the position sensor 30 to the central microcontroller
unit 20.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
repositioning-request signal S, only at the beginning of each occurrence of
improper
positioning (i. e., generate a three second signal once the infant simulator
OS is sensed
in an unacceptable position for longer than the minimum threshold time
period),
periodically throughout an improper positioning occurrence, or continuously
throughout an improper positioning occurrence.
10
A preferred embodiment of the position sensing system 30 combines both the
recording/reporting and signaling systems.
The repositioning-request signal S, may be intensified, in accordance with the
15 ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240, based upon
an increase
in the length of time the infant simulator OS is unacceptably positioned. An
example
is set forth in Table Seven below.
TABLE SEVEN
ZO (ESCALA7%NG REPOSITIONING-REQUEST SIGNAL
~uT~,E~IG'I~t ~'l~' LEIV~'FIi
: c~~
T~~hilFAAt~':
PEI~CtMP'I'~BL~ Slll~tiIi;S ~ ..
Sl~t'',nt~F~i~ f;t'A'I'OR~
ww ,
:W '
i
~
~~~~~>~~~
~
.: ~:J~"."r.:........:a:..:.........::...:...::::::..:..:::..:.....
! .C,.,.:':.. .::,3.y...:..,5,
:~:..;..:::..:::: : ,r.
.....:.;.w<.....:...;. '::....._::::-~::...:
.; .....:.:: ~:nG - ,.:..::~
.~e.... ....:.:::;.:.::::..... ~.......>,.,...>.:::.::..:a...:..,,,:....:.:.:
.. ...~Y..'.f ::.:.~.,......;:,...,....
...:.:.; :. .. .
:.. . ..
.. ,
.~.:.; .....,r.:.:.:
:. ~y.:::. ~
:. ..:::.
. ...
....::: .
. ::.:.
~: ...:.:..
.:.,.:
:.:
~::
;:..
:
,.
, , ,
, , ,
. :.:.;
. ...:.
::, ,:::.
. :
. :
. .
: : ..
..: :
....,...:.. ;..t:. :.::
.......;.;:,;:.c ................
...,~..;:::... ,
........... .:
. .......d ' .i.,... ..,..
...:..: .: : ..
.... . ........... ..
v4.::::..;"~:y~::,iiry.:;;:;.::::.:4:r ..,:..~
'~,r::.;;:.;:!:.;.,.,.:c~.'.~:a.:!:C.r. ........
r ~; s ...:::...............
~Ns ...;::...._;............,.............::......
x > , p:::.::J::%:.:::::.::
~~.y~~
./,~..~...~.,~..,",:..,.r.'.::;~:;;::.::.:
, z
:. .
~~ .
caF
''~Y a'
r - ~<
w.~ ~ ~~ 5~
' W.~ ;;
.. <
1 S' Intensity 10
(soft cry)
2"d Intensity (loud >
cry) 10
57
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The position sensing system 30 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon detection
of
improper positioning, and thereby recording any verbal comments or statements
made
near the infant simulator 05 for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes)
after the
repositioning-request signal S, has been generated.
Loud Sound Sensing System 480
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a sound sensor 340, such as the
sound-activated relay or the sound -level meter diagrammed in Radio Shack
Notebook
#276-SO11A, capable of sensing the decibel level of sounds to which the infant
simulator 05 is exposed and communicating any sensed sounds exceeding a
threshold
value (e.g., 80 decibels) to the central microcontroller unit 20.
In order to avoid detection of the infant simulator's 05 own crying and/or
screaming as a loud sound exposure event, the loud sound sensing system 480
can
either (i) establish the threshold decibel level above the loudest decibel
level
generated by the infant simulator 05, or (ii) arresting the sensing and/or
recording of
sounds whenever the infant simulator 05 is generating a demand or distress
signal.
When option (ii) is elected, it is generally preferred to have the demand or
distress
signal generated periodically throughout the period so as to limit the time
periods
during which the sound sensing system 480 is inoperable.
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records any instances of sensed sounds exceeding the threshold value
for later
review by the program administrator. The specific information recorded and
reported
by the central microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to
the
complex. For example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to
simply record and report whether a sound exceeding the threshold value was
sensed at
least once during the assignment period. Alternatively, the central
microcontroller
unit 20 can activate a sound recorder 360 and record the actual sounds to
which the
58
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
infant simulator OS is being exposed. A nonexhaustive list of options for
recording
and reporting loud sound exposure data is set forth in 'fable Eight below.
TABLE EIGHT
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AIJD REPORTING
LDUD SOUND EXPOSG'RE DATA
~I~fl~''I' DEaSG3tII'T'I~~t
; ~~-x
, ~co~n~n .
.
1 Records and reports only YES/NO Light ON/OFF
fact that
loud sound sensed at least
once
during assignment period
(i.e.,
occurrence of a loud sound
exposure event).
2 Records and reports numberNumber "3."
of loud
sound exposure events.
3 Records and reports highestdB "96 dB"
decibel
level sensed during assignment
period.
5 Records and reports the #/dB 1: 92
number and
highest decibel level
for each loud
2: 96
sound exposure period.
3: 80
4: 88
6 Records and reports the #/Minutes1: 06
number and
duration of each loud
sound
2: I 8
exposure period.
3: 02
4: 02
~9
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~P~'I~3NDES.CRIPT10I~I DA"fA S~llvIPLE ~RT
.:
>~C()RDED
. ,
7 Records and reports the #/dB 1:86, 92, 90
number of
loud sound exposure periods
and
2: 96, 96,
96, 96,
continuously records
and reports
96, 96, 96,
96,
the dB level throughout
a loud
sound exposure period.
3:80
4:88
8 Records actual sounds Actual SoundsJet Engine.
during loud
sound exposure periods
on a sound
Loud Rock Music.
recorder for playback.
Student Screaming.
Student Screaming.
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed
with defined upper threshold decibel level (e.g., 80 dB) and connected to a
system
(not shown) capable of generating a perceptible loud sound exposure signal
5,6. The
S central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to generate the perceptible
loud sound
exposure signal S,6 when the sensed sounds exceed the threshold decibel level.
Generation of the perceptible loud sound exposure signal S,6 warns the student
caring
for the infant simulator 05 that the surrounding noise has reached an
unacceptable
decibel level and corrective action is required. The loud sound exposure
signal S,6
10 and timing of the loud sound exposure period can be terminated by removing
the
infant simulator OS from the environment generating the loud sounds (e.g.,
carrying
the infant simulator OS out of the room) or locating the source of the loud
sounds and
reducing the volume (e.g., turning down the stereo or quieting a screaming
toddler),
thereby returning the decibel level below the threshold value and ceasing
transmission
1 S of an electrical signal from the sound sensor 340 to the central
microcontroller unit
20.
60
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The central microcontroller unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
rocking-request event immediately after termination of the loud sound exposure
signal
S,6 for purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator
OS after
the occurrence of such a startling event.
A preferred embodiment of the loud sound sensing system 480 combines both
the recording/reporting and signaling systems.
10 The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible loud sound exposure signal S~6 only at the beginning of a loud
sound
exposure period (i.e., generate a ten second signal as soon as a sensed sound
exceeds
the threshold decibel level), periodically throughout a loud sound exposure
period
(e.g., generate a two second signal every minute once the sensed sounds exceed
the
15 threshold decibel level until the sensed sounds fall below the threshold
decibel level),
or continuously throughout a loud sound exposure period.
The loud sound exposure signal S,6 may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240, based upon (i)
an
20 increase in the difference between the sensed decibel level and the
threshold value,
and/or (ii) an increase in the duration of the loud sound exposure period. An
example
of each is set forth in Table Nine, provided below.
61
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE NINE
(ESCALATING LOUD SOUND EXPOSURE SIGNAL)
STRE~N~Tk~ ~t~' ~.D1JD ~OtII~TD EXPC?SUIt,ED$ LEY~L.$~YElY~3t
'
. > <t
~~trC~~~It".~~d~' DIJGRA'Tt3N A~~~~''i'AB'~.~'~~'
Y '~~
;~.~.U,i~>IJ~1L,'~~~~ {ttIU'~~' ~b~3~
' t
,
. .. .. '.. . t:x. ' : ;
.. . .<... , .
15' Intensity <5 <10
(whimper)
2" Intensity 5 to 10 10 to 20
(scream)
3"' Intensity >10 >20
(shriek)
The loud sound sensing system 480 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon detection
of
sounds exceeding the threshold value, and recording the sounds responsible for
initiating the loud sound exposure period. Such recording may continue for a
defined
time period (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) or for the entire duration of a loud sound
exposure
10 period.
The sound sensor 340, as with the central microcontroller unit 20 and battery
pack 25, is preferably equipped with a tamper indicating device (not shown)
for
purposes of signaling and/or recording and reporting efforts to remove or
otherwise
15 access the sound sensor 340.
Overstimulativn Sensing System 340
The infant simulator OS can be equipped with a motion sensor 70 and/or a '
20 sound sensor 340 for sensing movement and/or environmental sounds to which
the
infant simulator OS is exposed and communicating sensed movement and/or sounds
to
the central microcontroller unit 20.
62
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
A number of different types and styles of motion sensors 70 may be
effectively used to sense and report physical stimulation of the infant
simulator 05.
One such sensor, capable of providing variable output dependent upon the force
of the
motion to which the infant simulator 05 is subjected, is a magnetic field
induced
5 shock sensor manufactured by Directed Electronics, Inc. under Part No.
504IC,
wherein movement of a magnet, resulting from a corresponding movement of the
mannequin 10, generates an electrical current in an induction coil, with the
strength of
the electrical current proportional to the speed and distance traveled by the
magnet.
An alternative motion sensor is sensor 70' shown in Figures 6 and 7 and
described in
10 connection~with the impact physical abuse sensing system.
Similarly, a number of different types and styles of sound sensors 340 may be
effectively used to sense and report sounds reaching the infant simulator 05.
One
such sensor, capable of providing variable output dependent upon the decibel
level of
15 the sound reaching the infant simulator O5, is the sound -level meter
diagrammed in
Radio Shack Notebook #276-5011 A referenced previously.
The motion sensor 70 and/or sound sensor 340 is electrically connected to the
central mierocontroller unit 20 wherein the duration andlor periodicity of the
electrical
20 signal generated by the motion sensor 70 and/or sound sensor 340 can be
checked
against predefined threshold limitations for transmitting an electrical
overstimulation
signal to the central microeontroller unit 20 when the threshold limit is
exceeded.
Upon receiving the electrical overstimulation signal, the central
microcontroller unit
20 can generate an overstimulation signal and/or record and report an
overstimulation
25 event.
The types of motions and sounds sensed for purposes of detecting
overstimulation are those having a strength/volume which are generally
encountered
and accepted by infants (i. e., they are not abusive, injurious or
pernicious).
30 Exemplary motions and sounds factored into determining the occurrence of an
overestimation event include specifically, but nat exclusively motions
associated with
63
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
bathing, patting to elicit a burp, routine conversation, diapering, dressing,
feeding,
hugging, rocking, rubbing of the stomach, light tickling, twirling, sounds
typically
emanating from a radio or television, etc.
5 In order to avoid the sensing of routine periods of handling as an
overstimulation event, the central microcontroller unit 20 is preferably
programmed to
require the occurrence of at least one detectable motion/sound in each of
several
consecutive sampling periods with the total duration of the combined sampling
periods lasting significantly longer than the longest demand period (e.g., 120
10 consecutive sampling periods of 30 seconds for a total of 60 minutes when
the longest
possible demand period is 30 minutes).
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records occurrences of overstimulation for later review by the program
15 administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the
central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report that the infant simulator OS was subjected to overstimulation at least
once
during the assignment period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit
20 can
20 record and report the number of times the infant simulator OS was
overstimulated and
the duration of each overstimulation event. A nonexhaustive list of options
for
recording and reporting overstimulation data is set forth in Table Ten,
provided
below.
64
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TEN
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
OVERSTI~IULATION DATA
~3~'I'IQhtI?~SCRI~'TIDN DA~'A~ 1'AMLE.~Lt'Ir'
'
. ,
' > s s,.,...~'~ ~~:C)R11~D ' >
Y~.L':~:~~ % . Z ~ ~ ~'~'.. \ ~.
1 Records and reports YES/NO Light ON/OFF
that the infant
simulator was overstimulated
at
least once during the
assignment
period.
2 Records and reports Number "3"
the number of
times the infant simulator
was
overstimulated.
3 Records and reports Minutes 45
total amount of
time the infant simulator
remained
overstimulated during
an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports #lMinutes 3:45
the number of
times the infant simulator
was
overstimulated and the
total amount
of time the infant simulator
remained overstimulated.
5 Records and reports #/Minutes 3:45
the number of
times the infant simulatorMinutes 03
was
overstimulated, the
total amount of
time the infant simulator
remained
overstimulated, and
the mean
duration of the overstimulation
periods.
65
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~~~r~c~rtD~s~rue~rr~il~ Dnxa Sa~r~r RFxoKic
'' ~co~i
:: ... ;....,
6 . , #/Ivlinutes1: 41
Records and reports the
amount of
time the infant simulator 2: O1
remained
overstimulated for each
occurrence
3: 03
during an assignment
period.
7 Records and reports the #/Minutes 3: 45
number of
times the infant simulatorMinutes 41:01:03
was
overstimulated, the total
amount of
time the infant simulator
was
overstimulated, and the
amount of
time the infant simulator
remained
overstimulated for each
overstimulation event
occurring
during an assignment
period.
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is connected to a
system (not shown) capable of generating an overstimulation signal S,2, such
as an
audible cry or scream. The central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to
generate
5 the overstimulation signal S,= whenever overstimulation is detected.
Generation of
the overstimulation signal S,i warns the person caring for the infant
simulator OS that
the infant simulator 05 has been overstimulated and corrective action (i.e.,
quiet time)
is required. The overstimulation signal SCI and timing of the overstimulation
event
can be terminated by suspending handling of the infant simulator 05 and/or
removing
10 the infant simulator 05 from the noisy environment so as to terminate
transmission of
an electrical signal from the motion sensor 70 andlor sound sensor 340 to the
central
microcontroller unit 20 for an appropriate period (i.e., 5 to 20 minutes).
The central microcontroller unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
15 rocking-request event immediately after termination of the overstimulation
signal S,z
66
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
for purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator 05 in
order to
calm the infant simulator 05.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
overstimulation signal S,~ only at the beginning of each overstimulation event
(i.e.,
generate a three second signal once an overstimulation event is detected),
periodically
throughout an overstimulation event (i.e., generate a three second signal once
every
thirty seconds after an overstimulation event is detected), or continuously
throughout
an overstimulation event.
10
A preferred embodiment of the overstimulation sensing system 440 combines
both the recording/reporting and signaling systems.
The overstimulation signal S,~ may be intensified, in accordance with the
15 ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240, based upon
an increase
in the length of time the infant simulator 05 remains overstimulated. An
example is
set forth in Table Eleven, provided below.
TABLE ELEVEN
20 (ESCALA77NG OVERSTIMULATIDN SIGNAL)
>:::-:::::;::.;::.:v~~::::>$ ::: :<:::..::::::::~...:::-:::.::..;;;:;:::..::;--
::::..:.::;"<-,
:.:.-::."..::::,:$::.v> ,~~GT$ C)F 'T1MB"IT~t~rt~'
:~: 'j
5~~.'AT,~G'~
~~':
t 1 ,; ~' y t r
~'YF~S' N ~~ITL~
xhA'~fl ~ T~?R~RE1~S
l
. .
. rY -..a~h,'.,~~
, f F ~ S ~lr\~~'t
F '~2~,~k r t
o>'~:; p 3.7 r J : Y 'd ~Y~ .
t'~ ~ t 2:,t r
. Y rk.$Y.
%;t
J~~
;
~:~
J
f
5
~'
~
~
r
l
~
~
'
~~
: . ::.::;::::Sa'S -
. ,t::. ' ~..r. . ~ ,::.:,.:::::.r-:
.... f Att .;;.;;:r:$
,. : '$:;.
, : ~ :"':Y:::'w%::
:Y ...-,...o,.r.:..:
. ::~:rt;'';:~~~~
t.. ~
..
Sr:S:a:r,.<>:...:.;:..:
:..
:
::::.:.:;~..;:...
..:.:.::c5r5:ac,:-::.
'.
~~:xa
~ :::'r::55::~:
~~
.,
. .
. .
.....,.::.........., : ,
:.. ...........'.
.:.,.,. ........... ..... '.....:.:.:.:.
~. . ~ ;: o:: :55;
>5 ~...,::..:::~,~:;:o-$:: :, ..~-:::::._.:
: :.;:: :.:;~,...:"..,,......., r.a ;.::::o:r~:;::
~. t;.;.:r: ~::.;::,..:>:::5:,::.:05;~.:.::..;.:;
~; ,:~:::5:: ~...>Fv.,S. .. ~.....
,> ~ :.:. ~..r;;;:::..~a:=:.
...t;5 ..:: :-.<t.,, #?;:$ .
..t.;.:::.
:'.:~~::ar ~::..
~ . z'~.A,.
" t,,:;hk
,..\4.'3. .c .:...
- :'~. . ....v.. .-:- N't~',u"~.
:::;:;! ~ .. ~ ::.....:'~'.:>:..
s. .... . . .:w..:.:::
'.. - . ~:.:.~.. .
.: ~~v:: i~:::: "v:Y.-.~..;j..,fi...,;.:-
r. :..Q.1. 'w..'S.,...m
. .
.. t~' , v :3f#::r\::::.>:: i" 5:>:Af:~ i~:
::.t.. . =a:;-"%'~ ,Yac:r:r:
.v . x, .;.
:: ,,:;~:c-- , , :.
: W :3::- 'C ..,.
o t,, a. r
:y.:;ti\: $.aF;;>:.x
~$ ~
~ .\r~
~ .
~ ;
' ~l
~ W
~
'
~'
. . :
: .? .:.
: .'>..
: Fv .. ~.: ,.. ....:.
. . , .
, , : ..: ::
,. ~ ....:Sa.: v.- .
~.. :.~Ra.r a :.
., . :.
. . ...
.:,.\.,,,. tdSM....v. :'~-..:.::;.-
.. ~':::.~:.:..:::1.
t::,.~.:....:::::........ ~,
.. .. . .. ,>ra...rr:~-.-:$.'w;;
v: ...~, ,:-,;;:.:
5.~ , ..C':, ..~
...... .v... :r7.!':
Vii:: .5\;S.v:,n.a....;:::n.:::5:v::"::-::-::::u.
1 .a. ... .. :.::::,'.'
', ;t t
?p ' (~~ ~~
y $
~$
y
~
> vr~~~
~~ ~~
:5~ 5 / ''
~'/y.. :' :
SS~~S v
. . .:..
.......:.s ...::.....~,.... . .::....
. ...:....... :
:..::
1" Intensity < 10
(soft cry)
2"d Intensity > 10
(loud cry)
The overstimulation module 440 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon detection
of
67
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
overstimulation, and thereby recording any verbal comments or statements made
near
the infant simulator 05 for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes) after
the
overstimulation signal S,z has been generated.
5 Smoking Detector System 320
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a smoke detector 320 capable of
detecting environmental smoke and communicating an instance of detected smoke
to
the central microcontroller unit 20.
10
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records the occurrence of a smoke exposure event for later review by
the
program administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the
central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
15 example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report whether the infant simulator 05 was exposed to detectable levels of
smoke at
least once during the assignment period. Alternatively, the central
microcontroller
unit 20 can record and report the number and individual duration of smoke
exposures
periods occurring within the assignment period. A nonexhaustive list of
options for
20 recording and reporting smoke exposure data is set forth in Table Twelve,
provided
below.
68
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TWELVE
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
SMOKE EXPOSURE DATA)
':~~e'ft~NA~sc.~r~riti~ I?~~.~ SA~t~L~e R.~ii~a~.T
'
1~~~'~p
. : '
.
~,a,~
:
:
:
1 . .. . YES/NO Light ONIOFF
. .. ..,
:
.:
..
Records and reports that
smoke was
detected at least once
during the
assignment period (i.e.,
a smoke
exposure period occurred).
2 Records and reports numberNumber "3."
of
smoke exposure periods
occurring
during assignment period.
3 Records and reports the #/Minutes 1:02
number and
duration of each smoke 2:OS
exposure
period occurring during
assignment
3:03
period.
S
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is electrically
connected to a system (not shown) capable of generating a perceptible smoke
exposure signal S9. The central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to
generate the
perceptible smoke exposure signal S9 when smoke is detected. Generation of the
10 perceptible smoke exposure signal S9 warns the student caring for the
infant simulator
05 that the infant simulator 05 is being exposed to unacceptable levels of
smoke. The
smoke exposure signal S9 and timing of the smoke exposure period can be
terminated
by removing the infant simulator OS from the unacceptably smoky environment
(e.g.,
removing the infant simulator 05 from the room), thereby terminating detection
of a
1 S smoky environment and ceasing transmission of an electrical signal from
the smoke
detector 320 to the central microcontroller unit 20.
69
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The central microcontroller unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
rocking-request event immediately after termination of the smoke exposure
signal S9
for purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator OS
after such
an exposure to a smoky environment.
