DE102023207129B4 - Device, system and method for outputting a signal, in particular relating to a status indication - Google Patents

Abstract

Device (1) for outputting a signal (6), in particular relating to a state indication, for example an emotion, comprising a base element (3) attachable to a human body part (2), a control unit (5), and at least three, in particular four, actuator devices (4), wherein the at least three actuator devices (4) are arranged on and/or in the base element (3) such that the at least three actuator devices (4) are positioned, preferably equidistantly, apart from one another in an applied state of the base element (3) essentially along a circumference (36) of the human body part (2), and wherein the signal (6) can be output by the at least three actuator devices (4), wherein the signal (6) is based on a control signal receivable by the control unit (5), characterized in that the signal (6) has a periodic signal waveform (7) with a period (8), wherein a period shape (9) and/or a period amplitude (10) and/or a The period frequency of the period (8) is variable, wherein the period shape (9) can be output with a profile having at least three rectangular sections (11), wherein the at least three rectangular sections (11) comprise a central section (12) representing the period amplitude (10) and two lateral sections (13) representing a base level, preferably wherein the profile having at least three rectangular sections (11) is symmetrical.

Description

The invention relates to a device for outputting a signal, in particular relating to a status indication, for example an emotion, comprising a base element that can be attached to a human body part, a control unit, and at least three, in particular four, actuator devices, wherein the at least three actuator devices are arranged on and/or in the base element such that the at least three actuator devices are positioned, preferably equidistantly, apart from one another in an applied state of the base element essentially along a circumference of the human body part, and wherein the signal can be output by the at least three actuator devices, the signal being based on a control signal receivable by the control unit.

The invention further relates to a system comprising an input device with a transmitter unit and a device for outputting a signal.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for outputting a signal, in particular relating to a status indication, for example an emotion, with a device for outputting a signal.

Information and/or communication systems (ICT systems) can be used for interpersonal communication or human-machine communication. This communication is typically based on textual, auditory, visual, or audiovisual content, which is output as a signal to a receiving user via a device encompassing the system. Examples of such ICT systems include smartphones and video telephony systems for interpersonal communication, which can be used to transmit text messages or audiovisual content. Examples of human-machine communication include car parking systems, where information about the distance to an obstacle can be output to the driver as a sound via a speaker.

Out of EP 3 731 069 A1 A driver assistance system is described, comprising a vehicle sensor for detecting lane deviations of a vehicle or an object in the environment outside and around the vehicle. Furthermore, a device for receiving notification information from the vehicle sensor, converting the notification information into a tactile signal, and outputting the tactile signal to the driver is disclosed.

Furthermore, it should be noted DE 200 19 401 U1 referred to, from which a wake-up system comprising a vibration device and a wake-up alarm with a device for controlling the vibration device has become known.

It is often necessary to transmit a specific status information. With regard to the previously mentioned examples of ICT systems, such a status information could be a human emotion or a vehicle's relative position. Status information can be key elements of interpersonal interactions and is of great importance for human-machine interactions. However, it is difficult or impossible to communicate this information adequately using current ICT systems. A typical example is communication during a medical video consultation. Patients are often unable to inform the doctor about their emotions, such as concerns that arise during the interaction.

To convey a user's emotions, emotion symbols in the form of facial expressions, such as so-called "emoticons" or "emojis," can be used as a temporary measure. These represent an approach to encoding emotions. Emoticons and emojis are representations of facial expressions, but they are not unambiguously assigned to a specific emotion.

A problem with known devices and systems is that important status information, especially emotions, cannot be transmitted at all or only inadequately, and is particularly prone to misunderstanding. A spectrum of feelings can only be represented incompletely. Furthermore, the output of status information by the device, for example in the form of text or emotion symbols, using known ICT systems can cause significant distraction for the receiving user. The user must first perceive the output status information and then process it, i.e., understand and interpret it. This can severely disrupt communication.

The present invention therefore aims to design and further develop a device and a system of the type mentioned above in such a way that a status indication can be transmitted in a manner that is directly, intuitively, and unambiguously perceptible and comprehensible to a transmitting user or to a receiving user. A further objective of the present invention is to provide an improved device and an improved system.

