Sensory (e.g., Visual, Audio, Tactile, Etc.) Patents (Class 600/27)
  • Patent number: 8834346
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, a system and method for generating a sleep therapy stimulus waveform for a patient. Stimulus sequence information can be selected from a sequence memory array, and stimulus sequence information can be received from the sequence memory array at a stimulus generator selector. A generator select signal can be provided to a stimulus generator of a closed loop neuromodulator using the stimulus sequence information and a stimulus duration signal, wherein the generator select signal can include stimulus type information related to stimulus pulses generated using the closed loop neuromodulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Dymedix Corporation
    Inventors: Reinhold Henke, Evan S. Johnston, Peter Stasz
  • Patent number: 8834347
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, a system and method for anti-habituating sleep therapy using a closed loop neuromodulator. A first sleep disorder event can be detected using first activity information, and a first series of stimuli can be provided, in response to the first sleep disorder event, using a set of stimulus parameters. A habituation event can be detected and anti-habituation stimulation parameter can be adjusted to avoid patient habituation to the stimuli.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Dymedix Corporation
    Inventors: Reinhold Henke, Evan S. Johnston, Alan B. Jones, Peter Stasz, Thomas H. Zymowski
  • Publication number: 20140228622
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: ASHTEL STUDIOS, INC.
    Inventor: Anish Patel
  • Publication number: 20140221775
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: John M. Stivoric, Eric Teller, David Andre, John A. Monocello, III
  • Publication number: 20140221730
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: John M. Stivoric, Eric Teller, David Andre, John A. Monocello, III
  • Publication number: 20140221776
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: BodyMedia, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Stivoric, Eric Teller, David Andre, John A. Monocello, III
  • Publication number: 20140221779
    Abstract: Dream stage enhancement uses a headband with EEG-EOG sensors, onboard processors, memory, coarse and fine time REM waveform detection modules, LEDs and an audio playback unit. After normalization to the user's EEG waveforms, the user's EEG-EOG signals are processed, REM and NREM stages detected and light, sound or AV stimuli are presented to the user based upon user-supplied light-sound-AV stimuli commands. To provide a reality check control (“RCC”), the head unit has a user actuatable RC interface whereby during sleep, RC stimuli are presented when the user depresses the RCC control which plays back the user supplied stimulus. In a “learning mode,” the user selects “Recall” or “No Recall” (“NR”) after the sleep period. If NR, then the system changes the color of light stimuli, light intensity, flash, audio sound type, audio intensity, and AV. If “Recall” the user supplied stimuli commands are carried out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel Carleton Schoonover, Andrew Holland Smiley
  • Publication number: 20140213845
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: CERNER INNOVATION, INC.
    Inventors: STEPHANIE PALMER BECHTEL, MARK NOLTE
  • Patent number: 8784293
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimizing sleep and post-sleep performance. In an embodiment, a system comprising a device and sleep mask are provided. The mask may comprise electroencephalographic (EEG) sensors and one or more stimulation elements configured to stimulate the senses of a wearer of the mask. The mask may be releasably and electrically coupled to a device which receives EEG signals from the mask, determines current and target sleep states based, at least in part, on the EEG signals, and uses this determination to tailor a sleep architecture of the wearer by controlling the stimulation elements. The mask may be a soft mask which utilizes conductive thread embroidered into one or more textile layers. In an embodiment, the stimulation elements may comprise one or more heating elements, electroluminescent panels, and speakers. In addition, the EEG sensors may comprise hybrid sensors comprising hydrogel in a conductive spacer fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Brain Monitoring, Inc.