5
A preferred embodiment of the smoke detector module 420 combines both the
recording/reporting and signaling systems.
The central microcontrolier unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
10 perceptible smoke exposure signal S9 only at the beginning of a smoke
exposure
period (i. e, , generate a ten second signal as soon as smoke is detected),
periodically
throughout a smoke exposure period (e. g., generate a two second signal every
minute
once smoke is detected until smoke is no longer detected), or continuously
throughout
a smoke exposure period.
15
The smoke exposure signal S9 may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240, based upon a
prolonged
exposure to smoke. An example of is set forth in Table Thirteen, provided
below.
20 TABLE TEIIRTEEN
(ESCALATING SMOKE EXPOSURE SIGNAL
70
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The smoke detector system 320 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon detection
of
smoke, and thereby recording any verbal comments or statements made near the
infant
simulator OS for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes) after the smoke
exposure
signal S, has been generated.
The smoke detector 320, as with the central microcontroller unit 20 and
battery pack 25, is preferably equipped with a tamper indicating device (not
shown)
for purposes of signaling and/or recording and reporting efforts to remove or
10 otherwise access the smoke detector 320.
Sun Exposure Sensing System
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a light sensor 350, such as a
15 CDS Photo Cell, Mouser stock number 52d-611-J4-805 available from Mouser
Electronics, for sensing the quantity of light striking the infant simulator
05 and
communicating the sensed illuminance to the central microcontroller unit 20.
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
20 unit 20 records instances where the sensed illuminance exceeds a defined
threshold
value, wherein the threshold value is established at a level effective for
differentiating
between acceptable exposure to artificial lighting or indirect sunlight, and
unacceptable exposure to direct sunlight (e.g., 2,000 foot-candles). Such
recorded sun
exposure data is then available for later review by a program administrator.
The
25 specific sun exposure information recorded and reported by the central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report whether the sensed illuminance exceeded the threshold value at least
once
during the assignment period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit
20 can
30 record illuminance values every two minutes throughout an entire assignment
period
and graphically report the recorded illuminance at the end of the assignment
period.
71
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
A nonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting sun exposure data
is set
forth in Table Fourteen, provided below.
TABLE FOURTEEN
OPTIONS FOR RECORDING ANU REPORTING
SuN EXPOSURE DA7A)
~ ~~S~.II~l~fJ1!c 1~!~,,'T~L ~,sl,Mp~E~'i~t~'
~~x..<.:. .:....,.. fi,~,
:,:,.::.
..>..-n ...,.. .,4.w .
::..:.......,.
~xv:~,.-.T:~21.;"' .. S"..:.: ... ar.:
~t ~~:.: 3..:,v
~ -"~'l .y,.:::,a~~:<,:.,
s~ ,.
a k "'
~ , J.p
: . . '~.:,i ~ :.
? :. \.... . .!
~i: '$:-:"isaf..~ ..Z.'. .
:' :
.',: . . ~.::=::
y:'::: , .k.: - o:: . .i
~' ,
. .. L~_: :.:,~::::.:.::;~.;..,.....:.,..~
..\::n:.. w:: ....s,, s.
: av .f.
::.:,...>...,~:.., r ... . .... ~:~ s0. ..
~. . - "......'~ ...:.: -..:: ..:
~ :;ai ,.:.
a .. : ..:.
\.... :., .: \4.;:,st..:..,....:,,:,.: ..,.....
..:....,_'::''':'..'::
~~'a:: '. -..:. ..
';; ~ :. ,
: -. . .
, ... :
: : ::~~
~ . w
~ - ~
,
:
~-
v
~
. _ . ,
. . .... .
. .. . ,::.
. ..:.~:., . ,
... ........_:: ,.:.: ..
... :::.: : . .....
... . ..... . .
.. , ., ..: ....,...
. ... : .:.:: .
. . :: .,....,.r....,:
.. :::.:. , . , .... ,
,:=.u.v-: . ,.,.,. .. ...........
:...:. .. .....................................,......
-. . ,.._... ...............:...\.... ....
,...,..c........:: . ..... .,.. . ..:.,.........,
....:.:...: .:.::.....: .............
. .,..... . __. ......,.,.....,......,...., . ...........
~ ..,... , ... .....:.:..:...... ........
~' .. :. .... . .... .....,...:..:....2 ..... ......
' .:.,.s.5,..:..,;,...,."...".,...,s....., .. ,.....:,.:..
' .... . .....v,.................:..:..... .
.......,.........., ,.: ? '
. . :
. ....... . ....... . -
.,..........,.....w.....F '
..... ...............:,....~ ':
............. . ..
.. i
:.
.
~
"
:o-
~
'~
.
,. .- , .
.,~.; ::. ..: :. ::.:
.2......:: .:~A.; .: ,
~ :::,: . ::
~ . ::.,. . ::
- >e:., .. .
~ :.s: : ....
:. .:::::
:., ,
1 Records and reports YES/NO Light ON/OFF
that sensed
illuminance exceeded
threshold
value at least once
during an
I assignment period (i.
e., a sun
exposure event occurred).
2 Records and reports Number "3"
number of sun
exposure events.
3 Records and reports Foot-candles6,200
highest
illuminance experienced
during all
sun exposure periods
occurring
during the assignment
period.
4 Records and reports #/Foot-candles1: 6000
the number of
sun exposure events 2: 6200
and highest
ihuminance for each
sun exposure
3: 5350
period.
5 Records and reports #/Minutes 1: 06
the number of
sun exposure events 2: 18
and duration of
each sun exposure period.
3 ; 02
I
72
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
:f~~7t'ICt~ ""'-r-
D!ESCRI~'fIO~ ~ DATA iSAI4~PLL
;;' 1 i'~~J 'i~~ ~f']t' ~ \, REP~~'
1 " 7 ':
~ ~~'~:)P~.-r:c~..r...,a'..,,~
~ - , r:.. ~ ~o
x', . . . '
. ..." .. ~
~ ~ ~~ -.v ... ~1
.. . , - :
.: .. -
, .,
~
6 Records and reports #/Foot-candles1:6000, ~6000,
the number of 6000,
sun exposure events and 6000.
continuously records
and reports
2:5500, 5500,
5600,
illuminance throughout
each sun
5800, 5800,5800,
exposure period.
5900, 6200,
6200,
6200.
3:S3S0, 5000
7 Continuously records Minutes/Foot-02: 1200
and reports
illuminance throughout candles
an
04: 1400
assignment period.
06: 1200
08: 1200
10: 1200
In a second embodiment, the central microcontrolier unit 20 is connected to a
system (not shown) capable of generating a perceptible sun exposure signal
S,s. The
central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to generate the perceptible sun
5 exposure signal S,5 when the sensed illuminance exceeds the defined
threshold value.
Generation of the perceptible sun exposure signal S,3 warns the student caring
for the
infant simulator OS that the infant simulator OS is being exposed to direct
sunlight and
must be protected. The sun exposure signal S,s and timing of the sun exposure
period
can be terminated by removing the infant simulator OS from direct sunlight
(e.g.,
10 shading the infant with an umbrella or moving the infant to a shaded area).
The central microcontroller unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
rocking-request event immediately after termination of the sun exposure signal
S,s for
73
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator OS after
such a
startling exposure to sunlight. ,
A preferred embodiment of the sun exposure module 470 combines both the
5 recordinglreporting and signaling systems.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible sun exposure signal S,s only at the beginning of a sun exposure
period
(i.e_, generate a ten second signal as soon as a sensed illuminance exceeds
the
10 threshold value), periodically throughout a sun exposure period (e.g.,
generate a two
second signal every minute once the sensed illuminance exceeds the threshold
value
until the sensed illuminance falls below the threshold value), or continuously
throughout a sun exposure period.
15 The sun exposure signal S,s may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240, based upon (i)
an
increase in the difference between the sensed illuminance and the threshold
value,
andlor (ii) an increase in the duration of the sun exposure period. An example
of each
is set forth in Table Fifteen, provided below.
20
TABLE FIFTEEN
ESCALATING SUN EXPOSURE SIGNAL
1" Intensity (whimper) < 5 < 500
2"d Intensity (cry) 5 to 20 500 to 2000
3'd Intensity (shriek) >20 >2000
7~k
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The sun exposure module 470 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon
generation of the
sun exposure signal S", and thereby recording any verbal comments or
statements
made near the infant simulator 05 for a defined time period (e.g., 3-S
minutes) after
the sun exposure signal S" has been generated.
The sun exposure module 470 may also include the ancillary feature of entry
into a comatose state 280 based upon (i) the sensing of an illuminance far in
excess of
10 a defined threshold (e.g., 5,000 foot-candles over a threshold value of
2,000 foot-
candles), and/or (ii) the duration of a sun exposure period in excess of a
defined
threshold (e.g., 60 minutes).
The light sensor 350, as with the central microcontroller unit 20 and battery
1 S pack 25, is preferably equipped with a tamper indicating device (not
shown) for
purposes of signaling and/or recording and reporting efforts to remove or
otherwise
access the light sensor 350.
Temperature Sensing System .40
zo
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a temperature sensor 40, such as
a simple thermister, capable of sensing the environmental temperatures to
which the
infant simulator OS is exposed and communicating the sensed temperatures to
the
central microcontroller unit 20.
25
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records the sensed temperatures for later review by the program
administrator.
The specific information recorded and reported by the central microcontroller
unit 20
can range from the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the central
30 microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and report
whether the
sensed environmental temperature fell outside a defined acceptable temperature
range
7S
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
(e.g., 10°C and 40°C, preferably 15°C and 35 °C)
at least once during the assignment
period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit 20 can record
temperature
values every two minutes throughout an entire assignment period and
graphically
report the recorded temperatures at the end of the assignment period. A
nonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting thermal exposure
data is set
forth in Table Sixteen, provided below.
TABLE SIXTEEN
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
1 O THERMAL EXPOSURE DATA
~~:~ I~~s~~~t~;~ D~ri~ . ~A~eL~Rca~c~
,
h dv ,
... ..t........a~. . :....,;,J ..:... r...
.. ..:;, ...n~..a.. .. .:,:: ".:.,'....>.
~:.,
1 Records and reports that YESlNO Light
sensed UNlOFF
temperature fell outside
of
acceptable temperature
range at
least once during the
assignment
period (i. e., a thermal
exposure
period occurred).
2 Records and reports numberNumber "3."
of
thermal exposure events
occurring
within the assignment
period.
3 Records and reports high C 22C:
and low 49C.
temperature extremes sensed
during
the assignment period.
4 Records and reports the C 1:
number of 42C
thermal exposure events 2:
and the 49C
temperature extreme for
each
3:
45C
thermal exposure period.
76
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
1C.1PT"i,~ri:;~ , DESCRIPTttalvt 11A.TA. SAM~L.~ RFY#~~t~'
>
~QRDl~i3.
:, .: ~ ' , ~ .. .. ,
. ..,.. : , : . :'.
5 .. #/Minutes .
Records and reports 1: 06
the number of
thermal exposure events 2: 18
and the
duration of each thermal
exposure
3: 02
period_
6 Records and reports #/C l :42, 42, 42,
the number of 42
thermal exposure events 2: 41, 43, 45,
and 46,
continuously records 47, 47, 47,
and reports 49,
the temperature throughout 45, 42, 41
a
thermal exposure period.
3:43, 45
7 Continuously records Minutes/C 02: 27
and reports
the temperature throughout 04: 27
an
assignment period.
06: 28
08: 29
lo: zg
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed
with defined upper and lower temperature limits (e.g., 10 °C and 40
°C, preferably 15
°C and 35 °C) and connected to a system (not shown) capable of
generating a
5 perceptible thermal exposure signal S=. The central microcontroller unit 20
is
programmed to generate the perceptible thermal exposure signal Sz when the
sensed
temperature falls outside the acceptable temperature range. Generation of the
perceptible thermal exposure signal S= warns the student caring for the infant
simulator OS that the environmental temperature has reached an unacceptable
level
10 and corrective action is required. A preferred perceptible thermal exposure
signal S~
when the infant is cold is shivering of the infant simulator 05 generated by
activation
77
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
of an electronic motor spinning an out-of balance weight. The thermal exposure
signal S= and timing of the thermal exposure period can be terminated by
removing
the infant simulator OS from the unacceptably warm or cold environment (e.g.,
removing the infant simulator OS from the car or turning on the air
conditioner),
thereby returning the body temperature of the infant simulator OS to an
acceptable
temperature and ceasing transmission of an electrical signal from the
temperature
sensor 40 to the central microcontroller unit 20.
The central microcontroller unit 20 may optionally be programmed to initiate a
10 rocking-request event immediately after termination of the thermal exposure
signal S=
for purposes of simulating a need for comforting of the infant simulator OS
after such
a discomforting exposure to extreme temperatures.
A preferred embodiment of the temperature sensor module 120 combines both
I S the recording/reporting and signaling systems.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible thermal exposure signal S= only at the beginning of a thermal
exposure
period (i. e., generate a ten second signal as soon as a sensed temperature
falls outside
20 the acceptable temperature range), periodically throughout a thermal
exposure period
(e.g., generate a two second signal every minute once the sensed temperature
falls
outside the acceptable temperature range until the sensed temperature returns
to the
acceptable temperature range), or continuously throughout a thermal exposure
period.
25 The thermal exposure signal S= may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240, based upon (i)
an
increase in the difference between the sensed temperature and the temperature
limit,
and/or (ii) an increase in the duration of the thermal exposure period. An
example of
each is set forth in Table Seventeen, provided below,
30
78
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE SEVENTEEN
(ESCALATING THERMAL-DISCOMFORT SIGNAL
The temperature module 120 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon
commencing
generation of a thermal-exposure signal Sz, and thereby recording any verbal
comments or statements made near the infant simulator OS for a defined time
period
(e.g., 3-S minutes) after the thermal-exposure signal S, has been generated.
10
The temperature sensing module 120 may also include the ancillary feature of
entry into a comatose state 280 based upon (i) the sensing of a difference
between the
sensed temperature and the temperature limit In excess of a defined threshold
(e. g., 20
°C), and/or (ii) a duration of a thermal exposure period in excess of a
defined
15 threshold (e.g., 20 minutes).
The temperature sensor 40, as with the central microcontroller unit 20 and
battery pack 25, is preferably equipped with a tamper indicating device (not
shown)
far purposes of signaling and/or recording and reporting efforts to remove or
20 otherwise access the temperarirre sensor 40.
79
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Missing Diaper Module 490
The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a diaper sensor 370, such as a
normally open Hall Effect switch 62 as described in detail in connection with
the
5 diaper-change event, capable of sensing whether the infant simulator 05 is
wearing a
diaper, such as one of the diapers 60 described in detail in connection with
the diaper-
change event, and communicating the sensing of a missing-diaper 60 to the
central
microcontroller unit 20.
10 In order to prevent the initiation of a missing-diaper event when the
diaper 60
is only missing for a short period of time, such as during a diaper change,
the central
microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to periodically check the status of
any
signal generated by the missing diaper sensor 370 (e.g., every 5 to 30
minutes) and
generate a missing-diaper signal S,~ only when at least two consecutive checks
of the
15 missing diaper sensor 370 indicate that the diaper 60 is missing.
In a first embodiment, a recording function within the central microcontroller
unit 20 records any instances of a sensed missing-diaper for later review by
the
program administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the
central
20 microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the
complex. For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report whether a missing-diaper was sensed at least once during the assignment
period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit 20 can record and
report the
number and individual duration of missing-diaper periods occurring within the
25 assignment period.. A nonexhaustive list of options for recording and
reporting
missing-diaper data is set forth in Table Eighteen below.
80
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE EIGHTEEN
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
MISSING-DIAPER DATA)
E1~'~'I~t~ ' ' 11~P.SCB~'f~~3~F ' l~~t'~'A~At~f'F'L&y~ll~~'
~
~ ~ ~s r j r r <
.>--\ <:. r
z ~~~~ r
F ~ f
J
~,
~
,
r - ~
.r - ~'
r ~r 5 i ~'"<
x .~.. J s,
a~vh':.5:" r3:a nlra:" ,
r 'r. M
r - 3
: 0
~ ~
.:
:R~
~
"~
~
_ ... . -y','..~:.:
~\.: . .:.:'. t ... .; ...: .. . ::
~x:~ :: ~ ~ . . .~:.~~' ~ ~. ::..:
.. ~ ; :..: . ~ . ;:i -
.... ,
~::~
. Records and reports only YES/NO Light
1 fact that ON/OFF
diaper was detected as
missing at
least once during assignment
period
(i.e., occurrence of a
missing-diaper
event).
2 Records and reports numberNumber "4."
of
missing-diaper events.
3 Records and reports the #/MinutesI
number and :
02
duration of each missing-diaper ~:
pg
period.
3 : 02
4: 02
In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 is connected to a
system (not shown) capable of generating a perceptible missing-diaper signal
S". The
central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to generate the perceptible
missing-
diaper signal S" when the diaper sensor 370 detects that the infant simulator
OS is not
10 wearing a diaper 60. Generation of the perceptible missing-diaper signal
Sl, warns the
student caring for the infant simulator 05 that the infant simulator 05 is not
wearing a
diaper 60 and should be fitted with a diaper 60. The missing-diaper signal S"
and
timing of the missing-diaper period can be terminated by fitting a diaper 60
upon
infant simulator 05, thereby ceasing transmission of an electrical signal from
the
15 diaper sensor 370 to the central microcontroller unit 20.
81
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
A preferred embodiment of the missing-diaper module 490 combines both the
recording/reporting and signaling systems.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible missing-diaper signal S" only at the beginning of a missing-diaper
period
(i.e., generate a ten second signal as soon as the diaper GO is detected as
missing),
periodically throughout a missing-diaper period (e.g., generate a two second
signal
every minute once the diaper 60 is detected as missing until the diaper 60 is
fitted
upon the infant simulator 05), or continuously throughout a missing-diaper
period.
10
Since an actual infant would not normally be expected to become increasingly
uncomfortable as the duration of a missing-diaper event increases, the missing-
diaper
sensing module 490 need not, and preferably does not, include the ancillary
feature of
providing an escalated demand signal 240.
15
The missing-diaper module 490 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon detection
of a
missing-diaper, and recording any verbal comments or statements made near the
infant simulator 05 during a missing-diaper period. Such recording may
continue for
20 a defined time period (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) or for the entire duration of
a missing-
diaper period.
The missing-diaper sensor 370, as with the central microcontroller unit 20 and
battery pack 25, is preferably equipped with a tamper indicating device (not
shown)
25 for purposes of signaling and/or recording and reporting efforts to remove
or
otherwise access the missing-diaper sensor 370.
82
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
DEMAND EVENTS
Diaper-Change Event
5 The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect periodic
diaper-change events, wherein the student caring for the infant simulator 05
is
signaled by the infant simulator 05, on a schedule unknown to the student,
that the
diaper 60 on the infant simulator 05 needs to be changed. Preferred diaper-
change
signals S, include an audible cry and/or a wetting of the diaper 60.
10
The time interval between diaper-change periods can be a bounded random
variable (e.g., occurring every 30 to 120 minutes) or a predetermined variable
(e.g.,
sequentially occurring at intervals of 30, 90, 30, 30, 120, 60, 20 and 90
minutes). In
order to more accurately emulate the care requirements of an actual infant,
and
15 prevent students from memorizing the schedule of demand events, it is
generally
preferred to control the time interval between demand events as a bounded
random
variable. Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a
different
fixed schedule of demand events, can also be realistically employed so long as
the
students do not know which program has been selected (i.e., the schedule of
demand
20 events is random from the perspective of the student) and the number of
programs is
sufficient to prevent the students from memorizing one or two different
schedules and
thereafter being able to partially defeat the purpose of the program by
ignoring the
infant simulator OS between scheduled demand events.
25 Refernng to Figure 3, the infant simulator OS can include a pair of
oppositely
mounted, normally open Hall Effect switches 62a and 62b (hereinafter diaper-
change
switches), within the torso 12 of the mannequin 10. A wide variety of suitable
Hall
Effect switches 62 are available from a number of different manufacturers,
including
Hall Effect switch Model No. DN 6851A manufactured by Panasonic. The diaper-
30 change switches 62 are electrically connected to the central
microcontroller unit 20.
Because the diaper-change switches 62 are mounted in reverse directions within
the
83
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
mannequin 10, the first diaper-change switch 62a is closed only by a magnet 61
having a "north" facing polarity, while the second diaper-change switch 62b is
closed
only by a magnet 61 having a "south" facing polarity.
5 Referring to Figures 4a and 46, the student caring for the infant simulator
05 is
provided with two diapers 60 sized to fit the infant simulator 05. A magnet 61
is
sewn into each of the diapers 60 at a position effective for placing the
magnet 61 in
close proximity to the appropriate diaper-change switch 62 when the diaper 60
is
fitted onto the mannequin 10. The magnet 61 in the first diaper 60a is rotated
so that
10 the magnet 61 has a "north" facing polarity when the first diaper 60a is
fitted onto the
mannequin 10, while the magnet 61 in the second diaper 60b is rotated so that
the
magnet 61 has a "south" facing polarity when the second diaper 60b is fitted
onto the
mannequin 10. When the appropriate diaper-change switch 62 is closed, an
electrical
diaper-change satisfaction signal St, is sent to the central microcontroller
unit 20 and
15 the diaper-change signal S4 is arrested. Timing of the diaper-change
episode is also
terminated.
