Abstract: Described herein is a device (100) for inducing and maintaining sleep in which one of a number of sleep programmes can be selected in accordance with the requirement of a user, !n addition, a background can be selected by the user which forms part of the programme. The device (100) includes a display (120) and a control panel (130) mounted in a housing (110). individual sleep programmes are selected using the control panel (130) and the display (120). The device (100) includes processing unit (140) connected to a memory (150) and a driver (160) for a pair of speakers (170, 175) through which the selected sleep programme is played to the user.

Abstract: Inventive embodiments include a system for preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in an infant, by the application of Stochastic Resonance neurological stimuli. The system includes a crib mattress and copper noise grids, wherein the copper noise grids are embedded in the crib mattress. The system also includes a mechanism for generating time controlled white noise and time controlled cyclic signals, combined with a multitude of varying frequencies and harmonics, wherein the mechanism is adjustable for measured local (near crib) white noise power density levels, the mechanism further adjustable for diurnal and seasonal white noise power density level changes. The system also includes circuitry effective for producing positive and negative adjustable DC voltage levels.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a sleep aid device including: an electrode arranged on the surface of a pillow in such a manner as to come into contact with the scalp of a user; a brain wave signal acquisition section adapted to acquire a brain wave signal of the user via the electrode; an analysis section adapted to analyze the acquired brain wave signal; and a control section adapted to control the execution of a preset process according to the sleep stage representing the depth of sleep of the user identified by the analysis result.

Abstract: The disclosed system and method are directed to qualifying an image(s) and exposing an individual to the qualified image(s) for the purpose of eliciting a relaxation response. More specifically, a sequential rendition of qualified images are presented to either a normal or cognitively impaired person in order to elicit relaxation and/or reduce agitation. Qualified images include those with both particular natural landscape content or elements (e.g., low vegetative growth, an open area, trees, a horizon, a visible sky, an absence of any man-made structures, and fresh water) and a particular average fractal dimension.

Abstract: An electrically powered device (160) including an insertion component (165) for insertion into the ear cavity of a user, the device (160) including at least one inductor (170) operatively connected to a control circuit (175), the control circuit (175) providing electrical energy to the at least one inductor (170) wherein the insertion component (165) includes the at least one inductor (170) such that when in use, the at least one inductor (170) is in close proximity to the inner ear of the user.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus, systems and methods for detecting neurological activity indicative of a dream state of a human. Many embodiments of the invention provide apparatus, systems and methods for detecting neurological activity of a human indicative of a dream state or the onset thereof and delivering an input to the user (such as an audio or other sensory input) during the dream state. Particular embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for detecting neurological activity indicative of the onset or occurrence of a dream state of a human and delivering an audio or other sensory input during the user's dream state. The audio input may be used for learning, delivering messages to the user's subconscious, and/or promoting a state of relaxation.

Abstract: By using an iterative loop of data collection, binaural tone generation/presentation, and analysis binaural tones can be introduced to induce an existing brain state to change from one associated with being awake to a state associated with being asleep. The current state of an individual's brain is determined by measuring movement and electrical activity. Using this data a binaural tone can be generated to induce the brain state to change. As the state of the brain is continually monitored the applied binaural tone is modified and applied until the desired sleep state is obtained.

Abstract: Techniques associated with a combination speaker and light source (“speaker-light device”) responsive to states of an organism based on sensor data are described, including generating chemical sensor data in response to one or more chemicals sensed by one or more chemical sensors in the same or different speaker-light devices. A scent generator may be activated to counter an odor caused by a chemical detected by the chemical sensor(s). The speaker-light device may activate an air mover operative to circulate ambient air over the chemical sensor. The speaker-light device may take an appropriate action in response to detected chemicals that affect states of the organism. Some or all of the actions taken may be taken by other devices in communication with the speaker-light device(s). An action may include generating and presenting a path or route to be taken by a user to an area of safety or reduced chemical concentration.