According to the invention, the foregoing problem is solved by the features of claim 1. According to this claim, a device for outputting a signal, in particular relating to a state indication, for example an emotion, comprises a base element that can be attached to a human body part, a control unit, and at least three, in particular four, actuator devices, wherein the at least three actuator devices are arranged on and/or in the base element such that, in an applied state of the base element, the at least three actuator devices are positioned substantially along a circumference of the human body part, and wherein the signal can be output by the at least three actuator devices, the signal being based on a control signal receivable by the control unit. The device in question is characterized in that the signal has a periodic signal waveform with one period, wherein a period shape and/or a period amplitude and/or a period frequency of the period is variable, wherein the period shape can be output with a waveform having at least three rectangular sections, wherein the at least three rectangular sections comprise a central section representing the period amplitude and two lateral sections representing a base level, preferably wherein the waveform having at least three rectangular sections is symmetrical.

With regard to a system, the foregoing problem is solved by the features of dependent claim 17. According to this claim, the system in question comprises an input device and/or an IoT device with a transmitting unit and a device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, in particular wherein the input device and/or the IoT device has a user interface for entering a status information, preferably wherein the user interface for entering the status information comprises a graphical and/or physical representation of an encoding matrix, and wherein the control signal is based on the status information and can be sent by the transmitting unit of the input device and/or the IoT device to the control unit of the device.

• - Bereitstellen einer Zustandsangabe durch einen übermittelnden Benutzer oder ein IoT-Gerät;
• - Kodieren der bereitgestellten Zustandsangabe, vorzugsweise anhand einer Kodierungsmatrix;
• - ggf. Eingeben der Zustandsangabe in ein Eingabegerät durch den übermittelnden Benutzer;
• - Senden des Steuersignals, wobei das Steuersignal auf der Zustandsangabe basiert, durch eine Sendeeinheit des Eingabegeräts oder des IoT-Geräts, an die Steuereinheit der Vorrichtung;
• - Empfangen des Steuersignals, durch die Steuereinheit der Vorrichtung; und
• - Ausgeben des Signals, wobei das Signal auf dem Steuersignal basiert, durch zumindest einen Teil der Aktuatoreinrichtungen.

With regard to a method, the foregoing problem is solved by the features of dependent claim 18. According to this claim, the method in question for outputting a signal, in particular concerning a state indication, for example an emotion, comprises a device for outputting the signal, comprising a base element attachable to a human body part, a control unit, and at least three, in particular four, actuator devices, wherein the at least three actuator devices are arranged on and/or in the base element, preferably equidistantly, spaced apart from one another such that the at least three actuator devices are positioned substantially along a circumference of the human body part when the base element is in an applied state, and wherein the signal can be output by the at least three actuator devices, the signal being based on a control signal receivable by the control unit, preferably according to one of claims 1 to 16, in particular with a system according to claim 17, the steps of:

• - Providing a status update by a submitting user or an IoT device;
• - Encoding the provided status information, preferably using a coding matrix;
• - if necessary, the transmitting user must enter the status information into an input device;
• - Sending the control signal, where the control signal is based on the state indication, by a transmitting unit of the input device or the IoT device, to the control unit of the device;
• - Receiving the control signal by the device's control unit; and
• - Output of the signal, wherein the signal is based on the control signal, by at least part of the actuator devices.

According to the invention, it has been recognized that a status indication can be transmitted to a receiving user particularly easily and reliably if the signal output, in the applied state of the basic element, occurs in close proximity to the receiving user's sensory organs, such as skin, eyes, or ears. This enables the receiving user to perceive and understand the signal or status indication, for example, an emotion, directly, immersively, and intuitively.

The signal exhibits a periodic waveform with one period, whereby the period shape and/or the period amplitude and/or the period frequency can be varied. These characteristic properties of the period are particularly perceptible and easily distinguishable by the receiving user.

Furthermore, the periodic form can be expressed with a curve exhibiting at least three rectangular sections, where the at least three rectangular sections represent the period. The waveform comprises a central section representing the amplitude and two lateral sections representing a base level, preferably wherein the waveform, which has at least three rectangular sections, is symmetrical. Such a periodic waveform can also be output particularly easily. Furthermore, this can improve the perception and comprehension of the signal by the receiving user.

The terms "applicable" and "applied" are to be understood in the broadest sense within the context of this disclosure and encompass an arrangement of the basic element directly on the body part and/or on an object directly attached to the body part, such as a garment. It is conceivable that the basic element can be attached to the body part by a form-fitting, force-fitting, and/or material-bonded connection. The application can also be achieved via a fastener or similar feature of the basic element and/or by at least partial elastic expandability of the basic element. The basic element can be arranged on any body part, in particular on an arm, a leg, a hand, a finger, a head, or an ear. The basic element can partially or completely encircle the body part when applied. It is conceivable that the basic element is an adhesive patch.

