Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
Phototherapy System, Apparatus, and Kit
Field of the Invention
[001] The present invention relates to phototherapy systems. In particular,
the invention
comprises systems, apparatuses and kits for infant therapy.
Background
[002] Phototherapy offers an acknowledged treatment option for the cure of
hemolytic disease
of the new-born child, due to prenatal jaundice. It has been found that by
exposing an infant's
skin to intense light, such as azure light generated by fluorescent tubes or
LEDs lights, indirect
and non hydrosoluble bilirubin, generated by the haemoglobin coming from the
walls of the red
corpuscles, is changed into hydrosoluble bilirubin which is eliminated either
by the hepatic canal
or by the renal canal.
[003] Present phototherapy apparatuses for infant phototherapy are crude
apparatuses, typically
comprising a light bar or light generating surface suspended directly above
the infant, or above the
infant but not directly above, with the light generating surface angled
towards the infant, disposed
beneath a glass surface on which the infant has been placed and being angled
in an upward
direction ¨ so that emitted radiations from the light generating surface is
directed towards the
infant. Such apparatuses are bulky, immoveable and unwieldy, and do not offer
solutions that allow
incorporation into incubators (which are typically small in size), or which
allow the phototherapy
apparatus to be operated simultaneously with other clinical apparatuses - such
as radiant warmers
etc.
[004] Additionally, existing devices that offer phototherapy from multiple
angles are typically
expensive and lack ready configurability. In current scenarios, clinicians use
more than one
phototherapy devices to provide multiple surface phototherapy to treat
neonatal
hyperbilirubinemia ranging from mild, moderate and severe conditions. There
are presently no
devices available which offer multiple surfaces phototherapy which can be
adjustable at multiple
angles.
[005] There is accordingly a need for a compact, phototherapy device that is
capable of
illuminating phototherapy light from multiple angles on infant, and which
angles can be altered or
configured dynamically. There is additionally a need to regulate and control
various phototherapy
parameters including positioning of the phototherapy illumination sources and
intensity of the
illumination in response to feedback regarding the neonatal bilirubin
concentration, and to provide
optimum irradiance required for that specific condition of a neonate.
Brief Description of the Accompanying Drawings
[006] Figure 1 illustrate embodiments of a phototherapy apparatus in
accordance with teachings
of the present invention.
[007] Figures 1 to 3, 4(a), 5, and 8(b) illustrate embodiments of a
phototherapy apparatus in
accordance with the present invention.
[008] Figure 4, 4(b), 6(a), 7, 9, 10, 11(a), 13 and 14 illustrate embodiments
of a phototherapy
apparatus in use with a bassinet in accordance with the present invention.
[009] Figure 6(b) illustrates a bassinet in accordance with the present
invention.
1
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0010] Figures 8(a), 11(b) and 12 illustrate embodiments of a phototherapy
apparatus and bassinet
in use for providing phototherapy to an infant placed within the bassinet.
[0011] Figure 14(b) illustrates an embodiment of the phototherapy apparatus
having detachable
light generating surfaces and a fabric pouch or housing constructed to house
the detachable light
generating surfaces while simultaneously swaddling an infant.
[0012] Figures 15 to 22 illustrate embodiments of a stand configured for use
with the
phottoherapy apparatus and bassinet of the present invention.
[0013] Figure 23 illustrates electronic components within the phototherapy
apparatus of the
present invention.
[0014] Figure 24 illustrates a computing system configuratble to implement the
teachings of the
present invention.
Summary
[0015] The present invention relates to phototherapy systems. In particular,
the invention
comprises systems, apparatuses and kits for infant therapy ¨ (including
without limitation, neonatal
jaundice therapy, and treatment of etiological conditions relating to any of
mild moderate and
severe hyperbilirubinemia in neonates). In certain embodiments, the device
includes a
pliototherapeutic light or lights, and a structure or structures for holding
the light(s) and for
supporting the subject (typically an infant). The device also includes means
for adjusting -various
phototherapy parameters in different modes suitable for various treatment
approaches and clinical
conditions.
[0016] The invention provides an articulated phototherapy apparatus comprising
(i) at least two
light generating surfaces, (ii) an articulated arm structure interconnecting
the first of the at least
two light generating surfaces with the second of the at least two light
generating surfaces, wherein
(a) the articulated arm structure comprises a first arm and a second arm that
are pivotably
interconnected, (b) the first arm has a first end connected to the first light
generating surface, and
an opposed second end that is pivotably affixed to a first end of a second
arm, (c) a pivot
interconnecting the first arm and the second arm, such that (I) the second arm
is rotatable about
the pivot and (II) a second end of the second arm that is opposed to the first
end of the second
arm is movable between (1) a first position where the first arm and the second
arm, form an acute
angle relative to each other and (2) a second position where the first arm and
the second arm either
form an obtuse angle relative to each other, or are positioned linearly.
[0017] In an embodiment of the articulated phototherapy apparatus, the first
end of the first arm
is pivotably coupled to the first of the at least two light generating
surfaces, such that said first
light generating surface is rotatable about an axis that is perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis of the
first arm.
[0018] The second end of the second arm may be pivotably coupled to the second
of the at least
two light generating surfaces, such that said second light generating surface
is rotatable about an
axis that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the second arm.
2
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0019] The apparatus may include three third light generating surfaces, (i)
the first light generating
surface is interconnected with the second light generating surface through a
first articulated arm
structure comprising a first arm and a second arm that are pivotably
interconnected, (ii) the first
arm has a first end connected to the first light generating surface, and an
opposed second end that
is pivotably affixed to a first end of a second arm, (iii) the pivot
interconnecting the first arm and
the second arm enables rotation of the second arm about the pivot connecting
it to the first arm,
such that a second end of the second arm that is opposed to the first end of
the second arm is
moveable between (i) a first position where the first arm and the second arm,
form an acute angle
relative to each other, and (ii) a second position where the first arm and the
second arm form an
obtuse angle relative to each other, or are positioned linearly, (iv) the
first light generating surface
is interconnected with the third light generating surface through a second
articulated arm structure
comprising a third arm and a fourth arm that are pivotably interconnected, (v)
the third arm has a
first end connected to the first light generating surface, and an opposed
second end that is
pivotably affixed to a first end of a fourth arm, and (vi) the pivot
interconnecting the third arm
and the fourth arm enables rotation of the fourth arm about the pivot, such
that a second end of
the fourth arm that is opposed to the first end of the fourth arm is moveable
between (a) a first
position where the third arm and the fourth arm form an acute angle relative
to each other, and
(b) a second position where the third arm and the fourth arm form an obtuse
angle relative to each
other, or are linearly positioned.