    Inventors: Christine Berka, Djordje Popovic, Dan Levendowski, Gene Davis, Catherine McConnell, Matthew A. Yanagi
  • Publication number: 20140200432
    Abstract: A system for facilitating a subject's functional development includes sensing devices configured for sensing mind state signals; sensing devices configured for sensing body state signals; and a set of processing resources configured for generating a mind state indicator/measure, a body state indicator/measure, and a mind-body synergy indicator/measure that corresponds to which each of the subject's mind state and body state are synergistically aligned for facilitating the subject's functional development. The system can be configured for concurrently presenting a set of activities involving a model body part; engaging in attempted imitation of the set of activities by way of attempted movement of a body part that is a mirror image of the model body part; presenting an indication of an extent to which each of the mind state and body state are cooperative with respect to performance of the set of activities; and presenting an indication of relaxation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Subhasis Banerji, Kok Hui John Gerard Heng
  • Publication number: 20140194674
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Sean W. Davis
  • Patent number: 8771328
    Abstract: Phototherapy systems comprising a therapeutic lamp platform for radiant lamps such as LEDs disposed in an assembly comprising a first wall to which the lamps are affixed thereto and a second wall, closer to the patient, spaced from the first wall wherein the lamps are recessed relative thereto. The second wall comprises a reflective surface facing towards a patient and a plurality of light apertures substantially aligned with the LEDs on the first wall for communicating lamp radiation from the lamps to a user. The lamps and associated circuitry are disposed between the first and second wall so that the reflective surface is relatively smooth and seamless towards the patient. The walls have a malleable rigidity for flexible adjustability relative to the user. The device is mounted to the user with a frame comprising an eyeglass frame or goggles including lenses for shielding the user's eyes from lamp radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: La Lumiere LLC
    Inventors: Jay Tapper, Lawrence A. Blaustein, David Shuter, Eric Freitag, Charles Peter Althoff, Alistair Bramley, Allen Zadeh, Daniel Joseph Shuter, Zbigniew Paul Lorenc
  • Publication number: 20140179986
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: InSomniSolv, LLC
    Inventor: PETER KELLEY
  • Publication number: 20140171729
    Abstract: A medical environment can be personalised by displaying themes or visual sequences during the medical procedure. For a repeating medical procedure, the process can be improved by ensuring that the same theme continues from where it left off when the patient was last present. The theme can also include elements that indicate the patient's rate or degree of progress through the medical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: ELEKTA AB (PUBL)
    Inventors: Duncan Neil Bourne, Daniel Peter Thompson
  • Publication number: 20140163310
    Abstract: A vibrating baby attachment device is disclosed which is a portable apparatus that connects to baby gear and equipment and which vibrates to calm a baby. The vibrating baby attachment device comprises a base component that houses a motor assembly and a power component. The power component is in communication with the motor assembly for supplying power to the motor assembly. The base component further comprises a plurality of switches for controlling the motor assembly and power component. The base component can also comprise a strap and/or a clip to secure the device to the baby equipment, and padding to provide a buffer against unwanted sounds. Further, the device can comprise an audible component housed within the base component, which acts to produce music and white noise, and is typically electrically powered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Alanna Innes
  • Patent number: 8738183
    Abstract: An apparatus which provides various functions for physical and/or mental relaxation, as well as for health care of a user, and a method of implementing the apparatus, include downloading personal data of the user from a user terminal to a personally customized bed and controlling one or more functions of the personally customized bed based on the personal data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Woo-young Jang, Hyung-kyu Lim, Dong-wook Kim
  • Patent number: 8734317
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of treatment to improve at least one of concentration, memory, cognitive performance, and stress-relief in a subject in need thereof by controlled administration of synchronized flashes of light and pulsed tones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignees: Thomas Jefferson University
    Inventors: Michael R. Sperling, Joseph I. Tracy, Young Hyun Lim
  • Publication number: 20140135571
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki ISHIWATA, Shoko KINO, Jun-ichiro ARAI
  • Publication number: 20140135570
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems, methods, and apparatus for reducing the frequency and/or severity of photophobic responses or for modulating circadian cycles by controlling light exposure to cells in the human eye in certain wavelengths, such as 480 nm and 620 nm, and a visual spectral response of the human eye. Embodiments of an optical filter are described. In one embodiment an optical filter may be configured to transmit less than a first amount of light in certain wavelengths, and to transmit more than a second amount of light weighted across the visual spectral response. Methods of use and methods of manufacturing optical filters are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Steven M. Blair, Bradley Jay Katz
  • Publication number: 20140121453
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: PDC Facilities, Inc.