The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a diaper-change event by
alternating the "selected" diaper-change switch 62 as between the first 62a
and second
20 62b diaper-change switches, and initiating generation of a perceptible
diaper-change
signal S,. In order to arrest the diaper-change signal S,, the student must
close the
newly selected diaper-change switch 62 by changing the diaper 60.
The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes a recording function
25 for recording relevant diaper-change episode data for later review by the
program
administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
. report the total duration of all diaper-change episodes. Alternatively, the
central
30 microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total number of diaper-
change events
which occurred during an assignment period and the duration of each individual
84
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
diaper-change episode. A nonexhaustive list of options for recording and
reporting
relevant diaper-change episode data is set forth in Table Nineteen, provided
below.
TABLE NINETEEN
(OPTIONS x'OR RECORDING AND REPORTING
DIAPER-CHANGE EPISODE DATA
'~3P~'~4N, ~ESG'~'TI~I~ DA~.,~, SAM~L~
II~~'QRT
.. . . ,
.: :. : <:
:; :., : :
.:: :::>::> .:
. :
;. '
...: . . <
... : :.:... .:. .
: . . .
. . . .. . .. , .:
. .. : ~~~
:< ~'w>':a
,
3 ~
~ ; ~'
1 Records and reports totalMinutes 45
duration
of all diaper-change
episodes
occurnng throughout an
assignment
period.
2 Records and reports total#/# 5:4
number of
diaper-change episodes
and number
of diaper-change episodes
lasting
longer than a given grace
period
(e.g., two minutes).
3 Records and reports number#/Minutes 4:45
of
diaper-change episodes
and total
duration of all diaper-change
'
episodes occurring throughout
an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5:45
of
diaper-change episodes, Minutes
total 4
duration of all diaper-change
episodes occurring throughout
an
assignment period, and
mean
duration of the diaper-change
episodes.
85
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~k~fU3~ ~ ~DESGRIPT;<Ol~ ~ 'DATA ~,p,~ipLE ~.)~p~J'
:' RECORDED
;r
. .. .
Records and reports duration#/Minutes 1: 03
of
each individual diaper-change 2: 18
episode occurring throughout
an
3: 20
assignment period.
4: 00
5: 04
6 Records and reports number#/Minutes 4: 45
of
diaper-change episodes, Minutes 03:18:20:00:04
total
duration of all diaper-change
episodes, and individual
duration of
each diaper-change episode
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible diaper-change signal Sq only at the beginning of a diaper-change
period
(i.e., generate a ten second signal when a diaper-change period is initiated
by the
central microcontroller unit 20), periodically throughout a diaper-change
period (e.g.,
generate a two second signal every minute once a diaper-change period is
initiated by
the central microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout a diaper-
change
period.
10 The diaper-change signal S4 may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon an
increase in the duration of the diaper-change episode. An example is set forth
in
Table Twenty, provided below.
86
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TWENTY
~ESC.~L.4TING DIAPER-CHANGE SIGNAL
~T~1V~T~I t'J~ <.fltA.P~R ~lii3,7V~~
- EP1SOD~
~ :
~~~C~~Tt~~~ ~~~~t~ Dt~~toz~
~ t v
a
'
r ('r~ ''
(~ItDITtL~~ ~
' :.-~::,::..~.::..::.......:..:.:.:....-
:........:.:::....:..
:.:::~:<..:..:.,.....:...:...:.:..:.~~.;..::.:..".._::..:.:.-_...
..>. d,;~, .. .. :., :.::::" . .,:..;..:
...:. . ..." : .:.:.,..,;,, .
rc". : :::~: . . ..
,'.4:..
1 S' Intensity (soft< O 1
cry)
2"d Intensity (loud> O1
cry)
S The diaper-change module 140 may optionally communicate with a sound
recorder 360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon
commencement
of a diaper-change event, thereby recording any verbal comments or statements
made
near the infant simulator OS for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes)
after the
diaper-change signal S, has been generated.
10
Feeding Event
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect periodic
feeding-request events, wherein the student caring for the infant simulator 05
is
15 signaled by the infant simulator O5, on a schedule unknown to the student,
to feed the
infant simulator O5. Preferred types of feeding-request signals S6 include
crying,
sucking, outstretched arms 13 and combinations thereof.
The time interval between feeding-request periods can be a bounded random
20 variable (e.g., occurring every 30 to 120 minutes) or a predetermined
variable (e.g.,
sequentially occurring at intervals of 30, 90, 30, 30, 120, 60, 20 and 90
minutes). In
order to more accurately emulate the care requirements of an actual infant,
and
prevent students from memorizing the schedule of demand events, it is
generally
preferred to control the time interval between demand events as a bounded
random
25 variable. Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a
different
87
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
fixed schedule of demand events, can also be realistically employed so long as
the
students do not know which program has been selected (i. e., the schedule of
demand
events is random from the perspective of the student) and the number of
programs is
sufficient to prevent the students from memorizing one or two different
schedules and
5 thereafter being able to partially defeat the purpose of the program by
ignoring the
infant simulator OS between scheduled demand events.
Referring to Figure 3, the infant simulator OS can include a normally open
Hall
Effect switch 82 (hereinafter feed switch), within the head 11 of the
mannequin 10
10 immediately behind the mouth (unnumbered). The feed switch 82 is
electrically
connected to the central microcontroller unit 20. The feed switch 82 is
normally open,
and can be closed only by a magnet 81 having the appropriately directed
polarity.
Referring to Figure 5, the student caring for the infant simulator OS is
provided
15 with a bottle 80 scaled to the size of the infant simulator O5. A magnet 81
is molded
into the bottle 80 at a position effective for placing the magnet 81 in close
proximity
to the feed switch $2 when the bottle 80 is placed against the mouth
(unnumbered) of
the mannequin 10. Alternatively, the magnet 81 can be molded within a key (not
shown) bearing indicia representative of a bottle. When a breast feeding
option is
20 provided, an object or indicia representative of breast feeding (not shown)
(e.g., a
silhouette of a mother and child) can be utilized in place of the bottle.
The mouth (unnumbered) of the mannequin 10 can optionally be molded to
include a shaped indentation (not shown) into which a correspondingly shaped
nipple
25 80n on the bottle 80 can be inserted. The shape of the indentation (not
shown) and the
nipple 80n are selected so that the bottle 80 must be rotated into a
predetermined
relationship relative to the head 11 of the mannequin 10 in order to fit
within the
indentation (not shown). Such rotation-specific shapes include specifically,
but not
exclusively, an isosceles triangle, a circular segment, and an "L." When the
nipple
30 80n of the bottle 80 is fitted within the indentation (not shown) in the
mouth
(unnumbered) the magnet 81 in the bottle 80 is properly oriented relative to
the feed
88
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
switch 82 and the feed switch 82 is closed. When.the feed switch 82 is closed,
an
electrical feeding-request satisfaction signal St6 is sent to the central
microcontroller
unit 20 and ttte feeding-request signal S~ arrested. Timing of the feeding-
request
episode is also terminated.
5
The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a feeding-request event by
initiating generation of a perceptible feeding -request signal S6. In order to
attest the
feeding -request signal S6, the student must "feed" the infant simulator OS by
placing
the bottle 80 against the mouth (unnumbered) of the mannequin 10.
10
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to either terminate or
inhibit generation of the feeding-request signal S6 once the feeding
satisfaction signal
St6 is sensed. When the termination option is selected, the student need only
feed the
infant simulator 05 for some minimum time period (e.g., two to ten seconds)
15 sufficient to ensure that feeding has been sensed, after which the student
may stop
feeding the infant simulator 05 and the feeding -request signal S6 will not
begin again.
When the inhibition option is selected, the student must continuously feed the
infant
simulator OS throughout the feeding -request period (e.g., five to twenty
minutes) to
prevent the feeding -request signal S6 from being generated, with the end of a
feeding-
20 request period optionally indicated by the generation of a feeding period
completion
signal such as a side-to-side movement of the head 10. The inhibition option
is
generally preferred as it more closely emulates the care requirements of an
actual
infant.
25 The micro controller unit 20 can optionally be programmed to generate a
"coo" or similar positive signal at the end of a feeding period, provided the
feeding-
request satisfaction signal St6 has been provided during the feeding-request
period
(e.g., the feeding-request satisfaction signal Stb was transmitted to the
infant simulator
05 within initial grace period ), for purposes of providing the student with
positive
30 feedback.
$9
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes a recording function
for recording relevant feeding -request episode data for later review by the
program
administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
5 example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report the total duration of all feeding-request episodes. Alternatively, the
central
microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total number of feeding-
request -
events which occurred during an assignment period and the duration of each
individual feeding-request episode. A nonexhaustive list of options for
recording and
10 reporting relevant feeding-request episode data is set forth in Table
Twenty One,
provided below.
TABLE TWENTY ONE
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
1 S FEEDING-REQUEST EPISODE DATA)
~~"i'IC~'I7.F,~CRIP'I30~ ~,~''~~. ~lk~t',:E~~~'
~ ,
4 -- , y y r. ..: ~~...
! :rA f 3 ~ ...<u...u. ~.:.N...u.
~r
;~.: f' ::.~ ~$(rj;..a-.[T.r:
r :. \ ..:.A. . v./.~ ~.
r...a .". .rvn 2:n:..v.
. .:%.~'1k':~
j~.; c y!..\,? a.k. i ~~ ..v
' .. :t. s i
$~< ~ , Rv'j:?
~ ' ::$
' r H
~ '
~ '
. . " .
.. ~nr. .:.. ... \v .,
.._ .:::1'~: ii...~:.\.. . 7.
.: .. . J,
'H..., ( :.. .
s., ".w, :. : .:
w..' ~. ~d~~~ '' ::
~ < .
r3.. a.,.
....4...'.... r-
:.v1 . pa... .
v ?. ~ ~.. ~
< a a. t
.........'-... .., :... . .-..:..... ... ..,..:... ...... .
: . ,. , : ........, ... ... .a.'~.!...'~.
. ..'~ ... '.. . - :.-. ,'.
1 Records and reports totalMinutes 45
duration
of all feeding-request
episodes
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
2 Records and reports total#/# 5:S
number of
feeding-request episodes
and
number of feeding-request
episodes
lasting longer than a -
given grace
period (e.g., two minutes).
90
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~~~''xT~lNy; DESCR1~'fLOht : DATA SAMfLI~QRT':~:
: \ Y ~L
~ \ Z~ ~y J
f N "
\ ' ., ~~~~~~~ ;;
< 3?
y. A . ,. ' ; . ,.y.. ..; ,
. ~. ' , .. .,
ye. . ' . .. '-.. ...
3 Records and reports number#/Minutes S:4S
of
feeding-request episodes
and total
duration of all feeding-request
episodes occurring throughout
an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5;45
of
feeding-request events, Minutes 03
total
duration of all feeding-request
episodes, and mean duration
of the
feeding-request episodes
occurring
throughout an assignment
period.
5 Records and reports duration#/Minutes 1: 03
of
each individual feeding-request 2: 18
episode occurring throughout
an
3: 20
assignment period.
4: 02
S: 02
6 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5: 45
of
feeding-request episodes,Minutes
total 03 :18:20:02:02
duration of all feeding-request
episodes, and individual
duration of
each feeding-request
episode
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible feeding-request signal S6 only at the beginning of a feeding-
request period
(i.e., generate a ten second signal when a feeding-request period is initiated
by the
91
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
central microcontroller unit 20}, periodically throughout a feeding-request
period
(e.g., generate a two second signal every minute once a feeding-request period
is
initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout
a feeding-
request period.
5
The feeding-request signal S6 may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon an
increase in the duration of the feeding-request episode. An example is set
forth in
Table Twenty Two, provided below.
to
TABLE TWENTY TWO
(ESCALATING FEEDING-REQUEST SIGNAL)
~T8ENGTFLU~" I~EEpING-RtrQ
. -......:..._
. ::...:.......:. .....:_: . .......
..::.:.:.:. :...,......:..
..: .:~...:........ . . .:.. :. ...
..;: .:,:.::..:
_. ....v.
. ::.
. ..:.
. _::.: :.:::: . :.,.
..:r::: .:::..r.:...:>....:::::.:::::::::::::. ::........:....,:.:.::.:...:
~,; .::.:.:. ;,......:....t,.:.:.:::
::..: :::::: ::: :...: .. .:.
RC~PT~DLE $T~?~iAL :.:::..
~P~SODE~13t1AA~T~I~N
.. ..:.,".... - ...v. .,.. '. ;
.: v-. . ...... ::...:::.. ... ., . .._..
. . .. ....-
::..,.~:::;:n~. . .;:. .. .~.....
..r'y'S.._v;...:..>...::::.:: ..
::.:::a~.-:......_::::: :: ::..:...:; :.::.:..-J~:.::.::
r ~:::.:-..::..::
:? :~ :o:.......:..:._.~::.
M l
.-rs ,~'' J
~
'
(~~tDl~Ll~~ ~3li~tI
~ T~S
, .~
F ~,. ~J T
~~' 1
.....A..:~ ~ a. . t.. . ' is,..
.:
In Intensity (soft < O1
cry)
2"d Intensity > O1
(loud cry)
15 The feeding module 160 may optionally communicate with a sound recorder
360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon commencement of a
feeding-request event, thereby recording any verbal comments or statements
made
near the infant simulator OS for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes)
after the
feeding-request signal S6 has been generated.
20
The feeding module 160 may also include an ancillary comatose feature 280
based upon a repeated failure to feed the infant simulator (e.g., a feeding-
request
satisfaction signal Stb is not received for three consecutive feeding-request
periods).
92
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Burping Event
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect burping-
request period, wherein the student caring for the infant simulator OS is
signaled by
5 the infant simulator 05, on a schedule unknown to the student, to burp the
infant
simulator OS after the infant simulator OS has been fed in response to a
feeding-request
signal S6. Burping-request periods can be initiated after the satisfaction of
some or all
of the feeding-request periods and is preferably initiated independently of
any
environmental condition (e.g., initiation of a burping-request period is not
contingent
10 upon the student laying the infant simulator 05 face down on the floor
after a feeding
period). Preferred types of burping-request signals S, include crying,
whimpering,
fidgeting and combinations thereof.
Burping-request periods can be initiated immediately after the end of a
15 satisfied feeding-request period or after a defined delay (e.g., two to
thirty minutes).
The delay between the end of a feeding-request period and initiation of a
burping-
request period can be a bounded random variable (e.g., 0 to 30 minutes) or a
predetermined variable (e.g., sequentially occurring at intervals of 0, 9, 3,
0, 12, b, 20
and 9 minutes). In order to more accurately emulate the care requirements of
an
20 actual infant, and prevent students from memorizing and sharing the
schedule of
demand events, it is generally preferred to control the length of the delay as
a bounded
random variable. Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a
different fixed schedule of demand events including scheduling of burping-
request
periods, can also be realistically employed so long as the students do not
know which
25 program has been selected (i.e., the schedule of demand events is random
from the
perspective of the student) and the variation in the duration of the delay
between a
feeding-request event and a burping-request event is sufficient to prevent the
students
from memorizing one or two different durations and thereafter being able to
partially
defeat the purpose of the program by ignoring the infant simulator 05 between
30 sequential feeding-request and burping-request events.
93
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Referring to Figure 3, the same motion sensor 70 used for purposes of sensing
rocking of the infant simulator 05 can also be effectively used to sense
burping of the
infant simulator 05 since the type of motion provided by rocking and patting
are both
detectable by the motion sensor 70. When motion of the appropriate amplitude
is
sensed, an electrical burping-request satisfaction signal St, is sent to the
central
microcontroller unit 20 and the burping-request signal S, is arrested. Timing
of the
burping-request episode is also terminated.
The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a burping-request event by
10 initiating generation of a perceptible burping-request signal S,. In order
to arrest the
burping-request signal S,, the student must pat the infant simulator 05 with
sufficient
force to generate an appropriate electrical signal in the motion sensor 70
(i.e.,
sufficient to signal "patting" but insufficient to signal "abuse").
15 The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to either terminate
or
inhibit generation of the burping-request signal S, once patting is sensed.
When the
termination option is selected, the student need only burp the infant
simulator OS for
some minimum time period (e.g., two to ten seconds) sufficient to ensure that
burping
has been sensed, after which the student may stop burping the infant simulator
OS and
20 the burping-request signal S, wil! not begin again. When the inhibition
option is
selected, the student must continuously burp the infant simulator 05
throughout the
burping-request period (e,g., five to twenty minutes) to prevent the burping-
request
signal S, from being generated, with the end of a burping-request period
optionally
indicated by the generation of a burping-request period completion signal such
as a
25 burp. The inhibition option is generally preferred as it more closely
emulates the care
requirements of an actual infant.
The micro controller unit 20 can optionally be programmed to generate a
"burp" sound at the end of a burping period, provided the requested burping
action
30 has been provided during the burping period (e.g., burping action commenced
within
94
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
initial grace period and/or threshold duration of patting provided during
burping-
request period), for purposes of providing the student with positive feedback.
The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes a recording function
5 for recording relevant burping-request episode data for later review by the
program
administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report the total duration of all burping-request episodes. Alternatively, the
central
10 microcontroller unit ZO can record and report the total number of burping-
request
episodes which occurred during an assignment period and the duration of each
individual burping-request episode. A nonexhaustive list of options for
recording and
reporting relevant burping-request episode data is set forth in Table Twenty
Three,
provided below.
15
TABLE TWENTY THREE
(OP7IONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
BURPING-REQUEST EPISODE DATA
~"iOlii 1~ESGRIt''~'ION I~IC.Tdt. ~e~l~Pt~~flBT
t?R~!~1) '
:
,: : . ..: , :: ~' ..::.:.
1 Records and reports totalMinutes 45
duration
of all burping-request
episodes
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
2 Records and reports total#/# 5:5
number of
burping-request episodes
and
number of burping-request
episodes
lasting longer than a
given grace
period (e.g., two minutes.
95
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
OPTIt3Ti13~SCRiP'flOl~ ' D ATA SA~~IP~)~ SPORT
RECOR17RD
3 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5:45
of
burping-request episodes
and total
duration of all burping-request
episodes occurring throughout
an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5:45
of
burping-request episodes,Minutes
total
03
duration of all burping-request
episodes, and mean duration
of the
burping-request episodes
occurring
throughout an assignment
period.
S Records and reports duration#/Minutes 1: 03
of
each individual burping-request
2: 18
episode occurring throughout
an
assignment period.
3: 20
4: 02
S : 02
6 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5: 45
of
burping-request episodes,Minutes
total
03:18:20:02:02
duration of all burping-request
episodes, and individual
duration of
each burping-request
episode
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible burping-request signal S, only at the beginning of a burping-
request period
(i.e., generate a ten second signal when a burping-request period is initiated
by the
96
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
central microcontroller unit 20), periodically throughout a burping-request
period
(e.g., generate a two second signal every minute once a burping-request period
is
initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout
a burping-
request period.
The burping-request signal S, may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon an
increase in the duration of the burping-request episode. An example is set
forth in
Table Twenty Four, provided below.
10
TABLE TWENTY FOUR
(ESCALATING BURPING-REQUEST SIGNAL
v S~1~G'rS~nF ~~~G-Qu.'
~'EAC~'TIBLE ~IG'~~ F.,~ISOD~ ~t3RA'TIt3!1~3
~,~t~~stSL~~,
> ~ : s
1~' Intensity (soft< 01
cry)
2 Intensity (loud > O1
cry)
I 5 The burping module 170 may optionally communicate with a sound recorder
360 for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon commencement of a
burping-request event, thereby recording any verbal comments or statements
made
near the infant simulator OS for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes)
after the
burping-request signal S, has been generated.
20
Fussy Event
For purposes of emulating the actions of an actual infant, the central
microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect periodic fussy periods,
wherein
25 the student caring for the infant simulator OS is signaled by the infant
simulator O5, on
97
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
a schedule unknown to the student, to care for the infant simulator 05,
without an
ability to arrest the perceptible fussy signal Se generated by the infant
simulator 05.
Of course, the implementation of a fussy event is only meaningful when used in
combination with at least one environmental event or demand event for which a
perceptible signal can be arrested by taking the appropriate action. Fussy
events can
be interspersed throughout the assignment period as desired for purposes of
emulating
those times occasionally encountered in rea! life, when the infant is fussing
and
nothing seems to satisfy the infant. The number of fussy events can be
recorded and
reported.
10
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible fussy signal S8 only at the beginning of a fussy period (i.e.,
generate a ten
second signal when a fussy period is initiated by the central microcontroller
unit 20),
periodically throughout a fussy period (e.g., generate a two second signal
every
15 minute once a fussy period is initiated by the central microcontroller unit
ZO), or
continuously throughout a fussy period. Preferred types of fussy signals S,
include
crying, whimpering, whining, coughing, fidgeting and combinations thereof.
