A closed system for overcoming arachnophobia in virtual reality that uses heart rate as feedback.

Abstract

A system for closed-loop management of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment, consisting of: a virtual reality headset that enables virtual reality experiences; a heart rate monitoring device configured to capture a user's physiological data in real time; a microcontroller configured to receive and process real-time physiological data from the heart rate monitoring device; a computer device configured to run the virtual reality application; and A virtual reality processing module comprising a dedicated CPU and GPU in conjunction with a virtual reality headset, wherein the virtual reality processing module is used for: Generate an immersive virtual environment consisting of one or more virtual spiders. Receiving the processed physiological data from the microcontroller; Dynamically adjusting the properties of one or more virtual spiders based on received physiological data, wherein the properties include at least one of the following: number of virtual spiders, proximity of the virtual spiders to the user, movement speed of the virtual spiders, and intensity of the animations of the virtual spiders; and Render the customized virtual environment using the virtual reality headset.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for the closed treatment of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system that uses virtual reality (VR) technology to provide controlled and immersive exposure therapy for arachnophobia, enhanced by a closed feedback mechanism using real-time heart rate data. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Virtual reality (VR) has proven to be a promising tool for treating phobias by creating controlled and immersive therapeutic environments. Its effectiveness has been demonstrated in treating a range of conditions, from dental phobia in children to more generalized anxiety disorders, by providing a safe space for exposure therapy and behavioral intervention.

[0003] Among specific phobias, arachnophobia—the fear of spiders—has been extensively studied using VR-based exposure therapy. Studies show that semi-realistic VR renderings can simulate anxiety-inducing scenarios, making VR a viable alternative to traditional methods. Cognitive mechanisms underlying the success of VR exposure therapy include increased engagement, reduced avoidance behavior, and improved habituation. Recent work in augmented reality (AR) has also addressed exposure therapies for arachnophobia, but VR remains the preferred choice for immersive and controlled desensitization.

[0004] Current VR solutions for treating phobias often lack a crucial element: real-time physiological feedback to dynamically adapt therapy to the user's condition. Closed-loop systems that incorporate such feedback have proven promising in other areas. For example, real-time heart rate feedback has been successfully used in virtual sports coaching and cybersickness management to personalize the user experience and improve effectiveness.

[0005] This invention integrates VR technology with a closed-loop feedback mechanism for the treatment of arachnophobia. By using real-time heart rate data to adjust the number and movement of virtual spiders, the system personalizes the therapy experience. It aims to optimize user comfort, measure progress, and provide an innovative approach to phobia treatment through a dynamic and adaptive VR environment. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] This disclosure relates to a system for the closed treatment of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment. The present invention relates to a closed virtual reality (VR) system developed for the treatment of arachnophobia. It integrates immersive VR environments, real-time physiological monitoring, and adaptive feedback to provide personalized exposure therapy. The invention presents a closed virtual reality (VR) system for the treatment of arachnophobia using real-time biofeedback. The system integrates a VR headset, heart rate monitoring hardware, and adaptive software to provide personalized exposure therapy.By continuously monitoring the user's heart rate via a MAX30102 sensor and an ESP32 microcontroller, the system dynamically adjusts the intensity of the virtual environment—specifically, the number, proximity, and behavior of virtual spiders. If the user's heart rate indicates lower anxiety (below 90 BPM), the system gradually increases exposure by adding more spiders and moving them closer. Conversely, the system automatically reduces intensity by decreasing the number and distance of spiders when an elevated heart rate signals increased anxiety. The virtual spiders feature special lighting (green lights on their faces, red on their tails) and realistic movements with synchronized sound for enhanced immersion.Key safety features include a virtual panic button and automatic intensity reduction when a rapid increase in heart rate is detected. The system runs on the Unity platform integrated into the Arduino IDE, enabling seamless communication between physiological monitoring and VR components. This results in a controlled, measurable, and personalized approach to phobia treatment that adapts to the user's anxiety level in real time.

