APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZED AUTONOMOUS SENSORY MERIDIAN RESPONSE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/254,372, filed October 11 , 2021 , the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to an apparatus for use in optimizing autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR), and to methods of making and using the disclosed apparatus.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, there has been growing interest in a previously unknown sensory phenomenon called Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) by those capable of experiencing it. ASMR has been described as an anomalous sensory experience characterized by pleasant physiological responses, such as transient paresthesia and chronic pain relief. Specifically, ASMR has been described as a tingling sensation that begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine, often accompanied by relaxation, euphoria, and mood elevation. Studies have also shown that ASMR may provide temporary relief to individuals with depression, stress, and chronic pain. ASMR is elicited by certain auditory, visual, and/or somatic stimuli, such as light tickling, whispering, writing, painting, soft sounds, and crisp sounds (e.g., chewing or fingernail tapping). The underlying mechanisms of ASMR are not well understood, but physiologic evidence corroborates the self-reported positive effects. It would therefore be beneficial to provide an apparatus that facilitates ASMR in users, as well as methods of using the apparatus to achieve the desired effects.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a sound-producing apparatus. The apparatus includes a doll defined by an exterior surface and an interior. The apparatus also includes one or more speakers configured on an inner or outer surface of the doll. The apparatus includes electronics configured within the interior of the doll, wherein the electronics initiate an autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) sound recording to be projected from the one or more speakers. In some embodiments, the doll is selected from a plush toy, a stuffed animal, a filled baby doll, or a figurine.

In some embodiments, the exterior surface of the doll comprises cotton, chenille, velvet, felt, terrycloth, silk, flannel, jersey knit, muslin, suede, velour, viscose, fleece, sateen, satin, rayon, batiste, merino wool, cashmere, polyester, nylon, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the exterior surface of the doll is defined by a color or patterned theme.

In some embodiments, the doll includes a closure configured to access the interior.

In some embodiments, the electronics include an audio device comprises a memory that plays pre-recorded ASMR recordings.

In some embodiments, the ASMR sound recording is selected from whispering, eating, crunching, calm breathing, rustling leaves, crinkling paper, hand rubbing, scratching, chewing, drawing, writing, painting, soft speaking, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the speakers are Bluetooth® speakers configured to pair with a smart device, such as a phone, computer, tablet, or gaming device.

In some embodiments, the device further includes one or more sensors that detect environmental factors, user physical condition, user mental state, or combinations thereof to customize the ASMR recording.

In some embodiments, the sensors algorithmically generate suggested ASMR recordings.

In some embodiments, the ASMR recordings are accessed through a mobile application.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a method of optimizing autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) in a user. Particularly, the method comprises initiating ASMR recordings to project from a sound-producing apparatus. The apparatus is defined by: a doll defined by an exterior surface and an interior; one or more speakers configured on an interior or exterior surface of the doll; and electronics configured within the interior of the doll. The electronics initiate an autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) sound recording to be projected from the one or more speakers. A desired ASMR sound is selected and played, such that ASMR is optimized in a user.

In some embodiments, the suggested ASMR recordings are algorithmically determined from one or more of the following: prior ASMR sounds selected by a user, sounds present in a user’s surroundings, data supplied by an external servicer, metrics describing a user’s mental or physical state, metrics describing the user’s surroundings (temperature, humidity, weather conditions), or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the ASMR is defined as a soothing and tingling sensation in the user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 a is a front plan view of an AMSR apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 1 b is a side plan view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 a.

