Sensing devices, systems, and methods

Abstract

The present technology relates to sensory devices that are useful for individuals in need of aiding in the management of neurodevelopmental diseases, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory handling disorder (SPD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Such devices may include a top cover connected to or integral with a top substrate, a bottom cover connected to or integral with a bottom substrate, projections or wings rotatably attached about the top substrate or bottom substrate, the projections or wings having different visual or haptic characteristics, such as different textures. The present technology also relates to systems and methods for managing neurodevelopmental diseases.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 397,585, filed on August 12, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to exemplary embodiments of sensory devices, and more particularly, to exemplary embodiments of sensory devices having protrusions, also referred to herein as "wings," that may have different textures.

[0004] Neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affect millions of people worldwide, both children and adults. Using devices and equipment to manage these conditions in patients through interventions such as therapy and targeted sensory input can help patients gain social, coping and communication skills.

[0005] Devices and equipment such as toys, gadgets, stress relievers, etc. that assist patients in a visual or tactile manner can be useful tools to stimulate and motivate users to practice focus, attention, calmness, active listening, and many other positive and beneficial behaviors. Users have the opportunity to practice and reinforce learned behaviors and coping mechanisms by manipulating or otherwise interacting with such self-regulatory devices. Such activities and interactions can lead to better management of neurodevelopmental disorders.

[0006] There remains a need for devices and apparatuses that accomplish these goals and are also convenient and easy to transport, use, and store. In particular, a sensory device that can be easily carried around and used in conducting activities of daily life, such as on a key chain, would be particularly useful. Summary of the invention

[0007] In certain embodiments, the present technology relates to a device configured to stimulate a tactile response of a user, the device comprising:

[0008] (a) a top cover having a generally dome-shaped top surface and an opposite surface, the opposite surface of the top cover being connected to or integral with the top base plate;

[0009] (b) a bottom cover disposed opposite to the top cover, the bottom cover having a substantially arc-shaped bottom surface and an opposite surface, the opposite surface of the bottom cover being connected to or integral with the bottom substrate so that the top substrate and the bottom substrate are arranged substantially parallel to each other along a vertical axis;

[0010] (c) a protrusion that is rotatably attached to the top substrate or the bottom substrate and is located between the top substrate and the bottom substrate along a vertical axis and can be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the device so that the protrusion rotates from a "closed" position to an "open" position, in which the protrusion is completely contained within the perimeter defined by the top substrate and the bottom substrate, and in the "open" position, a portion of the protrusion protrudes outside the perimeter defined by the top substrate and the bottom substrate.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the present technology is directed to a method of stimulating a tactile response in a user, the method comprising providing a device as discussed herein to a user, and comprising contacting the user's skin with a surface of a protrusion.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the present technology is directed to a system for customizing a sensory device as discussed herein based on user desires, the system comprising:

[0013] (a) Obtain information to identify the customer and the customer's desired objectives through one or more questions;

[0014] (b) proposing customized features based on the information obtained in (a); and

[0015] (c) Constructing a device having a desired number of protrusions, each having a texture. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a sensory device described herein is shown.

[0017] Figure 2A An exemplary embodiment of a sensory device described herein is shown, the sensory device comprising an upper portion configured to be retained within an optional lower portion, an exemplary embodiment of the optional lower portion being Figure 2B Shown in.

[0018] Figure 3 An exemplary embodiment of a sensory device described herein is shown with the plurality of tabs or wings in an "open" position.

[0019] Figure 4A and Figure 4B An exemplary top substrate and an exemplary bottom substrate are shown, respectively, in certain embodiments herein.

[0020] Figure 5 The device described in certain embodiments herein is shown with an optional stand separated from the device, with the device flipped over so that the view is from the bottom. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] As used herein, all singular terms refer to both singular and plural values. That is, "a", "an", or "the" all mean "one or more". As used herein, the term "or" means any one or any multiple alternatives, including all alternatives.

[0022] As used herein, "substantially" means within 10% of a value. For example, "substantially orthogonal" or "substantially perpendicular" means that an angle is within 10% of 90 degrees - ie, 81 to 99 degrees.