[0007] This disclosure is intended to provide a system for the closed-loop management of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment. The system comprises: a virtual reality headset that enables a virtual reality experience; a heart rate monitoring device configured to capture real-time physiological data from a user; a microcontroller configured to receive and process the real-time physiological data from the heart rate monitoring device; a computer configured to run the virtual reality application; and a virtual reality processing module comprising a dedicated CPU and GPU in conjunction with a virtual reality headset, wherein the virtual reality processing module is configured to: generate an immersive virtual environment with one or more virtual spiders; receive the processed physiological data from the microcontroller;dynamically adjusts the properties of one or more virtual spiders based on received physiological data, wherein the properties include at least one of the following: number of virtual spiders, proximity of the virtual spiders to the user, movement speed of the virtual spiders, and intensity of the animations of the virtual spiders; and renders the adjusted virtual environment via the virtual reality headset.

[0008] One objective of this disclosure is to provide a system for the closed treatment of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment.

[0009] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a controlled and comprehensive exposure therapy for arachnophobia, enhanced by a closed feedback mechanism using real-time heart rate data.

[0010] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide a system that dynamically adjusts the intensity and proximity of virtual spiders based on the user's physiological response, thus enabling personalized therapy that adapts to the user's anxiety level.

[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to combine the immersive potential of VR with biofeedback to create a safer, more effective and measurable phobia treatment, with this invention aiming to desensitize individuals to spider phobia while continuously monitoring therapeutic progress through heart rate fluctuations.

[0012] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more detailed description of the invention is given with reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that these drawings represent only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered as limiting its scope. The invention is described and explained with additional details and information with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0013] These and other features, aspects, and benefits of this disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical symbols consistently represent identical parts. The following applies: Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system for closed-loop treatment of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a closed arachnophobia management system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that elements in the drawings are presented for the sake of simplicity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the method by outlining the main steps to enhance understanding of aspects of this disclosure. Additionally, with regard to the design of the device, one or more components of the device may be represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only the specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawings with details that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art who benefit from the description herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0015] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference is now made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings, which is described in specific language. However, it is clear that this is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, since such changes and further modifications of the illustrated system and such further applications of the principles of the invention as they are shown therein are considered as would normally occur to a person skilled in the art in the field to which the invention relates.

[0016] It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the preceding general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended as a limitation of it.

[0017] References in this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar formulations mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, occurrences of the phrase “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar formulations in this specification may all refer to the same embodiment, but need not.

[0018] The terms "includes," "comprehensive," or other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process or method that includes a list of steps may include not only those steps but also other steps not expressly listed or inherent in such process or method. Likewise, one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components preceded by "includes...a" do not, without further limitations, exclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, components, or additional devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.

[0019] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as they are generally understood by a person skilled in the art in the field to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] The functional units described in this specification are referred to as devices. A device may be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as processors, digital signal processors, central processing units, field-programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices, cloud processing systems, or the like. Devices may also be implemented in software for execution by various processor types. An identified device may contain executable code and may, for example, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may be organized, for example, as an object, procedure, function, or other construct.However, the executable file of an identified device does not need to be physically arranged together, but may comprise different instructions stored in different locations which, when logically connected, constitute the device and fulfill the stated purpose of the device.

[0022] In fact, the executable code of a device or module can be a single instruction or multiple instructions, and can even be distributed across several different code segments, across different applications, and across multiple storage devices. Similarly, operational data can be identified and represented within the device, embodied in any suitable form, and organized in any suitable type of data structure. The operational data can be captured as a single data record or distributed across different locations, including different storage devices, and can exist, at least in part, as electronic signals within a system or network.

[0023] References in this specification to "a selected embodiment," "an embodiment," or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Therefore, occurrences of the expressions "a selected embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "in an embodiment" at different locations in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0024] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or properties can be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to enable a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed subject matter can be implemented without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other cases, known structures, materials, or processes are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the disclosed subject matter.