The student should be expected to make some effort to satisfy the fussing
20 infant simulator 05. Handling of the infant simulator OS can be detected by
the same
motion sensor 70 used for purposes of sensing rocking and burping of the
infant
simulator 05. In the event that no effort is made to satisfy the fussing
infant simulator
05, the fussy signal S, may be intensified, in accordance with the ancillary
feature of
providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon a threshold time
duration
25 during which the fussy signal S8 has been generated without any detectable
handling.
An example is set forth in Table Twenty Five, provided below.
98
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TWENTY FIVE
(ESC.9LATING FUSSY SIGNAL)
Sr~~ F~ssx I~~u~.~~an::
~~
I ~RCEP'flliEE WfTHfGlitT~i.~YD'~G
~~GNW ~
.~
,~~~~'~s~
~
..~~' ,... . .,...;,. . . .....
;> : ;'::~:'.','~''x'..'~.... ...:.:
1 < 10
f'
Intensity
(soft
cry)
2~ > 10
Intensity
(loud
cry)
5 The perceptible fussy signal SB - normal or intensified - is not arrested
once
handling is detected. The receipt of an electrical "handling" signal by the
central
microcontroller unit 20 is effective only for preventing escalation of the
perceptible
fussy signal Se. Hence, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed
to
reduce the intensity of the increased perceptible fussy signal S8 once
handling is
10 detected, but should not arrest the perceptible fussy signal Se.
The fussy module 180 may optionally communicate with a sound recorder 360
for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon commencement of a
fussy
period, and thereby recording any verbal comments or statements made near the
infant
15 sirnuIator 05 during the fussy period. It is generally preferred to
continue operation of
the sound recorder 360 for the entire duration of a fussy period as the
inability to
satisfy the fussy signal S8 is likely to elicit a verbal response from the
student caring
for the infant simulator 05.
20 Rest Event
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect periodic rest
events, wherein the student caring for the infant simulator OS is signaled by
the infant
simulator O5, on a schedule unknown to the student, to provide the infant
simulator OS
25 with an environment conducive to resting and napping. Preferred types of
rest-request
99
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
signals S,~ include sighing, whimpering, fidgeting, blinking and closing of
the eyes
and combinations thereof.
The time interval between rest periods can be a bounded random variable (e.g.,
5 occurring every 20 to 360 minutes) or a predetermined variable (e.g.,
sequentially
occurring at intervals of 20, 120, 360, 180, 90, 30, 120 and 300 minutes). In
order to
more accurately emulate the care requirements of an actual infant, and prevent
students from memorizing the schedule of demand events, it is generally
preferred to
control the time interval between demand events as a bounded random variable.
10 Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a different
fixed schedule
of demand events, can also be realistically employed so long as the students
do not
lrnow which program has been selected (i.e., the schedule of demand events is
random
from the perspective of the student) and the number of programs is sufficient
to
prevent the students from memorizing one or two different schedules and
thereafter
15 being able to partially defeat the purpose of the program by ignoring the
infant
simulator 05 between scheduled demand events.
Resting can be detected by an absence of motion and/or sound above a defined
threshold value. The motion sensor 70 described in connection with the rocking
20 module I50 can be used for sensing motion in connection with the rest
module 450.
Similarly, the sound sensor 340 described in connection with the
overstimulation
module 440 can be used for sensing sounds reaching the infant simulator OS in
connection with the rest module 450. The motion sensor 70 and sound sensor 340
are
electrically connected to the central microcontroller unit 20 wherein the
strength of
25 the electrical signal generated by the motion sensor 70 and sound sensor
340 can be
checked against predefined threshold limitations for ignoring those which are
insufficient to disturb a resting infant (e.g., rocking of a moving car or the
sound of a
television playing in the other room). However, when motion and/or sound
exceeding
the threshold value (hereinafter "rest disturbing event's is experienced by
the infant
30 simulator 05 during a rest period, an electrical signal is sent to the
central
100
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
microcontroller unit 20 and the rest-request signal S" is initiated. Timing of
the rest-
request episode is also commenced.
The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a rest-request event by
initiating
generation of a perceptible rest-request signal S". In order to arrest the
rest-request
signal S", the student must place the infant simulator 05 within an
environment where
the infant simulator 05 will not be subjected to a rest disturbing event
(e.g., a school
counselor's office would generally be acceptable, while a school hallway
between
classes would generally be unacceptable).
10
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to either terminate or
inhibit generation of the rest-request signal S,3 once resting (i. e., absence
of rest
disturbing events) is sensed. When the termination option is selected, the
student
need only prevent the infant simulator OS from being exposed to a rest
disturbing
15 event for some minimum time period (e.g., two to ten seconds) sufficient to
ensure
that resting has been sensed, after which the student may ignore the need for
rest since
the rest-request signal S" will not begin again. When the inhibition option is
selected,
the student must continuously prevent the infant simulator 05 from being
exposed to
rest disturbing events for the duration of the rest-request period (e.g., ten
to sixty
20 minutes) to prevent the rest-request signal S,j from being generated, with
the end of a
rest-request period optionally indicated by the generation of a rest-request
period
completion signal such as giggling. The inhibition option is generally
preferred as it
more closely emulates the care requirements of an actual infant.
25 The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes a recording
function
for recording relevant rest-request episode data for later review by the
program
administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
Far
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
30 report the total duration of all rest-request episodes. Alternatively, the
central
microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total number of rest-request
episodes
101
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
which occurred during an assignment period and the duration of each individual
rest-
request episode. A nonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting
relevant
rest-request episode data is set forth in Table Twenty Six, provided below.
TABLE TWENTY SIX
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
REST REQUEST EPISODE DATA
~~ :: ;; : ;; t ,.: .. .~ ;:...,.:>:'::>,;:.:
'IEIN T~1 : ; . . ..:
~P'~ ~~ ~; ~A ~r
;I~ESC~f' 3'a1
v
. . . . .. .~. .~ ~
. a .:..
. '<;:z ,, .
. -:,' > . ~ . ,.., ....
~.. ~:: .. ~ . . ..
:. ux. u',.. ., .~s.::..'.:::::
< : . :...x
>.~:~:- :::x~.:.,
.~.x.
-.. ?%::;xa:f.::u
::< .r~ ;:fs x .;.
,.,:
- Q ~ ,;r~:av
: : . ~-. ~. t i
-- y.2 ~ . '
> ' ::<:
~ : .
L ~
r,
-
''
x'
~
. . :
, . .
.... - :
....s /~,,,~p,~~ .:~.
":\.: :' <
:_ - .
...l..C ~~Q~E~~.. .
.. .i~'~ > .
"%~>~..,, .:a..... 9 : :~.:~'r.v!.
I '~:;f:~:
~ . J 'i~.
> e::.
~::.:4 :.
n
'
t
~
~ vix
. ~ : 'GS?.;.a:r
n:'J..: r~s :'' ~: v~
T _ x .. : ..N. -~c -.: '.:i~.
s'x-..:. . .;: a-. . .. ~ . ~t -
c. is ~ :
. . .c>.=.::;.a,.~.: : K.;a
fit. ." . , 1;.~ . . ..
: ... : y.... ,
: .. ,
: .. .;t2 . " ~..
~ . ,. '.'~
w:> ' ...
~ ' ,v
~ -.,
,
~
~
~
~f
~
- .
:.
- ..:.
..,..n,.-.~p,y.:.?;.. " "..
,... .. . .
.!S.:y.v:. ..- :::.,:...v:T.:..
-. ;, ..--. ...:...:......:.~:-:'.:'
,.. ... : :
.. .> : :.
....)N t .'~:::,:::.w::.-n.....-
-- :-.:. -" i:--.:'f.~.
..;>~t.
-. _ v x.v .,5':::.\:,
nw
.
r h~v>.
- .. . ...- \
.7..-..,.........:......,.....:.:,..,.
.
-.~
. -.4
.:~..~.iC
, . ....
1 Records and reports totalMinutes 45
duration
of alI rest-request episodes
occurnng throughout an
assignment
period.
2 Records and reports total#/# 5:5
number of
rest-request episodes
and number of
rest-request episodes
lasting longer
than a given grace period
(e.g., two
minutes),
3 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5:45
of rest-
request episodes and
total duration
of all rest-request episodes
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
4 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5:45
of rest-
request episodes, total Minutes
duration of
03
all rest-request episodes,
and mean
duration of the rest-request
episodes
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
102
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~k~'r~4N DESCRi~QI~ DII.TA i SAMPT,~4RT
t E ~.
skv ~~~~'~~>~ 0. f:::
. . .. .. c.. '... ' .. ...' .... . .. ~:
'. :.. . _ .,. . - ,:.
5 Records and reports #/Minutes 1: 03
duration of
each individual rest-request 2: 18
episode
occurring throughout
an assignment
3: 20
period.
4: 02
5: 02
6 Records and reports #/Minutes 5: 45
number of rest-
request episodes, totalMinutes 03:18:20:02:02
duration of
all rest-request episodes,
and
individual duration
of each rest-
request episode occurring
throughout an assignment
period.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible rest-request signal S,3 only at the beginning of a rest-request
period (i.e.,
generate a ten second signal when a rest-request period is initiated by the
central
microcontroller unit 20), periodically throughout a rest-request period (e.
g., generate a
two second signal every minute once a rest-request period is initiated by the
central
microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout a rest-request period.
The rest-request signal S" may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary
10 feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon an
increase in the
duration of the rest-request episode. An example is set forth in Table Twenty
Seven,
provided below.
103
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TWENTY SEVEN
(ESCALATING REST REQUEST SIGNAL)
~~1G'FI OF-: REST-RE(,~TiF.ST
P~i~c~~LE;Si:c~.~a, E~~sbn~ ~i~ ~ax~rc~i
'
<. a
<~
~''-ate. a a r ~ -. "t >
'~ ~'
In Intensity (soft < O1
cry)
2"d Intensity (loud > O1
cry)
5 The rest module 450 may optionally communicate with a sound recorder 360
for initiating operation of the sound recorder 360 upon commencement of a rest-
request period, and thereby recording any verbal comments or statements made
near
the infant simulator 05 for a defined time period (e.g., 3-5 minutes) after
the rest-
request signal S~, has been generated.
10
Rocking Event
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect periodic
rocking-request events, wherein the student caring for the infant simulator 05
is
15 signaled by the infant simulator O5, on a schedule unknown to the student,
to provide
the infant simulator 05 with attentive care in the form of rocking. Preferred
types of
rocking-request signals SS include crying, whimpering, fidgeting and
combinations
thereof.
20 The time interval between rocking-request periods can be a bounded random
variable (e.g., occurring every 30 to 120 minutes) or a predetermined variable
(e.g.,
sequentially occurring at intervals of 30, 90, 30, 30, 120, 60, 20 and 90
minutes). In
order to more accurately emulate the care requirements of an actual infant,
and
prevent students from memorizing the schedule of demand events, it is
generally
25 preferred to control the time interval between demand events as a bounded
random
104
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
variable. Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a
different
fixed schedule of demand events, can also be realistically employed so long as
the
students do not know which program has been selected (i, e., the schedule of
demand
events is random from the perspective of the student) and the number of
programs is
sufficient to prevent the students from memorizing one or two different
schedules and
thereafter being able to partially defeat the purpose of the program by
ignoring the
infant simulator 05 between scheduled demand events.
Referring to Figure 3, the infant simulator OS can include a motion sensor 70
10 within the torso 12 of the mannequin 10 effective for sensing rocking of
the infant
simulator 05. A number of different types and styles of motion sensors 70 may
be
effectively used. Suitable motion sensors include motion sensors 70 and 70'
described in connection with the impact physical abuse sensing system.
15 The motion sensor 70 is electrically connected to the central
microcontroller
unit 20 wherein the strength of the electrical signal generated by the motion
sensor 70
can be checked against predefined threshold limitations for producing
different
signals. This permits the single motion sensor 70 to differentiate between a
modest
force, such as produced by normal handling, rocking and burping of the infant
20 simulator 85, and excessive force, such as experienced when the infant
simulator OS is
thrown, shaken or otherwise abused. When motion of the appropriate amplitude
is
sensed, an electrical satisfaction signal is sent to the central.
microcontroller unit 20
and the rocking-request signal Ss is arrested. Timing of the rocking-request
episode is
also terminated.
25
The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a rocking-request event by
initiating generation of a perceptible rocking-request signal S,. In order to
arrest the
rocking-request signal Ss, the student must rock the infant simulator OS with
sufficient
force to generate an appropriate electrical signal in the motion sensor 70
(i.e.,
30 sufficient to signal "rocking" but insu~cient to signal "abuse").
105
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The central micracontroller unit 20 can be programmed to either terminate or
inhibit generation of the rocking-request signal Ss once rocking is sensed.
When the
termination option is selected, the student need only rock the infant
simulator 05 for
some minimum time period (e.g., two to ten seconds) sufficient to ensure that
rocking
5 has been sensed, after which the student may stop rocking the infant
simulator OS and
the rocking-request signal Ss will not begin again. When the inhibition option
is
selected, the student must continuously rock the infant simulator OS
throughout the
rocking-request period (e.g., five to twenty minutes) to prevent the rocking-
request
signal Ss from being generated, with the end of a rocking-request period
optionally
10 indicated by the generation of a rocking-request period completion signal
such as the
playing of a lullaby tune. The inhibition option is generally preferred as it
wore
closely emulates the care requirements of an actual infant.
The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes a recording function
15 for recording relevant rocking-request episode data for later review by the
program
administrator. The specific information recorded and reported by the central
microcontroller unit 20 can range from the relatively simple to the complex.
For
example, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply
record and
report the total duration of all rocking-request episodes. Alternatively, the
central
20 microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total number of rocking-
request
episodes which occurred during an assignment period and the duration of each
individual rocking-request episode. A nonexhaustive list of options for
recording and
reporting relevant rocking-request episode data is set forth in Tablc Twenty
Eight,
provided below.
25
106
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TWENTY EIGHT
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
ROCKING-REQUEST EPISODE DATA
aPTIfi3!3'~~.E"SC~It~~CIN ~.II.T~, S,A~!IF.I,,~R~P4RT'.-
,
~EGORI~E~3
.:: , - ...~~:.. ~ .....~.;r-...%... , ... .~.~'....~~.:.:,,.:..
.;::::..... ..".; .....::..,.::..:.. :.:
~. : .. :..'.,
1 Records and reports Minutes 4S
total duration
of all rocking-request
episodes
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
2 Records and reports #/# S:S
total number of
rocking-request episodes
and
number of rocking-request
episodes
lasting longer than
a given grace
period (e.g., two minutes).
3 Records and reports #/Minutes S:4S
number of
rocking-request episodes
and total
duration of all rocking-request
episodes occurring throughout
an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports #lMinutes 5:45
number of
rocking-request episodes,Minutes 03
total
duration of all rocking-request
episodes, and mean duration
of the
rocking-request episodes
occurring
throughout an assignment
period.
107
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
ai.
~
y :j . ~.. - ... ia.
~ < V:
r
f y ~ 3, )~
t. ,... _ .... . ....:... .,.,; -.:~ :. . ,
~~~~._.;. .<..~. .: ~:' . . ~:~.:
5 Records and reports duration#/Minutes 1: 03
of
each individual rocking-requested 2: 18
episode occurring throughout
an
3: 20
assignment period.
4: 02
S: 02
6 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5: 45
of
rocking-request episodes,Minutes
total 03 :18:20:02:02
duration of all rocking-request
episodes, and individual
duration of
each rocking-request
episode
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generate the
perceptible rocking-request signal Ss only at the beginning of a rocking-
request period
(i. e., generate a ten second signal when a rocking-request period is
initiated by the
central microcontroller unit 20), periodically throughout a rocking-request
period
(e.g., generate a two second signal every minute once a rocking-request period
is
initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout
a rocking-
request period.
10 The rocking-request signal Ss may be intensified, in accordance with the
ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon an
increase in the duration of the rocking-request episode. An example is set
forth in
Table Twenty Nine, provided below.
108
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE TWENTY NINE
(ESCALATING ROCKING-REQUEST SIGNAL)
; ~!TB~'~GTI~ t?E L~OCHING I~QIIEST
a
'y
y ~
~> '
'
~k~ 'IS~UDED'I?RA'I~'ll~t
R~~~ ~JGN ~
'
. -x;.
:f:~Y.y:ar.f_~.y2yYy.:=.:.a..yfvsi.>:W::y\C'.:u:'t~.::\.\::::~>:.::~: '. :~.
~...:i:.:.'....:....:?;3.'n....::,_...;;'.'
~ iSZ yywsk . "' :, w~~k,~ y.:,~
~
~~
~
WY KM
S ? R. ~~~
~$
~~~
~'~
~
~ ~ t.
~ ~ '-1 ~
vy.Id Yia
~
3
:\ ~. "q ~,~ > ..:;~ ,j !r-~ ~:
.u
. i ~ ~~- .' ?
.tn. r ' ' ,.,'~i.a,.,:w~r
1" Intensity (soft < 02
cry)
2"~ Intensity (loud > 02
cry)
5 The rocking module 150 may optionally comrrmnicate with a sound recorder
360 for initiating operation of the saund recorder 360 upon commencement of a
rocking-request event, thereby recording any verbal comments or statements
made
near the infant simulator OS for a defined time period (e.g., 3-S minutes)
after the
rocking-request signal SS has been generated.
10
ANCILLARY FEATURES
Multiple Behavior Modes
1S SELECTABLE CHANGES
Age Appropriate Behavior Modes
The central microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to allow a program
20 administrator to select between several programs which emulate the
different care
requirements of differently aged infants.
These different levels of care can be produced by altering or adjusting one or
more of the various modules, features and/or functions of the program. The
levels of
25 care can be increased and/or decreased through any number of continuous or
stepped
109
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
age levels as desired. A convenient program allows the care requirements to be
set at
one of three levels, representative of a newborn infant, a three month old
infant and a
six month old infant. A representative example of the types of adjustments to
the
various modules, features and functions effective for emulating differently
aged
infants is set forth in Table Thirty below.
TABLE THtRTY
(AGE APPROPRIATE SETTINGS)
.w;.lk;,t.
. >-. :h"
;,.,, 2 .
r~~A '~~ -~~~~
f ~ ~~~~:
f iJ
.~~ i~
~
w ~
'
y~
.
..
x.. ..,..
d.
....~.>.a .
.
: 4
.I ..:: 2:\....;.
'.,~Y;'e.i
::.
;.
.. fi- ~ Li~
\ d'St..\.
...:
. ~ uC :.:.
~'~ .,1. ..
. . .~ .a,.
.. . 1 .-w
. \ -...v
v .vl~.
r: -h:.::..~:
.\ -., H :4.J
.CY.::_ . Y..WvriC:%.,..
.\..'... '
.. S ... ~d~Ayn...v.'....:.'
e'~' -N'I>-:~s:ii:Y:T.~'f:?':-:
~NVntcctyr:~i.:
Ev~~rs , '
. >= . . >
Sensitivity High SensitivityModerate Low Sensitivity
to
Sounds Sensitivity
Tendency to High Moderate Low
Become Over
Stimulated (>20 min activity)(>30 min activity)(>50 min activity)
Sensitivity High SensitivityModerate Low Sensitivity
to
Smoke Sensirivity
Sensitivity High SensitivityModerate Low Sensitivity
to Light
Sensitivity
Rest Period Many (5-8/day)Moderate (3-S/day)Few (1-2/day)
Requirements
Acceptable Small (20-30C)Moderate (18- Large (15-35C)
Temperature 32C)
Range
'a~l~ EvEt~'rs
, :~. ::
Demand Event Short (20-90 Moderate (30-120Long (30-180
min) min)
Intervals min)
Demand Period Short (OS-30 Moderate (10-40Long (10-60
min) ~ min)
Duration min)
Occurrence Limited (0-2/day)Moderate (2-3lday)Frequent (3-4/day)
of
Fussy Periods
110
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~.'rt~i~ ' ~ 3 MQrms
~ l~p~rJ~s
1~~~~c~~tx
~ a.......; .
~ f
... . .. :
. . :-- . .. : . .: . .
. . .,: -. .... .. .
..: :~ , :...:
~. ,.:
. . .. . ....
. . .. .
.;
;~rNCILLARY
FEATt7RES
Type and Limited Coos Moderate Coos Frequent Coos,
(3- and
Occurrence 5/day} Gurgles (5-8/day)Gurgles, Smiles,
of
Content Signal etc. (8-10/day)
Delay to ReachExtended PeriodModerate PeriodShort Period
Escalated Demand
Signal (10-15 min) (5-10 min) (2-5 min)
Type and IntensitySoR Cry Cry Scream
of Demand/Distress
Signal
Occurrence None Few (2-3) Many (5-10)
of Self
Directed
Expressions
The age selected by the program administrator can be recorded and reported.
Feeding Method Belsavior Modes
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to allow a program
administrator to select between a breast feeding option and a bottle feeding
option for
purposes of emulating the different care requirements of such differently fed
infants.
The different care requirements can be generally be emulated by providing a
greater
10 frequency of feeding and diaper change periods for the breast fed option,
while
providing for longer feeding and diaper change periods for the bottle fed
option.