[0020] The first end of the first arm may be pivotably coupled to the first
light generating surface,
such that said first light generating surface is rotatable about an axis that
is perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the first arm.
[0021] The second end of the second arm may be pivotably coupled to the second
of the at least
two light generating surfaces, such that said second light generating surface
is rotatable about an
axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second arm.
[0022] The first end of the third arm may be pivotably coupled to the first
light generating surface,
such that said first light generating surface is rotatable about an axis that
is substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the third arm.
[0023] The second end of the fourth arm may be pivotably coupled to the third
light generating
surface, such that said third light generating surface is rotatable about an
axis that is substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the fourth arm.
[0024] In an embodiment, the first arm and the third arm are the same arm, and
the second art
and the fourth arm are distinct arms. In an embodiment, the first arm and the
third arm are distinct
arms, and the second arm and the fourth arm are distinct arms.
[0025] The apparatus may include (i) one or more sensors configured to detect
one or more
environmental parameters or physiological parameters associated with a subject
positioned within
a region under a region of incidence of illumination corresponding to at least
one of the light
generating surfaces, (ii) one or more actuators configured to (a) move or
rotate one or more arms
of the articulated phototherapy apparatus about a pivot that connects said
arm(s) with another
arm or with a light generating surface, or (b) move or rotate one or more
light generating surfaces
about a pivot that connects said light generating surface to an arm or to the
phototherapy
apparatus, and (iii) one or more controllers configured to change one or more
of position, angle
or intensity of illumination of one or more of the light generating surfaces
based on parameters
detected by the one or more sensors.
3
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0026] The phototherapy apparatus may be configured such that the light
generating surfaces are
arrangeable such that at least one of the light generating surfaces is
positioned to direct illuminating
radiations on a first target incidence area within which a first infant is
positioned, and at least one
other of the light generating surfaces is positioned to direct illuminating
radiations on a second
target incidence area within which a second infant is positioned.
[0027] One or more of the light generating surfaces may be detachable from the
articulated
phototherapy apparatus, and are configured to generate illuminating radiations
when attached to
the articulated phototherapy apparatus, as well as when detached from the
articulated
phototherapy apparatus
[0028] The detachable light generating surfaces may be configured to be
enclosed within a fabric
pouch, wherein said fabric pouch comprises a biocompatible material and is
provided with fabric
arms that are configured to swaddle an infant positioned on the fabric pouch
with the detachable
light generating surfaces positioned to direct illuminating radiations on the
swaddle infant.
[0029] The detachable light generating surfaces may be powered by an auto
backup battery
system.
[0030] The phototherapy apparatus may in an embodiment be configured to be
folded into a
compact configuration such that it can be placed on a bed or within an
incubator.
[0031] The invention additionally provides a kit for phototherapy. The kit
comprises (i) a
phototherapy apparatus according to any of the embodiments described in the
present description,
and (ii) a bassinet that is at least partially transparent or partially
translucent, and comprising one
or more recesses formed beneath or within the sides of said bassinet, wherein
said one or more
recesses are configured to at least partially accommodate one or more of the
light generating
surfaces of the phototherapy apparatus.
[0032] Said kit may include a vertical stand comprising a base, a vertical
structure affixed to said
base; and a support frame affixed to the vertical strut. The support frame (i)
may comprise a
collapsible frame configured to alternately conform to a collapsed c-shape
configuration and an
expanded polygonal configuration, and (ii) may be affixed to the vertical
strut by a swivel coupling
which enables the support frame to be moved between a vertical orientation and
a horizontal
orientation. In a vertical orientation, the support frame conforms to the
collapsed c-shape
configuration, said support frame enables the phototherapy apparatus to be
affixed thereto, in a
configuration where all light generating surfaces of the phototherapy
apparatus are positioned
within a linear plane. In a horizontal orientation, the support frame conforms
to the expanded
polygonal configuration, said support frame forms a horizontal support surface
that enables the
bassinet and the phototherapy apparatus to be supported thereon.
[0033] The kit may additionally include a fabric pouch configured to house the
detachable light
generating surfaces, wherein said fabric pouch comprises a biocompatible
material and is provided
with fabric arms that are configured to swaddle an infant positioned on the
fabric pouch with the
detachable light generating surfaces positioned to direct illuminating
radiations on the swaddle
infant.
Detailed Description
[0034] The present invention provides an articulated phototherapy apparatus
that is configured
to provide at least two (and preferably three or more) light generating
surfaces arranged on an
4
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
articulated frame such that the phototherapy apparatus can be moved between
(i) a first
configuration where the at least two light generating surfaces are arranged
substantially linearly
such that each of the at least two light generating surfaces emit illuminating
radiations substantially
in a direction parallel to the direction of illuminating radiations emitted by
the other of the at least
two light generating surfaces, and (ii) a second configuration, wherein the at
least two light
generating surfaces are positioned non-linearly, in parallel or intersecting
planes, such that each of
the at least two light generating surfaces emits illuminating radiations in a
direction that intersects
with illuminating radiations emitted by the other of the at least two light
generating surfaces.
[0035] The invention achieves the above by virtue of at least one articulated
arm structure
interconnecting the first of the at least two light generating surfaces with
the second of the at least
two light generating surfaces ¨ wherein the articulated arm structure
comprises a first arm and a
second arm that are pivotably interconnected. The first arm has a first end
directly or indirectly
connected to the first light generating surface, and an opposed second end
that is pivotably affixed
to a first end of a second arm. The pivoting arrangement interconnecting the
first arm and the
second arm enables the second arm to be rotated about the pivot connecting it
to the first arm,
such that a second end of the second arm that is opposed to the first end of
the second arm can
be moved from (i) a first position where the first arm and the second arm,
form an acute angle
relative to each other to (ii) a second position where the first arm and the
second arm form an
obtuse angle relative to each other, or where the first arm and the second arm
are arranged
substantially linearly relative to each other such that the first of the at
least two light generating
surfaces and the second of the at least two light generating surfaces are
positioned at opposite ends
of the substantially linear arrangement of the first arm and the second arm.