Abstract: A system and a method for improving a person's sleep is disclosed, wherein the system comprises a bedding layer comprising a plurality of individually controllable thermally adjustable zones, a plurality of temperature sensors, wherein at least one temperature sensor per thermally adjustable zone is dispersed throughout the bedding layer, and means for controlling the heating power of each thermally adjustable zone, wherein the system is configured for controlling the heating power of the thermally adjustable zones in which the body presence is detected. The method comprises detecting the position of the body of the person on or underneath a bedding layer, and controlling the heating and cooling of each individual thermally adjustable zone in which the body presence is detected. A computer program product for carrying out the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Biofeedback virtual reality sleep assistant technologies monitor one or more physiological parameters while presenting an immersive environment. The presentation of the immersive environment changes over time in response to changes in the values of the physiological parameters. The changes in the presentation of the immersive environment are configured using biofeedback technology and are designed to promote sleep.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of modifying music files to induce a desired state of consciousness. First and second modulations are introduced into a music file such that, when the music file is played, both of the modulations occur simultaneously. Additional modulations can be introduced, as well as sound tones at window frequencies.

Abstract: A humidifier includes a base having a sound machine module and a humidifier module, a water reservoir in fluid communication with the humidifier module, a user interface supported by the base, and a controller in communication with the user interface, the humidifier module, and the sound machine module. The controller is configured to operate the humidifier module to provide humidified air using water contained in the water reservoir in response to a humidifier input to the user interface. The controller is also configured to operate the sound machine module to provide sound in response to a sound input to the user interface.

Abstract: A stimulation and soothing device for an infant is disclosed. The device includes a pouch large enough to accommodate the lower torso of an infant when the infant is placed in a reposed position therein. A backing piece includes first and second wings that wrap over the infant's shoulder and arms and secure to the pouch front panel. Each wing includes a pocket in which an insertable and programmable device may be housed. The insertable and programmable devices are provided for infant stimulation and soothing and may include a sound transducer and/or a portable digital media player. Additional pockets are provided for a temperature probe and for a phototherapy blanket.

Abstract: System and method of all-night sleep management integrates the sleep cycle into the wake cycle with the result that the individual's sense of wholeness and overall well-being is promoted and improved day-in-day-out. In different embodiments, the system and method of all-night sleep management provides audio that a media player plays without potentially disruptive transitions to help people to manage tinittus or help babies or others to fall and stay asleep or to prevent failing to fall asleep or to prevent waking up of otherwise sensitive sleepers and provides an audio, video or other signal that an audio, video or other media player plays incorporating pacing, binaural beats, waveform manipulation, brainwave entrainment, light frequency, amplitude and color modulation or other techniques to draw people from the awake state, through one or more initial, staged intermediate sleep stages and back into the awake state.

Abstract: Generally, a method performed by one or more processing devices includes generating a graphical user interface that when rendered on a display of the one or more processing devices renders a visual representation of an environment and a visual representation of an object in the environment; retrieving an auditory stimulus with one or more auditory attributes indicative of a location of a virtual target in the environment; receiving information specifying movement of the object in the environment; determining, based on the movement of the object, a proximity of the object to the virtual target; adjusting, based on the proximity, one or more values of the one or more auditory attributes of the auditory stimulus; and causing the one or more processing devices to play the auditory stimulus using the adjusted one or more values.

Abstract: A method of treating tinnitus comprising measuring a patient's hearing, determining the patient's hearing loss and the patient's tinnitus frequency using the measurements of the patient's hearing, programming a clinical controller with the measurements of the patient's hearing, selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones, where the therapeutic tones are selected to be at least a half-octave above or below of the patient's tinnitus frequency, setting an appropriate volume for each of the plurality of tones, repetitively playing each of the plurality of therapeutic tones, and pairing a vagus nerve stimulation pulse train with each playing of a therapeutic tone, thereby reducing the patient's perception of tinnitus.