In addition, the breast fed program could require that feeding occur in a
private
location (e.g., the feeding-request satisfaction signal St6 will not arrest
the feeding-
15 request signal S6 when excessive noise levels are detected by the sound
sensor 340),
while the bottle fed program could require morning andlor evening attendance
periods
(i.e., generation of a bottle-preparation demand signal Sao,n,E requiring the
student to
provide a bottle-preparation satisfaction signal StBO,.,,,~), and a
requirement that the
111
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
student cant' a facsimile of a bottles) with them as the only means for
providing the
feeding-request satisfaction signal Stb to the infant simulator 05.
The selected feeding option can be recorded and reported.
5
Disposition of Infant
The central microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to allow the program
administrator to change the level of care required by the infant simulator OS
to reflect
10 infants having different dispositions Alternatively, selection of the level
can be
randomly selected by the central microcontroller unit 20 for each assignment
period.
These different levels of care can be produced by altering (i) the time
interval between
demand events (i.e., increase or decrease the number of demand events
occurring
within an assignment period), (ii) altering the duration of each demand period
(i. e.,
15 increase or decrease the length of each period), and/or (iii) the threshold
values
beyond which an environmental event is commenced (e.g., decreasing the
acceptable
temperature range). The levels of care can be increased and/or decreased
through any
number of continuous or stepped levels as desired. A convenient program
permits the
care level to be selected from amongst an easy level (i.e., long intervals,
short demand
20 periods and high threshold values), an average level (i.e., modestly long
intervals,
alternating long and short demand periods and modest threshold values), and a
difficult level (e.g., short intervals, long demand periods and low threshold
values).
The disposition of the infant simulator OS set by the program administrator
can
25 be recorded and reported.
112
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
AUTOMATIC CHANGES
DaytimeJNight Time Feature
5 Infants tend to have different care requirements during the daytime (e.g.,
between the hours of about 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., more preferably between
the
hours of about 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.). and the night time (e.g., between the
hours of
about 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., more preferably between the hours of about
10:00 p.m.
and 6:00 a.m.). As a general matter, night time care requirements are less
than
10 daytime requirements, with longer intervals between demand events and
shorter
demand periods during the night time hours, but an increased sensitivity to
environmental conditions such as sound and light.
In order to emulate the different care requirements of an infant during
daytime
15 and night time hours, the infant simulator 05 can be equipped with an
internal clock
(not shown) set to the actual time of day, and programmed to decrease the care
requirements of the infant simulator 05 during the night time hours (stated
alternatively, programmed to increase the care requirements of the infant
simulator 05
during the daytime hours) by decreasing the duration of demand periods,
increasing
20 the time intervals between demand events and/or lowering the threshold
value for
commencement of a loud sound exposure event, during the night time
hours.(alternatively, increasing the duration of demand periods, decreasing
the time
intervals between demand events and/or expanding the threshold value for
commencement of a loud sound exposure event, during the daytime hours).
25
A perceptible daytime and/or night time period signal SPAY is optionally
generated at the appropriate time so as to notify the student that the infant
simulator
05 is on a daytime or night time schedule. The central microcontroller unit 20
can be
programmed to generate the perceptible daytime and/or night time period signal
SPAY
30 only at the beginning of the appropriate period (i. e., generate a ten
second sucking
sound when the infant simulator is beginning a daytime schedule and/or
generate a ten
113
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
second yawning sound when the infant simulator is beginning a night time
schedule),
or continuously throughout the corresponding daytime and/or night time period
(e.g.,
an image of a crib is illuminated for the duration of the night time period).
The extent to which the duration of the demand periods are decreased, the time
interval between demand events is increased and/or the sensitivity to sounds
is
increased during the night time hours-can individually be a bounded random
variable
(e.g., 50% to 200%) or a predetermined variable (e.g., 100%).
10 Daytime hours should include at least the core hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00
p.m. Night time hours should include at least the core hours of 12:00 p.m. to
4:00
a.m. The specific time at which the infant simulator transitions from one
schedule to
the other is not critical, so long as the core hours fall within the
appropriate period.
The transition from a daytime to a night time schedule preferably occurs
between
1 S hours of 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., while the transition from a night time
to a daytime
schedule preferably occurs between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Activation of this feature can be recorded and reported.
20 Disposition Based Upon
Level of Care Provided 6y Student
The central microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to increase the level
of care required by the infant simulator OS (i.e., change the disposition of
the infant)
25 for a defined time period (e.g., about 1 to 12 hours) based upon the level
of care
provided by the student during an assignment period. For example, failure to
provide
a satisfaction signal within two minutes for three consecutive demand events,
failure
to respond to a single demand signal within a demand period, or subjecting the
simulator to physical abuse, causes the infant simulator to increase the level
of care
30 required from easy to average for four hours.
114
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Any increases in the level of care initiated by this feature can be recorded
and
reported.
Sick Period
The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect a sick period,
wherein the care requirements of the infant simulator OS are increased by (i)
increasing the duration of the demand periods occurring within the sick
period, (ii)
decreasing the time interval between demand events occurring within the sick
period,
10 and/or (iii) adjusting the threshold values beyond which an environmental
event is
commenced (e.g., decreasing the acceptable temperature range).
The commencement of a sick period can be signaled by the infant simulator OS
by generation of a perceptible sick signal S", such as the lighting of an
image
15 representative of illness (e.g., an Rx symbol), whimpering, fidgeting, etc.
The time interval between sick periods can be a bounded random variable
(e.g., occurring every 8 to 72 hours) or a predetermined variable (e.g.,
sequentially
occurring at intervals of 10, 36, 24, 48 and 72 hours). In order to more
accurately
20 emulate the care requirements of an actual infant, and prevent students
from
memorizing the schedule of demand events, it is generally preferred to control
the
time interval between sick periods as a bounded random variable.
Alternatively,
multiple predefined programs, each providing a different fixed schedule of
sick
periods, can also be realistically employed so long as the students do not
know which
25 progn3m has been selected (i. e., the schedule of sick periods is random
from the
perspective of the student) and the number of programs is sufficient to
prevent the
students from memorizing one or two different schedules and thereafter being
able to
partially defeat the purpose of the program.
30 A perceptible sick period signal S" is optionally generated upon
commencement of a sick period so as to notify the student that the infant
simulator 05
115
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
is ill and will require increased care. The central microcontroller unit 20
can be
programmed to generate the perceptible sick period signal S" only at the
beginning of ,
a sick period (i.e., generate a ten second coughing fit when a sick period is
initiated by
the central microcontroller unit 20), periodically throughout a sick period
(e.g.,
5 generate a two second cough every ten minutes once a sick period is
initiated by the '
central microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout a sick period
(e.g., an ltx
image is illuminated for the duration of the sick period). The end of a sick
period can
optionally be indicated by the generation of a wellness signal such as
prolonged
giggling.
10
The central microcontraller unit 20 can include a recording function for
recording the occurrence of a sick period for informing the program
administrator that
the student was required to care for a sick infant during the assignment
period. The
specific information recorded and reported by the central microcontroller unit
20 can
I S range from simply recording and reporting that at least one sick period
occurred
during the assignment period, to recording and reporting the total duration of
all sick
periods occurring during the assignment period. A nonexhaustive list of
options for
recording and reporting relevant sick period data is set forth in Table Thirty
One,
provided below.
20
116
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
TABLE THIRTY OIVE
(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING
SICK PERIOD DATA
>%~P'~Ity'wlTl!1P:I~'fL~~ ~~ SAyII"~~~r
x~. ' 't
f _ .
...w. . .>.:,.
%:-:.:~.;tt:.....! t . ~-' :CY:'
: :- ~W': '-:,_-rn'
. . to . ::'~
""!i'o::D.:..:
....fir .. ~~:. ,..<.. ~.
... o n
w;~i~:w ....~fa%
:i".'%-,".:::;:;'.,~:ryi:::.=~:f~:~.:~:f .. ":St
?va:5v::
~: ~iv ~1,~., 'Q:<i.:;: -i~::~.\.. :~'.b:~.:....
.: . uv-..~...
,.s .I . . .. \...::
.....C .wy::/s.'.y
~: :n w,:-:-:!- :.:i_.\a
->:- \1. n :~-i]ijt::::::.::
::W e.
a.~ y:.;;!
. ~t%it'w.: \ '::::-: . ...._;:
.::.?.. .\v. . w r", . f!t.
\X~:;k;:i.. \ ..~ ~.
- %w\ F2': : :.;.k- u:-'
%?; d::..nN .-:
':' : ~' ... ,\ ..:t
;:. : ~~ :' '.
"...~: a % '
~~~~' ' ' '
.' ' '
' ' .",
' '
.
: : ..:. /,
. ",t
;
: =.'........
,.. .:~ w..c!
v y :. :;:::: :-
v,Cv.n ::..:es>:nc-L.
.:'y... :\W''i::::>.,..;. ::.;: .~,
nv:y:..:...-v. , r...(.. ~:'...eft.
..: :-'t?> '~ ....1...:F='... . ..
. ' ' . ~!C:.
.rw .. ...:.~:'> ....: . '%':
:.. :...>yl..,... r..:. a'~....tw?:.>...: ..
a...:. ... .tof... . i;:
W r .. : r:.'.y.p:.r
...: . . t :: ~~~' ~ . ~Yf<.:a :
. ... ~ '::'.'.. . ~ 3
~ ' ~
..,....,....n. . Y.: ~
~ ~... ......'..,. ~
~ ...... r' IFS
Y 3' :.. ~
~, ~, ~ ~
~.~ 4 :. ~..:~r:y-
xt ' . /. ..%~/ -;:::;k.,~iw.
~
. ~ . ~ .
u, .. C. _ ,
~>: ,;: xto r
'~ > w' 'fi.' } ~ Y.'.: : v .
~. . h :: :n
:, x r. ~ . .,4 .. : , a~.::.. n
"'~w~:.A~rt.swW:c '~
.ua a: tJ:-.:"n..:vt:-......:~,,,~ . ,~3w6i< <-
w: a ~' '
., t :na!:.~>o:.~t;.:w~r.Sv:n
: ~~~5:\'-:--:u-
1 u;'wt:i: \ W ~.
\ .;/- :. :\.:.:: % i:~~f
a ii-~~~iV-:'v'a : <:i':ia ~
' ~: ~ v.<W
!v ":-.
! ~ :f: i
'~ '~
~
\\ yyY~~~
\ ;.
~n ~ vti '
~
'::
'
'
'
:
. _ ~
: . -
:::. .. !
. Y
.' ,;t..,r:._n... y -
. . ....
:.. w:a:~i ~
. :-7 ~,
. ...n ..a..\,.. ~:.':::-.:a
-. . \.hl:: :::!'t>: Y~.
.............-.....Nh sms. CPSW.....:....-
v. , V S:L::: . A.:...
v -
~n~ . ,\ . ._ . .
':: . 9. X. .~:
~4~0: -.. . ........- .
tv...p. : . ...
, :.,
'v. -.W :.
\::t:,: :.> y
tev::..-Xy.w~Yti:. .: s
......'. n\
-: .
.>,>..~;!:.,. ,,... . .-. .a .
Sv . - . .
. K .
-..::a.x~'~ .\
. . . n t-a . . . 1
. .. . ::
:
T.a::~s
. ..
:.a
::' >.-:E
.
.fnO
..
. ;. . ,
.. _:. .
. : "r.w
. . ..,n,
,. . , ,.. .
. , .:-. ':
.. .
. ,
.
1 Records and reports thatYeslNo Yes
at least one
sick period occurred
within an
assignment period.
2 Records and reports totalMinutes 45
duration
of all sick periods occurring
throughout an assignment
period.
3 Records and reports number#/Minutes 2:45
of sick
periods and total duration
of all sick
periods occurring throughout
an
assignment period.
4 Records and reports number#/Minutes 2:45
of sick
periods and total durationMinutes 22'/z
of all sick
periods occurring throughout
an
assignment period, and
mean
duration of the sick
periods
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
5 Records and reports duration#/Minutes 1: 35
of
each individual sick
period
2: 10
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
117
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
O.t''TX~pN~ESGR,iP~'1Q~1 DA.'~A . ~AMPLT~ ~t'~RT
: v ~~Q~~~ ,_ . , .:
::
.. . . .. .. . #/Minutes 2: 45
> . .
6 ... . .
Records and reports number
of sick
periods, total duration Minutes 35, 10
of all sick
periods occurring throughout
an
assignment period, and
individual
duration of each sick
period
occurring throughout
an assignment
period.
The extent to which the duration of the demand period is increased, the time
interval between demand events is decreased and/or the sensitivity to
environmental
conditions is increased within a sick period can individually be a bounded
random
5 variable (e.g., 50% to 200%) or a predetermined variable (e.g., 100%), with
each sick
period having the same or different percentage changes.
The number and/or duration of any sick periods occurring during an
assignment period can be recorded and reported.
10
Comatose State 280
The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to cause the infant simulator
05 to enter into a comatose state in the event that a threshold limit of abuse
or neglect
1 S is reached (e.g_, the infant simulator 05 is subjected to physical abuse
lasting longer
than 10 seconds, the temperature of the infant simulator 05 is more than 20
°C greater
than the maximum allowable temperature for more than 20 minutes, the infant
simulator 05 experiences a compression of greater than 250 N, multiple demand
events are never satisfied during the demand period, etc.). A comatose state
can be
20 simulated in a variety of ways. A preferred method of simulating entry into
a
comatose state is for the central microcontroller unit 20 to cease all other
interactive
functions (e.g., thermal exposure events are no longer recorded, diaper-change
signals
lI8
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
S4 are no longer generated, etc.), and generate a comatose signal S!, capable
of being
satisfied by entry of a password or insertion of a medical care key possessed
only by a
designated medical representative such as the program administrator), with a
failure to
obtain the necessary medical care within a defined time (e.g., a medical
attention-
request period of 30 minutes) resulting in death of the infant simulator OS
(i.e.,
recording and reporting death of the infant simulator OS and ending the
program).
Entry into a comatose state can be recorded and reported.
10 Contented Signal
The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to provide a positive
response + when the student has appropriately responded to a demand signal,
(e.g.,
timely changing a diaper 60 in response to a diaper-change signal S,). The
positive
15 response + can be substantially any perceptible signal recognizable as
signaling a
happy or contented infant, including specifically, but not exclusively audible
signals
(e.g., cooing or giggling), olfactory signals (e.g., emission of pleasant
scent), visual
signals (e.g., smiling, or wiggling of the feet), and multimedia signals
(e.g., cooing
and smiling).
20
The positive response + can be scheduled to occur immediately upon
providing the requested care (e.g., after changing a diaper 60 in response to
a diaper-
change signal S4 or at the end of a satisfied burping period) or after a
defined time
delay (e.g., two minutes after changing a diaper 60 in response to a diaper-
change
25 signal S, or between 20 seconds and 2 minutes after a satisfied burping
period has
ended).
The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to provide the positive
response + upon the satisfaction of each and every demand event, only upon the
30 satisfaction of selected demand events, or on some other schedule (e.g.,
only after
every other satisfied demand event, only after satisfied burping and diaper-
change
119
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
events, or a 20% chance of occurring after each satisfied demand event). The
microcontroller unit 20 may also be programmed to provide the positive
response +
only upon the prompt satisfaction of a demand event (e.g., satisfaction signal
provided
within two minutes of initiation of demand signal).
5
A positive response + should not be provided in connection with an
environmental event (i. e., thermal exposure signal S= or distress signal S,)
since
satisfaction of such signals is based upon removal of an unpleasant stimuli
rather than
the comforting satisfaction of a need.
10
The number of contented signals generated by the infant simulator 05 can be
recorded and reported.
Perceptibly Different Signals
15
The infant simulator 05 can provide a perceptible signal for each of a number
of different things, selected from (i) an unacceptable environmental condition
of
abusive compression, impact, improper position, loud sounds, overstimulation,
smoke, direct sunlight and temperature extremes, and (ii) the demand events of
20 diaper-change, feeding, burping, fussing, resting and rocking. The
perceptible signal
generated for each of these things can be the same or different. For example,
the
perceptible signal generated when the infant simulator 05 is unacceptably
positioned
can be a loud cry, while the perceptible signal generated for requesting to be
fed can
be a whimper. The differences can be significant (e.g., whimpering versus
25 screaming), or subtle (e.g., loud whimpering versus soft crying).
The use of different perceptible signals for different environmental and
demand events serves the desired effect of awarding attentive students by
informing
such students of the specific satisfaction signal required (e.g., a soft cry
signals a need
30 to be rocked while whimpering signals a need to change the diaper 60). In
order to
prevent the students from memorizing and sharing such information, the infant
120
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
simulator 05 can optionally be equipped with an ability for the program
administrator
to change the specific perceptible signal to be generated for each event at
the
beginning of each assignment period.
Grace Period
The infant simulator 05 can be programmed to provide a grace period (e.g.,
about 1 to 3 minutes, preferably 2 minutes) after the initiation of a demand
signal,
within which the student can provide the appropriate satisfaction signal and
the
10 duration of the demand episode is recorded as zero. The recorded and
reported
duration of those demand episodes having a duration longer than the grace
period can
include or exclude the grace period as desired, with the program administrator
advised
as to the option selected sa that they may accurately interpret the recorded
and
reported data and provide appropriate feedback to the student.
15
In a preferred embodiment, the infant simulator 05 provides the student with a
positive signal + whenever the student has responded to the demand signal
within the
grace period, thereby immediately advising the student that they have provided
prompt care and the report provided to the program administrator at the end of
the
20 assignment period will reflect that the duration of the demand episode was
zero.
Identification System
In order to ensure that the student assigned to care for the infant simulator
05
25 is at least present when the demands of the infant simulator 05 are being
satisfied (i. e.,
either providing the necessary care themselves or securing the necessary care
from
someone else at the time the demand event is commenced), the infant simulator
05
can be equipped with an identification system (not shown). The identification
system
(not shown) would prevent a satisfaction signal (e.g , rocking of the infant
simulator
30 05) from arresting the demand signal (e.g., rocking-request signal SS)
until an
identification signal S'° is received by the identification system (not
shown).
lzl
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
An exemplary identification system (not shown) includes at least, (i) a means
for receiving an identification signal S'° personal to the assigned
student, and (ii) a
means in communication with the identification-signal receiving means (not
shown)
and the central microcontroller unit 20 effective for preventing arresting of
a demand
signal until the identification signal S'° is received by the
identification-signal
receiving means (not shown).
The means for receiving an identification signal S'° personal to the
assigned
student can be any of a number of systems or devices capable of identifying
and
responding only to a unique item or characteristic possessed by the assigned
student.
A nonexhaustive list of such devices includes (i) a fingerprint recognition
device (not
shown), (ii) a voice recognition device (not shown), and (iii) a keyhole (not
shown)
accepting a uniquely shaped identification key 90 attachable to the wrist of
the
1 S assigned student by a tamper indicating wristband 91.
Escalating Demand Signal 240
The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to escalate the strength,
intensity andlor severity of the perceptible demand signal and distress
signals
generated by the infant simulator OS as the severity of an unacceptable
environmental
condition increases (e.g., the temperature of the infant simulator OS is more
than 5°C
greater than a maximum allowable temperature) andlor the duration of a demand
episode increases (e.g., the demand episode lasts longer than 10 minutes). The
escalation can be effected in a variety of ways dependent upon the specific
type of
signal. For example, an audible cry can be escalated from a soft cry to a loud
cry, or
from a cry to a scream. Similarly, a light can be changed from a white to red.
The perceptible demand signal can be escalated through any number of
continuous or stepped levels as desired. A simple single stepped escalation -
norm l
to increased - is relatively simple to implement and generally effective for
providing
122
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
the student with appropriate notice that an unacceptable environmental
condition or
demand event is not being timely satisfied.
In a similar fashion, the microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to de-
escalate the strength, intensity and/or severity of an escalated perceptible
demand
signal or distress signal generated by the infant simulator 05 once the
appropriate
satisfaction signal has been transmitted to the infant simulator 05 for
purposes of
increasing the reality of the simulation (e.g., the infant simulator 05
immediately
decreases an escalated perceptible demand signal from a shriek to a cry upon
receipt
10 of the appropriate satisfaction signal, and five minutes later terminates
generation of
the cry).
Self Directed Expression Module 410
15 For purposes of emulating the actions of an actual infant and enhancing the
reality of the simulation, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be
programmed to
effect periodic self directed expressions E,, wherein the infant simulator 05
provides
the student caring for the infant simulator 05 with interesting and often
delightful
expressions on a schedule unknown to the student. Self directed expressions E,
can
20 be interspersed throughout the assignment period as desired for purposes of
emulating
such occurrences in real life.
Preferred types of self directed expressions E, are those of the type which
are
of limited duration (e.g., several seconds) and would typically be perceived
by a
25 student as not requiring any satisfaction. Such preferred expressions
including
specifically, but not exclusively, babbling, blinking of the eyes, giggling,
gurgling,
hiccuping, laughing, screaming with joy, smiling, squinting, sighing,
wrinkling-up of
the nose, etc.
30 The number of self generated expressions generated during an assignment
period can be recorded and reported.
123
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Sound Recording
The environmental event and demand event modules can include a sound
recorder 360 for recording verbal comments and statements made by a student
within
the proximity of the infant simulator 05.