[0036] In an embodiment, the first end of the first arm may be pivotably
coupled to the first of
the at least two light generating surfaces, such that said first light
generating surface can be rotated
about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of
the first arm. The second
end of the second arm may be pivotably coupled to the second of the at least
two light generating
surfaces, such that said second light generating surface can be rotated about
an axis that is
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second arm.
[0037] In a specific embodiment, the invention comprises an articulated
phototherapy apparatus
that provides at least three light generating surfaces arranged on an
articulated frame such that the
phototherapy apparatus can be moved between (i) a first configuration where
the at least three
light generating surfaces are arranged substantially linearly such that each
of the at least three light
generating surfaces emit illuminating radiations substantially in a direction
parallel to the direction
of illuminating radiations emitted by the other of the at least two light
generating surfaces, and (ii)
a second configuration, wherein at least two of the three (and preferably all
three) light generating
surfaces are positioned non-linearly, in parallel or intersecting planes, such
that two (and preferably
all three) of the light generating surfaces emit illuminating radiations in a
direction that intersects
with illuminating radiations emitted by the other light generating surfaces.
[0038] In this embodiment, the above may be achieved through a plurality of
articulated arm
structures interconnecting both a first light generating surface with both of
a second light
generating surface and a third light generating surface.
[0039] The first light generating surface is interconnected with the second
light generating surface
through a first articulated arm structure comprising a first arm and a second
arm that are pivotably
interconnected. The first arm has a first end directly or indirectly connected
to the first light
generating surface, and an opposed second end that is pivotably affixed to a
first end of a second
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
arm. The pivoting arrangement interconnecting the first arm and the second arm
enables the
second arm to be rotated about the pivot connecting it to the first arm, such
that a second end of
the second arm that is opposed to the first end of the second arm can be moved
from (i) a first
position where the first arm and the second arm, form an acute angle relative
to each other, to (ii)
a second position where the first arm and the second arm form an obtuse angle
relative to each
other, or where the first arm and the second arm are arranged substantially
linearly relative to each
other such that the first light generating surface and the second light
generating surface are
positioned at opposite ends of the substantially linear arrangement of the
first arm and the second
arm.
[0040] In an embodiment, the first end of the first arm may be pivotably
coupled to the first light
generating surface, such that said first light generating surface can be
rotated about an axis that is
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first arm. The
second end of the second
arm may be pivotably coupled to the second of the at least two light
generating surfaces, such that
said second light generating surface can be rotated about an axis that is
substantially perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the second arm.
[0041] The first light generating surface is also interconnected with the
third light generating
surface through a second articulated arm structure comprising a third arm and
a fourth arm that
are pivotably interconnected. The third arm has a first end directly or
indirectly connected to the
first light generating surface, and an opposed second end that is pivotably
affixed to a first end of
a fourth arm. The pivoting arrangement interconnecting the third arm and the
fourth arm enables
the fourth arm to be rotated about the pivot connecting it to the third arm,
such that a second end
of the fourth arm that is opposed to the first end of the fourth arm can be
moved from (i) a first
position where the third arm and the fourth arm form an acute angle relative
to each other, to (ii)
a second position where the third arm and the fourth arm form an obtuse angle
relative to each
other, or where the third arm and the fourth arm are arranged substantially
linearly relative to each
other such that the first light generating surface and the third light
generating surface are positioned
at opposite ends of the substantially linear arrangement of the third arm and
the fourth arm.
[0042] In an embodiment, the first end of the third arm may be pivotably
coupled to the first light
generating surface, such that said first light generating surface can be
rotated about an axis that is
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the third arm. The
second end of the fourth
arm may be pivotably coupled to the third light generating surface, such that
said third light
generating surface can be rotated about an axis that is substantially
perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the fourth arm.
[0043] In one embodiment, the first arm and the third arm are the same arm,
while the second
art and the fourth arm are mutually distinct arms. In another embodiment, the
first arm and the
third arm are mutually distinct arms, and the second arm and the fourth arm
are mutually distinct
arms.
[0044] It would be understood that each of the first, second and third light
generating surfaces
discussed in connection with the invention embodiments above may comprise
unitary light
generating surfaces or may comprise light generating surfaces that are
themselves composites or
combinations of two or more light generating surfaces.
[0045] The above configurations of the device in accordance with the present
invention are
explained in more detail below with reference to the figures.
6
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0046] In one embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 100
is an articulated
apparatus comprising base 102 having a first swing-arm 104 pivotably affixed
thereto through a
first pivot 110 ¨which pivot enables first swing-arm 104 to be selectively
positioned at any angle
within a first range of angles with respect to base 102. In one embodiment
said first range of angles
may comprise any angle a between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, or any angle
between 0 degrees and
180 degrees, or any angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, or any angle
between 0 and 45 degrees.
[0047] First swing-arm 104 is connected to second swing-arm 106 through a
second pivot 112 ¨
which second pivot enables second swing-arm 106 to be selectively positioned
at any angle within
a second range of angles with respect to first swing-arm 104. In one
embodiment said second
range of angles may comprise any angle between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, or
any angle between
0 degrees and 180 degrees, or any angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, or
any angle between
0 and 45 degrees.
[0048] Second swing-arm 106 is connected to a light generating surface 108
(for example a light
bar, light tube, LED array, or any other apparatus having at least one light
generating surface),
through third pivot 114. In an embodiment, said third pivot 114 enables light
generating surface
108 to be rotated about axis A ¨ thereby ensuring that the angle of the light
generating surface can
be selectively modified in relation to a horizontal or vertical plane.
[0049] In an embodiment of the invention, the swingarms 104,106 and light
generating surface
108 may include a locking system disposed at one or more of the pivots
110,112,114 in order to
lockingly hold them in desired positions or angles ¨ and for the locking
system to be disengaged
to enable the swingarms and / or light generating surface to be moved from one
position or angle
to another.
[0050] In another embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 2, the apparatus
100 is an
articulated apparatus comprising all of the components illustrated in Figure
1, and additionally
where base 102 has a third swing-arm 104' pivotably affixed thereto through a
fourth pivot 110' ¨
which fourth pivot 110' enables third swing-arm 104' to be selectively
positioned at any angle
within a third range of angles with respect to base 102. In one embodiment
said third range of
angles may comprise any angle 0 between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, or any
angle between 0
degrees and 180 degrees, or any angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, or any
angle between 0
and 45 degrees.