The term "signal" is to be understood in the broadest sense within the context of this disclosure and encompasses signs with a specific meaning, which is assigned to them by at least one provision. The signs are such that at least one of the human senses can perceive them and may be based on at least one physical quantity. A signal may be a signal output by a single actuator or may be composed of several individual signals output by different actuators.

The term "actuator device" is to be understood in the broadest sense within the context of this disclosure and includes a device for converting an electrical signal into a signal perceptible to the receiving user, which is based on another physical quantity, such as mechanical movements or sound waves. In this disclosure, the control signal can be such an electrical signal.

The method according to the invention is carried out using the device according to the invention, in particular using the system according to the invention. Within the framework of the method according to the invention, a status information is first provided by a receiving user or an IoT device. The term "status information" is to be understood in the broadest sense within the scope of this disclosure and includes an internal or psychological or external or physical state of a living being, for example, an emotion or pain of a person, or information suitable for describing one or more properties of a physical system. The term "IoT device" is to be understood in the broadest sense within the scope of this disclosure and includes physical objects or groups of such objects that can be connected to other devices and systems via the internet or other communication networks and can exchange data. The input device can be an IoT device. Wired or wireless communication, for example using Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, WLAN, WiFi, Zigbee, NFC, Sigfox, or Li-Fi, is conceivable. These devices can also, in particular, have one or more sensors with which a status information can be determined.

The provided state information is then encoded, preferably using a coding matrix. Within the scope of this disclosure, the term "encoding" is to be understood in its broadest sense and encompasses assigning the state information to a character or sequence of characters from a character set based on a mapping rule. The mapping rule can be a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional coding matrix.

The receiving user enters the status information into an input device, such as a smartphone. It is conceivable that the input device has a user interface for entering the status information, preferably comprising a graphical and/or physical representation of a coding matrix, so that the transmitting user encodes the status information during the input process. However, it is also conceivable that the status information is analyzed by the IoT device itself and encoded based on the analysis result.

Subsequently, a control signal, based on the state information, is sent from a transmitter unit of the input device or from a transmitter unit of the IoT device to the control unit of the device. The state information can be translated into the control signal before transmission using a translation rule. The control signal is thus uniquely assigned to the state information. The basic structure of the translation rule can correspond to the structure of the mapping rule.

The control unit receives the control signal and outputs a signal based on this control signal. At least some of the actuator components can be used for this purpose.

The device, system, and method according to the invention can therefore be used, in particular, to improve users' self-assessment, representation, and perception of emotions with regard to the transmission of emotions. Users can be enabled to consciously recognize, describe, and communicate emotions, or to intuitively decode and understand them.

Advantageously, the basic element is a cuff, a bracelet, a ring, or a chain. This makes the basic element particularly easy to wear on a leg, especially around an ankle, on an arm, especially around a wrist, on a finger, or around the neck. Furthermore, the human body is particularly sensitive to stimuli at these points, especially tactile stimuli, such as those resulting from vibrations.

In a further advantageous manner, another base element and a connecting element are arranged, the base elements being connected to each other via the connecting element. One of the advantages achieved by this is that the perception and acquisition of the signal by the receiving user are improved. In addition, the device's attachment to the body part can be improved.

It is conceivable that at least one further actuator device is arranged on and/or in one or more base elements and/or the connecting element, wherein at least some of the actuator devices are arranged, preferably equidistantly, such that, in the applied state of one or more base elements and/or the connecting element, at least some of the actuator devices are positioned substantially along an extension of the human body part. This can further improve the perception and acquisition of the signal by the receiving user. The signal can be output by the at least three actuator devices and/or the at least one further actuator device. For example, in the case of an arrangement of one or more base elements and/or the connecting element on a leg or an arm, at least some of the actuator devices can be positioned along a longitudinal direction of the leg or arm in the applied state.

In a further advantageous manner, the actuators can be individually controlled by the control unit. This is beneficial because the number of output signals can be increased, for example, by generating the signal through the time-shifted or partial control of several actuators. This also makes it possible to expand the mapping or translation rules. It is conceivable that the actuators of the basic elements can each be controlled by the control unit with a time delay.