    Inventor: PDC Facilities, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8708884
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for adaptively mitigating motion sickness in an operator are provided herein. In some embodiments, a compensatory modulator for use with a display controller included in a system to adaptively mitigating motion sickness in an operator may include one or more inputs to receive at least one of physiological measurements of the operator or operator activity behavior from one or more monitoring devices, and a motion sickness expert system configured to (a) determine a cognitive state of the operator based on the received inputs, (b) compute mitigating display parameters based on the determined cognitive state of the operator, (c) output the computed mitigating display parameters to the display controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Christopher C. Smyth
  • Publication number: 20140114120
    Abstract: Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures comprise beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventors: Richard Barry Oser, Suzannah Long
  • Publication number: 20140114119
    Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for alleviating phantom limb discomfort using a smart phone equipped with a camera and having a digital imaging program or application for acquiring, processing, and displaying digital images. A moving image is acquired of a portion of the subject that consists of the subject's half-torso adjacent the limb of the amputation site, and any remaining amputation-site limb, as well as of the complementary portion of the subject's torso and its adjacent healthy limb, in a particular mode of use. The digital imaging program or application is used to obtain, through processing, a composite moving image of the subject's body by deleting the moving image of the subject's half-torso adjacent the limb of the amputation site, and any remaining amputation-site limb, and replacing it with a mirror image of the moving continuous complementary portion of the subject's torso, and its adjacent healthy limb, in the particular mode of use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Pieter C. Wiest
  • Patent number: 8690751
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Raphael Auphan
  • Patent number: 8690750
    Abstract: An improved System and Method to provide a human user with symbology to ameliorate, prevent or shorten the duration of disorientation or motion sickness effects caused by spatial disorientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Wesley W. O. Krueger
    Inventor: Wesley W O Krueger
  • Patent number: 8687925
    Abstract: An image storage processing apparatus includes an image acquisition means for acquiring taken image data imaged at an imaging apparatus unit, a bio-information acquisition means for acquiring bio-information of a user of the imaging apparatus unit at the time of imaging the taken image data acquired by the image acquisition means, a subject information acquisition means for acquiring subject information as an image analysis result of the taken image data acquired by the image acquisition means and a storage processing means for performing processing of recording the taken image data acquired by the image acquisition means, the bio-information acquired by the bio-information acquisition means and the subject information acquired by the subject information acquisition means in a recording medium in a state in which they are associated with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Akane Sano, Masaaki Tsuruta, Nozomu Ozaki, Masamichi Asukai, Taiji Ito, Akinobu Sugino, Hidehiko Sekizawa, Yoichiro Sako, Hideko Tabata
  • Publication number: 20140088341
    Abstract: A sound and light machine (SLM) produces sound and light pulses at brain wave frequencies so as to induce a particular state of consciousness in a user, while simultaneously providing music. The SLM includes light emitting diodes (LEDs) and headphone speakers. A microcontroller runs firmware to control the LEDs and headphone speakers so as to produce a plurality of dominant brainwave frequencies. Binaural voices produce a melody of music without interfering with the brainwave frequencies. Each note of the melody is sounded at a specific pitch based on information in a Tone Object, which includes a state variable index holding the note's current position within a waveform array and a state variable step, which is an amount by which to increment the state variable index at each iteration. The index is set to 0 at startup and the step is calculated from the initial note desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: CORNFIELD ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Mitchell A. Altman, William Alessi
  • Publication number: 20140048436
    Abstract: A compressed article of hygiene is formed by a compressed cloth that has been compressed by dehydration or vacuum pressure into a coin shape and that is expandable upon contact with a liquid, and a plurality of microencapsulated beads containing a material. The microencapsulated beads are attached and embedded in the compressed cloth. Upon contact with water, expansion of the compressed cloth is unconstrained, and the compressed cloth when expanded has a shape of a facial mask with openings for eye, nose and mouth. The material is a facial treatment material that hardens upon drying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: Donald SPECTOR