[0025] According to the exemplary embodiments, the disclosed computer programs or modules can be executed in many exemplary ways, for example, as an application stored in the memory of a device, or as a hosted application running on a server and communicating with the device application or browser via a number of standard protocols such as TCP / IP, HTTP, XML, SOAP, REST, JSON, and other suitable protocols. The disclosed computer programs can be written in exemplary programming languages ​​and executed from memory on the device or from a hosted server, for example, BASIC, COBOL, C, C++, Java, Pascal, or scripting languages ​​such as JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, Perl, or other suitable programming languages.

[0026] Some of the disclosed embodiments include or otherwise involve data transmission over a network, such as the communication of various inputs or files over the network. The network may include, for example, one or more of the following: the Internet, wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone networks (e.g., a PSTN, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), a cellular network, and Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL)), radio, television, cable, satellite, and / or any other transmission or tunneling mechanism for carrying data. The network may include multiple networks or subnetworks, each of which may, for example, include a wired or wireless data path. The network may include a circuit-switched voice network, a packet-switched data network, or any other network capable of transmitting electronic communications.For example, the network can include networks based on the Internet Protocol (IP) or the Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), and can support voice by using, for example, VoIP, Voice over ATM, or other comparable protocols used for voice data communication. In one implementation, the network includes a mobile phone network configured for exchanging text or SMS messages.

[0027] Examples of the network include, but are not limited to, a Personal Area Network (PAN), a Storage Area Network (SAN), a Home Area Network (HAN), a Campus Area Network (CAN), a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), a Virtual Private Network (VPN), an Enterprise Private Network (EPN), the Internet, a Global Area Network (GAN), and so on.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system (100) for the closed treatment of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] With reference to Fig. 1 The system (100) comprises: a virtual reality headset (102) that enables a virtual reality experience; a heart rate monitoring device (104) configured to acquire real-time physiological data from a user; a microcontroller (106) configured to receive and process the real-time physiological data from the heart rate monitoring device (104); a computer device (108) configured to run the virtual reality application; and a virtual reality processing module (110) comprising a dedicated CPU and GPU (110a) in conjunction with a virtual reality headset (102), wherein the virtual reality processing module (110) is used to generate an immersive virtual environment comprising one or more virtual spiders; and to receive the processed physiological data from the microcontroller.for dynamically adjusting the properties of one or more virtual spiders based on received physiological data, wherein the properties include at least one of the following: number of virtual spiders, proximity of the virtual spiders to the user, movement speed of the virtual spiders, and intensity of the animations of the virtual spiders; and for rendering the adjusted virtual environment by the virtual reality headset.

[0030] In one embodiment, the heart rate monitoring device (104) comprises a MAX30102 heart rate sensor; and the microcontroller (106) comprises an ESP32 microcontroller configured to transmit the processed physiological data to the computer device via a serial connection.

[0031] In one embodiment, the virtual reality processing module (110), which includes a dedicated CPU and GPU, is also configured to compare the received physiological data with a predefined heart rate threshold, to increase the number of virtual spiders and decrease their virtual distance from the user when the physiological data indicates a heart rate below the predefined threshold, and to decrease the number of virtual spiders and increase their virtual distance from the user when the physiological data indicates a heart rate above the predefined threshold.

[0032] In one embodiment, the virtual spiders are equipped with the following features: illuminated functions consisting of green lights in the face and red lights on the tail, realistic crawling animations and synchronized audio effects that simulate the movement of the spider.

[0033] In one embodiment, the system (100) also includes: a safety module (112) in conjunction with a heart rate monitoring device (104) and a virtual reality processing module (110) configured to monitor the rate of change in the received physiological data, detect rapid increases in heart rate indicating user stress, and automatically modify the virtual environment to reduce the stress intensity upon detection of user stress.