At least some of the actuators can be controlled in different directions, essentially along the circumference and/or essentially along the length of the human body part, with a time delay. This type of actuator control can create the impression of a wave-like signal oscillating along the circumference or length of the body part. For example, two specific groups of status signals can be assigned to the different directions, making these groups particularly easy for the receiving user to understand.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that at least some of the actuator units each have a housing containing an unbalance exciter and, optionally, a power supply unit, preferably wherein the unbalance exciter can generate impulses in a direction essentially orthogonal to an outer surface of the body part. One of the advantages achieved by this is that the signal can be output in the form of vibrations, which are tactilely perceptible to the receiving user. This allows for immediate perception and particularly intuitive comprehension of the signal by the receiving user. It is conceivable that a central power supply unit is arranged to supply all actuator units with energy.

In a further advantageous manner, the unbalance exciter is positively locked and/or force-locked and/or material-locked, preferably by a soldered or adhesive bond, to and/or in a projecting flexible tongue. This allows for a particularly simple and robust design.

In a further advantageous manner, the projecting flexible tongue is fixed to and/or in a mounting base of the housing in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting and/or material-fitting manner, preferably by a rivet or screw connection. In particular, a detachable connection using screws offers the advantage that defective components, such as the unbalance exciter, can be replaced quickly and easily.

The signal can be tactile, acoustic, and/or visual. Such signal types are particularly easy for the receiving user to perceive and understand. To output the tactile signal, an actuator can be configured to generate vibrations. For this purpose, the actuator can include an unbalanced exciter. To output the acoustic signal, an actuator can include a loudspeaker. To output the visual signal, an actuator can include a light-emitting diode (LED) or similar device, or a screen for displaying images or characters. It is also conceivable that the signal is composed of a combination of several of these signal types.

In a further advantageous manner, the control signal is based on a state indication, which is encoded using a coding matrix with a first dimension and a second dimension. The first dimension of the state indication is represented by the period frequency, and the second dimension is represented by the period shape and/or the period amplitude. The two-dimensional coding matrix has a simple structure that is very easy for the receiving user to understand. This allows for intuitive operation of an input device and intuitive acquisition, i.e., an intuitive understanding, of the signal by the receiving user. The first dimension can represent arousal, and the second dimension valence. These are central characteristics of emotions. Valence, also known as pleasure, indicates the individual's motivational evaluation of a stimulus, meaning whether one approaches a rewarding stimulus or withdraws from an unpleasant/harmful stimulus. Arousal indicates the physical readiness to initiate this action. Using such a coding matrix, a complex emotion can thus be easily and intuitively encoded or captured by the transmitting user. This also prevents the transmitting user's attention from being distracted from accurately perceiving their inner state or emotion.

The first dimension can also be assigned a first ordinal scale, where the scale values of the first ordinal scale can be represented by different period frequencies. The first ordinal scale allows for quick and easy input of the state information. Furthermore, different period frequencies are particularly easy to distinguish from one another in perception.

Furthermore, the second dimension can be assigned a second ordinal scale with a positive range, a neutral range, and a negative range. The scale values of the second ordinal scale can be represented by different period amplitudes, and the positive, neutral, and negative ranges can be represented by different period shapes. The second ordinal scale allows for quick and easy input of the state information. Moreover, different period amplitudes are also particularly easy to distinguish from one another in perception. By subdividing the second dimension into the positive range, the neutral range, and the negative range, the perception and acquisition of the signal by the receiving user can be further improved.

Preferably, the coding matrix has a 4x7 structure, with the first ordinal scale having 4 positions, each with one scale value, and the second ordinal scale having 7 positions, each with one scale value. It is also conceivable that a visual signal includes a head symbol corresponding to the state indication. The head symbol can graphically represent the signal based on the control signal or the state indication. For example, the head symbol can include a schematic representation of the period shape and/or the period amplitude and/or the period frequency. Thus, a total of 28 different head symbols can be assigned to a coding matrix with a 4x7 structure. This can improve the perception and comprehension of the signal by the receiving user.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the periodic waveform could be output with a sinusoidal waveform and/or at least one rectangular segment. Such a periodic waveform could be particularly easy to output.

Furthermore, the middle section can be temporarily lowered to the base level, resulting in a short segment followed by a long segment after the lowering. This further improves the perception and reception of the signal by the receiving user.

The period amplitude, especially for the positive range and/or the negative range, can be calculated using the following formula: $$A_{p,max}*S{W}_{akt,ord2}/S{W}_{max,ord2}$$ In this context, A _p,max represents the maximum output value of the period amplitude, SW _akt,ord2 the available scale value of the second ordinal scale of the state indication, and SW _max,ord2 the maximum scale value of the second ordinal scale.

