Patent Description:
Any discussion of the related art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such related art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

Audio and music therapy have been in use for many years. Audio (music) therapists will often perform live music based on a patient's symptoms, illnesses, and/or diagnoses, in addition to engaging in real-time with the patient. Such therapists typically assess and interpret the patient's needs based on intuition and therapy protocols. Each patient will generally receive unique, personalized treatment based on the therapist's analysis of their condition, based on clinical research and studies. Musical therapy is taught in universities throughout the world.

However, therapists' work is not scalable. For example, it cannot be used to provide multiple personalized feeds in one room and requires human intervention and instruments (including the human voice). Availability thus depends on access to therapists, while hospitals typically need to allocate budgets to surgery/emergency and other immediate needs. Additionally, humans are prone to error and may not adequately diagnose the condition of the patient. Further, humans may spread communicable diseases and thus are not permitted in clean rooms (such as bone marrow transplant rooms) where patients in need of such therapy may be located.

Software applications have been provided which minimal functionality for music therapy. For example, a jogging application may match the tempo of a playlist to match running speed. However, such applications do not provide algorithms to change music towards tempo changes to allow healthier resting heart rate and are limited in their abilities to diagnose conditions (often based on limited or no information) and provide personalized therapies that are adaptive in real-time.

<CIT> describes an apparatus and a method for modification of biorhythmic activity.

<CIT> is concerned with mobile wearable monitoring systems. In particular, <CIT> describes a number of wearable devices attached or applied to limbs, body, head or other body extremities.

An example embodiment is directed to an adaptive audio therapy system. The adaptive audio therapy system includes a detection device that is typically in physical contact with an individual, such as a pacifier or steering wheel. The detection device may include sensors to detect various conditions of the individual, such as heart rate, respiration rate, temperature, and the like. A computing device receives and processes the various conditions detected by the sensors. Based on the detected conditions, the computing device provides audio therapy which is adaptive to the condition of the patient and which is continuously adapted in real-time.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the embodiments of the adaptive audio therapy system in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional embodiments of the adaptive audio therapy system that will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the adaptive audio therapy system in detail, it is to be understood that the adaptive audio therapy system is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The adaptive audio therapy system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Example embodiments will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are represented by like reference characters, which are given by way of illustration only and thus are not limitative of the example embodiments herein.

An example adaptive audio therapy system <NUM> generally comprises a detection device <NUM> adapted to make physical contact with an individual <NUM>, the detection device <NUM> comprising at least one sensor <NUM> for detecting at least one condition of the individual <NUM>. A computing device <NUM> may be communicatively interconnected with the detection device <NUM> for processing detection data received from the at least one sensor <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>; with the computing device <NUM> being adapted to automatically identify an audio signal based on the at least one condition detected by the sensor <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>. An output device <NUM> may be provided for audibly playing the audio signal in real-time. The audio signal may be comprised of music or other audible tones, such as a soothing voice or nature (environmental) sounds. The audio signal may in some embodiments incorporate binaural or isochronic tones.

The output device <NUM> may comprise a speaker <NUM>. The detection device <NUM> may comprise a pacifier <NUM>. The at least one sensor <NUM> may comprise a suction sensor <NUM> for detecting attributes of a sucking motion applied to the pacifier <NUM> by the individual <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may be adapted to automatically identify the audio signal based on the sucking motion applied to the pacifier <NUM> by the individual <NUM>.

The at least one sensor <NUM> may also comprise an oxygen saturation sensor <NUM> for detecting oxygen saturation of the individual <NUM>. The at least one sensor <NUM> may further comprise a temperature sensor <NUM> for detecting a temperature of the individual <NUM>, a heart rate sensor <NUM> for detecting a heart rate of the individual <NUM>, a heart rate variability sensor <NUM> for detecting a heart rate variability of the individual <NUM>, a respiration sensor <NUM> for detecting respiration of the individual <NUM>, and a movement sensor <NUM> for detecting movement of the individual <NUM>.