Fig. 2 is a front plan view of an AMSR apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 3a is a front plan view of an ASMR apparatus configured in an animal shape in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 3b is a perspective view of an ASMR apparatus configured in an animal shape in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 3c is a perspective view of an ASMR apparatus configured in a human shape in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 3d is a perspective view of an ASMR apparatus configured as a ball in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 3e is a perspective view of an ASMR apparatus configured as a pillow in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an ASMR apparatus comprising an article of apparel in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an ASMR apparatus configured with a zipper to access the interior of the doll in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 6a is a schematic illustrating the apparatus electronics in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 6b is a schematic illustrating apparatus electronics configured in a housing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 7 is a schematic illustrating apparatus electronics communicating with a speaker in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 8a is a perspective view of a speaker that can be used with the disclosed apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 8b is a back plan view of the speaker of Fig. 8a in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. Fig. 8c is a front perspective view of the speaker of Fig. 8a in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 9 is a front plan view of an ASMR apparatus comprising a plurality of sensors in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 10 is a schematic illustrating a controller in use with an ASMR apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 11 is a fragmentary perspective view of an ASMR apparatus comprising an on/off switch and controls in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 12a is a battery that can be used to power an apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 12b is a solar panel that can be used to power an apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Fig. 12c is a wireless power supply that can be used to power an apparatus in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed subject matter is introduced with sufficient details to provide an understanding of one or more particular embodiments of broader inventive subject matters. The descriptions expound upon and exemplify features of those embodiments without limiting the inventive subject matters to the explicitly described embodiments and features. Considerations in view of these descriptions will likely give rise to additional and similar embodiments and features without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains. Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the presently disclosed subject matter, representative methods, devices, and materials are now described.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms "a", "an", and "the" refer to "one or more" when used in the subject specification, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to "a device" can include a plurality of such devices, and so forth. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and/or "including" when used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of components, conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the instant specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter.

As used herein, the term "about", when referring to a value or to an amount of mass, weight, time, volume, concentration, and/or percentage can encompass variations of, in some embodiments +/-20%, in some embodiments +/-10%, in some embodiments -+7-5%, in some embodiments +/-1 %, in some embodiments -+7-0.5%, and in some embodiments -+7-0.1%, from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate in the disclosed packages and methods.

As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element, layer, or region to another element, layer, or region as illustrated in the drawing figures. It will be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawing figures.

The embodiments set forth below represent the necessary information to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments and illustrate the best mode of practicing the embodiments. Upon reading the following description in light of the accompanying drawing figures, those skilled in the art will understand the concepts of the disclosure and will recognize applications of these concepts not particularly addressed herein. It should be understood that these concepts and applications fall within the scope of the disclosure and the accompanying claims.

The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to an apparatus configured to optimize and/or elicit ASMR in a user. The term “optimize” refers to attempting to maximize or accelerate ASMR in a user. The term “elicit” refers to inducing an ASMR event in a user. As noted above, “ASMR” refers to autonomous sensory median response, a tingling sensation that usually begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. A pleasant form of paresthesia, ASMR has been compared with auditory-tactile synesthesia and may overlap with frisson. ASMR signifies the subjective experience of "low-grade euphoria" characterized by "a combination of positive feelings and a distinct static-like tingling sensation on the skin." It is most commonly triggered by specific auditory or visual stimuli, and less commonly by intentional attention control. The subjective experience, sensation, and perceptual phenomenon of ASMR is described by some of those susceptible to it as being akin to a mild electrical current or the carbonated bubbles in a glass of champagne. The tingling sensation on the skin in general (called paresthesia) is commonly referred to as "tingles" when experienced along the scalp, neck, and back. It has been described as a static tingling sensation originating from the back of the head, then propagating to the neck, shoulder, arm, spine, and legs, that makes people feel relaxed and alert. ASMR is typically precipitated by stimuli referred to as “triggers.” ASMR triggers, which are most commonly auditory and/or visual, may be encountered through the interpersonal interactions of daily life. Additionally, ASMR is often triggered by exposure to specific audio and/or video. The media may be specially made with the specific purpose of triggering ASMR or created for other purposes and later discovered to be effective as a trigger of the experience.

Figs. 1 a-1 b illustrate one embodiment of apparatus 5 comprising soft and pliable doll 7. The apparatus includes one or more speakers 10 configured to play ASMR recordings to generate a soothing, tingling ASMR experience for the user. The speakers can be positioned on an exterior surface of the doll or within the doll interior (e.g., the head, arms, legs, and/or torso). The apparatus can also include internal electronics 15 that power the speakers and enable sound recordings to be streamed from an external source (e.g., via a smart phone, YouTube, and the like). Advantageously, apparatus 5 provides a portable resource for users, allowing them to stream and/or listen to ASMR recordings on demand.