The maximum output value of the period amplitude can be chosen, particularly for the positive and negative ranges, such that a signal corresponding to the maximum value of the second ordinal scale is just barely tolerable for the receiving user, while simultaneously a signal corresponding to a minimum value of the second ordinal scale is sufficiently perceptible. For the neutral range, a constant signal waveform can be chosen, where the period amplitude is the height of this constant signal waveform, specifically the base level. The height of the period amplitude for the neutral range can also be chosen so that a corresponding signal is sufficiently perceptible for the receiving user.

The period frequency is calculated by the reciprocal of the period duration, where the period duration can be calculated using the following formula: $$T_{p,max}/S{W}_{akt,ord1}$$

In this case, T _p,max represents the maximum output value of the period duration and SW _akt,ord1 represents the available scale value of the first ordinal scale.

For the neutral region, the constant signal waveform can be briefly interrupted several times at regular intervals, in particular in such a way that the interruptions correspond to the period frequency.

It is also conceivable that the number of periods in the signal is variable. In particular, the number of periods can correspond to the scale value of the first ordinal scale; that is, for a scale value of 2, the number of periods output is also 2. It is also conceivable that a different number of periods is assigned to a different scale value.

The durations of the short and the long portion following the lowering can be calculated using the following formulas:

Duration of the short section: $$T_{p,max}/S{W}_{akt,ord1}/2/3$$

Duration of the long portion: $$T_{p,max}/S{W}_{akt,ord1}/2-\left(T_{p,max}/S{W}_{akt,ord1}/2/3\right)$$

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the positive and negative areas can be represented by time-shifted activation in different directions, essentially along the circumference and/or in different directions, essentially along the extension of the human body part. This further improves the perception and acquisition of the signal by the receiving user.

• 1 in schematischer Form eine Vorrichtung und einen Ansteuervorgang der Aktuatoreinrichtungen der Vorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 2 in schematischer Form eine Vorrichtung und einen Ansteuervorgang der Aktuatoreinrichtungen der Vorrichtung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 3 in schematischer Form eine Aktuatoreinrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 4 in schematischer Form eine Kodierungsmatrix gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 5 in schematischer Form der Kodierungsmatrix gemäß 4 zugeordnete Kopfsymbole gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung; und
• 6 in schematischer Form der Kodierungsmatrix gemäß 4 zugeordnete Kopfsymbole gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung; und
• 7 Schritte eines Verfahrens gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung.

There are now various ways to advantageously elaborate and further develop the teaching of the present invention. For this purpose, reference should be made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to claim 1 and, on the other hand, to the following explanation of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawing. In conjunction with the explanation of the preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawing, generally preferred embodiments and further developments of the teaching are also explained. The drawing shows

• 1 in schematic form a device and a control process of the actuator devices of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 2 in schematic form a device and a control process of the actuator devices of the device according to a further embodiment of the present invention;
• 3 in schematic form an actuator device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 4 in schematic form a coding matrix according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 5 in schematic form of the coding matrix according to 4 associated head symbols according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
• 6 in schematic form of the coding matrix according to 4 associated head symbols according to a further embodiment of the present invention; and
• 7 Steps of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

1 The schematic shows a device and a control process for the actuator. Equipment of the device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to 1 The device 1 comprises a basic element 3 in the form of a bracelet 3 that can be attached to a human body part 2. Four actuator devices 4 are arranged equidistantly apart from each other on the bracelet 3 such that, when the bracelet 3 is worn, the four actuator devices 4 are positioned essentially along the circumference 36 of the human body part 2, namely the arm 2.

The device 1 further comprises a control unit 5, which is arranged on the wristband 3. A signal 6 can be output by the four actuator devices 4, the signal 6 being based on a control signal receivable by the control unit 5.

The four actuator units 4 are designed to output a tactile signal 6 and can be individually controlled by the control unit 5 so that they can be controlled in different directions, essentially along the circumference 36 of the body part 2, with a time delay. In the illustration in 1 The actuator devices 4, labelled 1 to 4, are controlled sequentially in a clockwise direction.

The output signal 6 has a periodic waveform 7 with a period 8, wherein a period shape 9 and/or a period amplitude 10 and/or a period frequency of the period 8 can be varied. The period shape 9 can be output with a waveform having at least three rectangular sections 11, wherein the at least three rectangular sections 11 comprise a central section 12 representing the period amplitude 10 and two lateral sections 13 representing a base level. The central section 12 can be temporarily lowered to the base level, so that the central section 12 has a short component 14 and a long component 15 following the lowering. The number of periods is 2 in this embodiment. However, a different number of periods is also conceivable. By controlling the actuator devices 4 in this way, the impression of a wave-like signal 6 circulating around the arm 2 can be generated.