The detection device <NUM> may comprise a steering wheel <NUM>. The at least one sensor <NUM> may comprise a grip sensor <NUM> for detecting a grip force applied to the steering wheel <NUM> by the individual <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may be adapted to automatically identify the audio signal based on the grip force applied to the steering wheel <NUM> by the individual <NUM>. The at least one sensor <NUM> may further comprise a temperature sensor <NUM> for detecting a temperature of the individual <NUM>, a heart rate sensor <NUM> for detecting a heart rate of the individual <NUM>, a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor <NUM> for detecting a heart rate variability of the individual <NUM>, a respiration sensor <NUM> for detecting respiration of the individual <NUM>, and a galvanic skin sensor <NUM>.

The detection device <NUM> may comprise a control unit <NUM> for controlling communication of the detected conditions to the computing device <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> may comprise a microprocessor and/or a transceiver <NUM>.

In another exemplary embodiment, the adaptive audio therapy system <NUM> may comprise a detection device <NUM> adapted to make physical contact with an individual <NUM>; the detection device <NUM> comprising a plurality of sensors <NUM> for detecting a plurality of first conditions of the individual <NUM>. A computing device <NUM> may be communicatively interconnected with the detection device <NUM> for processing detection data received from the sensors <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>; with the computing device <NUM> being adapted to automatically identify an audio signal based on the first conditions detected by the sensors <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>. An output device <NUM> may be configured for audibly playing the audio signal in real-time.

An input device <NUM> may be communicatively connected to the computing device <NUM>, with the input device <NUM> being adapted to detect a plurality of second conditions of the individual <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may be adapted to automatically identify the audio signal based on both the first conditions detected by the sensors <NUM> and the second conditions detected by the input device <NUM>.

The input device <NUM> may be selected from the group consisting of a heartrate monitor <NUM>, a heartrate variability monitor <NUM>, an electroencephalogram <NUM>, an electrocardiogram <NUM>, and a mobile device <NUM>. The sensors <NUM> may be selected from the group consisting of a temperature sensor <NUM>, a respiration sensor <NUM>, a heartrate sensor <NUM>, a heartrate variability sensor <NUM>, a movement sensor <NUM>, and an oxygen saturation sensor <NUM>.

The detection device <NUM> may comprise a pacifier <NUM>; with the sensors <NUM> being selected from the group consisting of a suction sensor <NUM>, a temperature sensor <NUM>, a respiration sensor <NUM>, a heartrate sensor <NUM>, a heartrate variability sensor <NUM>, a movement sensor <NUM>, and an oxygen saturation sensor <NUM>. The detection device <NUM> may comprise a vehicle; with the sensors <NUM> being selected from the group consisting of a grip sensor <NUM>, a tapping sensor, a galvanic skin sensor <NUM>, a temperature sensor <NUM>, a respiration sensor <NUM>, a heartrate sensor <NUM>, a heartrate variability sensor <NUM>, a movement sensor <NUM>, an oxygen saturation sensor <NUM>, and a tapping sensor <NUM>.

As shown throughout the figures, the systems and methods described herein may include a detection device <NUM> which is utilized to detect various conditions of an individual in physical contact with the detection device <NUM>. The type of detection device <NUM> utilized may vary widely in different embodiments. The detection device <NUM> may comprise any physical object which may be in contact with the individual desiring adaptive audio therapy. By way of example and without limitation, the detecting device <NUM> could in various embodiments comprise a child's pacifier <NUM>, a wristband, a watch, an implant, a headband, various components of a vehicle including a steering wheel, a chair, and the like.

<FIG> illustrate an exemplary detection device <NUM> comprised of a child's pacifier <NUM>. The detection device <NUM> should not be construed as limited by the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures. As shown in <FIG>, the pacifier <NUM> may be adapted to be sucked on by an individual <NUM> such as a child. As children often are not able to efficiently convey their physiological condition, this particular type of detection device <NUM> may be particularly helpful in providing adaptive audio therapy utilizing the systems and methods described herein.

The detection device <NUM> may include a control unit <NUM> which is incorporated with the detection device <NUM>. In the case of a pacifier <NUM>, the control unit <NUM> may be stored within the base of the pacifier <NUM>. In other embodiments, the control unit <NUM> may be stored within the suction portion of the pacifier <NUM>.

The control unit <NUM> may be adapted to process and transfer the data detected by one or more sensors <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> may comprise a processing unit such as a microprocessor. By way of example, the control unit <NUM> may comprise an ARM processor or a system-on-a-chip. The control unit <NUM> will preferably be small enough to fit within the detection device <NUM>. The figures illustrate an exemplary embodiment which utilizes a control unit <NUM> fit within a pacifier <NUM>.