As described above, apparatus 5 includes doll 7. The term “doll” broadly refers to any of a wide variety of plush toys, action figures, animals, figurines, action figures, or any object that can be used or handled. Doll 7 can therefore take any of a wide variety of external shapes. Fig. 2 illustrates one embodiment of doll 7 comprising exterior surface 20 and interior surface 25. The term “exterior surface” refers to the outer surface of the doll that the user comes into contact with the user when touching the doll. The term “interior surface” refers to the surface within an interior of the doll, not directly accessible by the user when the doll is held.

It should be appreciated that the doll can be configured in any desired shape and is not limited to the bear shape shown in Fig. 2. For example, the doll can have an animal shape, such as a dog or lion shown in Figs. 3a and 3b. Alternatively, the doll can have a human shape, as shown in the baby of Fig. 3c. In addition, the doll can be shaped as an article, such as a ball or pillow, as shown in Figs. 3d and 3e. Therefore, the disclosed doll can have any of a wide variety of shapes.

Exterior doll surface 20 can be fully or partially constructed from a soft or pliable material, such as fabric. For example, exterior surface 20 can be constructed from cotton, chenille, velvet, felt, terrycloth, silk, flannel, jersey knit, muslin, suede, velour, viscose, fleece, sateen, satin, rayon, batiste, merino wool, cashmere, polyester, nylon, or combinations thereof. Therefore, the exterior surface of the doll can include any soft material, thereby adding to the soothing ASMR in a user. The soft exterior encourages users to hold and/or touch the doll. In some embodiments, the term “soft” refers to the characteristic of being agreeable to the touch, not rough or course.

In some embodiments, the doll can be constructed from one or more different materials to provide varying sensory effects. For example, the doll arms can include suede, the doll’s head can be constructed from fleece, and the remainder of the doll can be constructed from velvet. It should be appreciated that any of a number of different combinations can be used. To this end, the doll can be mixed and matched with various materials in accordance with user preferences.

Exterior surface 20 of the doll can be configured in any desired color or color combination, such as white, grey, black, brown, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, pink, and the like. The exterior surface can also include any desired pattern, such as stripes, dots, waves, and other conventional designs. As such, the apparatus can be themed for holidays (e.g., red and green at Christmas), sports teams (e.g., school colors), or to match a particular color scheme in a room or surrounding.

In some embodiments, the exterior surfaces of doll 7 can be interchanged as desired by the user. For example, Christmas-themed material can be removed, and Valentine’s Day-themed fabric can be applied. In another example, softer materials may be desired for an increased relaxing effect. The outer doll surface can be removed and/or added using conventional mechanisms such as zippers, fasteners, magnets, pulls, VELCRO® and the like.

It is conceived that doll 7 can be covered or decorated with materials, such as fur, paint, or other decorative materials to enhance the visual appearance of the doll. For example, exterior surface 20 can include apparel 30, as shown in Fig. 4. The term “apparel” includes any item that can be worn, such as (but not limited to) a hat, shirt, sweatshirt, dress, sash, shorts, pants, socks, shoes, robe, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, apparel 30 can include the manufacturer logo, name, and/or other identifier.

Interior 25 of the doll can include any desired material, such as (but not limited to) nylon, polyester, acrylic fiber, polyolefin, batting, cotton, straw, wool, plastic pellets, beans, and the like. In some embodiments, the interior of the doll can include an interior cavity 26 to house or encase electronics, batteries, or any other item. The term “cavity” includes any void or interior space within the interior of doll 7. The cavity can be configured as an empty space, a pouch, pocket, receptacle, chamber, pit, hollow, or other suitable space. The cavity can also be configured in any suitable shape and/or size.

The interior of the doll can be accessed using closure 31, which can be configured as a zipper, button, set of magnets, VELCRO®, mechanical closures (e.g., fasteners, snaps, screws, clips), or any other element that can be opened or closed. One embodiment of closure 31 configured as a zipper is shown in Fig. 5. The closure can be used to insert or remove the assembly electronics and/or speakers from cavity 26 in some embodiments. It should be appreciated that the closure is optional, and doll 7 can be configured without a closure.

In some embodiments, the materials used to construct doll 7 can be washable. For example, speakers 10 and internal electronics can be removed or housed within a protective casing, allowing the apparatus to be washed by hand or in a conventional washing machine.