2 Figure 1 shows in schematic form a device and a control process of the actuator devices of the device according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

According to 2 The device 1 comprises two base elements 3, 3', each in the form of a bracelet 3, 3', which can be attached to a human body part 2. On each bracelet 3, 3', four actuator units 4 are arranged equidistantly such that, when the bracelet 3, 3' is worn, the four actuator units 4 are positioned substantially along the circumference 36 of the body part 2, namely the arm 2. Furthermore, the device has a connecting element 16, the two base elements 3, 3' being connected to each other via the connecting element 16. A further actuator unit 4 is arranged on the connecting element 16. The further actuator assembly 4 and two of the actuator assemblies 4 of the wristbands 3, 3' are arranged equidistantly from one another such that, in an applied state of the wristbands 3, 3' and the connecting element 16, they are positioned essentially along an extension 37 of the body part 2, namely the arm 2. Thus, these actuator assemblies 4 are positioned in a longitudinal direction of the body part 2 or the arm 2.

The device also includes a control unit 5. A signal 6 can be output by the actuator devices 4, wherein the signal 6 is based on a control signal that can be received by the control unit 5.

The further actuator assembly 4 and two of the actuator assemblies 4 of the wristbands 3, 3' can be individually controlled by the control unit 5 in such a way that they can be controlled in different directions, essentially along the extension 37 of the body part 2, with a time offset. In the illustration in 2 The actuator devices 4, labelled 1 to 3, are sequentially activated along the length of the arm 2 and towards the hand of the receiving user. This activation of the actuator devices 4 creates the impression of a wave-like signal 6 propagating along a length 37 of the arm 2.

The resulting signal 6 has a signal waveform 7, which corresponds to the signal waveform 7 from 1 can correspond.

3 The figure shows in schematic form an actuator device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The actuator device 4 has a housing 17 with an imbalance exciter 18 and a power supply unit 19 arranged therein, wherein the imbalance exciter 18 can generate impulses in a direction 20 that is essentially orthogonal to an outer surface of the body part 2. This allows a tactile signal 6, perceptible to the receiving user, to be output.

The imbalance exciter 18 is materially bonded to a projecting flexible tongue 22 by a soldered connection 21. An adhesive bond is also conceivable instead of a soldered connection 21. The projecting flexible tongue 22 is in turn positively and force-fitted by a connection in the 3 The riveted connection (not shown) is fixed to a mounting base 23 of the housing 17. Instead of a riveted connection, the projecting flexible tongue 22 can also be fixed by a screw connection.

4 Figure 1 shows in schematic form a coding matrix according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The coding matrix 24, which can be used to code the status information, has a first dimension 25 and a second dimension 26. The first dimension 25 is assigned a first ordinal scale 27 with 4 digits and scale values from 1 to 4. The second dimension 26 is assigned a second ordinal scale 28 with 7 digits and a positive range 29 with scale values from 1 to 3, a neutral range 30 with a scale value of 0, and a negative range 31 with scale values from -1 to -3. A status information can be entered or coded by combining a scale value from the first dimension 25 with a scale value from the second dimension 26. The coding matrix 24 also includes coding symbols 31 that graphically represent the respective status information. These symbols can facilitate the input or coding of the status information for the transmitting user.

In the exemplary embodiment according to 4 The first ordinal scale 27 represents an arousal level, and the second ordinal scale 28 represents a valence level. An arousal level with a scale value of 1 means "calm," whereas an arousal level with a scale value of 4 means "highly aroused." The second ordinal scale 28 ranges from "very unpleasant" at a scale value of -3 to "very pleasant" at a scale value of 3.

The coding matrix 24 can be graphically displayed on a user interface 32 of an input device 33 or an IoT device. This can significantly simplify the input of the status information by the transmitting user.

The 5 and 6 show in schematic form the coding matrix according to 4 associated head symbols according to one and a further embodiment of the present invention.

Each head symbol 34 graphically represents a signal 6 based on a control signal or status indication. Thus, a total of 28 different head symbols 34 are assigned to the coding matrix 24 with its 4x7 structure. The head symbols 34 can be output as a visual signal 6 via at least one actuator 4.