  • Publication number: 20140046121
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system (10) comprising a display unit (12) configured for displaying video and/or still images, an image source (14) in communication with the display unit (12) so as to allow content of the image source (14) to be displayed on the display unit (12), a physiological information gathering unit (16) configured to obtain current physiological information of a patient when the patient is positioned to see the video and/or still image on the display unit (12), a processor (18) for receiving current physiological information from the physiological information gathering unit (16), the processor (18) being in communication with the image source (14), the processor (18) being configured to transmit to the display unit (12) a combination of the current physiological information and a target breathing rate. Further the present invention relates to a respective method (36) for using the system (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Murray Fulton Gillies, Tim Johannes Willem Tijs, Jürgen Vogt, Constance Jeanne Elizabeth Saalberg-Seppen, Gijs Antonius Franciscus Van Elswijk
  • Publication number: 20140031609
    Abstract: A sensory input device comprising a chair portion (which comprises a seat portion and a back portion) and a pressing portion that has at least a first engagement region that is selectively movable between at least a first position and a second position (in which the first engagement region is engaged with a second engagement region on the chair portion). Also, a sensory input device comprising a chair portion (which comprises a seat portion and a back portion), the sensory input device having a total mass in the range of from about 2 pounds to about 5 pounds. Also, a sensory input device comprising a chair portion (which comprises a seat portion and a back portion) and at least a first pressure element. Also, methods comprising positioning person who has been characterized as having compromised sensory functions on a sensory input device as described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Rebecca Anna BALLARD
  • Publication number: 20140024883
    Abstract: A device for stimulating eye movement in a subject is presented. Stimulating eye movement through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) allows the processing of information and elimination of negative body sensations. In an embodiment, a mechanical device is presented in which a physical object is attached to a motion mechanism which moves horizontally from left to right. In another embodiment, an electrical device is presented in which a computer-simulated object travels horizontally across a visual component. In a further embodiment, a computer software application is presented to track eye movements. The subject tracks the movement of the object with his eyes for a specific number of cycles in order to eliminate negative body sensations such as post-traumatic stress disorder. The device of the present invention may be used for sensation processing by the general public and may be used for ART by a trained therapist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
    Inventor: Helene Rosenzweig
  • Patent number: 8628462
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimizing the sleep and post-sleep performance of individuals regardless of their environment and time available for sleep are provided. The systems and methods take into account factors that determine the effects of a sleep episode on dexterity, cognitive functions and the subjective feeling of fatigue after sleeping: duration and sleep architecture of the sleep episode, point on the circadian cycle at which the episode occurred, the amount of sleep debt accumulated prior to the episode and the subject's susceptibility to sleep deprivation. The systems and methods include monitoring of sleep architecture over a longer period of time, measurement of accumulated sleep debt and assessment and/or tailoring of the sleep architecture for each subsequent sleep episode, determining a desired sleep state in which the subject should be in, and generating sensory stimuli for guiding the subject to the desired sleep state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Brain Monitoring, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Berka, Djordje Popovic, Gene Davis, Matthew A. Yanagi
  • Publication number: 20130338428
    Abstract: An assistance system for visually handicapped persons with visual impairment in a part of their visual field includes body-worn sensors to inform them actively about objects or movements in the visually impaired sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: NICOLINE HAISMA, GERRIT-JAN BLOEM, GERARD DAVID LA HEI
  • Patent number: 8594858
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of controlling a heat-dissipating fan of a computer device, which is provided with a heat-dissipating fan, a controller, a first sensor unit, and a second sensor unit. The method of the present invention includes the following steps. First, the controller accepts a first signal and a second signal and controls the rotating speed of the heat-dissipating fan according to the first signal. Subsequently, the controller determines the first signal and the second signal. Next, the controller reduces the rotating speed of the heat-dissipating fan corresponding to the first signal to temporarily maintain the rotating speed at a constant to thereby reduce a noise value produced by the heat-dissipating fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jia-Yu Hung, Chang-Yuan Wu, Ifeng Hsu, Ting-Wei Hsu, Peng Hsiang Sung, Hsiang-Chen Huang