[0051] Third swing-arm 104' is connected to fourth swing-arm 106' through a
fifth pivot 112' ¨
which fifth pivot enables fourth swing-arm 106' to be selectively positioned
at any angle within a
forth range of angles with respect to third swing-arm 104'. In one embodiment
said fourth range
of angles may comprise any angle y between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, or any
angle between 0
degrees and 180 degrees, or any angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, or any
angle between 0
and 45 degrees.
[0052] Fourth swing-arm 106' is connected to a light generating surface 108'
(for example a light
bar, light tube, or any other apparatus having at least one light generating
surface, through sixth
pivot 114'. In an embodiment, said sixth pivot 114' enables light generating
surface 108' to be
rotated about axis A' ¨ thereby ensuring that the angle of the light
generating surface can be
selectively modified in relation to a horizontal or vertical plane.
[0053] It would be understood that light generating surfaces 108 and 108' may
be rotated such
that light emitted from said surfaces is directed in a desired direction,
which direction may be any
direction from vertically downwards to vertically upwards, and any direction
in between.
7
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0054] In an embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 2, the swingarms
104,104', 106, 106'
and light generating surfaces 108, 108' may include locking system(s) disposed
at one or more of
the pivots 110, 110', 112, 112', 114, 114' in order to lockingly hold them in
desired positions or
angles ¨ and for the locking system to be disengaged to enable the swingarms
and / or light
generating surfaces to be moved from one position or angle to another.
[0055] As illustrated in Figure 2, base 102 may additionally include a clamp
that can be used to
clamp the base to another object (for example to a vertical stand or to a
clamping projection
provided on a surface or object to which base 102 is intended to be clamped).
[0056] In a further embodiment of the apparatus 100 as illustrated in Figure
3, base 102 may have
one or more additional light generating surfaces 116, 116' directly affixed
thereto, and configured
to emit light in an upward direction i.e. in the direction indicated by arrow
u.
[0057] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, light generating surfaces
116, 116' are configured
to emit light in an upward direction, while light generating surfaces 108,
108' are configured and
positioned to emit light in a downward direction, and by placing an infant
between said light
generating surfaces, the apparatus 100 ensures that an infant can receive
illuminating radiations
from all directions.
[0058] Due to the articulated structure of apparatus 100, it would be
understood that light
generating surfaces can be arranged in any of a multitude of arrangements
relative to each other,
including the exemplary arrangement shown in Figure 3 (where light generating
surfaces 108, 108'
direct light vertically downwards, while light generating surfaces 116, 116'
direct light vertically
upwards), in Figure 4 (where the light generating surfaces 108, 108' have been
moved further away
from each other and in the direction of base 102 and are angled to direct
illuminating radiations in
a downward angled direction, or in Figure 5 where the entire apparatus 100 has
been folded flat
such that all of light generating surfaces 108, 108', 116, 116' are arranged
flat or substantially within
a linear plane, and are directing illuminating radiations in the same
direction.
[0059] It would be understood from the illustration of Figures 1 and 2, that
the phototherapy
apparatus of the present invention enables the light generating surfaces to be
arranged in a variety
of positions, configurations and angles most suited to the surrounding
environment, applicable
space constraints, and the condition of the infant / neonate. Reference to
Figures 3, 4, 4(a), 4(b)
and 5 establishes an exemplary set of positions that the phototherapy
apparatus 100 can be
positioned in to deliver illuminating radiations from a variety of angles to a
neonate positioned in
a bassinet (for example bassinet 602). More specifically:
= Figure 3 illustrates a mode / position where light generating surfaces
108 and 108' are
positioned close to each other, and in a configuration such that they direct
illuminating
radiations in a downward direction, while light generating surfaces 116, 116'
are angled in
an opposite direction so as to direct illuminating radiations upward.
= Figures 4, 4(a) and 4(b) illustrate a mode / position where the light
generating surfaces
108, 108' have been moved further away from each other and towards base 102.
Additionally, said light generating surfaces are angled to direct light
towards each other
and in a downward direction, while light generating surfaces 116, 116' are
angled so as to
direct illuminating radiations upward. As shown in Figures 4 and 4(b), the
phototherapy
apparatus 100 may be positioned / engaged with a bassinet 602 such that an
infant
8
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
positioned within said bassinet 602 would receive the illuminations directed
at an inward
and downward angle by light generating surfaces 116, 116' while simultaneously
receiving
upwardly directed illuminations from light generating surfaces 116, 116'. The
bassinet 602
of Figures 4 and 4(b) may be transparent or partially transparent or
translucent to ensure
that the bassinet 602 does not interfere with incidence of the illuminating
radiations on the
infant.
= Figure 5 illustrates a mode / position where the light generating
surfaces 108, 108' have
been aligned alongside light generating surfaces 116, 116' such that all four
light generating
surfaces are now positioned to direct illuminating radiations in the same
direction. In this
embodiment, the phototherapy apparatus may either be positioned beneath the
infant (for
example, beneath transparent bassinet 602) to direct illuminating radiations
onto the
neonate from beneath, or may be positioned above the infant (for example by
clamping
the phototherapy apparatus 100 on a vertical stand, with the illuminating
surfaces 108,
108', 116 and 116' facing a downward direction) to direct illuminating
radiations onto the
neonate from above
[0060] As shown in Figures 4, 4(b), 6(a) 6(b), the invention additionally
provides a transparent
bassinet 602 for housing an infant. Said transparent bassinet may be designed
to conform to
apparatus 100, such that light generating surfaces 116, 116' can be placed in
slots, recesses, cavities
or other spaces formed within or under the base of bassinet 602 ¨ so that the
bassinet 602 can be
seated stably on a flat surface, while apparatus 100 can be positioned such
that at least light
generating surfaces 116, 116' are positioned within said spaces formed within
or under said
bassinet 602, and which can direct illuminating radiations upwards from a
transparent bottom
surface of the bassinet 602 and onto the back of an infant placed within the
bassinet. In one
embodiment apparatus shown in Figure 6A, apparatus 100 may be positioned such
that light
generating surfaces 116, 116' is disposed in the recess under the bassinet 602
and directs light
upward onto the infant, while light generating surfaces 108, 108' are
positioned above the bassinet
and direct illuminating radiations in a downward direction onto the infant
placed within bassinet
602.