In order to provide a recording of useful duration, the sound recorder 3b0
should record only when (i) a verbal reaction can be expected from the student
(e.g., a
10 three minute period after commencing generation of a demand signal, during
a fussy
period, or during a pernicious event), and/or (ii) loud sounds are detected
(e.g.,
yelling, screaming or shouting).
1 S EXAMPLE
Figures 2a 2t (excluding a Figure 21 and including a Figure 2n' and 20')
provide a flowchart for one embodiment of each of the modules listed below in
Table
Thirty Two. Each of the modules includes both the demand signal generating
feature
20 210 and the recording feature 220, except for the fussy module 180 and sick
period
module 460 which include only a demand signal generating feature 210, and the
initiation 100, assignment period 190, and self directed expression 410
modules
which do not include either of these features.
25 The modules also include each of the ancillary features of comatose state
280,
contented signal 230, identification system 250, escalating demand signal 240,
and
sound recording 225 as listed next to each module. The ancillary features of
multiple
time interval durations 260 and multiple period durations 270; used to create
multiple
behavior modes, and the ancillary feature of age dependent programming,
feeding
30 method dependent programming, disposition dependent programming, and
daytime/night time dependent programming are not shown or depicted in the
124
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
flowchart as such features are controlled by the central microcontroller unit
20 rather
than the individual modules.
TABLE THIRTY TWO
(LISTING OF MODULES
.4ND ANCILLARY FEATUR.ES~
~~QD'I3L.E' I~Ek~REI~(~"~'~
z~NCtLt'Y
FF,~I~-.
xy
~~ <~
~
- - ,~ -., . . ~ ... . ".. .
'
.. y'.. . '~.; :-
:.
.
INITIATION 100 . .
.
.
None
POSITION 110 1. Escalating Demand Signal
TEMPERATURE 120 1. Escalating Demand Signal
2. Sound Recording
3. Comatose State
AsusE (COMPRESSION) I30 1. Escalating Demand Signal
2. Sound Recording
3. Comatose State
DIAPER CHANGE 140 1. Contented Signal
2. Identification System
3. Escalating Demand Signal
4. Sound Recording
ROC3CING i50 1. Contented Signal
2. Identification System
3. Escalating Demand Signal
4. Sound Recording
125
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
~~t'~~-~ ~~~CIE ~ ~~t~l~~R~r ~~~~.
..
' ~ .~ . ~0
FEEDING 160 1. Contented Signal
2. Identification System
3. Escalating Demand Signal
4. Sound Recording
BURP 170 1. Contented Signal
2. Identification System
3. Escalating Demand Signal
4. Sound Recording
FUSSY 180 None
SELF-DIRECTED 410 None
EXPRESStoN
SMOKE 420 1. Escalating Demand Signal
2. Sound Recording
ABUSE (IMPACT 430 1. Escalating Demand Signal
2. Comatose State
OVERSTIMULATION 440 1. Escalating Demand Signal
2. Sound Recording
RESTING 450 1. Contented Signal
2. Identification System
3. Escalating Demand Signal
4. Sound Recording
SICK 460 None
126
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
MQDIJLFfi, RE~CI~ .A3'~CIW.ARY FEATLtRI~",~
~
' ' . . ' ' . :::. ~ : ' M ..t
,.: , )~~f : . ..
.' , ~: ~
, . v
~ ::
~
. _ . . . .
.v . : . ... 1. . . , ..
: ... ;:: : .
StlN EXPOSURE : ..: ..... ...., .:
470 Escalating Demand Signal
2. Sound Recording
LOUD SOUND 480 1. Escalating Demand Signal
2. Sound Recording
MISSING-DIAPER 490 1. Sound Recording
ASSIGNMENT PERIOD 190 None
The individual modules can occur in any sequence, with the exception of the
initiation module 100 which must occur first, the assignment period module 190
which must occur last, and the burping module 170 which can occur only after
satisfaction of the feeding module 160.
Initiation Module 100
Upon activating the infant simulator O5, the central microcontroller unit 20
10 turns the bypass signal ~ oN, begins timing the assignment period, and
begins timing
the intervals between successive demand events (i.e., diaper-change, rocking,
feeding,
fussing, and resting events) based upon the program selected and/or
preprogrammed
into the central microcontroller unit 20 and the selected behavior modes (i.
e., age,
feeding method, and disposition). Based upon the program selected, the central
15 microcontroller unit 20 signals each of the diaper-change 140, rocking 150,
feeding
160 and fussing 180 and resting 450 modules at the appropriate times to start
and stop
a corresponding demand event. The central microcontroller unit 20 also signals
the
sick infant module 460 to start and stop a sick period at the appropriate
time. The
central microcontroller unit 20 also commences cycling through each of the
modules.
20
127
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Position Module 110
The position sensor 30 defects the position of the infant simulator 05 as
between an acceptable position (e.g., laying on its back or side) and an
unacceptable
position (e.g., laying face down or upside down) and signals the position
module 110
when the infant simulator OS is detected in an unacceptable position.
Referring to Figure 2b, the position module 110 is bypassed so long as the
infant simulator 05 is in an acceptable position. However, when the position
module
10 110 receives a signal from the position sensor 30 that the infant simulator
05 is in an
unacceptable position, the position module 110 initiates generation of the
repositioning-request signal S, by means of the demand signal generating
feature 210
embedded within the module I10, starts sound recorder 360 for a defined period
of
time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any verbal reaction by the
student, starts
15 timing the length of time the repositioning-request signal S, is generated,
and toms
oFF the bypass signal y.
If the repositioning-request signal S, is generated for longer than a
predetermined time x (e.g., 10 minutes), the position module 110 increases the
20 intensity of the repositioning-request signal S, by means of the escalating
demand
feature 240 embedded within the module 110. The repositioning-request signal
S, is
generated at the increased intensity thereafter until the infant simulator 05
is returned
to an acceptable position.
25 Once the infant simulator 05 is returned to an acceptable position,
generation
of the repositioning-request signal S, is turned OFF, the occurrence of a
repositioning-
request event is counted, the duration of time during which the infant
simulator 05
was in an unacceptable position (i. e., the length of time the repositioning-
request
signal S, was generated) recorded by the recording feature 220, the
repositioning-
30 request period timer is stopped and reset, the intensity of the
repositioning-request
128
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
signal S, is checked and returned to normal if intensified, the bypass signal
y is
turned back oN, and the position module 110 is exited.
In order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
5 modules even though the infant simulator OS is improperly positioned for a
prolonged
period of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to
terminate
generation of the repositioning-request signal S, and exit the position module
110
after a defined time period (e.g., 10-60 minutes) even though the infant
simulator 05
remains improperly positioned (not shown in Figure 2b). Timing of the duration
of
10 the improper positioning occurrence can also be terminated, or continued
until the
infant simulator 05 is returned to an acceptable positioning.
Temperature Module 120
15 The temperature sensor 40 measures the temperature of the infant simulator
OS
and signals the temperature module I20 when the temperature falls outside an
acceptable temperature range (i. e., less than 15 °C or greater than 35
°C).
Referring to Figure 2c, the temperature module 120 is bypassed so long as the
20 infant simulator 05 is kept at a temperature within the acceptable
temperature range.
However, when the temperature module 120 receives a signal that the infant
simulator
05 is being exposed to an unacceptable temperature, the temperature module 120
initiates generation of the thermal exposure signal S= by means of the demand
signal
generating feature 210 embedded within the temperature module 120, starts
timing the
25 length of time the thermal exposure signal Si is generated, starts sound
recorder 360
for a defined period of time (e.g , 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any
verbal
reaction by the student, and turns oFF the bypass signal y.
If the thermal exposure signal Ss is generated for longer than a predetermined
30 time x (e.g., 10 minutes), the temperature module 120 increases the
intensity of the
thermal exposure signal SZ by means of the escalating demand feature 240
embedded
129
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
within the temperature module 120. The thermal exposure signal SZ is generated
at
the increased intensity thereafter until the infant simulator 05 is returned
to an
acceptable temperature.
5 Once the infant simulator 05 is returned to an acceptable temperature,
generation of the thermal exposure signal SI is turned oFF, the occurrence of
a thermal
exposure event is counted, the duration of time during which the infant
simulator OS
was exposed to unacceptable temperatures (i.e., the length of time the thermal
exposure signal S,, was generated) is recorded by the recording feature 220,
the
10 thermal exposure period timer is stopped and reset, the intensity of the
thermal
exposure signal S= is checked and returned to normal if intensified, the
bypass signal
~ is turned back oN, and the temperature module 120 is exited.
In order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
15 modules even though the infant simulator 05 is exposed to unacceptable
temperatures
for a prolonged period of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be
programmed
to terminate generation of the thermal exposure signal Ss and exit the
temperature
module 120 after a defined time period (e.g., 10-60 minutes) even though the
infant
simulator 05 remains exposed to unacceptable temperatures {not shown in Figure
2c).
20 Timing of the duration of the thermal exposure can also be terminated, or
continued
until the infant simulator 05 is returned to an acceptable temperature.
Compression Module 130
25 As shown in Figure 3, the compression sensing system 50 detests a
compression of the mannequin's head 11. When compression is detected by the
compression sensing system 50, the compression sensing system 50 signals the
compression module 130.
30 Referring to Figure 2d, the compression module 13b is bypassed so long as
the
head 11 of the infant simulator 05 is not being squeezed or compressed.
However,
130
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
when the compression module 130 receives a signal that the head 11 of the
infant
simulator OS is being compressed, the compression module 130 initiates
generation of
the compression distress signal S3 by means of the demand signal generating
feature
210 embedded within the compression module 130, starts timing the length of
time
the distress signal S3 is generated, starts sound recorder 360 in order to
record any
verbal reaction by the student, and turns oFF the bypass signal ~.
If the duration of the compression, as measured by the length of time the
compression distress signal S, has been generated, exceeds a predetermined
time
10 value x (e.g., 10 seconds), the compression module 130 increases the
intensity of the
compression distress signal S, by means of the escalating demand feature 240
embedded within the compression module 130. The compression distress signal S,
is
generated at the increased intensity thereafter until some period of time
after
compression of the head 11 has ceased.
15
Once compression of the infant simulator OS is ceased, the distress signal S3
continues for some period of time (e.g., 15 minutes) to simulate injury to the
infant
simulator O5. Thereafter, generation of the compression distress signal S, is
turned
oFF, the occurrence of a compression event is counted by the recording feature
220,
20 the compression timer is stopped and reset, the sound recorder 360 is
stopped, the
intensity of the compression distress signal S, is checked and returned to
normal if
intensified, the bypass signal y is turned back oN, and the compression module
130 is
exited
25 Smoke Detector Module 420
The smoke detector 320 detects the presence of smoke and signals the smoke
detector module 420.
30 Referring to Figure 2m, the smoke detector module 320 is bypassed so long
as
the infant simulator OS is not subjected to smoke. However, when the smoke
detector
131
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
320 receives a signal that the infant simulator 05 is being exposed to smoke,
the
smoke detector module 320 initiates generation of a smoke exposure signet S9
by
means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded within the smoke
detector module 420, starts timing the length of time the smoke exposure
signal S9 is
5 generated, starts sound recorder 360 for a defined period of time (e.g., 3
to 5 minutes)
in order to record any verbal reaction by the student, and turns oFF the
bypass signal
w.
If the smoke exposure signal S9 is generated for longer than a predetermined
10 time x (e.g., 10 minutes), the smoke detector module 420 increases the
intensity of the
smoke exposure signal S, by means of the escalating demand feature 240
embedded
within the smoke detector module 420. The smoke exposure signal S9 is
generated at
the increased intensity thereafter.
15 Once the infant simulator 05 is removed from the smoky environment,
generation of the smoke exposure signal S9 is fumed oFF, the occurrence of a
smoke
exposure event is counted, the duration of time during which the infant
simulator 05
was exposed to smoke (i.e., the length of time the smoke exposure signal S9
was
generated) is recorded by the recording feature 220, the smoke exposure period
timer
20 is stopped and reset, the intensity of the smoke exposure signal S9 is
checked and
returned to normal if intensified, the bypass signal '~ is turned back oN, and
the
smoke detector module 420 is exited.
Tn order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
25 modules even though the infant simulator OS is exposed to smoke for a
prolonged
period of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to
terminate
generation of the smoke exposure signal S9 and exit the smoke detector module
420
after a defined time period (e.g., 10-60 minutes) even though the infant
simulator 05
remains exposed to smoke (not shown in Figure 2m). Timing of the duration of
the
30 smoke exposure can also be terminated, or continued until the infant
simulator 05 is
no longer exposed to smoke.
132
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
ImpactAbuse Module 430
As shown in Figure 3, the impact sensor 70 detects an impact to the
mannequin 10. When an initial impact of sufficient force is detected by the
impact
sensor 70, the impact sensor 70 signals the impact abuse module 430.
Referring to Figure 2n, the impact abuse module 430 is bypassed so long as
the infant simulator 05 is not being subjected to an abusive impact. However,
when
10 the impact abuse module 430 receives a signal that the infant simulator 05
has
received an abusive impact, the impact abuse module 430 starts sound recorder
360 in
order to record any verbal statements made by the student, terminates and
resets any
active modules (e.g., diaper change module 140) and then checks for any
subsequent
abusive impacts after a short delay of between about'/z to 2 seconds. When
only a
15 single abusive impact is detected by the impact sensor 70 (i. e., the abuse
is a single
brief impact) the impact sensor module 430 enters the dropped infant submodule
431.
In the event that subsequent abusive impacts are detected (ire., the abuse is
prolonged) the impact abuse module 430 enters the shaken infant submodule 432.
20 DROPPED INFANT SUBMODULE
Upon entering the dropped infant submodule 431 an impact distress signal S,o
is generated by means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded
within
the dropped infant submodule 431 for some period of time (e.g.,15 minutes) in
ordcr
25 to simulate injury to the infant simulator 05, the occurrence of a
"dropped" abuse
event is counted by the recording feature 220, the sound recorder 360 is
stopped, and
the impact abuse module 430 is exited.
133
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
SHAKEN INFANT SUBMODULE
Upon entering the shaken infant submodule 432 the submodule initiates
generation of the impact distress signal S,o by means of the demand signal
generating
feature 210 embedded within the dropped infant submodule 431, starts timing
the
duration of the abuse, counts the occurrence of a "shaken" abuse event by
means of
the recording feature 220, and continues to monitor the infant simulator OS
for
continued impacts.
10 If further impacts are not sensed then the impact distress signal S" is
generated
for some period of time (e.g., 30 minutes) in order to simulate injury to the
infant
simulator O5, the abuse event timer is stopped and reset, the sound recorder
360 is
stopped, and the impact abuse module 430 is exited.
15 If further impacts are sensed and the duration of the abusive impacts
exceeds a
predetermined time value x (e.g., 5 seconds), the impact abuse module 430
increases
the intensity of the impact distress signal S,o by means of the escalating
demand
feature 240 embedded within the impact abuse module 430. 'The impact distress
signal S,o is generated at the increased intensity thereafter until generation
of the
20 impact distress signal S,o is turned oFF.
if the abusive impacts are thereafter discontinued before a second
predetermined time value y (e.g., 10 seconds) is reached, the impact distress
signal S,o
is turned oFF after some period of time (e.g., I S minutes) to simulate injury
to the
25 infant simulator O5, the abuse event timer is stopped and reset, the sound
recorder 360
is stopped, and the impact abuse module 430 is exited.
If the duration of the abusive impacts.continue and exceed the second
predetermined time value y, the impact abuse module 430 enters the comatose
feature
30 280 embedded within the shaken infant submodule 432. Upon entering the
comatose
feature 280 a comatose signal S" is generated, the impact distress signal Spa
is turned
134
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
OFF, the occurrence of entry into a comatose state is counted by the recording
feature
220, and timing of the abuse event continues.
If a medical attention satisfaction signal St" is communicated to the impact
5 abuse module 430 after entry into the comatose feature 280 and before a
third
predetermined time value z (e.g., about 20 to 60 minutes measured from
detection of
the initial impact) the comatose signal S" is turned off, the intensity of the
impact
distress signal S,° is returned to normal, the abuse event timer is
stopped and reset, the
sound recorder 360 is stopped, and the impact abuse module 430 is exited. If,
on the
10 other hand, the medical attention satisfaction signal St" is not
communicated to the
impact abuse module 430 within the third predetermined time value z (i.e., the
end of
the medical attention-request period), then death of the infant simulator OS
is
recorded, the abuse event timer is stopped and reset, the sound recorder 360
is
stopped, and the program is ended.
15
Overstimulation Module 440
The motion sensor 70 detects movement of the infant simulator OS and
communicates with the central microcontroller unit 20 for evaluating the
extent to
20 which the infant simulator OS is being moved. Overstimutation is sensed and
the
overstimulation module 440 entered when excessive movement of the infant
simulator
05 is detected over an extended period of time.
Referring to Figure 20', central microcontroller unit 20 communicates with
2S motion sensor 70 on a periodic basis (e.g., a sample period of every two
minutes) to
determine whether movement of the infant simulator OS has been detected by the
motion sensor 70 within that sample period s. The microcontroller unit 20 then
calculates the percentage (nlx) of sample periods s in which motion has been
detected
(n) for the most recent subset x (e.g., 60) of sample periods s. When this
percentage
30 (n/x) exceeds a predetermined activation threshold value (e.g., 9S%) an
overstimulation indicator is turned oN and communicated to the overstimuladon
135
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
module 440. Thereafter the overstimulation indicator remains oN and the
central
microcontroller unit 20 continues to communicate.with motion sensor 70 and
calculate the percentage (n/x) of sample periods s in which motion has been
detected
(n) for the most recent group of x sample periods s, until the percentage
(n/x) falls
below a predetermined deactivation threshold value (e.g., 90%). Upon reaching
the
deactivation threshold value, the microcontroller unit 20 turns the
overstimulation
indicator OFF and communicates this to the overstimulation module 440.
Referring to Figure 20, the overstimulation module 440 is bypassed so long as
10 the overstimulation indicator is turned OFF. 1-Iowever, when the
overstimulation
module 440 receives a signal from the microcontroller unit 20 that the
overstimulation
indicator is oN, the overstimulation module 440 initiates generation of the
overstimulation signal S,= by means of the demand signal generating feature
210
embedded within the overstimulation module 440, starts timing the length of
time the
15 overstimulation signal S,z is generated, starts sound recorder 360 for a
defined period
of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any verbal reaction by the
student, and
turns oFF the bypass signal '-~.
If the overstimulation signal S,2 is generated for a predetermined time x
(e.g.,
20 10 minutes), the overstimulation module 440 increases the intensity of the
overstimulation signal S,Z by means of the escalating demand feature 240
embedded
within the overstimulation module 440. The overstimulation signal S,= is
generated at
the increased intensity thereafter.
25 Once the overstimulation module 440 receives a signal from the
microcontroller unit 20 that the overstimulaxion indicator is turned OFF,
generation of
the overstimulation signal S,1 is turned OFF, the occurrence of an
overstimulation
event is counted and the duration of time during which the infant simulator 05
was
overstimulated (i.e., the length of time the overstimulation signal S,z was
generated)
30 recorded by the recording feature 220, the overstimulation event timer is
stopped and
reset, the intensity of the overstimulation signal S,= is checked and returned
to normal
136
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
if intensified, the bypass signal '-~ is turned back oN, and the
overstimulation module
440 is exited.
In order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
5 modules even though the infant simulator OS is overstimulated for a
prolonged period
of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to terminate
generation of the overstimulation signal Sl= and exit the overstimulation
module 440
after a defined time period (e.g., 10-60 minutes) even though the infant
simulator OS
remains overstimulated (not shown in Figure 20). Timing of the duration of
10 overstimulation can also be terminated, or continued until the infant
simulator 05 is no
longer overstimulated.
Sun Exposure Module 470
15 The light sensor 350 measures the quantity of light striking the infant
simulator OS and signals the sun exposure module 4'70 when the illuminance
exceeds
a defined threshold value (i. e., greater than 2,000 foot-candles). The
threshold value
is established so as to prevent exposure to standard synthetic lighting and
indirect
sunlight from registering as a sun exposure event, while minimizing instances
where
20 an actual exposure to direct sunlight is not recognized as a sun exposure
event.
Referring to Figure 2r, the sun exposure module 470 is bypassed so long as the
infant simulator 05 is not exposed to direct sunlight (i.e., illuminance is
less than z).
However, when the sun exposure module 470 receives a signs! that the infant
25 simulator 05 is being exposed to direct sunlight (i.e., illuminance is
greater than z),
the sun exposure module 470 initiates generation of the sun exposure signal
S,s by
means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded within the sun
exposure
module 470, starts timing the length of time the sun exposure signal S,s is
generated,
starts sound recorder 360 for a defined period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes)
in order to
30 record any verbal reaction by the student, and turns OFF the bypass signal
w,
137
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
If the sun exposure signal S" is generated for longer than a predetermined
time
x (e.g., 10 minutes), the sun exposure module 470 increases the intensity of
the sun
exposure signal S,s by means of the escalating demand feature 240 embedded
within
the sari exposure module 470. The sun exposure signal S,t is generated at the
increased intensity thereafter until the infant simulator 05 is removed from
direct
sunlight.