[0023] As used herein, "user" means a person who needs or desires to use the apparatus, method, or system herein, or a person who can benefit therapeutically from such an apparatus, method, or system. As used herein, "customer" means a person related to a user (or may be the user himself) who is interested in managing or assisting in the management of the user's neurodevelopmental disease, or who can input the user's preferences or information based on a diagnostic assessment of the user's disease; for example, a parent or other family member, teacher, therapist or other medical professional, or any other person who knows the user's disease or the benefits of using the apparatus, method, or system herein.

[0024] As used herein, "therapeutic benefit" means the management or treatment of any medical condition, including neurodevelopmental diseases. This may qualify as any benefit, no matter how gradual and small, and does not require a complete cure or amelioration of any disease.

[0025] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a sensory device having one or more extendable protrusions (also referred to herein as "wings") that provide one or more textures. As used herein, a "protrusion" or "wing" means an item that is movably attached to a portion of a top substrate or a portion of a bottom substrate and can be at least partially rotated about that portion so that the protrusion or wing can be configured to be in a "closed" (non-use) position or an "open" (use) position according to the needs of the user.

[0026] In some embodiments, the protrusion or wing is attached so that it can rotate about a portion of the top substrate or a portion of the bottom substrate in a direction substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis of the device. In some embodiments, one or more protrusions can be at least partially free to rotate in a direction about the vertical axis of the device. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments, the device can be arranged substantially vertically, so that the protrusion is closer to being vertical in this case.

[0027] In some embodiments, the two wings can be aligned substantially on the same plane, which is located between the top substrate and the bottom substrate, so that when in the closed position, each wing occupies approximately half of the plane. In this way, a user can "open" both wings at the same time so that the two wings protrude from different parts of the perimeter, the edges of which are defined by the top and bottom covers (or the top and bottom substrates). Embodiments herein also contemplate configurations in which only one wing occupies the entire perimeter defined by the top and bottom substrates, as well as configurations in which more than two wings can be located on a plane.

[0028] In some embodiments, the device herein has one or more additional covering surfaces that cover the wings so that when the wings are in the "closed" position, the wings are fully or partially obscured by the covering surfaces. This can improve the user's ability to store and transport the device herein, and can be the difference between a portable device and a non-portable device. In some embodiments, the covering surface can be in the form of a lower half or receiving portion, as will be described later herein.

[0029] In some embodiments, the tab or wing herein has an outer surface. In some embodiments, the tab or wing has a generally flat top surface or a generally flat bottom surface or both generally flat top and bottom surfaces, making it easy to tuck the tab or wing between the top and bottom substrates when in the closed position to form a streamlined device.

[0030] Exemplary embodiments of various devices and systems herein will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.The following description of the various embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, its application, or uses.

[0031] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in some embodiments herein, the sensory device 100 can be disposed on a support 200. The support 200 is optional and can include a base 210, one or more columns 220 disposed on top of the base 210, and a receiving portion 230 disposed on top of the column for receiving the sensory device 100.

[0032] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2B As shown, the receiving portion 230 can have a hollow interior 240 that partially or entirely conforms to the shape of the lower half of the sensory device 100, as will be described below, so as to receive the sensory device 100 and securely hold the sensory device 100. That is, the receiving portion can have a hollow interior that is configured to hold the device by contacting the bottom cover.

[0033] In various embodiments, one or more posts 220 may be removably mounted to the base 210 or the receiving portion 230 , or one or more posts 220 may be integral with the base 210 or the receiving portion 230 .

[0034] In some embodiments, the sensory device 100 may have a top cover 110 and a bottom cover 120, such as Figure 2A The bottom cover 120 can have a shape that conforms to the receiving portion 230 and has a size that is slightly smaller than the hollow interior 240 of the receiving portion 230 so that the sensory device 100 fits securely within the bracket 200, such that in various embodiments, when the sensory device is mounted within the bracket, the bottom cover 120 is wholly or partially invisible to the user.