In both embodiments, the head symbol 34 comprises a schematic representation of the period form 9, the period amplitude 10, and the period frequency. The scale values of the first ordinal scale 27 can be represented by different period frequencies. The scale values of the second ordinal scale 28 can be represented by different period amplitudes 10, with the positive range 29, the neutral range 30, and the negative range 31 being representable by different period forms 9.

According to 5 The positive region 29 can be represented by a periodic form 9 with a sinusoidal waveform and the negative region 31 can be represented by a periodic form 9 with three sections 11, each with a rectangular shape, wherein the at least three rectangular sections 11 comprise a central section 12 representing the period amplitude 10 and two lateral sections 13 representing a base level.

According to 6 The positive area 29 corresponds to the negative area 31 according to 5 representable and the negative area 31 according to the negative area 31 according to 5 representable, wherein the middle section 12 representing the period amplitude 10 can be temporarily lowered to a base level, so that the middle section 12 has a short part 14 and a long part 15 following the lowering.

The neutral zone 30 is according to the 5 and 6 representable by a constant signal profile 7 at the level of the baseline.

7 shows steps of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

To carry out the method, a system comprising an input device 33 with a transmitter unit 35 and a device 1 according to the invention, for example according to the one described in 1 The illustrated embodiment is used.

In the first step, S1, a transmitting user provides a status indication regarding an emotion. The transmitting user could, for example, be a patient in a therapy session with a psychotherapist, the receiving user. The patient and the psychotherapist can communicate with each other via a video telephony system. Furthermore, the patient can use the input device 33 and the psychotherapist the device 1. Thus, the patient can, for example, transmit emotions to the psychotherapist via the system according to the invention.

Subsequently, the provided status information is entered by the transmitting user into the input device 33, for example a smartphone, in step S2 and encoded in step S21 as part of the input using a coding matrix 24 displayed on the user interface 32 of the input device 33.

In step S3, the control signal is sent to the control unit 5 of the device 1. The control signal is based on the status indication. The control unit 5 of the device 1 receives the control signal in step S4.

Finally, in step S5, the signal 6, which is based on the control signal, is output by at least part of the actuator devices 4.

Regarding further advantageous embodiments of the teaching according to the invention, reference is made to the general part of the description and to the attached claims in order to avoid repetition.

Finally, it should be expressly pointed out that the exemplary embodiments of the objects according to the invention described above serve only to discuss the claimed teaching, but do not limit it to these exemplary embodiments.

List of reference symbols

1

device

2

Body part, arm

3.3'

Basic element, bracelet

4

Actuator setup

5

control unit

6

signal

7

Signal waveform

8

period

9

Periodic form

10

Period amplitude

11

Rectangular section

12

Middle section

13

Side section

14

Short portion of the middle section 12

15

Long part of the middle section 12

16

Connecting element

17

Housing

18

Imbalance pathogen

19

Energy supply unit

20

Orthogonal direction

21

soldered joint

22

Projecting flexible tongue

23

Mounting base

24

Coding matrix

25

First dimension

26

Second dimension

27

First ordinal scale

28

Second ordinal scale

29

Positive area

30

Neutral area

31

Negative area

32

user interface

33

Input device

34

Head symbol

35

Transmitter unit

36

Along the circumference of body part 2

37

Along the extension of body part 2

Claims (18)