Internal electronics 15 can be configured within the interior of doll 7. The term “electronics” refers to any of a variety of electronic components, such as inductors, amplifiers, connectors, conductors, antenna, memory, and the like. In some embodiments, the electronics can be encased in housing 16 to protect the electronics in the event of sudden drops, handling, and the like, as shown in Figs. 6a and 6b. The housing can be constructed from any rigid material (metal, plastic, wood, etc.) and/or any waterproof material to prevent damage to the electronics positioned inside the housing.

As shown in Fig. 7, the electronics can include an audio device comprising a memory 35 that utilizes a digital memory or analog memory. The memory can include pre-recorded ASMR-initiating sounds intended to elicit an ASMR in a user. Examples of ASMR-initiating sounds include (but are not limited to) whispering, eating, crunching, calm breathing, rustling leaves, crinkling paper, hand rubbing, scratching, chewing, drawing, writing, painting, soft speaking, and the like. Microprocessor 40 enables sounds to be played from the memory.

Electronics 15 can also include receiver 42 capable of receiving audio input from an external and/or third-party device, such as wireless receivers (e.g., FM radio, WiFi, or Bluetooth®), wired receivers, or both. The input from the external device can be received by an audio control unit through any suitable input (e.g., input jack, a lead, a Bluetooth® transceiver, antenna, or combinations thereof). An amplifier 43 within an audio control unit can permit playback of received audio input directly through the speakers.

The audio device can also include player 45 capable of playing sounds stored in memory 35 through speaker 10. Speakers 10 can be positioned at any location to project the ASMR sound recordings, such as the doll’s hands or feet, central body, head, and the like. In some embodiments, speakers 10 can be Bluetooth® speakers that pair with a smart device, such as a phone, computer, tablet, or gaming device. When paired, ASMR messages, recordings, and sounds can be heard over speakers 10. In some embodiments, the speakers can be enclosed with padding to provide comfort and to maintain the soft feel of doll 7.

One embodiment of speakers 10 is illustrated in Figs. 8a-8c. In some embodiments, the speakers can allow user control via remote control, voice activation, and the like. For example, the volume of speakers 10 can be raised or lowered, a particular sound can be selected or repeated, and other similar features. The speakers can include door 51 that allows access to a battery or other internal element. Each speaker can also include one or more outputs 52 through which sound exits the device. The outputs can be positioned on any face of the device, even though shown as positioned angled to and opposing door 51. The speaker can be positioned within the interior of the apparatus or at least partially on an exterior surface of the apparatus. In some embodiments, outputs 52 can extend to an exterior surface of the apparatus or be positioned adjacent to an exterior surface of the apparatus to maximize sounds produced and so the user can effectively hear the sounds.

As shown in Fig. 9, apparatus 5 can further include one or more sensors 50 that use data from environmental features, such as other devices the user is using, servers, the internet, historical metrics, or metrics from other users. Sensors 50 can be positioned at any desired location(s) on the apparatus, such as internal to the doll, external to the doll, or both. The sensors can be used to algorithmically generate suggested ASMR sounds. A particular sound can be selected and played when initiated by an algorithm. The sounds can be played at predetermined intervals, dynamically changing based on sensor input, user input, or other changing conditions. Sensors 50 can further detect or access a history of prior ASMR sounds selected by a user, sounds present in the user’s surroundings (e.g., yelling, singing, the presence of rain or storms, laughter, speaking, multiple voices, etc.), data supplied by an external servicer (a user’s age, mental conditions, physical conditions, diseases, disorders, weight, etc.), metrics describing the user’s mental or physical state (increased or decreased heartrate, increased or decreased body temperature, flushing in color, redness of the skin, detection of loud sounds such as crying or yelling, increased or decreased breathing rate), metrics describing the user’s surroundings (temperature, humidity, weather conditions), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a baseline can be determined such that variances can be noted.

Each of the electronics components can be entirely independent, wired together, or in wireless communication with one or more of the other components. In some embodiments, the components of the electronics are capable of communicating through external devices, such as a smartphone running a custom app that receives wired and/or wireless information (e.g., via Bluetooth®) from one or more of the electronics components. The custom app can be used as a repository for ASMR sounds, which can be customized by user selection, user preference, user historical selection, suggested sounds, and the like.