[0034] In one embodiment, the safety module further comprises (112): a virtual panic button (112a) that is displayed within the virtual environment; wherein activation of the virtual panic button triggers: an immediate brightening of the virtual environment; and the removal of all virtual spiders from the user's immediate surroundings.

[0035] In one embodiment, the virtual reality processing module (110) also includes a data logging module (110b) within the CPU of the virtual reality processing module (110), which is configured to record the user's physiological responses during therapy sessions, track changes in heart rate fluctuations across multiple sessions, and generate progress reports based on the recorded data.

[0036] In one embodiment, the virtual reality processing module (110) is also configured to initialize the virtual environment with a single virtual spider, to gradually introduce additional virtual spiders based on the stability of the user's heart rate, and to adjust the ambient light conditions in correlation with the number of virtual spiders.

[0037] In one embodiment, the CPU of the virtual reality processing module is configured via a Unity-based platform, which enables it to render the virtual environment, process physiological data in real time, and implement dynamic behavioral adjustments for the virtual spiders.

[0038] In one embodiment, the computer device (104) is configured to: simultaneously run an integrated Arduino development environment (IDE) for processing sensor data and synchronize the processed sensor data with the virtual reality application to make environment adjustments in real time.

[0039] The invention relates to a closed-loop VR system for treating arachnophobia using real-time biofeedback. It integrates a VR headset, heart rate monitoring (via a MAX30102 sensor and ESP32 microcontroller), and adaptive software for personalized exposure therapy. The system dynamically adjusts the intensity of the virtual spider—number, proximity, and behavior—to the user's heart rate. When anxiety decreases (heart rate < 90 BPM), exposure is intensified by adding and bringing spiders closer. Increased anxiety triggers an automatic reduction in intensity. Virtual spiders feature distinctive lighting (green faces, red tails), realistic movements, and synchronized audio for immersive therapy. Safety features include a virtual panic button and automatic intensity adjustment in the event of rapid heart rate changes.Based on Unity with Arduino IDE integration, the system enables seamless communication between physiological monitoring and VR components, offering personalized phobia treatment in real time.

[0040] Fig. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a closed arachnophobia management system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] According to Fig. 2. The integrated system offers a personalized, adaptive and safe method for treating arachnophobia, thus representing an innovative solution in the field of VR-based therapy.

[0042] The user or subject (1) undergoing phobia therapy sits in a comfortable position and wears a VR headset (2). Throughout the therapy session, their physiological responses, particularly their heart rate, are monitored. The subject interacts with the virtual environment and experiences controlled exposure to spiders while remaining in a safe physical space. The VR headset (2) provides the immersive environment in which spiders are depicted. It displays the virtual scene and delivers auditory feedback, such as crawling sounds, to enhance the realism of the experience. The VR headset is wirelessly or physically connected to the computer (5) or computing device and allows for real-time adjustments based on the user's physiological feedback.The Unity platform (3) serves as the backbone for creating and managing the VR environment through a VR processing module that runs the virtual simulation, renders the spiders, controls their behavior, and adapts the scene in response to heart rate data received from the microcontroller. Furthermore, the Unity-based VR processing module manages user inputs, such as the panic button, to ensure user safety. The Arduino IDE (4) is used on the computer device to process data received from the microcontroller (6). It acts as an intermediary, transmitting heart rate data to the Unity platform (3) and ensuring seamless communication between the physiological monitoring system and the VR environment. The computer device acts as the central hub of the system, running both Unity and the Arduino IDE.It processes data from the heart rate sensor (7) and microcontroller (6), dynamically modifies the virtual environment based on this input, and ensures synchronization between hardware and software components. The microcontroller plays a crucial role, acting as a bridge between the heart rate sensor and the computer. It processes the raw sensor data and transmits it in a format that the computer can interpret, enabling real-time monitoring and adaptive feedback. During the therapy session, the heart rate sensor continuously records the user's heart rate. This data reflects the user's physiological response to phobia-triggering stimuli and allows the system to dynamically adjust the VR environment based on these inputs.