The detection device <NUM> may comprise a transceiver <NUM> which is adapted to communicate data from the detection device <NUM> to a computing device <NUM>; with the computing device <NUM> being adapted to process the data detected by the one or more sensors <NUM> and adaptively in real-time select and alter/modify appropriate audio therapy based on the present condition of the individual <NUM> utilizing the detection device <NUM>.

The transceiver <NUM> may be incorporated into the control unit <NUM> such that the control unit <NUM> and transceiver <NUM> are integral with each other. In other embodiments, the transceiver <NUM> may be communicatively interconnected with the control unit <NUM>. In either case, the transceiver <NUM> is adapted to continuously in real-time transmit the data from the sensor(s) <NUM> to the computing device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the transceiver <NUM> may instead comprise a transmitter adapted to send, but not to receive, data. In other embodiments, the transceiver <NUM> may be adapted to both send and receive data.

The manner in which the transceiver <NUM> transmits data may vary in different embodiments. The detection device <NUM> may in some embodiments be connected by wire to the computing device <NUM>. In other embodiments, the transceiver <NUM> may be adapted to transmit wireless data to the computing device <NUM>. By way of example and without limitation, the transceiver <NUM> may in various embodiments utilize Wi-Fi, BLUETOOTH, a communications network such as the Internet, RFID, or various other communications protocols for transmitting (or receiving) data to the computing device <NUM> continuously in real-time.

The detection device <NUM> may include one or more sensors <NUM> each adapted to detect various conditions such as biomarkers of the individual <NUM> using the detection device <NUM>. The sensors <NUM> may each individually detect a condition or, in some cases, a single sensor <NUM> may itself detect multiple conditions. All of the sensors <NUM> will preferably be communicatively interconnected with the computing device <NUM> such that the computing device <NUM> receives data in real-time. By way of example, the sensors <NUM> may be wired to the control unit <NUM> which transmits the data to the computing device <NUM> in real-time.