Unce the infant simulator OS is removed from direct sunlight, generation of
the
sun exposure signal S,s is turned oFF, the occurrence of a sun exposure event
is
10 counted and the duration of time during which the infant simulator 05 was
exposed to
direct sunlight (i. e., the length of time the sun exposure signal S,s was
generated) is
recorded by the recording feature 220, the sun exposure period timer is
stopped and
reset, the intensity of the sun exposure signal S,s is checked and returned to
normal if
intensified, the bypass signal '~ is turned back oN, and the sun exposure
module 470
15 is exited.
In order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
modules even though the infant simulator OS is exposed to overly intense
sunlight for
a prolonged period of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be
programmed to
20 terminate generation of the sun exposure signal S" and exit the sun
exposure module
470 after a defined time period (e.g., 10-60 minutes) even though the infant
simulator
05 remains exposed to overly intense sunlight (not shown in Figure 2r). Timing
of the
duration of exposure to sunlight can also be terminated, or continued until
the infant
simulator 05 is no longer overly exposed.
25
Loud Sound Exposure Module 480
The sound sensor 40 measures the decibel level of sounds to which the infant
simulator OS is exposed and signals the loud sound exposure module 480 when
the
30 decibel level exceeds a defined threshold value (i.e., greater than 80 dB).
The
threshold value is established so as to prevent exposure to typical
environmental
138
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
sounds from registering as a loud sound exposure event, while minimizing
instances
where an actual exposure to a loud sound is not recognized as a loud sound
exposure
event.
S Referring to Figure 2s, the loud sound exposure module 480 is bypassed so
long as the infant simulator 05 is not exposed to loud sounds (i. e., decibel
level of
sounds is less than d). However, when the loud sound exposure module 480
receives
a signal that the infant simulator 05 is being exposed to loud sounds (i.e., a
decibel
level of greater than d), the loud sound exposure module 480 initiates
generation of
10 the Ioud sound exposure signal S,6 by means of the demand signal generating
feature
210 embedded within the loud sound exposure module 480, starts timing the
length of
time the loud sound exposure signal S,6 is generated, starts sound recorder
360 for a
defined period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any verbal
reaction by
the student, and toms oFF the bypass signal ~-~.
15
If the loud sound exposure signal S,6 is generated for longer than a
predetermined time x (e.g., 10 minutes), the loud sound exposure module 480
increases the intensity of the loud sound exposure signal S,6 by means of the
escalating demand feature 240 embedded within the loud sound exposure module
480.
20 The loud sound exposure signal S,6 is generated at the increased intensity
thereafter
until the infant simulator 05 is no longer subjected to loud sounds.
Once the infant simulator 05 no longer detects the loud sounds, generation of
the loud sound exposure signal S,6 is turned OFF, the occurrence of a loud
sound
25 exposure event is counted and the duration of time during which the infant
simulator
OS was exposed to loud sounds (i.e., the length of time the loud sound
exposure signal
S,6 was generated) is recorded by the recording feature 220, the loud sound
exposure
period timer is stopped and reset, the intensity of the loud sound exposure
signal S,6 is
checked and returned to normal if intensified, the bypass signal '-~ is turned
back oN,
30 and the loud sound exposure module 480 is exited.
139
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
In order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
modules even though the infant simulator 05 is exposed to loud sounds for a
prolonged period of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be
programmed to
terminate generation of the loud sound exposure signal S,6 and exit the loud
sound
5 exposure module 480 after a defined time period (e.g., 10-GO minutes) even
though
the infant simulator OS remains exposed to loud sounds (not shown in Figure
2s).
Timing of the duration of the exposuie to loud sounds can also be terminated,
or
continued until the infant simulator 05 is no longer exposed to loud sounds.
10 Missing Diaptr Module 490
The diaper sensor 370 checks for the presence or absence of a diaper 60 on the
infant simulator 05 and signals the missing-diaper module 490 when the infant
simulator 05 is detected without a diaper 60.
15
Referring to Figure 2e, the missing-diaper module 490 is bypassed so long as
the infant simulator 05 is wearing a diaper 60. However, when the missing-
diaper
module 490 receives a signal from the diaper sensor 370 that the infant
simulator 05 is
not fitted with a diaper 60 (i. e., a diaper 60 is not detected by the diaper
sensor 370),
20 the missing-diaper module 490 initiates generation of the missing-diaper
signal S" by
means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded within the module
490,
starts sound recorder 360 for a defined period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes)
in order to
record any verbal reaction by the student, starts timing the length of time
the missing-
diaper signal S" is generated, and turns OFF the bypass signal ~~.
25
Upon fitting the infant simulator 05 with a diaper 60, generation of the
missing-diaper signal S" is turned oFF, the occurrence of a missing-diaper
event is
counted, the duration of time during which the infant simulator 05 was without
a
diaper 60 (i. e., the length of time the missing-diaper signal S" was
generated)
30 recorded by the recording feature 220, the missing-diaper period timer is
stopped and
140
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
reset, the bypass signal '-> is turned back oN, and the missing-diaper module
490 is
exited.
In order to allow the microcontroller unit 20 to cycle through the other
modules even though the infant simulator OS is not wearing a diaper 60 for a
prolonged period of time, the central microcontroller unit 20 can be
programmed to
terminate generation of the missing-diaper signal S,~ and exit the missing-
diaper
module 490 after a defined time period (e.g., 10-60 minutes) even though the
infant
simulator 05 remains undiapered (not shown in Figure 2e), Timing of the
duration of
10 the missing-diaper period can also be terminated, or continued until the
infant
simulator 05 is diapered.
Diaper-Change Module 1~l0
15 The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically changes the satisfaction
signal
St4 requested by the diaper-change module 140, such as by alternating between
a first
satisfaction signal St4+ transmitted by a first diaper 60a, and a second
satisfaction
signal St; transmitted by a second diaper 60b.
20 The time intervals between sequential diaper-change events is preferably
selected so as to emulate the frequency of diaper changes required by an
actual infant.
By way of example, when the intervals are a predetermined value, the intervals
are
preferably between about 20 minutes and 6 hours, and when the intervals~are
bounded
random variables, the intervals are preferably between a minimum of 1 to 2
hours and
25 a maximum of 4 to 6 hours, with a statistical preference for a time
interval between
approximately 1 and approximately 3 hours.
Referring to Figure 2f, the diaper-change module 140 checks for the currently
requested diaper-change satisfaction signal (e.g., St,+). The diaper-change
module
30 140 is bypassed so long as the currently requested diaper-change
satisfaction signal
St, is communicated to the diaper-change module 140.
141
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
In the event that either the currently requested diaper-change satisfaction
signal St, is no longer received by the diaper-change module 140 (e.g., the
first diaper
60a transmitting the diaper-change satisfaction signal St,; has been removed
from the
5 infant simulator 05), or the central microcontroller unit 20 has changed the
requested
diaper-change satisfaction signal St, (e.g., the requested diaper-change
satisfaction
signal has been changed from St,'' to St; ), the diaper-change module 140
initiates
generation of a diaper-change signal S, by means of the demand signal
generating
feature 210 embedded within the diaper-change module 140, starts timing the
duration
10 of the diaper-change episode by timing the length of time the diaper-change
signal S,
is generated, and starts sound recorder 360 for a defined period of time
(e.g., 3 to 5
minutes) in order to record any verbal reaction by the student.
In order to end a diaper-change episode before the time limitation y has been
15 reached, the diaper-change module 140 must receive both an identification
signal S'°
(e.g., insertion of an identification key 90 attached to the wrist ofthe
assigned student
by means of a tamper indicating wristband 91) and the currently requested
satisfaction
signal (e.g., transmission of the diaper-change satisfaction signal St; by
diapering the
infant simulator 05 with the second diaper 60b). For the embodiment depicted
in
20 Figure 2f, the identification S'° and diaper-change satisfaction
signals St, may be
received in any sequence and do not need to be transmitted simultaneously.
As shown in Figure 2f, the identification requirement is controlled by the
identification system feature 250 embedded within the diaper-change module
140.
25 The identification system feature 250 prevents exiting of the diaper-change
module
140 by bypassing the satisfaction option until the identification signal
S'° has been
received and the identification switch Sw'° has been turned oN.
If the identification signal S'° and the current diaper-change
satisfaction signal
30 St, are not received within a given time limit x, as measured by the length
of time the
diaper-change signal S, has been generated, the diaper-change module 140
increases
142
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
the intensity of the diaper-change signal S, by means of the escalating demand
feature
240 embedded within the diaper-change module 140. The diaper-change signal S4
is
generated at the increased intensity for the remainder of the diaper-change
episode
(i.e., until the identification signal S'° and the current diaper-
change satisfaction signal
5 St, are received or the time limitation y is reached).
Upon receiving the identification signal S'° and the current diaper-
change
satisfaction signal St,, the diaper-change signal S, is turned OFF, the
occurrence of a
diaper-change event is counted and the length of the diaper-change episode
recorded
10 by the recording feature 220, the timer for timing the duration of the
diaper-change
episode is stopped and reset, the intensity of the diaper-change signal S, is
checked
and returned to normal if intensified, a contented signal + is generated
(e.g., a soft
"cooing" sound), the identification switch Sw'° is turned back oFF, and
the diaper-
change module 140 is exited.
15
In the event that the identification signal S'° and the current diaper-
change
satisfaction signal St, are never received during a diaper-change event (i.e.,
the diaper-
change signal S, is generated until time limitation y is reached), the diaper-
change
signal S, is turned oFF, the occurrence of a diaper-change event is counted
and the
20 length of the diaper-change episode recorded by the recording feature 220,
the timer
for timing the duration of the diaper-change episode is stopped and reset, the
intensity
of the diaper-change signal S, is checked and returned to normal if
intensified, the
identification switch Sw'° is turned back OFF, and the diaper-change
module 140 is
exited. The contented signal + is not generated when the diaper-change module
140 is
25 exited in this manner.
The time limitation y is employed for purposes of preventing the diaper-
change signal S, from being generated for the remainder of an assignment
period in
the event that the identification signal S'° and the current diaper-
change satisfaction
30 signal St4 are never received by the diaper-change module 140. This allows
the
program to continue cycling through the other modules and interact with a
student for
143
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
the balance of the assignment period when an otherwise willing student is
unable to
provider the diaper-change satisfaction signal St,, such as could result from
a situation
in which one of the diapers 60 is misplaced during an assignment period or
left at
home when traveling.
Rocking Madute 1 SD
The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences a rocking-request
period and communicates the commencement of a rocking-request period to the
10 rocking module 150. The central microcontroller unit 20 also controls the
duration of
each rocking-request period by transmitting a termination signal to the
rocking
module 150 after the desired time period y has lapsed.
The time intervals between sequential rocking-request periods is preferably
15 selected so as to emulate the frequency of requests for such attention
requested by an
actual infant. By way of example, when the intervals are a predetermined
value, the
intervals are preferably between about 1 to 6 hours, and when the intervals
are
bounded random variables, the intervals are preferably between a minimum of 1
to 2
hours and a maximum of 4 to 6 hours, with a statistical preference for a time
interval
20 between approximately 3 and approximately 5 hours.
Similarly, the duration of each rocking-request period is preferably selected
so
as to emulate the length of time an actual infant would request such
attention. By way
of example, when the duration of a rocking-request period is a predetermined
value,
25 the duration of each rocking-request period is preferably between about 10
minutes to
I hour, and when the duration of a rocking-request period is a bounded random
variable, the duration of each rocking-request period is preferably between a
minimum of about 2 minutes and a maximum of about 60, with a statistical
preference
for a duration between approximately 5 and 20 minutes.
30
144
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Referring to Figure 2g, the rocking module 150 is simply bypassed until the
central microcontroller unit 20 starts a rocking-request period. When the
central
microcontroller unit 20 starts a rocking-request period, the central
microcontroller unit
20 transmits a rocking-request start signal to the rocking module 150, a
rocking-
5 request episode is counted by the recording feature 220, and the rocking-
request event
commenced. The rocking module 150 then initiates generation of the rocking-
request
signal Ss by means of the demand signal generating feature 210, starts timing
the
duration of the rocking-request episode by timing the length of time the
rocking-
request signal St is generated, and starts sound recorder 360 for a defined
period of
10 time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any verbal reaction by the
student.
In order to end a rocking-request episode before the entire rocking-request
period has elapsed, the rocking module 150 must receive both an identification
signal
S'° (e.g., insertion of an identification key 90 attached to the wrist
of the assigned
15 student by a tamper indicating wristband 91) and a rocking-request
satisfaction signal
St5 (e.g., rocking of the infant simulator OS). For the embodiment depicted in
Figure
2g, the identification S'° and rocking-request satisfaction Sts signals
may be received
in any sequence and do not need to be transmitted simultaneously. However, the
rocking-request satisfaction signal Sts must be continuously received
throughout the
20 rocking-request period to prevent initiation of a secondary rocking-request
episode in
which the rocking-request signal S5 is turned back oN and the duration of the
supplemental rocking-request episode timed. Upon initiation of a secondary
rocking-
request episode, the duration of the rocking-request period may optionally be
restarted
(i. e., TS reset to 0 minutes).
25
As shown in Figure 2g, the identification requirement is controlled by the
identification system feature 250 embedded within the rocking module 150. The
identification system feature 250 prevents access to the episode termination
operations
(i.e., turning o~ the rocking-request signal Ss and terminating timing of the
rocking-
30 request episode) by bypassing the satisfaction option until the
identification signal S'°
has been received and the identification switch Sw'° has been turned
oN.
145
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
If the identification signal S'° and the rocking-request satisfaction
signal Sts
are not received within a given time limit x, as measured by the length of
time the
rocking-request signal SS has been generated, the rocking module 150 increases
the
intensity of the rocking-request signal Ss by means of the escalating demand
feature
240 embedded within the rocking module 150. The rocking-request signal Ss is
generated at the increased intensity for the remainder of the rocking-request
episode
(i.e., until the identification signal S'° and the rocking-request
satisfaction signal Sts
are received or the end of the rocking-request period is reached).
10
Upon receiving the identification S'° and the rocking-request
satisfaction Sts
signals, the rocking-request signal SS is turned OFF, the length of the
rocking-request
episode recorded by the recording feature 220, the timer for timing the
duration of the
rockiirg-request episode stopped and reset, the intensity of the rocking-
request signal
15 S, checked and returned to normal if intensified, and the positive signal
switch Sw'' is
turned oN.
In contrast to the diaper-change module 140, the rocking module 1-50 requires
that the rocking-request satisfaction signal Sts continue to be transmitted to
the
20 rocking module 150 for the entire duration of the rocking-request period.
Failure to
continuously provide the rocking-request satisfaction signal Sts throughout
the entire
rocking-request period causes the rocking module 150 to reinitiate generation
of the
rocking-request signal Ss, start timing the duration of the secondary rocking-
request
episode, and tum the positive signal switch Sw+ back OFF.
25
The duration of a secondary rocking-request episode can be recorded and
reported in a number of different ways, including, by way of example (i)
recording
and reporting a secondary rocking-request episode as just another rocking-
request
episode, (ii) separately recording and reporting primary and secondary rocking-
30 request episodes according to type of episode, (iii) adding the duration of
a secondary
14b
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
rocking-request episode to the recorded duration of the corresponding primary
rocking
request episode, etc.
In order to end a secondary rocking-request episode before the end of the
rocking-request period, the rocking-request satisfaction signal Sts must once
again be
received by the rocking module i50. It is not necessary to retransmit the
identification signal S'° as the identification switch Sw'°
remains oN until the rocking
period has ended, regardless of the status of the rocking-request satisfaction
signal St,.
10 When the end of the rocking period y is reached, the rocking module 150
performs one of two different sets of operations depending upon the final
status of the
rocking-request satisfaction signal Sts. In those cases where the rocking-
request
satisfaction signal Sts was being received by the rocking module 150 at the
end of the
rocking period, a contented signal + is generated (e.g., a soft "cooing"
sound), the
15 positive signal switch Sw' is turned back OFF, the identification switch
Sw'° is turned
back oFF, and the rocking module 150 is exited. In those cases where the
rocking-
request satisfaction signal Sts was not being received by the rocking module
150 at
the end of the rocking period, including those cases where the rocking-request
satisfaction signal Sts was never received by the rocking module 150, the
rocking-
20 request signal SS is turned OFF, the length of the rocking-request or
supplemental
rocking-request episode is recorded by the recording feature 220, the timer
for timing
the duration of the rocking-request episode is stopped and reset, the
intensity of the
rocking-request signal Ss is checked and returned to normal if intensified,
the
identification switch Sw'° is turned back oFF, and the rocking module
150 is exited.
25 The contented signal + is not generated when the rocking module 150 is
exited in the
latter manner.
Feeding Module 160
30 The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences a feeding-
request
period and communicates the commencement of a feeding-request period to the
147
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
feeding module 160. The central microcontroller unit 20 also controls the
duration of
each feeding-request period by transmitting a termination signal to the
feeding module
160 after the desired time period y has lapsed.
5 The time intervals between sequential feeding-request events is preferably
selected so as to emulate the frequency of feedings required by an actual
infant. By
way of example, when the intervals are a predetermined value, the intervals
are
preferably between about 1 io 6 hours, and when the intervals are bounded
random
variables, the intervals are preferably between a minimum of 1 to 2 hours and
a
10 maximum of 4 to 6 hours, with a statistical preference for a time interval
between
approximately 3 and approximately 5 hours.
Similarly, the duration of each feeding-request period is preferably selected
so
as to emulate the length of time an actual infant would need to be fed. By way
of
15 example, when the duration of a feeding-request period is a predetermined
value, the
duration of each feeding-request period is preferably between about S to 20
minutes,
and when the duration of a feeding-request period is a bounded random
variable, the
duration of each feeding-request period is preferably between a minimum of
about 5
minutes and a maximum of about 30 minutes, with a statistical preference for a
20 duration between approximately 10 and 20 minutes.
Referring to Figure 2h, the feeding module 160 is simply bypassed until the
central microcontroller unit 20 starts a feeding-request period. When the
central
microcontroller unit 20 starts a feeding-request period, the central
microcontroller unit
25 20 transmits a feeding-request start signal to the feeding module 160, a
feeding-
request episode is counted by the recording feature 220, and the feeding-
request
period commenced. The feeding module 160 then initiates generation of the
feeding-
request signal Sa by means of the demand signal generating feature 210, starts
timing
the duration of the feeding-request episode by timing the length of time the
feeding-
30 request signal S6 is generated, starts sound recorder 360 for a defined
period of time
(e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any verbal reaction by the student,
and turns
148
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
the positive signal Sw; and the burp SwB°ap switches oFF unless the
switches are
already OFF.
In order to end a feeding-request episode before the entire feeding-request
5 period has elapsed, the feeding module 160 must receive both an
identification signal
S'° (e.g., insertion of an identification key 90 attached to the wrist
of the assigned
student by a tamper indicating wristband 91) and a feeding-request
satisfaction signal
St6 (e.g., insertion of a bottle into the mouth or insertion of a key marked
"Feeding" in
to a keyhole). For the embodiment depicted in Figure 2h, the identification
S'° and
10 feeding-request satisfaction Stb signals may be received in any sequence
and do not
need to be transmitted simultaneously. However, the feeding-request
satisfaction
signal Stb must be continuously received throughout the feeding-request period
to
prevent initiation of a secondary feeding-request episode in which the feeding-
request
signal S6 is turned back oN, the duration of the supplemental feeding-request
episode
15 ~ timed, the sound recorder 360 is activated for a second defined period of
time, and the
burp switch Sw~'°'~' switched back t0 OFF. Upon initiation of a
secondary feeding-
request episode, the duration of the feeding-request period may optionally be
restarted
(i.e., T6 reset to 0 minutes).
20 As shown in Figure 2h, the identification requirement is controlled by the
identification system feature 250 embedded within the feeding module 160. The
identification system feature 250 prevents access to the episode termination
operations
(i.e., turning oFF the feeding-request signal S6 and terminating timing of the
feeding-
request episode) by bypassing the satisfaction option until the identification
signal S'°
25 has been received and the identification switch Sw'° has been turned
oN.
If the identification signal S'° and the feeding-request satisfaction
signal St6
are not received within a given time limit x, as measured by the length of
time the
feeding-request signal S6 has been generated, the feeding module 160 increases
the
30 intensity of the feeding-request signal S6 by means of the escalating
demand feature
240 embedded within the feeding module 160. The feeding-request signal S6 is
149
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
generated at the increased intensity for the remainder of the feeding-request
episode
(i.e., until the identification signal S'° and the feeding-request
satisfaction signal St6
are received or the end of the feeding-request period y is reached).
Upon receiving the identification S'° and the feeding-request
satisfaction St6
signals, the feeding-request signal S6 is turned oFF, the length of the
feeding-request
episode recorded by the recording feature 220, the timer for timing the
duration of the
feeding-request episode stopped and reset, the intensity of the feeding-
request signal
S6 checked and returned to normal if intensified, the positive signal switch
Sw'' is
10 turned oN, and the burp switch Sw$""p fumed oN.