Abstract: A sound machine having a pseudo random white noise generator provides white noise sound therapy of selectable tone/texture, bandwidth and/or peak frequency to those suffering from tinnitus or others seeking noise-masking or sleep or relaxation. The sound machine having a pseudo random white noise generator includes a user input interface having a tone/texture user input control, a band pass user input control and a peak select user input control. The tone/texture user input control selects the tone/texture of the white noise sound generated, the bandpass user input control the bandpass of the white noise sound generated and the peak select user input control provides the ability to select frequency peaks of the white noise sound generated.

Abstract: Systems and methods for using particular types of music compositions having certain characteristics to treat depression and related disorders, autism, and other disorders are described. The music for use in music therapy efforts includes characteristics for modification of the psycho-physiological apparatus and response including the use of vocal invented language elements to simulate pre-verbal communication and elements to coincide with and work with natural chrono-biological and circadian rhythms. For example, activating elements are provided in some compositions that are to be played immediately prior to a peak of chrono-biological activity. As another example, other compositions include de-activating elements to improve relaxation immediately prior to a natural low of chrono-biological activity. Such activating and de-activating elements include musical elements such as changes of volume, frequency selection, and tempo.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system (102) for providing biofeedback to a person (104). The system (102) comprises a source (106) for generating a source signal (108) and a transducer (110) for generating a measurement signal (112) in response to a physiological parameter (114) indicative for mental relaxation of the person (104). The system (102) furthermore comprises a filter (116) for variably filtering the source signal via modifying a cut-off frequency in response to the measurement signal (112) and an interface (118) for providing a biofeedback signal (119) to the person on the basis of the source signal as variably filtered by the filter (116).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing therapy using spontaneous otoacoustic emission (SOAE) analysis is described. In one embodiments, a method for utilizing the voice-ear-brain connection to achieve self-healing includes capturing audio emissions of at least one ear of a patient, determining a frequency spectrum of the audio emissions, identifying a peak frequency in the frequency spectrum, and producing at least one audio signal in response the peak frequency.

Abstract: One or more embodiments of the present invention pertain to an apparatus that helps a child to fall asleep. The apparatus includes a set of eyes and eye lids. The apparatus also includes a media input/output unit configured to output audio from the apparatus or a portable device. The eyelids are may be configured to close while the audio is outputted from the media input/output unit.

Abstract: The present invention includes a device and method for relaxing and promoting healing to an individual by synchronization of kinesthetic and aural whole tone sounds.

Abstract: A sound enrichment system for provision of tinnitus relief, the sound enrichment system includes a noise generator, an environment classifier that is configured to determine a classification of an ambient sound environment of the sound enrichment system, a processing system for adjusting a noise signal based at least in part on the classification, wherein the noise signal is obtained using the noise generator, and an output transducer for conversion of the adjusted noise signal to an acoustic signal for presentation to a user. A method of providing a noise enriched sound signal for provision of relief of tinnitus includes obtaining a noise signal, adjusting the noise signal based at least in part on a sound environment classification, generating an acoustic noise signal from the adjusted noise signal, and presenting the acoustic noise signal to a tinnitus suffering person.

Abstract: The methods and systems described herein may involve determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and delivering content to at least one individual based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing a game, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one player of the game, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and affecting the game play based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing an interactive space, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual in the space, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and modifying at least one attribute of the space based on the analysis.

Abstract: The methods and systems described herein may involve determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and delivering content to at least one individual based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing a game, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one player of the game, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and affecting the game play based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing an interactive space, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual in the space, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and modifying at least one attribute of the space based on the analysis.

Abstract: The methods and systems described herein may involve determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and delivering content to at least one individual based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing a game, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one player of the game, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and affecting the game play based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing an interactive space, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual in the space, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and modifying at least one attribute of the space based on the analysis.