[0061] As shown in Figure 6B, The transparent bassinet may additionally be
provided with a
plurality of recesses or spaces formed on the sides or in the base, which
allow light generating
surfaces 108, 108' to be moved into position underneath the bassinet, when
apparatus 100 is folded
flat, such that all of light generating surfaces 108, 108', 116, 116' are
positioned beneath the
bassinet without interfering with the stable positioning of the bassinet on a
flat surface ¨ and can
direct illuminating radiations in an upward direction onto an infant placed in
the bassinet 602.
[0062] In an embodiment, one or more of the hinge arrangements described above
may be
configured such that as one or more of the first, second, third or fourth
swing-arms is moved, one
or more of light generating surfaces 108, 108' are caused to rotate about axis
A, A' such that
radiation from light generating surfaces 108, 108' continues to be directed on
the bassinet despite
movement of the swing-arms and / or light generating surfaces relative to the
bassinet.
[0063] In some embodiments embodiment, base 102 may be provided with a clamp
such that said
base may be clamped to a vertical stand ¨ thereby enabling the apparatus 100
to be clamped in any
of the arrangements shown in the accompanying illustrations. In another
embodiment base 102
may be affixed to bassinet 602.
9
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0064] As shown in Figures 4(b), 6(a) and 6(b), bassinet 602 may be provide
with a display unit,
and one or more controls ¨which display unit and controls can be configured to
display or enable
selection of any one or more phototherapy parameters (such as for example,
selection of a
phototherapy mode, selection of a phototherapy configuration for apparatus
100, selection of an
illumination intensity of one or more of the light generating surfaces,
selection of a locked mode
or an unlocked mode for one or more of the pivots etc.). In another
embodiment, the invention
may include one or more sensors disposed on or within phototherapy apparatus
100 or bassinet
602 (including power readings, temperature readings, irradiance sensor
readings, readings
corresponding to the weight of an infant, readings corresponding to bilirubin
levels of an infant
placed within bassinet 602 etc.) ¨ and the display unit may be configured to
provide readouts from
said one or more sensors.
[0065] In specific embodiments, the bassinet and apparatus 100 are sized and
configured such
that when apparatus is folded into a completely flat configuration and
inserted completely into the
recesses provided in the bassinet, the entire arrangement can be inserted
along with the bassinet
into an incubator.
[0066] In other embodiments, the arms of apparatus 100 can be positioned to
ensure that the
apparatus 100 is small enough to fit into an incubator or other device, along
with the bassinet,
while continuing to provide phototherapy illuminations to the infant in the
bassinet.
[0067] In specific embodiments, one or more of the hinges in apparatus 100 may
comprise locking
hinges which require a specific unlocking action before the connected swing-
arm(s) can be pivoted
about said hinge(s).
[0068] In other embodiments, the apparatus 100 may be provided with sensors
that determine
the distance, angle and/or relative positions of the light generating surfaces
108, 108' or 116 with
respect to the bassinet or infant, and control the intensity of generated
illumination based on the
determined distance, angle and/or relative position. The apparatus 100 may
additionally be
provided with one or more actuators configured to (i) move or rotate one or
more arms of the
articulated apparatus about a pivot that connects said arm(s) with another arm
or with a light
generating surface, and / or (ii) move or rotate one or more light generating
surface(s) about a
pivot that connects said light generating surface(s) to an arm or other
component of apparatus
100. Said actuators may comprise any electrically, electronically, or pressure
controlled actuators
that would be apparent to the skilled person and may include without
limitation, motors, servos
or other actuators.
[0069] In certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 or bassinet 602 may be
provided with or
coupled to one or more sensors capable of determining bilirubin levels (or any
other relevant
physiological parameters) of an infant placed within bassinet 602 ¨ and the
phototherapy apparatus
may be configured to vary one or more of intensity of illumination generated
by the light
generating surfaces 108, 108', 116, 116', and / or distance, angle and/or
relative positions of the
light generating surfaces 108, 108' or 116 with respect to the bassinet or
infant ¨ in response to
the determined bilirubin level (or other physiological parameters) and based
on or more predefined
rules or settings.
[0070] In other embodiments, the bilirubin levels (or any other relevant
physiological parameters)
of an infant placed within bassinet 602 may be entered manually by a health
care provider ¨ and
the phototherapy apparatus may be configured to vary the intensity of
illumination generated by
the phototherapy light generating surfaces 108, 108', 116, 116', and / or
distance, angle and/or
relative positions of the light generating surfaces 108, 108' or 116 with
respect to the bassinet or
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
infant ¨ in response to the input bilirubin level (or other physiological
parameters) and based on
or more predefined rules or settings.
[0071] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus 100 may be coupled
with at least two
sensors ¨ each of which are connected to a controller by a separate data
channel. Each one of the
two sensors is used to monitor a separate infant or bassinet ¨ and the light
generating surfaces of
the apparatus 100 are controlled based on the feedback data received from each
of the two sensors
to control the intensity of illumination generated by the phototherapy light
generating surfaces
108, 108', 116, 116', and / or distance, angle and/or relative positions of
the light generating
surfaces 108, 108' or 116 with respect to each of the two bassinets or infants
¨ in response to the
input bilirubin level (or other physiological parameters) received from the
corresponding sensor
and data channel - and based on or more predefined rules or settings. In an
embodiment, one or
more light generating surfaces are controlled based on data received from a
first sensor (for
example, a sensor disposed to measure parameters corresponding to a first
infant or first subject),
while one or more other light generating surfaces are controlled based on data
received from a
second sensor (for example, a sensor disposed to measure parameters
corresponding to a second
infant or second subject).
[0072] In certain embodiments, the apparatus 100 may be configured to enable
both sensor based
and manual input based control of one or more of the intensity of illumination
generated by the
phototherapy light generating surfaces 108, 108', 116, 116', and / or
distance, angle and/or relative
positions of the light generating surfaces 108, 108' or 116 with respect to
the bassinet or infant,
wherein the sensors / manual input correspond to bilirubin levels or other
physiological
parameters. In preferred embodiments where the apparatus 100 has both sensor
and manual input
based control capabilities, said apparatus 100 may additionally be configured
to enable a manual
input based control override of the sensor based controls ¨ which would allow
a health care
provider or physician to override the sensor based settings with manual input
based setting.
[0073] In an embodiment of the invention, phototherapy apparatus 100 and / or
bassinet 602
may include an irradiance feedback system ¨ which displays (for example
through the display unit
within bassinet 602, irradiance (intensity of light per unit square area with
respect to distance)
directed onto the infant positioned within bassinet 602 - in order to ensure
that sufficient amount
of irradiance is being delivered (for example in accordance with guidelines
prescribed by the
American Association of Pediatrics).