The conditions detected by the sensors <NUM> will vary in different embodiments depending on the individual <NUM> being treated and the type of detection device <NUM> being utilized, among other factors. By way of example, in embodiments in which the detection device <NUM> comprises a pacifier <NUM>, the sensors <NUM> may be adapted to detect conditions such as vitals, sucking motion, motion patterns, temperature, heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory function, movement patters, and oxygen saturation. In other embodiments in which the detection device <NUM> does not comprise a pacifier <NUM>, conditions such as sucking motion may be omitted.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary configuration of sensors <NUM> for use with a pacifier <NUM>. It should be appreciated that more or less sensors <NUM> may be included depending on the individual <NUM> and the audio therapy desired to be applied. In the exemplary embodiment shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> is illustrated as including a suction sensor <NUM>, temperature sensor <NUM>, a respiration sensor <NUM>, a heart rate sensor <NUM>, a heartrate variability sensor <NUM>, a movement sensor <NUM>, and an oxygen saturation sensor <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a suction sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect various attributes of a sucking motion applied to the pacifier <NUM> by an individual <NUM> being treated. The suction sensor <NUM> may be adapted to detect speed of suction motions applied to the detection device <NUM>, force applied by suction motions applied to the detection device <NUM>, and rate of suction motions applied to the detection device <NUM>, among other things.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the suction sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine a stress level of the patient <NUM> and the efficacy of audio therapy being applied. For example, a sudden increase in suction motions being applied to the detection device <NUM> may be indicative of rising stress. In contrast, a gradual decrease of suction motions may be indicative of lowering stress. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the mood/condition of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a temperature sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect a body temperature of the individual <NUM> being treated. The temperature sensor <NUM> will generally be positioned on the detection device <NUM> such that the temperature sensor <NUM> is in contact with the patient <NUM> to get a temperature reading. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track temperature readings from the temperature sensor <NUM> to detect increases or decreases in patient <NUM> temperature.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the temperature sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. A higher temperature or a rise in temperature may be indicative of illness or stress. A normal temperature or a lowering in temperature may be indicative of recovery. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a respiration sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect respiration rate of the patient <NUM> being treated. The respiration sensor <NUM> will generally be positioned on the detection device <NUM> such that the respiration sensor <NUM> is in contact with the patient <NUM> or in the path of the patient's <NUM> airway so as to detect respiration by the patient <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track respiration readings from the respiration sensor <NUM> to detect increases or decreases in patient <NUM> respiration rates.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the respiration sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. A higher respiration rate or a sudden increase in respiration rate may be indicative of stress. A normal respiration rate or a decrease in respiration rate may be indicative of calming. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a heartrate sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect a heartrate of the patient <NUM> being treated. The heartrate sensor <NUM> will generally be positioned on the detection device <NUM> such that the heartrate sensor <NUM> is in contact with a pulse of the patient <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track heartrate readings from the heartrate sensor <NUM> to detect increases or decreases in patient <NUM> heartrates.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the heartrate sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. A higher heartrate or a rise in heartrate may be indicative of stress. A normal heartrate or a lowering in heartrate may be indicative of lowering stress. Alternatively, a heightened heartrate may be indicative of exercise being performed. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a heartrate variability (HRV) sensor <NUM>. The HRV sensor <NUM> will generally be positioned on the detection device <NUM> such that the HRV sensor <NUM> is in contact with a pulse of the patient <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track HRV readings from the HRV sensor <NUM> to detect changes.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the HRV sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. A higher HRV reading may be indicative of illness or stress. A normal HRV reading may be indicative of recovery. HRV may also be utilized to determine whether the patient <NUM> is exercising. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a movement sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect movement of the patient <NUM>. The movement sensor <NUM> will generally be positioned on the detection device <NUM> to detect movements of the detection device <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track movement readings from the movement sensor <NUM> to detect movements of the patient <NUM>.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the movement sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. Sudden or frantic movements may be indicative of stress. Lack of movement may be indicative of a calm disposition, or sleep. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise an oxygen saturation sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect oxygen saturation levels of the patient <NUM>. The oxygen saturation sensor <NUM> will generally be positioned on the detection device <NUM> such that the oxygen saturation sensor <NUM> may contact a patient <NUM> for a proper reading. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track oxygen saturation readings from the oxygen saturation sensor <NUM> to detect changes.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the oxygen saturation sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. Low oxygen saturation readings can be indicative of health problems. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

<FIG> illustrates another exemplary embodiment in which the detection device <NUM> is incorporated in a vehicle, such as a steering wheel <NUM>, gear shift, arm rests, seats, or any other location in the vehicle where a patient <NUM> would place a portion of his or her body. <FIG> illustrates a detection device comprised of a steering wheel <NUM>, with sensors <NUM> being positioned on the steering wheel <NUM> itself.

A variety of sensors <NUM> may be utilized in connection with such an embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> is illustrated as including a temperature sensor <NUM>, respiration sensor <NUM>, heart rate sensor <NUM>, HRV sensor <NUM>, grip sensor <NUM>, galvanic skin sensor <NUM>, and tapping sensor <NUM>. Various combinations of sensors <NUM> may be utilized, and <FIG> should not be construed as limiting in scope.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a grip sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect grip strength applied to the detection device <NUM>, such as a steering wheel <NUM>. The grip sensor <NUM> will preferably be positioned on the detection device <NUM> at a position which is grasped by a patient <NUM>, such as the steering wheel <NUM> as shown, or a gear shift. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track grip strength readings from the grip sensor <NUM> to detect changes.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the grip sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. High grip strengths, or sudden increases thereof, may be indicative of stress. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a galvanic skin sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect electrodermal activity of the patient <NUM>. The galvanic skin sensor <NUM> will thus preferably be positioned on the detection device <NUM> at a position which is in contact with the skin of a patient <NUM>, such as the steering wheel <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track electrodermal activity of the patient <NUM> to detect changes.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the galvanic skin sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. Sudden changes in electrodermal activity may be indicative of stress. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time.

As shown in <FIG>, the detection device <NUM> may comprise a tapping sensor <NUM> which is adapted to detect tapping strength or rates on the detection device <NUM> by a patient <NUM>. The tapping sensor <NUM> will thus preferably be positioned on the detection device <NUM> at a position which the patient <NUM> would tap on, such as the steering wheel <NUM>. The control unit <NUM> or computing device <NUM> may be adapted to continuously track tapping activity of the patient <NUM> to detect changes.