Abstract: Methods, computer systems, and computer-readable storage media for monitoring and managing patient discomfort are provided. Inputs are received from ambient sensors located in a clinical care room. Based on a determination that the inputs exceed predetermined thresholds, it is determined that the patient is experiencing discomfort. Various measures are automatically initiated to help diminish the patient's discomfort. The measures include aromatherapy, visual relaxation therapy, audio therapy, and automatic administration of pain relief.

Abstract: A system for providing multi-sensory therapy including a computer having an audio output and a screen, wherein the computer is configured to provide audio stimulus and visual stimulus, a motion chair, and an actuator coupled to the motion chair, wherein the actuator is configured to cause movement of the motion chair, wherein the motion of the motion chair is configured to provide tactile stimulus, vestibular stimulus and proprioceptive stimulus to a patient seated in the motion chair, wherein the stimuli provided by the computer is provided concurrently with the stimuli provided by the motion chair.

Abstract: The Lotus massage systems and methods disclosed herein include various combined components that enhance the overall massage experience. These components integrate choreographed, mapped, synchronized, and freeform application of massage techniques with music, silence, ambient noise reduction, 360-degree site cancellation, aroma therapy, etc. The massage systems and methods disclosed herein may also involve choreographed, mapped, synchronized and/or freeform application of strokes and movements, by referencing one or more music body charts.

Abstract: A system and method of processing one or more sensor logs includes receiving a sensor log and identifying a set of entries in the sensor log having a predefined sequence of sensor identifiers. The set of entries may define a velocity event. The method can also provide for calculating an in-home gait velocity for the velocity event. In one example, the method also provides for identifying another set of entries in the sensor log having a sensor identifier that corresponds to a dwell sensor mounted in a doorway, wherein the other set of entries define a dwell event. The method may also provide for calculating an in-home dwell time for the dwell event.

Abstract: A system and method that provides controlled bilateral stimulation to a patient in response to physiological feedback to initiate and/or accelerate the onset of sleep and to maintain the sleep state after the onset of sleep. The system induces bilateral stimulation through stimulation modules that are coupled to opposite lateral sides of the patient's body. The stimulation modules stimulate the patient's body bilaterally through a sequence of stimulations that alternate from one side of the patient's body to the other with a pause between each successive stimulation. The system controls the duration of the stimulations, the intensity of the stimulations and the period of time between successive stimulations in response to feedback from physiological sensors. The sensors are coupled to the patient and provide physiological information which initiates or terminates the bilateral stimulations, and/or modifies the characteristics of the stimulations.

Abstract: Method and apparatus comprising a method of recording natural sounds with a matched microphone array, recording the signal on a high resolution recording device including creating an audio bed, and playing back the recording on a tuned playback system. The method and apparatus is used to create or duplicate an ambient sound space for ambient therapy.

Abstract: An environment adjustment method mainly includes changing a color tone and lowering ambient temperature. The color tone of an image displayed or projected on a display is changed to one having a calming effect. Then, the ambient temperature is lowered after changing the color tone.

Abstract: A method, system and software product are provided such that a patient in an MRI suite can select and enjoy personalized lighting, music, images and video with a touch screen for a program that is displayed on a system interactive digital unit or device. A wide and advanced variety of pre-programmed themes can be provided with the system, as is the option of creating customized content by the healthcare provider. Image panels help to “transport” the patient “away” from the confining space in the magnet bore of the MRI scanner, moving the patient's focus from the scanner to his or her surroundings. A ceiling image panel displays images of the patient's choice. Patients can also “dock” their own electronic device to enjoy their own audio visual content. The lighting of the suite can be returned to normal lighting when required and then back to the patient's original selections.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an improved-customizability digital sound relaxation system having a sound card receiving port and a collectable sound card are cooperative to play prerecorded natural or other sounds by depressing one of a plurality of sound selector switches and a sound card selector switch. The new sounds of each collectable sound card customize the library of available sounds to individual taste. In another embodiment, an improved-flexibility digital sound relaxation system having at least two (2) prerecorded sounds stored at first and second memory locations of internal or external/internal memory devices may be selected and combined for concurrent and/or individual replay by depressing one of a plurality of sound selector switches and a combine switch, or by depressing one of a plurality of sound selector switches, a sound card selector switch and a combine switch.