[0074] In an embodiment of the invention, the apparatus 100 may be configured
such that when
folded down into an appropriate configuration (for example, a flat or a near
flat configuration or
a compact configuration) said apparatus can be fitted into a pocket or lining
of a garment, sheet
or blanket which can be draped or arranged around an infant. In this
arrangement, phototherapy
can be delivered through apparatus 100 by draping the infant in the garment or
sheet having the
apparatus 100 disposed therein ¨ thereby promoting kangaroo mother care and
breastfeeding.
[0075] As shown in Figure 14(b), in an embodiment of apparatus 100, light
units 116, 116' are
configured in a modular fashion. The said light units 116, 116' can be
unplugged from its joints
119, 119' like lego blocks respectively. The light units are sleek enough to
slide them into a breast
feeding mode treatment pouch 1400, which breast feeding mode treatment pouch
is manufactured
a biocompatible material or biocompatible fabric, having fabric or other slots
to house the modular
light units 116, 116' and also a nested or pouch slot to hold the baby and
extended fabric arms
which swaddles the baby. This pouch will promote both kangaroo mother care and
breast feeding
while providing the treatment.
11
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0076] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary configuration in which phototherapy
apparatus 100 may
be folded flat and positioned within the base of bassinet 602 ¨ so that the
bassinet and
phototherapy apparatus can be used in combination with a conventional overhead
phototherapy
apparatus that has been clamped to a vertical stand to provide phototherapy
illuminations in a
downward direction.
[0077] Figure 8(a) illustrates an embodiment of the apparatus 100 and bassinet
602 used with a
table as a support surface, with an infant positioned within bassinet 602 to
simultaneously receive
downward directed radiations from light generating surfaces 108, 108' and
upward directed
radiations from light generating surfaces 116, 116'.
[0078] Figure 8(b) illustrates phototherapy apparatus 100 positioned on a
table as a support
surface, without bassinet 602.
[0079] Figure 9 illustrates an embodiment of the apparatus 100 and bassinet
602 positioned within
an open incubator tray / neonatal ICU (NICU) bed.
[0080] Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of the apparatus 100 and bassinet
602 positioned
within an NICU bed, and wherein light bearing surfaces 108 and 108' are
positioned apart from
each other such that radiant warmth from a vertically disposed radiant warmer
1002 can reach the
infant in the bassinet, without being blocked or obstructed by light bearing
surfaces 108, 108' and
without in turn interfering with the phototherapy session.
[0081] It would be understood from Figures 8(a), 8(b), 9 and 10 that when
docked with bassinet
602, phototherapy apparatus 100 can be used on any surface such as a table /
bed top, beds in
hospital wards or home, cradle, table, NICU beds under radiant warmer, within
an ambulance,
incubator etc.
[0082] Figures 11(a) and 11(b) illustrate various positions / configurations /
modes in which
apparatus 100 can be used so as to ensure simultaneous and appropriate
phototherapy to multiple
neonates. As shown in Figure 11(b), the configuration of apparatus 100 enables
simultaneous
phototherapy to be delivered to multiple neonates. In the embodiments shown in
Figures 11(a)
and 11(b), a first infant may be placed in bassinet 602 ¨ such that said first
infant receives
illuminating phototherapy radiations from light generating surfaces 116, 116'
which are positioned
within bassinet 602 and are directing phototherapy radiations in an upward
direction through
transparent bassinet 602 in an upward direction. Simultaneously, swingarms
104, 106 and 104',
106' are positioned such that light generating surfaces 108 and 108' are
angled in a sideward and
downward direction so as to direct phototherapy radiations on a second infant
positioned adjacent
to bassinet 602. It would be understood that while Figure 11(b) illustrates
the second infant placed
on the table surface, said second infant can also be placed in a second
bassinet.
[0083] Figure 12 illustrates the apparatus folded into flat configuration,
where light generating
surfaces 108, 108' are folded under the bassinet, so that the apparatus 100
and bassinet 602 can be
placed within a closed incubator along with the infant.
[0084] Reference to Figures 10 to 12 establishes that the apparatus 100 is
portable enough to
provide phototherapy while simultaneously placing the neonate under a radiant
warmer or in an
incubator ¨ which provides the additional advantage of maintaining baby
homeostasis by
12
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
preventing hypothermia and insensible water loss. The apparatus 100 is
additionally robust enough
to work efficiently in a long run under various ambiance and stress
conditions.
[0085] Figure 13 illustrates an embodiment of the invention wherein
phototherapy apparatus 100
is engaged with bassinet 602 and the entire apparatus is supported by a
vertical stand to which
apparatus 100 is affixed by virtue of the clamp provided on base 602. In this
configuration, other
components can also be affixed to the vertical stand (for example a radiant
warmer) to
simultaneously act on the infant within the bassinet.
[0086] Figure 14(a) illustrates an embodiment where the phototherapy apparatus
has been folded
flat such that all of light generating surfaces 108, 108', 116, 116' are
arranged flat and are directing
illuminating radiations in the same direction and wherein said phototherapy
apparatus is clamped
(through clamp on base 102) to a vertical stand such that all light generating
surfaces direct
illumination in a downward direction towards bassinet 602 ¨ and so that the
infant receives
phototherapy from all light generating surfaces from an upward direction.
[0087] Figure 14(b) illustrates a specific use of the phototherapy apparatus
100, wherein light
generating surfaces 116, 116' are detached from the rest of apparatus and is
placed within a breast
feeding mode pouch that has been described in more detail above ¨ and which
breast feeding
mode pouch is used to swaddle the infant while simultaneously providing
phototherapy
illuminations to the baby through light generating surfaces 116, 116'.
[0088] The invention also include a novel stand that is capable of moving
between (i) a first
configuration optimized for supporting or being coupled with the phototherapy
apparatus 100
when it is in a flat, near flat, or compact configuration, such that all light
generating surfaces are
directing illuminating radiations in the same (or substantially same
direction) and (ii) a second
configuration optimized for supporting both a bassinet 602 and the
phototherapy apparatus 100,
wherein the phototherapy apparatus 100 is in a configuration where at least
one light generating
surface is positioned beneath bassinet 602 and is directing illuminating
radiations in an upward
direction, and one or more light generating surfaces are positioned above
bassinet 602 and are
directing illuminating radiations in a downward direction towards bassinet
602. Figures 15 to 22
illustrate embodiments of stand 1400.