  • Publication number: 20130303837
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimizing sleep and post-sleep performance. In an embodiment, a system comprising a device and sleep mask are provided. The mask may comprise electroencephalographic (EEG) sensors and one or more stimulation elements configured to stimulate the senses of a wearer of the mask. The mask may be releasably and electrically coupled to a device which receives EEG signals from the mask, determines current and target sleep states based, at least in part, on the EEG signals, and uses this determination to tailor a sleep architecture of the wearer by controlling the stimulation elements. The mask may be a soft mask which utilizes conductive thread embroidered into one or more textile layers. In an embodiment, the stimulation elements may comprise one or more heating elements, electroluminescent panels, and speakers. In addition, the EEG sensors may comprise hybrid sensors comprising hydrogel in a conductive spacer fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Christine Berka, Djordje Popovic, Dan Levendowski, Gene Davis, Catherine McConnell, Matthew A. Yanagi
  • Patent number: 8579795
    Abstract: Light modulation devices are provided. At least one Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) is used to create an oscillating signal used to drive an intensity parameter, a color parameter or both in a light modulator. The oscillating signal may be mixed with a base signal. The modulated signal driving either of the intensity or color parameters may be simple or complex. Systems having a plurality of light projection devices, each associated with a corresponding light modulation device, are also provided. Such Light modulation systems may be used for a variety of applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Inventor: Alain Anadi Martel
  • Patent number: 8579794
    Abstract: A tactile and audible sensation can be provided to a patient using a coiled or scrolled film in response to a received control signal. The tactile and audible sensation can be configured to stimulate the patient's central nervous system to sufficiently interrupt and undesirable sleep behavior of the patient, but avoid significantly changing a sleep state of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Dymedix Corporation
    Inventor: Reinhold Henke
  • Patent number: 8574145
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for causing a conditioned reflex in a person. The apparatus includes a detector configured to detect a physiological condition of the person, the physiological condition associated with an onset of a sleep apnea event. The apparatus also includes a controller configured to transmit a stimulus to the person upon a detection of the physiological condition. The controller is also configured to determine if the physiological condition is still occurring. The controller is further configured, upon a determination that the physiological condition is still occurring, to repeat the transmitting and determining steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Sleep Methods, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Lehrman, Michael D. Halleck
  • Patent number: 8562511
    Abstract: A system for inducing a subject to fall to sleep includes a light pattern generator for generating a time varying light pattern in view of the subject. Further, the system includes a breathing rate measuring unit for measuring a breathing frequency of the subject. In addition, the system includes a control unit connected to the breathing rate measuring unit and the light pattern generator, for controlling the light pattern generator such that the generated light pattern has a pattern frequency substantially between the measured breathing frequency and a pre-selected desired frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Nicoline Haisma, Gerrit-Jan Bloem, Gerard David La Hei
  • Publication number: 20130267759
    Abstract: One or more sensory, auditory and/or visual stimuli are presented to a subject at a specific frequency that is equal to, or a harmonic of, the intrinsic frequency of one or more of the subject's biological signals. The purpose is to indirectly (through the eyes, ears, or touch) provide frequency coupling among different organs (e.g., heart, brain, breathing, and gastrointestinal movement) through rhythmic entrainment. The specific harmonic chosen is the one closest to the interested EEG frequency. The interested frequency is chosen based on the cognitive element or symptom that is targeted. Additionally, games and programs (audio, video, computer) can incorporate Pavlovian cues to facilitate placing the brain in an acceptable state. In one embodiment, the ticking sound of a repetitive transcranial stimulation (rTMS) device is played to subconsciously remind the patient of the rTMS treatment and thereby produce a therapeutic effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: Newport Brain Research Laboratory Inc.