[0035] In some embodiments, the top cover 110 can have a generally domed shape, for example, a generally bulbous shape with an optional ridge 112, and the bottom cover 120 can have a generally domed shape, for example, a generally bulbous shape with an optional ridge 122, to form a textural element while presenting the appearance of an object such as, for example, a hot air balloon. As used herein, "generally domed" means having curved edges. As used herein, "generally bulbous" means having a domed, protruding, or bulging shape.

[0036] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2A As shown, the top cover 110 can have a circular cutout 114 cut out at the top center of the top cover 110 and a stem 116. In some embodiments, a key chain 118 or other attachment device can be connected to the stem 116. As used herein, a "key chain attachment" herein means a device in the form of a toy or novelty device that can be attached to a key chain.

[0037] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 1 As shown, a top substrate 130 connected to or integrated with the top cover 110 may be provided; or a bottom substrate 140 connected to or integrated with the bottom cover 120 may be provided. In some embodiments, one or both of the top substrate and the bottom substrate are attached to the top cover and the bottom cover, respectively, by bonding, welding, or screw connection, snap connection, ultrasonic welding, etc.; or one or both of the top substrate and the bottom substrate may form an integral piece with the top cover and the bottom cover, respectively.

[0038] In various embodiments, the top cover and bottom cover, or the top substrate and bottom substrate, together define a perimeter, and this sets a boundary for the configuration of one or more wings between them. As used herein, "perimeter" does not require a perfect circle, but rather a generally circular shape that defines a horizontal plane in which one or more wings are held within the boundaries of the top cover and bottom cover (or the top substrate and bottom substrate).

[0039] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 4A As shown, one or more posts 132, such as spring-loaded posts, may be disposed between the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140. In some embodiments, the posts 132 may be connected to the top substrate 130 and fit within one or more slots 134 of the bottom substrate 140, such as Figure 4B As shown. In some embodiments, the post 132 can snap fit into the slot 134. In some embodiments, the post 132 can be adjustable (e.g., spring loaded). This can play a role in many aspects, for example, allowing the distance between the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140 to be adjustable to assemble multiple layers of wings, as will be described below. For example, in some embodiments, a post such as a spring loaded post 132 can allow one or more wings to be inserted between the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140. Thus, the post can be the part around which the protrusion or wing rotates. The wing can be easily rotated from the open position to the closed position and firmly fixed in place, but in some embodiments, the protrusion or wing can still be removed and replaced to meet the user's preferences.

[0040] In some embodiments, one or more wings 150 may be disposed between the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140. In various embodiments, the wings 150 may be connected to one or more adjustable posts 132 so that the wings 150 may rotate about the one or more posts 132; or the wings 150 may be removable so that different wings 150 may be installed between the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140. For example, in various embodiments, the wings 150 may be connected to the posts 132 using mechanisms such as O-ring hooks, buckles, or bearings; or multiple wings may be stacked on top of each other. In some embodiments, two wings 150 may be disposed in each layer, or even more wings 150.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, three layers may be provided, each layer having two wings 150 (or more). Figure 1As shown in Figure 2, in some embodiments, the wing 150 can be held in the space between the top cover 110 and the bottom cover 120; or within the perimeter defined by the top cover and the bottom cover (or by the top substrate and the bottom substrate), so that when the wing is fully or partially exposed, it constitutes an "open" configuration, and when the wing is rotated to be completely held in the top cover or the bottom cover, and no part of the edge of the wing protrudes from the outer edge of the top cover or the outer edge of the bottom cover, it constitutes a "closed" position.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the dimensions of the tab or wing herein are generally such that at least the top surface of the tab or wing is flat, so that a user can easily grasp the tab or wing and feel the surface of the tab or wing to obtain the benefits of the device herein. For example, the tab or wing herein can have a generally "flat" configuration on at least one side, so that the tab or wing can be easily rotated between a "closed" position and an "open" position, and so that a user with basic fine motor skills can manipulate it; and in certain embodiments, a user can practice and develop fine motor skills by using the device.

[0043] In various embodiments, for example, Figure 3 As shown, the wing 150 can have one or more tabs 152 that allow a user to pull the wing 150 outward and rotate the wing 150 away from the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140 to move from a "closed" position to an "open" position, or one or more tabs 152 that allow a user to push the wing 150 inward and rotate the wing 150 toward the top substrate 130 and the bottom substrate 140 to move from an "open" position to a "closed" position.