Utilizing these detected conditions from the tapping sensor <NUM> (and other sensors <NUM> if included), the computing device <NUM> may determine aspects of the patient's health and the efficacy of treatments being applied. Continuous tapping or sudden increases in tapping rates may be indicative of stress. These conditions may be utilized by the computing device <NUM> to adaptively configure the audio signal to match the wellbeing of the patient at any given time. Tapping may be used to entrain respiratory function, and heart rate, which may enhance focus and is used in dyslexia exercises.

As shown in <FIG>, an output device <NUM> may be utilized to audibly play the audio signal as determined by the computing device <NUM> in response to conditions detected by the sensors <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>. The output device <NUM> may be communicatively interconnected with the computing device <NUM> so as to receive the audio signal to be played. The output device <NUM> may be wirelessly connected to the computing device <NUM> or, in some embodiments, use a wired connection. The output device <NUM> may be adapted to audibly play the audio signal, including various types of sounds which may incorporate binaural or isochronic tones.

The type of output device <NUM> may vary in different embodiments. Any output device <NUM> capable of audibly playing an audio signal may be utilized. <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate an output device <NUM> comprised of a speaker <NUM>. The speaker <NUM> may be a stand-alone unit or may be integrated with the computing device <NUM>, such as in embodiments in which the computing device <NUM> is a smart phone or tablet.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an output device <NUM> comprised of headphones <NUM>. Headphones <NUM> may be desirable when treating multiple patients <NUM> within a given space so that different audio signals may be transmitted to each different patient <NUM> based on each patient's <NUM> conditions, and efficacy of treatment such as shown in <FIG>.

The headphones <NUM> are illustrated as being wireless, though wired headphones <NUM> may be utilized. Various types of headphones <NUM> may also be utilized, and the scope should not be construed as limited to the "over-the-ear" headphones <NUM> illustrated in the exemplary figures. For example, earbuds could be utilized in some embodiments.

As shown in <FIG>, various input devices <NUM> may be configured to detect various conditions of the patient <NUM> and transmit those detected conditions to the computing device <NUM> for processing in real-time. In some embodiments, the input devices <NUM> may be integral with the computing device <NUM> itself. In other embodiments, the input devices <NUM> may be stand-alone units which are communicatively interconnected with the computing device <NUM>.

Various types of input devices <NUM> known in the art to detect various conditions of a patient <NUM> may be utilized. <FIG> illustrates exemplary input devices <NUM> comprised of a heartrate monitor <NUM>, heartrate variability (HRV) monitor <NUM>, electroencephalogram (EEG) <NUM>, electrocardiogram (ECG) <NUM>, and/or a mobile device <NUM> such as a gyroscope or accelerometer. Various other medical instruments and the like may be utilized.

It may be desirable to utilize such input devices <NUM> when the configuration of the detection device <NUM> prevents certain sensors <NUM> from being included. For example, if the detection device <NUM> is not configured to read heart rate variability, an HRV monitor <NUM> may be communicatively connected to the computing device <NUM> to provide such functionality. Thus, input devices <NUM> may be utilized to augment missing functions of the detection device <NUM> for certain patients <NUM>.

The input device <NUM> may comprise a mobile device <NUM> such as a smart phone, smart watch, FITBIT, or the like. These mobile devices <NUM> are commonly used by individuals and may be configured to detect certain conditions. The mobile device <NUM> may be communicatively interconnected with the computing device <NUM> to continuously transmit detected conditions in real-time. The mobile device <NUM> may also be configured to receive manual inputs from the patient <NUM>. For example, the patient <NUM> could utilize the mobile device <NUM> to indicate rising stress levels if not detected by other sensors <NUM>; with the computing device <NUM> processing this information and adjusting the audio signal accordingly.

As shown throughout the figures, a computing device <NUM> may be utilized to receive the detected conditions from the sensors <NUM> of the detection device <NUM> and/or the input devices <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may comprise a processing unit such as a microprocessor for performing various functions. The computing device <NUM> may comprise a storage medium to keep track of detected conditions and changes therein.