Device (1) for outputting a signal (6), in particular relating to a state indication, for example an emotion, comprising a base element (3) attachable to a human body part (2), a control unit (5), and at least three, in particular four, actuator devices (4), wherein the at least three actuator devices (4) are arranged on and/or in the base element (3) such that the at least three actuator devices (4) are positioned, preferably equidistantly, apart from one another in an applied state of the base element (3) essentially along a circumference (36) of the human body part (2), and wherein the signal (6) can be output by the at least three actuator devices (4), wherein the signal (6) is displayed on a based on the control signal received by the control unit (5), characterized in that the signal (6) has a periodic signal waveform (7) with a period (8), wherein a period shape (9) and/or a period amplitude (10) and/or a period frequency of the period (8) is variable, wherein the period shape (9) can be output with a waveform having at least three rectangular sections (11), wherein the at least three rectangular sections (11) comprise a central section (12) representing the period amplitude (10) and two lateral sections (13) representing a base level, preferably wherein the waveform having at least three rectangular sections (11) is symmetrical. Device (1) according Claim 1 , characterized in that the basic element (3) is a cuff, a bracelet, a ring or a chain. Device (1) according Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that a further basic element (3') and a connecting element (16) are arranged, wherein the basic elements (3, 3') are connected to each other via the connecting element (16). Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , characterized in that at least one further actuator device (4) is arranged on and/or in one or more basic elements (3, 3') and/or the connecting element (16), wherein at least a part of the actuator devices (4) is arranged such that at least a part of the actuator devices (4) is spaced apart from each other, preferably equidistantly, such that the at least part of the actuator devices (4) is positioned in an applied state of one or more basic elements (3, 3') and/or the connecting element (16) substantially along an extension (37) of the human body part (2). Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 4 , characterized in that the actuator devices (4) can be individually controlled by the control unit (5). Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , characterized in that at least a part of the actuator devices (4) can be controlled in different directions essentially along the circumference (36) and/or essentially along the extension (37) of the human body part (2) with a time delay. Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , characterized in that at least one part of the actuator devices (4) each has a housing (17) with an unbalance exciter (18) arranged therein and optionally a power supply unit (19), preferably wherein impulses can be generated by the unbalance exciter (18) in a direction (20) that is essentially orthogonal to an outer surface of the body part (2). Device (1) according Claim 7 , characterized in that the unbalance exciter (18) is fixed to and/or in a projecting flexible tongue (22) in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting and/or material-fitting manner, preferably by a soldered or adhesive connection. Device (1) according Claim 8 , characterized in that the projecting flexible tongue (22) is fixed to and/or in a mounting base (23) of the housing (17) in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting and/or material-fitting manner, preferably by a rivet or screw connection. Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 9 , characterized in that the signal (6) comprises a tactile and/or acoustic and/or visual signal. Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 10 , characterized in that the control signal is based on a state indication, wherein the state indication is encoded using a coding matrix (24) with a first dimension (25) and a second dimension (26), wherein the first dimension (25) of the state indication can be represented by the period frequency and the second dimension (26) of the state indication can be represented by the period shape (9) and/or the period amplitude (10). Device (1) according Claim 11 , characterized in that a first ordinal scale (27) is assigned to the first dimension (25), wherein the scale values of the first ordinal scale (27) can be represented by different period frequencies. Device (1) according Claim 11 or 12 , characterized in that the second dimension (26) is assigned a second ordinal scale (28) with a positive range (29), a neutral range (30) and a negative range (31), wherein the scale values of the second ordinal scale (28) are representable by different period amplitudes (10), and wherein the positive range (29), the neutral range (30) and the negative range (31) are representable by different period shapes (9). Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 13 , characterized in that the periodic form (9) can be output with a sinusoidal waveform and/or at least one section (11) with a rectangular waveform. Device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 14 , characterized in that the middle section (12) can be temporarily lowered to the base level, so that the middle section (12) has a short part (14) and a long part (15) following the lowering. Device (1) according to one of the Claims 13 until 15 , characterized in that the positive area (29) and the negative area (30) can be represented by time-shifted control in different directions essentially along the circumference (36) and/or in different directions essentially along the extension (37) of the human body part (2). System comprising an input device (33) and/or an IoT device with a transmitter unit (35) and a device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 16 , in particular wherein the input device (33) and/or the IoT device has a user interface (32) for entering a status indication, preferably wherein the user interface (32) for entering the status indication comprises a graphical and/or physical representation of a coding matrix (24), and wherein the control signal is based on the status indication and can be sent by the transmitting unit (35) of the input device (32) and/or the IoT device to the control unit (5) of the device (1). Method for outputting a signal (6), in particular relating to a state indication, for example an emotion, comprising a device (1) for outputting the signal (6), comprising a base element (3) attachable to a human body part (2), a control unit (5), and at least three, in particular four, actuator devices (4), wherein the at least three actuator devices (4) are arranged on and/or in the base element (3) such that, in an applied state of the base element (3), the at least three actuator devices (4) are positioned substantially along a circumference (36) of the human body part (2), and wherein the signal (6) can be output by the at least three actuator devices (4), wherein the signal (6) is based on a control signal receivable by the control unit (5), preferably according to one of the Claims 1 until 16 , especially with a system according to Claim 17 , comprising the steps of: - providing (S1) a status indication by a transmitting user or an IoT device; - encoding (S21) the provided status indication, preferably using an encoding matrix (24); - optionally, inputting (S2) the status indication into an input device (33) by the transmitting user; - sending (S3) the control signal, wherein the control signal is based on the status indication, by a transmitting unit (5) of the input device (33) or the IoT device, to the control unit (5) of the device (1); - receiving (S4) the control signal by the control unit (5) of the device (1); and - outputting (S5) the signal (6), wherein the signal (6) is based on the control signal, by at least some of the actuator devices (4).