[0044] In some embodiments, multiple wings may be provided, which are arranged to be stacked on top of each other to provide multiple appendages or attachments to the sensory device. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, wings 160a, 170a, and 180a may be disposed on a first side of the sensory device 100, and wings 160b, 170b, and 180b may be disposed on a second side of the sensory device 100. In this particular embodiment, wings 160a and 160b form a first layer, wings 170a and 170b form a second layer, and wings 180a and 180b form a third layer; however, the order and configuration of the layers, and the order and configuration of the wings within each layer, are not necessarily so limited and may be any way desired by the user.

[0045] In various embodiments, each wing may have a different visual appearance or texture on the top surface, bottom surface, or edge of the wing. For example, wing 160a may have a fabric or cloth 162 applied to its top surface; wing 170a may have a design with ridges 172 located on the top surface of wing 170a; wing 180a may have a design with deep grooves 182 located on the top surface of wing 180a; wing 160b may have a flat rotary switch 164 on the top surface of wing 160b; wing 170b may have multiple channels 174 on the top surface of wing 170b; wing 180b may have cutouts 184 on the top surface of wing 180b. In various embodiments, the wings may have different top and bottom surfaces, or the same, or in any configuration desired by the user.

[0046] In various embodiments, the texture on the surface of the protrusion or wing can be the outer surface of the protrusion or wing, and can be rough, ridged, protruding, pitted or grooved. The texture can also have varying degrees of roughness, or can feel smooth, frosted, grainy, corrugated, cratered, recessed, embossed, inlaid, etched, feathered, fuzzy, furry, grainy, gritty, hairy, hard, lumpy, plastic, cushioned, patterned, prickly, sharp, velvety, threaded, reflective, "reading-like" (e.g., a magnifying glass that groups text together to help focus), slippery, crinkled, and the like.

[0047] The different visual appearance or texture on the surface of each wing may be any visual appearance or texture that may be, but is not limited to, desirable for a user or useful for therapeutic benefit.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, different wings may have different textures, or two or more textures on the surface of the wing. In some embodiments, the texture may be applied to the top surface of the wing, or the bottom surface, or both the top and bottom surfaces; or the top or bottom surface of a single wing may each have a different texture. The wings are not limited to any type of texture, and various textures, designs, grooves, ridges, patterns, and fabrics may be applied to provide various sensory tools. As non-limiting examples, tactile features (textures) such as fabrics and inlays may be provided, vestibular features such as rotary buttons or switches, or flat buttons or switches may be applied, or visual features such as magnifying glasses or single-line readers may be applied.

[0049] like Figure 5As shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in some embodiments, the bottom cover 120 can have a disk 142 at or near the center of the bottom cover 120. The disk 142 can have a cylindrical tubular shape, and the disk 142 extends into the bottom cover 120, into the ball bearing, to allow the bottom cover 120 to rotate around the disk 142. This can provide another sensory mechanism for the user to play, such as a decompression gyroscope. A variety of bottom covers 120 can be provided, and the bottom cover 120 has a variety of different mechanisms of various categories, such as disks 142, such as vestibular categories, such as disks 142. For example, one or more mechanisms of auditory categories can be set to replace or be added to the disk 142, and the mechanisms of the auditory categories such as earplug holders or mini speakers are customized to meet the needs of the user. In various embodiments, one or more mechanisms of taste categories and olfactory categories can be set, such as containers for placing articles for meeting such needs, such as mint or a fragrance that the user may prefer, and the user (or any other person, such as a therapist, a parent, or anyone assisting the user) can put the article into the container. A visual or tactile mechanism may be provided that may be similar to the bottom cover 120 having ridges for forming a texture element.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sensory device 100 can be presented as an object similar to, for example, a hot air balloon. The image of a hot air balloon can evoke a feeling of calm and rest that relaxes the nerves. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments, the device herein includes only a generally circular portion defined by a top cover and a bottom cover, and does not include a base portion. In such embodiments, the appearance of the device will be more like an "egg" than a hot air balloon; or more like a balloon without an attached basket.