By way of example, the computing device <NUM> may comprise a personal computer, laptop, smart phone, tablet, or the like. The computing device <NUM> will generally be communicatively interconnected with the detection device <NUM>, input device <NUM>, and output device <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may receive the detected conditions from the detection device <NUM> and/or input device <NUM>, process the conditions, and determine an appropriate audio signal such as a musical piece to treat the detected conditions of the patient <NUM>.

The audio signal will be communicated to the output device <NUM> to be audibly played for the patient <NUM>. As the audio signal is played by the output device <NUM>, the computing device <NUM> will continue to monitor detection conditions such as biomarkers of the patient <NUM>. The detection conditions will then be used by the computing device <NUM> to maintain the efficacy of the treatment being applied, such as by selecting different audio signals or modifying/altering the existing audio signal in response to detected conditions/biomarkers. For example, a detected biomarker may suggest that the audio signal be altered for more efficient therapy, such as by altering the pitch, tuning, speed, or the like of the audio signal. In some embodiments such as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, the computing device <NUM> may be omitted, with the control unit <NUM> of the detection device <NUM> performing its functions as described below.

The manner in which the adaptive audio therapy system <NUM> is used may vary in different embodiments and among different types of patients <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a detection device <NUM> comprised of a pacifier <NUM> being used to detect conditions of a patient <NUM> who is an infant, with the audio therapy being played by a speaker <NUM> in <FIG> and headphones <NUM> in <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates a practitioner <NUM> overseeing musical therapy to three patients <NUM> (all infants), each having a pacifier <NUM> and headphones <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a patient <NUM> in the backseat of a vehicle, with a pacifier <NUM> detecting conditions and the audio therapy being played through the vehicle's speakers <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an adult patient <NUM> driving a vehicle, with the steering wheel <NUM> serving as the detection device <NUM> with a pair of sensors <NUM> where the patient's <NUM> hands are held. The vehicle's speakers <NUM> play the audio therapy. The computing device <NUM> is not shown in <FIG>, but could be comprised of a processor internal to the vehicle as is common in modern automobiles. Alternatively, the patient's <NUM> mobile phone or tablet may serve as the computing device <NUM> when driving; with the audio signal being transmitted to the vehicle's speakers <NUM> via BLUETOOTH or other means.

The system may be initiated by voice command in some embodiments. For example, the patient <NUM> could utter the phrase "Alexa, begin music therapy" or other similar phrases to automatically initiate the systems and methods described herein in a hands-free manner; particularly when driving. This may be particularly useful when a patient <NUM> initially did not anticipate need for audio therapy but subsequently encounters a stressful situation, such as a car crash or heavy traffic, which presents a need for audio therapy. The patient <NUM> in a vehicle-based embodiment would be able to sue the voice command interface to initiate the system without having to pull over and navigate menus/options on a screen.

It should be appreciated that these are merely exemplary embodiments meant to serve as examples of usage of the adaptive audio therapy system <NUM>. Various other types of detection devices <NUM> and output devices <NUM> may be utilized. The adaptive audio therapy system <NUM> may be utilized to provide therapy to a single individual or to multiple patients <NUM>. While <FIG> illustrates a practitioner <NUM> such as a musical therapist, such an individual is not necessarily needed; with the computing device <NUM> providing the same functionality instead of a practitioner <NUM>.

It should also be appreciated that the processing of condition data and the decision-making to select appropriate audio therapies may be performed in various manners in different embodiments. <FIG> illustrates that the detection device <NUM> communicates directly with the speaker <NUM>; with a control unit <NUM> of the detection device <NUM> processing data from the sensors <NUM> and selecting/outputting the audio signal directly to the speaker <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a similar embodiment in which headphones <NUM> are utilized instead of speakers <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate embodiments which utilize a computing device <NUM>; with the detection device <NUM> communicating detected conditions from its sensors <NUM> to the computing device <NUM>, which in turn processes the data and continuously determines/modifies an appropriate audio signal to be played by the output device <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates that the computing device <NUM> may receive additional conditions of the patient <NUM> from various input devices <NUM> as discussed previously.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary method of condition detection. The detection device <NUM> is first put in physical contact with the patient <NUM>. For example, a pacifier <NUM> may be given to an infant who will suck on it as normal, or a steering wheel <NUM> may serve as the detection device <NUM>, with an individual <NUM> placing her hands on the steering wheel <NUM> as is normal when driving.