Abstract: A sleep system is provided that aids in achieving a sleep goal by controlling the environment near a person. The sleep system executes instructions on a processor that interfaces with the person and various environmental controls. As the instructions are executed, the sleep system receives a sleep goal for the person that includes varying the nearby environment. The processor may further execute instructions to create settings that vary at least one environmental condition of the environment over time as it relates to one or more cycles of a sleep architecture for the person. Varying at least one environmental condition near the person experiencing one or more cycles of the sleep architecture influences the quality of the person's sleep. The sleep system may further adjust at least one environmental condition in the vicinity of the person tailored to the sleep architecture for the person.

Abstract: An amniotic infant blanket provides a feeling of fluid warmth coupled with the audible sounds of a human heartbeat. Behind a head or face portion of the blanket, a pocket is provided into which a bladder may be removably inserted. The pocket may be sealed by a zipper and has an aperture through which a hydrophone wire may pass. Likewise, the hydrophone wire may pass through the wall of the bladder without creating a leak therethrough. The bladder is filled with lukewarm tap water and the hydrophone connected to a playback unit that transmits signals that are transformed by the hydrophone into heartbeat sounds with which the infant is familiar.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods to modify memory and/or cognitive function by delivering a sensory stimulus paired with learned material at opportune physiological periods during sleep. Described herein are systems, methods and devices to enhance a user's cognitive function in memorization and learning. A machine (e.g., a system or device) may be used to identify opportune periods of the sleep cycle and to deliver a stimulus during specific phases of the sleep cycle to facilitate or interrupt memory consolidation. The machine may record ambient sensory inputs during awake acquisition or reinforcement/relearning and replay all or an extracted form of the ambient sensory stimuli during a specified portion of the user's sleep. A stimulus may be delivered to a user to affect brain activity during sleep to modulate the phase of a user's sleep, quality of sleep, and/or quality or intensity of brain rhythms during a particular phase of sleep.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an improved-customizability digital sound relaxation system having a sound card receiving port and a collectable sound card are cooperative to play prerecorded natural or other sounds by depressing one of a plurality of sound selector switches and a sound card selector switch. The new sounds of each collectable sound card customize the library of available sounds to individual taste. In another embodiment, an improved-flexibility digital sound relaxation system having at least two (2) prerecorded sounds stored at first and second memory locations of internal or external/internal memory devices may be selected and combined for concurrent and/or individual replay by depressing one of a plurality of sound selector switches and a combine switch, or by depressing one of a plurality of sound selector switches, a sound card selector switch and a combine switch.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of modifying music files to induce a desired state of consciousness. First and second modulations are introduced into a music file such that, when the music file is played, both of the modulations occur simultaneously. Additional modulations can be introduced, as well as sound tones at window frequencies.

Abstract: A method for improving a health disorder related to, e.g., insufficient activation of the parasympathetic nervous system; the method can include pairing a subject and a partner, and having a session in which a relevant physiological parameter of the partner is transmitted to the subject, with the subject moving her own parameter in the direction of the partner's.

Abstract: An article and related method to train a reflexive action, including helping a person fall to sleep. The article includes an electronic component configured to receive electrical signals, including electrical signals associated with the generation of sounds and/or motion, and a generator for emitting selectable sounds and/or causing motion when sufficient pressure is applied to the article. The article includes different types of pressure sensors. The method includes the steps of programming the processor to generate sounds of selectable type for selectable periods of time that encourage a person to carry out a desired behavior, such as keeping the person's head on a pillow.