[0089] As shown in Figure 15, stand 1500 comprises a base 1502 having at least
one vertical strut
1504 affixed thereto, and having a support frame 1506 affixed to vertical
strut 1504 by means of
a coupling 1508. Based 1502 may have one or more wheels 1510 affixed thereto,
to ensure mobility
of stand 1500.
[0090] As shown in Figures 15 to 17, support frame 1506 is a collapsible frame
that can be moved
between a collapsed c-shape configuration (see Figure 16) and an expanded
rectangular (or
polygonal configuration (see Figure 17). In the illustrated embodiment,
support frame 1506
comprises comprising two vertical frame members 1512 and 1512', two lower
crossbar members
1514, 1514' and two upper crossbar members 1516, 1516' that are interconnected
to form a
rectangular or polygonal frame. The two lower crossbar members 1515, 1514' are
interconnected
by a first hinge 1518, while the two upper crossbar members 1516, 1516' are
interconnected by a
second hinge 1518'. The first hinge 1518 and second hinge 1518' are configured
to enable the two
vertical frame members 1512 and 1512' (i) to be moved towards each other to
achieve the collapsed
c-shape frame configuration shown in Figure 16 and (ii) to be moved away from
each other to
achieve the expanded rectangular or polygonal frame configuration shown in
Figure 17.
13
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[0091] Additionally, coupling 1508 comprises a swivel coupling, that enables
support frame 1506
to be moved between a vertical or upright configuration (of the type
illustrated in Figures 15 to
17) and a horizontal or flat configuration (of the type illustrated in Figure
18).
[0092] As shown in Figures 19 and 20, when support frame 1506 is moved to a
vertically oriented
configuration where support frame 1506 is in a collapsed c-shape
configuration, said support frame
can be used to clamp or affix phototherapy apparatus 100 (which is arranged in
a compact
configuration where all light generating surfaces are positioned substantially
within the same linear
plane to direct illuminating radiations in the same direction), so that said
light generating surfaces
direct illuminating radiations in a downward direction. In this configuration,
stand 1500 may be
used as a vertical stand for clamping and holding phototherapy apparatus above
a bassinet or an
infant in a bassinet ¨ which bassinet may be placed on a table or other
support surface beneath
the phototherapy apparatus 100.
[0093] As shown in Figures 21 and 22, when support frame 1506 is moved to a
horizontally
oriented position, the rectangular or polygonal support frame 1506 provides a
horizontal support
surface on which a bassinet 602 and a phototherapy apparatus 100 can be placed
¨ such that an
infant within the bassinet receives illuminating radiations from beneath the
bassinet (i.e. from light
generating surfaces positioned beneath the bassinet to direct illuminating
radiations in an upward
direction) and also from above the bassinet (i.e. from light generating
surfaces positioned above
the bassinet). In this configuration, stand 1500 eliminates the requirement
for a table or other
support surface on which the bassinet and phototherapy device can be placed.
[0094] Figure 23 illustrates electronic components within phototherapy
apparatus 100.
[0095] Phototherapy apparatus 100 comprises an operator interface 1002, a
processor 1004 and
a transceiver 1006. Operator interface 1002 permits for manual inputs through
one or more input
devices or peripherals ¨ and which manual inputs may be used to control
performance and
functioning of the phototherapy apparatus. Processor 1004 may comprise a data
processor, and
transceiver 1006 may comprise a data transceiver configured to enable data to
be sent and received
by processor 1004. Phototherapy apparatus 100 also includes one or more
sensors 1008 ¨which
sensors may be configured to measure one or more environmental parameters or
one or more
physiological parameters of an infant, and in exemplary embodiments comprises
any of power
sensors, temperature sensors, irradiance sensors, light sensors, weight
sensors, bilirubin sensors
and / or blood analyte sensors, or other fluid sensors. Communication between
processor 1004
and the one or more sensors 1008 may be controlled and effected through sensor
channel
controller 1010 which implements data communication over one or more data
channels
connecting said sensors 10008 with sensor channel controller 1010.
[0096] The phototherapy apparatus 100 also includes arm position actuation
controller 1012,
illumination surface position actuation controller 1014, irradiance controller
1016 and irradiance
profile database 1018. Arm position actuation controller 1012 is a processor
implemented instance
of a controller configured to control actuators provided within phototherapy
apparatus 100 for
moving one or more of the arms connecting the light generating surfaces ¨ to
change the position
and / or angle of one or more light generating surfaces relative to a target
area of illumination (for
example a bassinet or an infant positioned within the bassinet). Illumination
surface position
actuation controller 1012 is a processor implemented instance of a controller
configured to control
actuators provided within phototherapy apparatus 100 for moving or rotating
one or one or more
of the light generating surfaces ¨ to change the position and / or angle of
one or more light
generating surfaces relative to a target area of illumination (for example a
bassinet or an infant
positioned within the bassinet). Irradiance controller 1012 is a processor
implemented instance of
14
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
a controller configured to control illumination generated by one or more light
generating surfaces
¨ to change the intensity of illumination from one or more light generating
surfaces that is incident
at a target area of illumination (for example a bassinet or an infant
positioned within the bassinet).
Irradiance profile database 1018 is a database comprising one or more profiles
or rules that
correlate environmental and / or physiological parameters with corresponding
positions and
angles for the light generating surfaces, and intensities of illumination
generated at said light
generating surfaces. Responsive to detection of one or more environmental or
physiological
parameters by sensors 1008, processor 1004 selects one or more profiles or
rules (from database
1018) that correspond to the detected parameters ¨ and controls (using one or
more of controllers
1012, 1014 and 1016) one or more of the positions and angles for the light
generating surfaces,
and intensities of illumination generated at said light generating surfaces ¨
for providing an infant
with phototherapy in an optimal manner.
[0097] Owing to the ability to be arranged in various configurations and
accommodated wholly
or partially within the base of a bassinet, the apparatus 100 and / or
combination of apparatus 100
and bassinet 602 offer the following advantages:
= Ability to change the position and angle of the light generating surfaces
with respect to the
bassinet and an infant placed on the bassinet,
= Ability to be folded into compact arrangements that can fit into other
devices such as
incubators, radiant warmers, baby bassinets or cribs, mobile units.