    Inventor: YI JIN
  • Patent number: 8550978
    Abstract: A system (1) and method for controlling the reproduction of audio signals via the monitoring of the state of relaxation of a person, wherein at least one physiological characteristic of the person is detected by means of a sensor (14), which characteristic assumes different values depending on different sleep phases of the person and wherein different sleep phases are recognized on the basis of at least one detected changing physiological characteristic by means of an analysis device (19) and wherein the speed for the reproduction of audio signals is changed on the basis of the at least one detected changing physiological characteristic and wherein the reproduction of the audio signals is terminated by a control unit (22) after a certain sleep phase of the person has commenced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Paul Ullmann
  • Publication number: 20130253257
    Abstract: A headband for the treatment of headaches and the like consists of a length of elasticized fabric with hook and loop separable fasteners at its ends for adjustable pressured securement about a user's head. A mask for the user's eyes is detachable secured to the band. A pocket in the band as well as a pocket in the eye mask are adapted to receive a bag of granules that focuses the pressure of the band on a selected area of the head or hot and cold packs, scent packets or magnet strips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Reza Kalhory
  • Publication number: 20130237745
    Abstract: Provided is an environment control apparatus including an input unit into which information from a medical device is input, and an environment control unit configured to control an environment perceived by a subject based on the information input into the input unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Kouichirou Ono, Yoichiro Sako
  • Patent number: 8523758
    Abstract: A system configured to provide breathing cues to a patient to alleviate insomnia or sleeplessness. In one embodiment, the system comprises a pressure support apparatus, a patient monitor, and a processor. The pressure support apparatus is configured to provide a pressurized flow of gas for delivery to an airway of the patient. The patient monitor configured to generate one or more signals that convey information related to one or more physiological functions of the patient. The processor in operative communication with each of the pressure support apparatus and the patient monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: RIC Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Todd Kirby, Erik K. Witt, Smita Garde
  • Publication number: 20130225914
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for diagnosing and/or treating mood disorders, such as depression, is provided. Right vestibular function in subjects diagnosed with a mood disorder is diminished compared with subjects who do not have a mood disorder. Accordingly, a method and apparatus for determining right vestibular function in a subject is provided, from which a diagnosis of a mood disorder may be determined. Stimulation of the vestibular system of a subject diagnosed with a mood disorder may reduce symptoms of the mood disorder in the subject. A method and apparatus for registering a subject's response to stimulation of the vestibular system and providing therapeutic vestibular stimulation based on the subject's response is provided. A subject's response to stimulation of the vestibular system may be based on measurements of nystagmus in the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Ana Maria Soza
  • Publication number: 20130225913
    Abstract: A portable vibration device for soothing an infant. The portable vibration device includes a vibration pad portion, a control pad connected and a neck portion. The neck portion extends between the vibration pad and the control pad. A vibration circuit is provided to control a vibration element in the vibration pad. The circuit electrically connects the control pad to the vibration pad. A cushion is provided around the vibration pad portion and a cover is disposed around the cusion and the internal components of the vibration device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Bryan Dunn, Katharine Gray Buford, Andrea Beatriz Montes, Huisok Pyon
  • Patent number: 8517913
    Abstract: A computer system for reorienting, reducing anxiety, and/or reducing delirium risk of a patient in a hospital is provided. The computer has a central processing unit (CPU) for executing machine instructions for a passive and active module and a memory for storing the machine instructions. The machine instructions implement functions when executed by the CPU. Patient-specific content is inputted into the CPU. The system then communicates the patient-specific content from the CPU to the patient by displaying and looping the patient-specific content such that any point of the loop of the patient-specific content helps reorient and reduce anxiety and delirium risk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce Ian Millman
  • Patent number: 8517909
    Abstract: This is a new invention, which is safer, simpler to use, less invasive into a user's daily routine and provides a lower cost solution to existing pulsed magnetic field and related vibrational electromagnetic therapy devices to improve sleep, encourage natural healing and reduce pain. This is accomplished through Multiple Simultaneous Extremely Low Frequency (MSELF) energy waves. The MSELF energy waves are derived from a quartz crystal with a fundamental frequency less than one-half of one percent from a natural Fibonacci Number. The apparatus utilizes firmware operating in a microcontroller emulating Circadian Rhythms. The microcontroller is also clocked by the Fibonacci Number Quartz Crystal. Additionally, the apparatus's unique application of an H-Bridge configuration power-driver with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) capabilities supports a novel approach to supply two simultaneous therapeutic frequencies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventors: James David Honeycutt, John C. Honeycutt
  • Patent number: 8517911
    Abstract: Sound delivery system (10) stimulates the two hemispheres of the brain separately by delivering different vibro-acoustic vibrations to the left and right sides of a person's body. Split resonator (30) includes left resonator member (32L) with attached left transducer (23) and right resonator member (32R) with attached right transducer (24). Left and right resonator members are spaced apart to prevent vibrations being transmitted between resonator members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8520060
    Abstract: A method for identifying a blur profile of a multi image display with a first image separating mask. The method comprises displaying a calibration pattern through a second image separating mask, allowing an evaluator to provide a visual estimation indicating a blur brought about to the calibration pattern by the second image separating mask, and generating a blur profile of at least the first image separating mask according to the visual estimation. The first and second image separating masks having a substantially similar optical profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: HumanEyes Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Assaf Zomet, Dan Elharrar, Yael Pritch, Chanoch Havlin, Yaron Tadmor