[0051] In various embodiments, a color scheme of one or more blue tones, such as cobalt blue and light blue, may be used to show, for example, sensory processing disorder awareness. Such colors may also represent peace and tranquility in the mind in color psychology. However, any color scheme of the device herein may be any color desired by the user in a variety of colors, and in various embodiments, the sensory device 100 may be customized to any color or colors preferred by the customer.

[0052] In various embodiments, the devices herein provide the advantage of being portable. As used herein, "portable" means easily transported or carried by a user without the need for special accessories or separate parts. In certain embodiments herein, a device according to the present technology is made of a lightweight material and can be configured so that when one or more tabs are in the "closed" position, the device can be easily held in one hand and can be transported by the user with minimal effort.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the present technology is directed to a consumer product including a sensory device having various customizable components that may be self-assembled—for example, including one or more of the following:

[0054] shell , the housing having a key chain;

[0055] Rotating housing (including ball bearings);

[0056] Earplug holder housing (with hinged opening);

[0057] a retainer for the transport device configured to hold the wings together during transport;

[0058] 1 metal (or solid plastic) pin with either a snap fit or a threaded end;

[0059] 1 base plate for attaching to a keychain;

[0060] 1 base plate for fixing the ball bearings;

[0061] 1 base plate for fixing the earplugs;

[0062] Material: Hard Plastic.

[0063] In various embodiments, the protrusions or wings can be divided into different categories. For example, they can be textured (e.g., carved), made of additional materials, and adapted to size, for example, by molding or cutting (e.g., soft, squeezable or rough). In other embodiments, they can be classified as "active" wings - for example, embedded cutouts or through-type wings, movable wings (e.g., with switches or sliders). In various embodiments, the products herein can include 8 to 12 wings, and the user can customize the wings according to the order in the device.

[0064] In some embodiments, the technology herein relates to a method, which includes providing a device herein to a user and contacting the user's skin with a surface of a protrusion. For example, a protrusion herein may have an outer surface including a texture that stimulates a tactile response when the texture contacts the user's skin. In some embodiments, the user's "skin" refers to any tactile surface on the user's body that has sensory units - for example, any part of the hand, foot, face, or arm, including the palm and fingers, that transmit touch sensations to the user.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the technology herein relates to a system for customizing a sensory device based on user needs. For example, a website may be provided on which a customer may be asked to complete a questionnaire (e.g., a medical diagnostic questionnaire or a questionnaire regarding any treatment goals or user preferences) to help determine whether the person is "hyposensitive" (i.e., seeking sensory stimulation) or "hypersensitive" (i.e., avoiding sensory stimulation). These "yes" or "no" questions include, but are not limited to, questions such as the following, and these questions may be provided, for example, in any order as follows:

[0066]

[0067] In certain embodiments, the technology herein relates to a system for customizing the sensory device described herein to conform to specifications that are beneficial to the user's use. That is, in certain embodiments, once the customer completes the questionnaire, the system herein will be configured to perform one or more of the following operations: count the answers and generate results, provide an explanation of these results, and recommend customized features, such as cover and wing module options, at an output, such as a user interface such as a website or application. In certain embodiments, after the customer selects a base cover and at least 2 wings based on the selections and completes the purchase, a receipt containing the results and their explanation can be provided to the customer. Subsequently, the fully personalized sensory device 100 can be shipped to the customer.

[0068] In some embodiments, an in-store option or point of sale option may also be provided, wherein the questionnaire is in written or electronic form, such as provided on a table, or provided in a computer interface or electronic application, in which case the recommended options will be provided to the customer in-store and discussed with a store representative, or sent directly to the customer via email.

[0069] Information that can be collected from the user includes: information identifying the user (e.g., name, age, gender, and neurodevelopmental information or diagnosis); specific likes and dislikes (e.g., known textures, visuals, auditory items, or olfactory items that can calm a person, and known textures, visuals, auditory items, or olfactory items that conversely induce or cause anxiety or phobias); and information about the user's goals (e.g., improving or managing sensory issues; distracting from stressful stimuli or environmental triggers; calming down or reducing stress). In various embodiments, the system herein can then suggest details such as textures, configurations of wings, or stimuli to avoid in a customized device or stimuli to include in a customized device.