= Ability to vary the position, angle and distance of the one or more light
generating surfaces
with respect to infant / bassinet
= Ability to vary one or more of intensity of illumination generated by the
light generating
surfaces and / or distance, angle and/or relative positions of the light
generating surfaces
with respect to the bassinet or infant ¨ in response to the determined or
measured
physiological parameters (for example bilirubin level) that is received from
one or more
sensors disposed within or coupled with the phototherapy apparatus or the
bassinet,
= Ability to vary the intensity of phototherapy by changing the position of
light delivered to
the bassinet / infant
= Ability to use the phototherapy device without interfering with other
devices such as
radiant warmers, incubators, baby bassinets or cribs etc.
= Ability to provide multiple configurations for phototherapy included
single sided
phototherapy (i.e. from top or bottom), two-sided phototherapy (i.e. from top
and
bottom), or multiple sided phototherapy (i.e. from top, bottom and one or more
sides).
= Ability to operate with any portable DC power source suitable for the
device specification,
enabling the apparatus to operate independent of ac power supply - so that it
can be
operated even during power breakdowns or within resource constraints in
clinics,at home
or in any geographical conditions etc.
= Ability to deliver phototherapy through the apparatus by draping the
infant in the garment
or sheet having the apparatus disposed therein ¨ thereby promoting kangaroo
mother care.
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
= Ability of obtaining irradiance feedback to ensure optimum phototherapy
irradiance is
delivered to the baby in any configuration.
= Ability to deliver efficient phototherapy simultaneously to multiple
babies.
[0098] The invention additionally includes a kit comprising one or more of
apparatus 100, a
bassinet 602, and stand 1500 configured according to one of the embodiments
discussed above,
and / or a garment / sheet / blanket configured to accommodate apparatus 100
in a pocket or
lining (in accordance with one of the embodiments discussed above).
[001] Figure 24 illustrates an exemplary computer system according to which
various
embodiments of the present invention may be implemented.
[002] System 2400 includes computer system 2402 which in turn comprises one or
more
processors 2404 and at least one memory 2406. Processor 2404 is configured to
execute program
instructions - and may be a real processor or a virtual processor. It will be
understood that
computer system 2402 does not suggest any limitation as to scope of use or
functionality of
described embodiments. The computer system 2402 may include, but is not be
limited to, one or
more of a general-purpose computer, a programmed microprocessor, a micro-
controller, an
integrated circuit, and other devices or arrangements of devices that are
capable of implementing
the steps that constitute the method of the present invention. Exemplary
embodiments of a
computer system 2402 in accordance with the present invention may include one
or more servers,
desktops, laptops, tablets, smart phones, mobile phones, mobile communication
devices, tablets,
phablets and personal digital assistants. In an embodiment of the present
invention, the memory
2406 may store software for implementing various embodiments of the present
invention. The
computer system 2402 may have additional components. For example, the computer
system 2402
may include one or more communication channels 2408, one or more input devices
2410, one or
more output devices 2412, and storage 2414. An interconnection mechanism (not
shown) such as
a bus, controller, or network, interconnects the components of the computer
system 2402. In
various embodiments of the present invention, operating system software (not
shown) provides
an operating environment for various softwares executing in the computer
system 2402 using a
processor 2404, and manages different functionalities of the components of the
computer system
2402.
[003] The communication channel(s) 2408 allow communication over a
communication
medium to various other computing entities. The communication medium provides
information
such as program instructions, or other data in a communication media. The
communication media
includes, but is not limited to, wired or wireless methodologies implemented
with an electrical,
optical, RF, infrared, acoustic, microwave, Bluetooth or other transmission
media.
[004] The input device(s) 2410 may include, but is not limited to, a touch
screen, a keyboard,
mouse, pen, joystick, trackball, a voice device, a scanning device, or any
another device that is
capable of providing input to the computer system 2402. In an embodiment of
the present
invention, the input device(s) 2410 may be a sound card or similar device that
accepts audio input
in analog or digital form. The output device(s) 2412 may include, but not be
limited to, a user
interface on CRT, LCD, LED display, or any other display associated with any
of servers, desktops,
laptops, tablets, smart phones, mobile phones, mobile communication devices,
tablets, phablets
and personal digital assistants, printer, speaker, CD/DVD writer, or any other
device that provides
output from the computer system 2402.
16
CA 03105550 2020-12-31
WO 2020/008476 PCT/IN2019/050493
[005] The storage 2414 may include, but not be limited to, magnetic disks,
magnetic tapes, CD-
ROMs, CD-RWs, DVDs, any types of computer memory, magnetic stripes, smart
cards, printed
barcodes or any other transitory or non-transitory medium which can be used to
store information
and can be accessed by the computer system 2402. In various embodiments of the
present
invention, the storage 2414 may contain program instructions for implementing
any of the
described embodiments.
[006] In an embodiment of the present invention, the computer system 2402 is
part of a
distributed network or a part of a set of available cloud resources.
[007] The present invention may be implemented in numerous ways including as a
system, a
method, or a computer program product such as a computer readable storage
medium or a
computer network wherein programming instructions are communicated from a
remote location.
[008] The present invention may suitably be embodied as a computer program
product for use
with the computer system 2402. The method described herein is typically
implemented as a
computer program product, comprising a set of program instructions that is
executed by the
computer system 2402 or any other similar device. The set of program
instructions may be a series
of computer readable codes stored on a tangible medium, such as a computer
readable storage
medium (storage 2414), for example, diskette, CD-ROM, ROM, flash drives or
hard disk, or
transmittable to the computer system 2402, via a modem or other interface
device, over either a
tangible medium, including but not limited to optical or analogue
communications channel(s)
2408. The implementation of the invention as a computer program product may be
in an intangible
form using wireless techniques, including but not limited to microwave,
infrared, Bluetooth or
other transmission techniques. These instructions can be preloaded into a
system or recorded on
a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, or made available for downloading over a
network such as
the Internet or a mobile telephone network. The series of computer readable
instructions may
embody all or part of the functionality previously described herein.
[0099] While the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described
and illustrated
herein, it will be appreciated that they are merely illustrative. It will be
understood by those skilled
in the art that various modifications in form and detail may be made therein
without departing
from or offending the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims.
Additionally, the invention illustratively disclose herein suitably may be
practiced in the absence
of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein ¨ and in a
particular embodiment that is
specifically contemplated, the invention is intended to be practiced in the
absence of any one or
more element which are not specifically disclosed herein.
17