While the detection device <NUM> is in contact with the individual <NUM>, the sensors <NUM> will continuously and automatically detect various conditions of the individual <NUM> such as heart rate, respiration rate, oxygen saturation levels, and so on. As these conditions are being detected, the detection device <NUM> will continuously in real-time transmit the detected conditions to the computing device <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary method of processing the detected conditions received from the detection device <NUM> by the computing device <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> processes the detected conditions received from the detection device <NUM> in real-time; continuously determining an appropriate audio signal based on the detected conditions. For example, the computing device <NUM> may modulate the audio signal (such as tempo or pitch) based on the detected conditions. The computing device <NUM> may also substitute one type of audio therapy for another by, for example, transitioning from music to nature sounds or the like, based on the detected conditions.

By way of example, the tempo of the audio therapy may be interpolated to be matched or entrained with the heart rate, respiratory function, or brain-waves of the patient <NUM>. The patient <NUM> may experience heartrate entrainment, following the tempo change of the curated audio therapy (such as music). The computing device <NUM> will continuously in real-time deliver medically and emotionally relevant sounds or music based on the detected conditions by the detection device <NUM>.

The system may also be configured to inform a practitioner <NUM> of alterations of physiological data over time. Patients <NUM> may be asked to complete an efficacy rating questionnaire to personalize treatment and increase efficacy of future treatments. This information may also be anonymized and then utilized in further research. This function may be utilized to predict illness onset (preventative medicine). Physiological data, such as movement patterns, may inform the computing device <NUM> which assembles dedicated playlists of audio therapy according to the patient's <NUM> tastes and the symptoms / detected conditions of the patient <NUM>. Data may be stored by the computing device <NUM>, such as in an external or internal storage medium, so that results may be tracked and the computing device <NUM> may adapt to specific patients <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary method of providing audio therapy utilizing an exemplary embodiment of the adaptive audio therapy system <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may receive detected conditions from the sensors <NUM> of the detection device <NUM>. If utilized, the computing device <NUM> may also receive detected conditions from input devices <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may process the detected conditions (both from the detection device <NUM> and the input devices <NUM>, if any) to determine an appropriate audio signal based on the detected conditions and, if available, tastes of the patient <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> will then transmit the audio signal to the output device <NUM> to be played or, in some embodiments, may play the audio signal itself.

As therapy is provided, the computing device <NUM> will continuously in real-time receive condition data and adjust the audio therapy appropriately. By way of example, the computing device <NUM> will detect when biomarkers or conditions of the patient <NUM> vary during application of the therapy. In response to variations or changes in the biomarkers or conditions detected by the detector <NUM> and transmitted to the computing device <NUM>, the computing device <NUM> may either select a different audio signal or made modifications/alterations to the existing audio signal. For example, the computing device <NUM> may modulate the pitch or tempo of an existing audio signal to reflect changing patient <NUM> conditions or biomarkers, or to entrain the audio signal with a detected condition of the patient <NUM>, such as heartrate or respiration. Binaural or isochronic tones may be incorporated into the audio signal or removed therefrom based on the efficacy of such tones as detected by the detector <NUM> and transmitted to the computing device <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An adaptive audio-therapy system, comprising:
a detection device (<NUM>) adapted to make physical contact with an individual (<NUM>), the detection device (<NUM>) comprising at least one sensor (<NUM>) for detecting at least one condition of the individual (<NUM>), wherein the detection device (<NUM>) comprises a pacifier (<NUM>) and the at least one sensor (<NUM>) comprises a suction sensor (<NUM>) for detecting attributes of a sucking motion applied to the pacifier (<NUM>) by the individual (<NUM>);
a computing device (<NUM>) communicatively interconnected with the detection device (<NUM>) for processing detection data received from the at least one sensor (<NUM>) of the detection device (<NUM>), the computing device (<NUM>) being adapted to automatically identify an audio signal based on the at least one condition detected by the sensor (<NUM>) of the detection device (<NUM>); and
an output device (<NUM>) for audibly playing the audio signal in real-time, wherein the audio signal comprises music, and wherein the audio signal is modulated in at least one of tempo and pitch based on the at least one condition of the individual (<NUM>).