As with the rocking module 150, the feeding module 160 requires that the
feeding-request satisfaction signal St6 continue to be transmitted to the
feeding
module 160 for the entire duration of the feeding-request period. Failure to
15 continuously provide the feeding-request satisfaction signal Stb throughout
the entire
feeding-request period causes the feeding module 160 to reinitiate generation
of the
feeding-request signal S6, start timing the duration of the secondary feeding-
request
episode, turn the sound recorder 360 back on for a second defined period of
time, and
turn both the positive signal switch Sw' and the burp switch Sws"'p OFF.
20
The duration of a secondary feeding-request episode can be recorded and
reported in a number of different ways, including, by way of example (i)
recording
and reporting a secondary feeding-request episode as just another feeding-
request
episode, (ii) separately recording and reporting primary and secondary feeding-
request
25 episodes according to type of episode, (iii) adding the duration of a
secondary
feeding-request episode to the recorded duration of the corresponding primary
feeding-request episode, etc.
In order to end a secondary feeding-request episode before the end of the
30 feeding-request period, the feeding-request satisfaction signal St6 must
once again be
received by the feeding module 160. It is not necessary to retransmit the
150
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
identification signal S'° as the identification switch Sw'°
remains oN until the feeding
period has ended, regardless of the status of the feeding-request satisfaction
signal St6.
When the end of the feeding period is reached, the feeding module 160
performs one of two different sets of operations depending upon the final
status of the
feeding-request satisfaction signal Stb. In those cases where the feeding-
request
satisfaction signal Stb was being received by the feeding module 160 at the
end of the
feeding period, a contented signal + is generated (e.g., a soft "cooing"
sound), the
identification switch Sw'° is turned back OFF, and the feeding module
160 is exited.
10 In those cases where the feeding-request satisfaction signal St6 was not
being received
by the feeding module 160 at the end of the feeding period, including those
cases
where the feeding-request satisfaction signal Stb was never received by the
feeding
module 160, the feeding-request signal S6 is fumed OFF, the length of the
feeding-
request or supplemental feeding-request episode is recorded by the recording
feature
15 220, the timer for timing the duration of the feeding-request episode is
stopped and
reset, the intensity of the feeding-request signal S6 is checked and returned
to normal
if intensified, the identification switch Sw'° is turned back OFF, and
the feeding
module 160 is exited. The contented signal + is not generated when the feeding
module 160 is exited in~the latter manner.
20
Burping Module 170
During each feeding-request period, a burp switch SweuRp is turned oN when
the identification signal S'° and feeding-request satisfaction Stb
signals are received.
25 The burp switch SwHURP remains oN so long as the feeding-request
satisfaction signal
Stb is continuously received by the feeding module 160 during the feeding-
request
period. In the event that the identification signal S'° and feeding-
request satisfaction
St6 signals are never received by the feeding module 160, or the feeding-
request
satisfaction signal Stb is interrupted and is not being received by the
feeding module
30 160 when the feeding-request period ends, the burp switch SwHURP is turned
o~.
151
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Burping-request periods can be initiated immediately after the end of a
satisfied feeding-request period or after a defined delay timed from the end
of a
satisfied feeding-request period. When a delay is provided between the end of
a
satisfied feeding-request period and the initiation of a burping-request
period, the
length of the delay is preferably selected so as to emulate the burping needs
of an
actual infant. By way of example, when the delays are a predetermined value,
the
delays are preferably between about 0 to 30 minutes, and when the delays are
bounded
random variables, the delays are preferably between about 0 to 30 minutes,
with a
statistical preference for delays of between approximately 2 and 10 minutes.
10
Similarly, the duration of each burping-request period is preferably selected
so
as to emulate the length of time an actual infant would need to be burped. By
way of
example, when the duration of a burping-request period is a predetermined
value, the
duration of each burping-request period is preferably between about 2 to 60
minutes,
I S and when the duration of a burping-request period is a bounded random
variable, the
duration of each burping-request period is preferably between about 2 to 60
minutes
with a statistical preference for a duration of between approximately 5 and 20
minutes.
20 Referring to Figure 2i, the burping module 170 is bypassed when the burping
switch SwH"~ is oFF (i. e., the infant simulator OS does not want to be burped
when
the infant simulator OS was not properly fed). However, when the burping
switch
Sw'°"~ is oN, a burping-request event is commenced, a burping-request
episode is
counted by the recording feature 220, and the burping switch Swe'"'p switched
oFF.
25 The burping module 170 then initiates generation of the burping-request
signal S7 by
means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded within the burping
module 170, starts timing the duration of the burping-request episode by
timing the
length of time the burping-request signal S, is generated, starts sound
recorder 360 for
a defined period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes) in order to record any verbal
reaction by
30 the student, and turns the positive signal switch Sw+ oFF unless the switch
is already
oFF.
152
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As with the rocking-request period and the feeding-request period, the central
microcontroller unit 20 controls the duration of each burping-request period
by
transmitting a termination signal to the burping module 170 after the desired
time
5 period y has lapsed.
In order to end a burping-request episode before the entire burping-request
period has elapsed, the burping module 170 must receive both an identification
signal
S'° (e.g., insertion of an identification key 90 attached to the wrist
of the assigned
10 student by a tamper indicating wristband 91) and a burping-request
satisfaction signal
St, (e.g., patting of the infant simulator OS). For the embodiment depicted in
Figure
2i, the identification S'° and burping-request satisfaction Sty signals
may be received
in any sequence and do not need to be transmitted simultaneously. However, the
burping-request satisfaction signal St, must be continuously received
throughout the
15 burping-request period to prevent initiation of a secondary burping-request
episode in
which the burping-request signal S, is turned back oN, the duration of the
supplemental burping-request episode timed, and the positive signal switch Sw+
fumed back oFF. Upon initiation of a secondary burping-request episode, the
duration
of the burping-request period may optionally be restarted (i. e., T? reset to
0 minutes).
20
As shown in Figure 2i, the identification requirement is controlled by the
identification system feature 250 embedded within the burping module 170. The
identification system feature 250 prevents access to the episode termination
operations
(i.e., turning oFF the burping-request signal S, and terminating timing of the
burping-
25 request episode) by bypassing the satisfaction option until the
identification signal S'°
has been received and the identification switch Sw'° has been turned
oN.
If the identification signal S'° and the burping-request satisfaction
signal St'
are not received within a given time limit x, as measured by the length of
time the
3d burping-request signal S, has been generated, the burping module 170
increases the
intensity of the burping-request signai S, by means of the escalating demand
feature
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
240 embedded within the burping module 170. The burping-request signal S, is
generated at the increased intensity for the remainder of the burping-request
episode
(i.e., until the identification signal S'° and the burping-request
satisfaction signal St,
are received or the end of the burping-request period is reached).
Upon receiving the identification S'° and the burping-request
satisfaction Sty
signals, the burping-request signal S, is turned OFF, the length of the
burping-request
episode recorded by the recording feature 220, the timer for timing the
duration of the
burping-request episode stopped and reset, the intensity of the burping-
request signal
10 S, checked and returned to normal if intensified, and the positive signal
switch Sw+
turned otv unless already turned on.
As with the rocking module 150 and the feeding module 160, the burping
module 170 requires that the burping-request satisfaction signal St, continue
to be
15 transmitted to the burping module 170 for the entire duration of the
burping-request
period. Failure to continuously provide the burping-request satisfaction
signal St,
throughout the entire burping-request period causes the burping module 170 to
reinitiate generation of the burping-request signal S,, start timing the
duration of the
secondary burping-request episode, tum the sound recorder 360 back on for a
second
20 defined period of time, and turn the positive signal switch Sw+ oFF.
The duration of a secondary burping-request episode can be recorded and
reported in a number of different ways, including, by way of example (i)
recording
and reporting a secondary burping-request episode as just another burping-
request
25 episode, (ii) separately recording and reporting primary and secondary
burping-
request episodes according to type of episode, (iii) adding the duration of a
secondary
burping-request episode to the recorded duration of the corresponding primary
burping-request episode, etc.
30 In order to end a secondary burping-request episode before the end of the
burping-request period, the burping-request satisfaction signal St., must once
again be
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
received by the burping module 170. It is not necessary to retransmit the
identification signal S~° as the identification switch Sw'°
remains off until the burping
period has ended, regardless of the status of the burping-request satisfaction
signal St,.
5 When the end of the burping-request period is reached, the burping module
170 performs one of two different sets of operations depending upon the final
status of
the burping-request satisfaction signal St,. In those cases where the burping-
request
satisfaction signal St, was being received by the burping module 170 at the
end of the
burping-request period, a contented signal + is generated (e.g., a soft
"cooing" sound),
10 the identification switch Sw'° is turned back OFF, and the burping
module 170 is
exited. In those cases where the burping-request satisfaction signal St, was
not being
received by the burping module 1'10 at the end of the burping period,
including those
cases where the burping-request satisfaction signal Sty was never received by
the
burping module 170, the burping-request signal S~ is turned OFF, the length of
the
15 burping-request or supplemental burping-request episode is recorded by the
recording
feature 220, the timer for timing the duration of the burping-request episode
is stopped
and reset, the intensity of the burping-request signal S, is checked and
returned to
normal if intensified, the identification switch Sw'° is turned back
oFF, and the
burping module 170 is exited. The contented signal + is not generated when the
20 burping module 170 is exited in the latter manner.
Fussy Module l80
The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences a fussy period and
25 communicates the commencement of a fussy period to the fussy module 180.
The
program also controls the duration of each fussy period by transmitting a
termination
signal to the fussy module 180 after the desired time period y has lapsed.
The duration of each fussy period is preferably selected so as to emulate the
30 length of time an actual infant would tend to fuss. By way of example, when
the
duration of a fussy period is a predetermined value, the duration of fussy
period is
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
preferably between about 5 to 20 minutes, and when the duration of a fussy
period is a
bounded random variable, the duration of each fussy period is preferably
between -
about 2 to 60 minutes with a statistical preference for a duration of about 5
to 20
minutes.
5
Referring to Figure 2j, the fussy module 180 is simply bypassed until the
central microcontroller unit 20 commences a fussy period. When the central
microcontroller unit 20 commences a fussy period, the central microcontroller
unit 20
transmits a fussy start signal to the fussy module 180, and a fussy event is
10 commenced. The fussy module 180 then initiates generation of the fussy
signal Se by
means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded within the fussy
module
180.
In contrast to the other demand event modules (i.e., the diaper-change module
15 140, .the rocking module 150, the feeding module 160, the burping module
170, and
the rest module 450) a fussy event cannot be ended until the entire fussy
period has
run. Hence, the fussy signal S8 will be generated throughout a fussy period
regardless
of the actions taken by the student. The fussy module 180 emulates those times
when,
despite every effort by a care provider, an infant cannot be satisfied and
continues to
20 fuss. Since the fussy event cannot be satisfied, the fussy module 180 does
not include
the recording 220, contented signal 230, escalating demand 240 or
identification 250
features embedded within the other modules. The fussy module I80 does however
include the sound recording feature in which the sound recorder 360 is
activated for
the duration of the fussy period in order to record any verbal reaction by the
student.
25
When the end of the fussy period is reached, the fussy signal S, is turned
OFF,
the sound recorder 360 is shut off, and the fussy module 180 is exited. A
contented
signal + is not generated.
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Self-Directed Expression Module 410
The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences a self directed
expression and communicates the commencement of a self directed expression to
the
self directed expression module 410. The self directed expression can last for
a few
seconds (e.g., a giggle) or several minutes (e.g., hiccuping).
Referring to Figure 2k, the self directed expression module 410 is simply
bypassed until the central microcontroller unit 20 commences a self directed
10 expression. When the central microcontroller unit 20 commences a self
directed
expression, the central microcontroller unit 20 transmits a self directed
expression
signal to the self directed expression module, and a self directed expression
is
commenced.
15 In contrast to the other demand event modules (i.e., the diaper-change
module
140, the rocking module 150, the feeding module 160, the burping module 170,
the
fussy module 180, and the resting module 450) a self directed expression is
preferably
of the type which occurs quickly and spontaneously and a care-provider does
not
typically perceive as requiring satisfaction. Hence, the self directed
expression E,
20 will generally be communicated without any action taken by the student
other than
observing the expression. Since the self directed expression need not be
satisfied, the
self directed expression module 410 does not include the recording 220,
contented
signal Z30, escalating demand 240 or identification 250 features embedded
within
other modules.
25
When the end of the self directed expression is reached, the self directed
expression module 180 is exited.
15?
CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Rest Module 4S0
The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences a rest-request
period and communicates the commencement of a rest-request period to the rest
5 module 450. The central microcontroller unit 20 also controls the duration
of each
rest-request period by transmitting a termination signal to the rest module
450 after
the desired time period y has lapsed.
The time intervals between sequential rest-request events is preferably
selected
10 so as to emulate the frequency of requests for sleep by an actual infant.
By way of
example, when the intervals are a predetermined value, the intervals are
preferably
between about 1 to 6 hours, and when the intervals are bounded random
variables, the
intervals are preferably between a minimum of 1 to 2 hours and a maximum of 4
to 6
hours, with a statistical preference for a time interval between approximately
3 and
15 approximately 5 hours.
Similarly, the duration of each rest-request period is preferably selected so
as
to emulate the length of time an actual infant would require rest (i.e., the
length of a
typical daytime nap or night time sleeping period). By way of example, when
the
20 duration of a rest-request period is a predetermined value, the duration of
each rest-
request period is preferably between about 10 minutes to 6 hours, and when the
duration of a rest-request period is a bounded random variable, the duration
of each
rest-request period is preferably between a minimum of about 10 minutes and a
maximum of about 6 hours, with a statistical preference for a duration between
25 approximately 5 and 40 minutes for a daytime nap and 2 to 5 hours for a
night time
sleeping period.
Referring to Figure 2p, the rest module 450 is simply bypassed until the
central microcontroller unit 20 starts a rest-request period. When the central
30 microcontroller unit 20 starts a rest-request period, the central
microcontroller unit 20
transmits a rest-request start signal to the rest module 450, a rest-request
event is
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
counted by the recording feature 220, and the rest-request event commenced. In
the
event that the infant simulator OS is already resting (i. e., is not being
subjected to
sound or movement exceeding defined "disturbing" threshold values) the rest
module
450 simply turns the positive signal switch Sw+ oN without generating the rest-
request
5 signal S,3 and continues to monitor for any "disturbing" sounds or movement
of the
infant simulator O5.
Should the infant simulator OS is being subjected to movement and/or sound of
su~cient intensity to be detected as a "disturbing" action during the rest-
request
10 period, the rest module 450 initiates generation of the rest-request signal
S,3 by means
of the demand signal generating feature 210, starts timing the duration of the
rest-
request episode by timing the length of time the rest-request signal S" is
generated,
starts sound recorder 360 for a defined period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes)
in order to
record any verbal reaction by the student, and turns the positive signal
switch Sw+ oFF
15 unless the switch is already oFF.
In order to end a rest-request episode before the entire rest-request period
has
elapsed, the rest module 450 must receive an identification signal S'°
(e.g., insertion
of an identification key 90 attached to the wrist of the assigned student by a
tamper
20 indicating wristband 91) and must No'r receive a "disturbing" signal from
the motion
sensor 70 or the sound sensor 340 (i.e., lack of both sound and movement
exceeding
"disturbing" threshold values hereinafter referenced as a "resting'. The
motion
sensor 70 and sound sensor 340 must not detect a sound or movement exceeding
threshold value throughout the entire rest-request period to prevent
initiation of a
25 secondary rest-request episode in which the rest-request signal S,3 is
turned back oN,
the duration of the supplemental rest-request episode timed, the sound
recorder 360
started for a second defined period of time, and the positive signal switch
Sw' turned
OFF again. Upon initiation of a secondary rest-request episode, the duration
of the
rest-request period may optionally be restarted (i.e., T12 reset to 0
minutes).
30
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
As shown in Figure 2p, the identification requirement is controlled by the
identification system feature 250 embedded within the rest module 450. The
identification system feature 250 prevents access to the episode termination
operations
(i.e., turning oFF the rest-request signal S" and terminating timing of the
rest-request
episode) by bypassing the "satisfaction" option until the identification
signal S'° has
been received and the identification switch Sw'° has been turned oN.
If the identification signal S'° is not received andlor the infant
simulator 05
continues to be subjected to movement andlor sound within a given time limit
x, as
10 measured by the length of time the rest-request signal S" has been
generated, the rest
module 450 increases the intensity of the rest-request signal S,~ by means of
the
escalating demand feature 240 embedded within the rest module 450. The rest-
request signal S,3 is generated at the increased intensity for the remainder
of the rest-
request episode (i.e., until the identification signal S'° is received
and the infant
15 simulator OS is resting, or the end of the rest-request period is reached).
Upon receiving the identification S'° and detection of resting, the
rest-request
signal S,~ is turned oFF, the length of the rest-request episode recorded by
the
recording feature 220, the timer for timing the duration of the rest-request
episode
20 stopped and reset, the intensity of the rest-request signal S" checked and
returned to
normal if intensified, and the positive signal switch Sw+ turned oN.
The infant simulator 05 must continue to rest (i.e., detect no sounds or be
subjected to any movement exceeding the threshold values) for the entire
duration of
25 the rest-request period. Failure to continuously rest the infant simulator
OS throughout
the entire rest-request period causes the rest module 450 to reinitiate
generation of the
rest-request signal 5,3, start timing the duration of the secondary rest-
request episode,
turn the sound recorder 360 back on for a second defined period of time, and
turn the
positive signal switch Sw'' oFF.
30
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
The duration of a secondary rest-request episode can be recorded and reported
in a number of different ways, including, by way of example (i) recording and
reporting a secondary rest-request episode as just another rest-request
episode, (ii)
separately recording and reporting primary and secondary rest-request episodes
according to type of episode, (iii) adding the duration of a secondary rest-
request
episode to the recorded duration of the corresponding primary rest-request
episode,
etc.
In order to end a secondary rest-request episode before the end of the rest-
10 request period, the infant simulator 05 must once again be rested. It is
not necessary
to retransmit the identification signal S'° as the identification
switch Sw'° remains oN
until the rest period has ended, regardless of the resting status of the
infant simulator
05.
15 When the ead of the rest period is reached, the rest module 450 performs
one
of two different sets of operations depending upon the final resting status of
the infant
simulator 05. In those cases where the infant simulator 05 was resting at the
end of
the rest period, a contented signal + is generated (e.g., a soft "cooing"
sound), the
identification switch Sw'° is turned back OFF, and the rest module 450
is exited. In
20 those cases where the infant simulator OS was not resting at the end of the
rest period,
including those cases where the infant simulator 05 was never rested, the rest-
request
signal Ss3 is turned OFF, the length of the rest-request or supplemental rest-
request
episode is recorded by the recording feature 220, the timer far timing the
duration of
the rest-request episode is stopped and reset, the intensity of the rest-
request signal S,3
25 is checked and returned to normal if intensified, the identification switch
Sw'° is
turned back OFF, and the rest module 450 is exited. The contented signal + is
not
generated when the rest module 450 is exited in the latter manner.
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CA 02487190 1998-12-04
Sick Module 460
The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences a sick period and
communicates the commencement of a sick period to the sick module 460. The
5 central microcontroller unit 20 also controls the duration of each sick
period by
transmitting a termination signal to the sick module 460 once the desired time
period
y has lapsed.
The time interval between sequential sick periods is preferably selected so as
10 to emulate the frequency of illness of an actual infant. Generally, a
single sick period
of between 30 minutes and 24 hours per assignment period is appropriate.
Multiple
sick periods can be commenced within a single assignment period, but such
multiple
illnesses within the span of a typical assignment period of 8 to 72 hours is
relatively
uncommon.
15
Referring to Figure 2q, the sick module 460 is simply bypassed until the
central microcontroller unit 20 starts a sick period. When the central
microcontroller
unit 20 starts a sick period, the central microcontroller unit 20 transmits a
sick period
initiation signal to the sick module 460, a sick period is counted by the
recording
20 feature 220, and the sick period commenced. The sick module 460 then
initiates
generation of the perceptible sick signal S"by means of the demand signal
generating
feature 210, starts timing the duration of the sick period, increases the
duration of
demand periods occurring during the sick period, and decreases the time
interval
between sequential demand events during the sick period (i.e., demand periods
last
25 longer and demand events occur more frequently during a sick period).
Upon reaching the end of the sick period y, the sick signal S" is fumed oFF,
the duration of demand periods and the time intervals between sequential
demand
events are returned to normal, the timer for timing the duration of the sick
period is
30 stopped and reset, and the sick module 460 exited.
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Assignment Period Module 190
The infant simulator 05 initiates timing of the assignment period upon
activation. The duration of the assignment period can either be continuous (i.
e.,
S continuing until a teacher or other program administrator takes custody of
the infant
simulator OS and stops the assignment period), or predetermined (i.e., a
preset
duration of 6, 8, 24, 36, 48 or '72 hours selected by the teacher or other
program
administrator at the beginning of the assignment period.
10 When the assignment period is a predetermined time period, the central
microcontroller unit 20 is preprogrammed with a defined assignment period. The
assignment period module 190 compares the length of time the infant simulator
05 has
been activated against the duration of the defined assignment period, and
causes the
program to continue cycling through the various modules until the length of
time the
15 infant simulator 05 has been activated equals or exceeds the duration of
the defined
assignment period. Once the activation period equals or exceeds the assignment
period, the program is ended.
163