[0043] The proposed system utilizes virtual reality (VR) technology to provide controlled and immersive exposure therapy for arachnophobia, enhanced by a closed-loop feedback mechanism with real-time heart rate data. The system dynamically adjusts the intensity and proximity of virtual spiders to the user's physiological response, enabling personalized therapy that adapts to their anxiety level. This novel approach combines the immersive potential of VR with biofeedback to create a safer, more effective, and measurable phobia treatment. It offers a revolutionary way to desensitize individuals to arachnophobia while continuously monitoring therapeutic progress through heart rate fluctuations.

[0044] The invention is a closed virtual reality (VR) system developed for the treatment of arachnophobia. It integrates immersive VR environments, real-time physiological monitoring, and adaptive feedback to provide personalized exposure therapy.

[0045] The immersive VR environment, delivered via a VR headset, is set in a dimly lit virtual space, creating an engaging and slightly unsettling atmosphere. Within this environment, spiders are designed with bright green lights on their faces and red lights on their tails, enhancing their visibility and evoking a stronger emotional response. The spiders move towards the user, accompanied by a realistic crawling sound that reinforces the sense of immersion and realism.

[0046] The system includes a heart rate monitor connected to a microcontroller that transmits heart rate data to the VR software in real time. This configuration allows for continuous monitoring of the user's physiological responses without relying on specific proprietary components, thus ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. Based on the user's heart rate, the dynamic response system adjusts the behavior and number of spiders in real time. If the heart rate falls below a predefined threshold (e.g., 90 beats per minute), the spiders move closer to the user and their numbers increase, intensifying the experience. Conversely, if the heart rate rises above the threshold, the spiders retreat and their numbers decrease, providing relief and reducing anxiety.To ensure user safety, the system features a panic button within the VR environment. If the user feels overwhelmed, pressing the button immediately brightens the room and drives away all the spiders. Furthermore, the system monitors the rate of change of heart rate. If it detects a rapid increase, the environment dynamically adjusts to reduce intensity and thus prevent excessive stress. This system offers a safe, adaptive, and measurable approach to overcoming arachnophobia through controlled VR exposure therapy tailored to the user's physiological responses. It provides a novel solution that balances effective treatment with user comfort and safety.

[0047] The invention presents a closed virtual reality (VR) system designed for the treatment of phobias, particularly arachnophobia. This system comprises an immersive VR environment provided by a VR headset and a VR processing module, real-time physiological monitoring, and dynamic feedback mechanisms for personalizing exposure therapy. The user wears a VR headset to experience a controlled virtual environment in which phobia-triggering stimuli, such as spiders, are reproduced with high fidelity and accompanied by realistic acoustic feedback. The system adapts in real time to the user's physiological state and uses heart rate data to dynamically adjust the intensity of the exposure.This innovative design improves therapeutic outcomes by ensuring that the exposure level remains within the user's tolerance while promoting gradual desensitization.

[0048] The core technology of this invention integrates a heart rate sensor and a microcontroller for monitoring and transmitting physiological data. The heart rate sensor continuously records the user's heart rate, while the microcontroller processes this data and sends it to the computer. Two interconnected software platforms run on the computer: the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for processing the sensor data and Unity for managing the VR simulation. The behavior of the virtual spiders is dynamically modified based on the heart rate data. For example, if the heart rate rises rapidly, indicating an emergency, the spiders retreat and the scene becomes less intense. A safety feature, such as a panic button, ensures that the experience is not overwhelming by allowing users to immediately brighten the scene and drive the spiders away.