Abstract: A method of conditioning a living body of a patient to associate the positive effects of sensory stimulation of the sympathetic ganglia with digital audio representations of offending substances to modify errant interpretations of various systems involved in a reaction to ultimately cease or reduce negative reactions to such substances. In addition, a patient's sensitivities are treated by using digital representations, preferably provided via a computer, to represent the actual substances in order to engage the multimodal functioning of the brain. Sensory stimulation is used in conjunction with the digital audio signals to condition the body to react more appropriately to the substance. Motor activity is measured before treatment to show an action schema of “retreat”. Stimulation is administered to the sympathetic ganglia until the motor activity is restored to normal capacity, indicating the perception of the substance has been modified.

Abstract: A method includes adding, by a computing device, a brain wave pattern having a first frequency to a music track having a first decibel level at or above a threshold of hearing by mixing the brain wave pattern under the music track at a second decibel level less than the first decibel level, wherein the second decibel level is at or below the threshold of hearing, adding, by the computing device, a repetitive chant having a second frequency to the music track, by mixing the repetitive chant under the music track at a third decibel level less than the first decibel level, wherein the third decibel level is at or below the threshold of hearing, and recording, by the computing device, the music track with the brain wave pattern and the repetitive chant to a computer-readable medium.

Abstract: A console for supplying medical-technical devices in a treatment room has a support frame and several connectors or sockets for medical-technical supply or for withdrawal of gases and/or electrical supply currents, as well as for providing electronic communication paths for medical-technical end devices. The console can incorporate an audio playback system integrated in the support frame for filling the treatment room with predetermined soothing or therapeutic sounds. The support system may be adapted for being mounted to or suspended from a ceiling mount in a treatment room, and can have a support frame having an integrated and medically approved audio playback system.

Abstract: Methods and systems for treating tinnitus are provided. Some embodiments include a method of providing a primary audio signal having a primary peak portion substantially centered at about a tinnitus frequency of a patient. The method may also include combining the primary audio signal with a general audio signal to generate a combined sound. The method may also include exposing the patient to the combined sound so that the patient hears the combined sound, to diminish a perception by the patient of tinnitus.

Abstract: An optical therapeutic apparatus includes an ear shield for covering a wearer's ear, which has a plurality of acupuncture points; a hanging member including a connection portion connected to the ear shield; and a plurality of light emitters disposed within an interior portion of the ear shield in array manner to face the plurality of acupuncture points respectively. The plurality of light emitters includes a plurality of acupoint-stimulation elements, each corresponding to a respective one of the acupuncture points, at least two sets of the acupoint-stimulation elements are capable of emitting stimulation light beams at different time intervals.

Abstract: A system for therapy may include a mask (200) for a patient having a frame, cushion, forehead support and a light (100). The mask is connectable to a respiratory treatment apparatus, such as a flow generator, to receive breathable gas for a respiratory therapy. The light may also be connected to the power system and/or control system of the apparatus. A light may also be included in a module, such as a docking station, for a respiratory treatment apparatus. The lights may be controlled by one or more processors, and may be responsive to detected conditions, to assist with therapy. For example, the light may be turned on at a predetermined time or may be synchronized with the patient's sleep state, to assist in waking up the patient or re-setting the patient's circadian rhythm. Other components, such as sound and aroma generators of the system, may also be controlled for such therapies.

Abstract: A sound and light machine (SLM) produces sound and light that pulses at brain wave frequencies. The SLM is programmed to induce a particular state of consciousness in a user. The SLM includes a left and a right light emitting diode (LED) (3). The LEDs (3) are configured to be placed in front of the user's left and right eyes, respectively, and are programmed to pulse light at a frequency that helps induce the particular state of consciousness in the user. The SLM has a left and a right headphone speaker (4). The speakers (4) are configured to play different tones into right and left ears to produce binaural beats that match the LED pulse frequencies. The SLM also has a microcontroller (5) on circuit board that runs firmware to control the LEDs and headphone speakers.

Abstract: The present invention uses the power of music to provide both feedback and motivation to physical, recreational, occupational therapy patients to enable music expression, therapeutic engagement and compliance.