[0070] In the exemplary applications described according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, various other considerations may also be addressed. For example, in certain embodiments, various numbers of wings with different textures may be provided. Sensory devices of various sizes may also be provided.

[0071] In various embodiments, the sensory devices and components herein (e.g., any portion of the wing including textures and surfaces) can be made in whole or in part of various materials such as plastic, wood, metal, fabric, leather, natural or synthetic rubber, minerals such as rock or stone, mirrored or reflective materials, feathers, fur, scales, reptile skin, bristles, or any composite of the above. The sensory device can be portable and lightweight so that it can be easily transported by a user and can be used in a variety of environments without requiring extensive advance planning or inconvenient transportation.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the sensory device herein can be a customizable stress-reducing multifunctional tool designed to reduce sensory overload in a child or adult suffering from any of a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders, including, but not limited to, sensory processing disorder (SPD). For example, the sensory device herein can be in the form of a keychain attachment that a user can carry with them and use during daily life—e.g., while commuting to school or get off work, while riding public transportation, while sitting and waiting, or at any time when the user feels the need to interact with the sensory device.

[0073] Various embodiments herein, whether relating to devices, methods, or systems, can have the advantage of stimulating a desired tactile response of a user. As used herein, "tactile response" means any response of an individual to a tactile stimulus, including information related to any of the following: pressure, vibration, texture, temperature, pain, and position, including the position of a limb. Individuals with neurodevelopmental diseases can benefit from the devices, methods, and systems herein. In various embodiments, the presence and quality of a tactile response can be reported by a user or observed by a third party.

[0074] Although the present technology has been described in conjunction with embodiments of the present technology, these embodiments and examples are exemplary only and are not intended to be limiting. The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the present disclosure. In view of the teachings herein, various modifications and variations of the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that those skilled in the art will be able to design numerous systems, arrangements, manufactures, and methods that are not explicitly shown or described herein but embody the principles of the present disclosure and are therefore within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A device configured to stimulate a user's tactile response, the device comprising: (a) a top cover having a substantially dome-shaped top surface and an opposite surface, wherein the opposite surface of the top cover is connected to or integral with the top base plate; (b) a bottom cover, the bottom cover being arranged opposite to the top cover, the bottom cover having a substantially dome-shaped bottom surface and an opposite surface, the opposite surface of the bottom cover being connected to or integral with the bottom substrate, so that the top substrate and the bottom substrate are arranged substantially parallel to each other along a vertical axis; (c) a protrusion rotatably attached to the top substrate or the bottom substrate, and the protrusion is located between the top substrate and the bottom substrate along the vertical axis, and the protrusion is capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis of the device so that the protrusion rotates from a "closed" position to an "open" position, in which the protrusion is completely contained within the perimeter defined by the top substrate and the bottom substrate, and in the "open" position, a portion of the protrusion protrudes outside the perimeter defined by the top substrate and the bottom substrate.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusion has an outer surface that includes a texture that stimulates the tactile response when the texture comes into contact with the user's skin.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein: One or both of the top substrate and the bottom substrate include a post about which the protrusion rotates.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein: One or both of the top substrate and the bottom substrate include a slot into which the post fits.

5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a base including a receiving portion having a hollow interior configured to retain the device by contacting the bottom cover.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: One or both of the top cover and the bottom cover have a generally bulbous shape.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The outer surface of the projections is rough, ridged, protruded, pitted or grooved.

8. The device of claim 1 in the form of a keychain attachment.

9. A method of stimulating a tactile response in a user, the method comprising providing the device of claim 1 to a user, and comprising contacting the user's skin with the surface of the projection.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The tactile response produces a therapeutic benefit to the user.

11. A system for customizing the sensory device of claim 1 based on user desires, the system comprising: (a) Obtain information to identify the customer and the customer's desired objectives through one or more questions; (b) proposing customized features based on the information obtained in (a); as well as (c) constructing a device having a desired number of said protrusions, each protrusion having a texture.

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