In some embodiments, electronics 15 can include internet capabilities that can be controlled by the user’s phone or other device. In other embodiments, controller 55 can be used, as shown in Fig. 10. The term “controller” refers to any device that allows the electronics to be manipulated in some way (e.g., turn off/on, volume control, skip to the next ASMR recording, find a particular recording, set timer, and the like). In some embodiments, a controller and/or a user’s mobile device (e.g., phone or tablet) can save or access a library of ASMR recordings. The library can be organized in any desired way, such as by sound, artist, date, user ranking, and the like.

The apparatus can be powered using any conventional mechanism, such as the use of batteries, solar power, USB, or other charging cables, and the like.

Apparatus 5 can further include on/off switch 60, as shown in Fig. 11. The switch can be positioned at any desired location, such as the underside or back of the doll. The switch can be manually adjusted by the user to activate/deactivate the electronics and/or speakers. In some embodiments, the device is capable of being turned off and on through the use of controller 55.

The disclosed apparatus is capable of playing ASMR recordings for an extended time period (e.g., about 1 or more hours). The apparatus can also be operated for an indefinite period of time if directly plugged into a power source (e.g., conventional wall outlet).

The apparatus can further include a timer. The timer can be used to automatically set the time during which electronics or speakers initiate or turn off. Similarly, the electronics can include a time delay shut off mechanism that is in communication with the speakers. The shut off mechanism directs the electronics and speakers to cease operations after a predetermined amount of time.

The apparatus can be powered using any conventional power source. For example, apparatus 5 can include receptacle 65 that can be plugged into a traditional wall outlet or charger, as shown in Fig. 11. Alternatively, the apparatus can be powered through the use of batteries 70, solar panels 75, or a wireless receiver 80, as shown in Figs. 12a- 12c. In some embodiments, the apparatus is rechargeable.

In use, apparatus 5 is configured to optimize and/or elicit ASMR in a user. Specifically, doll 7 provides a soft and comfortable feel to the apparatus. A user can easily and securely handle the apparatus due to the soft feel, thereby promoting the relaxing effects of the apparatus. Doll 7 further has a comforting appearance, which further relaxes the user. When desired, the user can initiate ASMR recordings by activating electronics 15 to play the sounds through speakers 10. In some embodiments, the recordings can be streamed or otherwise projected to the apparatus using a smart device, such as a phone, tablet, and the like. For example, a user can download a particular ASMR recording from a website or mobile application to a phone. The phone can then communicate with apparatus electronics 15, allowing the ASMR recordings to be played through speakers 10. In other embodiments, controller 55 can be used to select or play ASMR recordings. As the apparatus plays the sound recordings, it provides a soothing, tingling experience for the user. Thus, the recordings facilitate ASMR and optimize the response in a user.

The term “user” as used herein can refer to a human (e.g., a human seeking to elicit an ASMR response). However, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited and the term “user” can broadly include animals, pets, and the like. For example, the disclosed apparatus and method can be used to elicit an ASMR response in a dog, such as to decrease anxiety or to combat the side effects of a medical issue.

In some embodiments, one or more integrated sensors can obtain metrics that describe the user’s physical state, mental state, or surrounding environment to develop a unique biometric signature customized for the particular user. The sensed information can be stored in electronics 15 to create a user profile.

The disclosed apparatus offers many advantages to a user. For example, apparatus 5 is portable, allowing the user to easily carry the device from one location to another. As such, the apparatus can be easily transported during trips, allowing for frequent use.

By storing a number of different sequences of ASMR recordings in a memory, a user can enjoy a wide variety of experiences.

One of the advantages of the apparatus is that the doll can take on a variety of shapes, such as animals, pillows, babies, and the like.

The apparatus is constructed from high quality and durable materials, allowing the user to enjoy many years of continued use.

Each device can be easily customized to include holiday themes (e.g., Christmas, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Halloween). Similarly, each apparatus can be a variant of a particular ASMR theme or artist.

Another advantage of the presently disclosed subject matter is that the electronics and speakers can wirelessly play the ASMR recordings.

A further advantage is that the apparatus can provide ASMR stimulation to a wearer. The stimulation may be configured for therapeutic purposes, to induce sleep, and/or for relaxation.

The foregoing descriptions have been presented for purposes of illustration and description and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the presently disclosed subject matter. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the present disclosure.