[0049] The system comprises several interconnected components that work seamlessly together to provide an adaptive therapy experience. The hardware uses a MAX30102 heart rate sensor integrated with an ESP32 microcontroller to capture heart rate data in real time. This data is transmitted via a serial connection to the Unity-based VR application. The software, also built with Unity, is compatible with MetaQuest 3 headsets and includes algorithms to analyze the heart rate data and control the spider's behavior in real time. The virtual environment is a realistic scene in which spiders appear and move toward or away from the user based on their heart rate.

[0050] The operational workflow begins with the initialization of the VR system with a single spider crawling towards the user. The heart rate is continuously monitored by the MAX30102 sensor and transmitted to Unity for processing. If the user's heart rate exceeds 90 BPM, additional spiders are introduced, and their movement towards the user intensifies. Conversely, the spiders retreat, and their number decreases, if the heart rate falls below 90 BPM. The session ends after a predefined time or if the user's heart rate remains stable, indicating a reduced phobic response. The therapeutic process involves users participating in multiple sessions over a period of several weeks. Each session gradually increases the exposure intensity to ensure a controlled desensitization process.Progress is assessed by measuring the user's heart rate fluctuations, with a consistent decrease in heart rate peaks indicating reduced arachnophobia. The system also incorporates safety mechanisms to ensure the therapy remains manageable for users. An emergency exit mechanism allows users to interrupt the VR session if they experience extreme exertion. Furthermore, heart rate feedback ensures that the intensity of the exercise remains within manageable limits for the user.

[0051] The present invention combines the immersive potential of VR with biofeedback to enable safer, more effective, and measurable phobia treatment. It offers a revolutionary way to desensitize individuals to spider phobia while continuously monitoring therapeutic progress through heart rate fluctuations.

[0052] The drawings and the preceding description provide examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements from one embodiment can be added to another embodiment. For example, the sequences of the processes described herein can be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Furthermore, the actions of any flowchart need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be performed. Actions that are not dependent on other actions can also be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples.Numerous variations are possible, whether explicitly stated in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimensions, and material use. The range of embodiments is at least as broad as specified in the following claims.

[0053] Advantages, other merits, and problem solutions have been described above in relation to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, merits, problem solutions, and all components that may lead to an advantage or solution occurring or becoming more apparent are not to be construed as a critical, necessary, or essential feature or component of any or all claims. REFERENCES 100 A system for controlling arachnophobia in virtual reality. 102 Virtual Reality Headset 104 Heart rate monitor 106 microcontrollers 108 computer equipment 110 Virtual Reality Processing Module 110a Dedicated CPU and GPU 110b Data logger module 112 Safety module 112a Virtual panic button 202 Arduino Idea 204 units 206 computers 208 microcontrollers 210 Hz Rate Sensor 212 VR Headset 214 users

Claims

[1] A system for the closed-loop management of arachnophobia in a virtual reality environment, consisting of: a virtual reality headset that enables virtual reality experiences; a heart rate monitoring device configured to collect physiological data of a user in real time; a microcontroller configured to receive and process the real-time physiological data from the heart rate monitoring device; a computing device configured to run the virtual reality application; and a virtual reality processing module comprising a dedicated CPU and GPU in conjunction with a virtual reality headset, the virtual reality processing module being configured to: Generate an immersive virtual environment consisting of one or more virtual spiders. Receiving the processed physiological data from the microcontroller; dynamically adjusting the properties of the one or more virtual spiders based on the received physiological data, wherein the properties include at least one of the following: number of virtual spiders, proximity of the virtual spiders to the user, movement speed of the virtual spiders, and intensity of the animations of the virtual spiders; and Render the customized virtual environment via the virtual reality headset. [2] The system of claim 1, wherein the heart rate monitoring device comprises a MAX30102 heart rate sensor; and the microcontroller comprises an ESP32 microcontroller configured to transmit the processed physiological data to the computing device via a serial connection. [3] The system of claim 1, wherein the virtual reality processing module comprising a dedicated CPU and GPU is further configured to: Comparing the received physiological data with a predefined heart rate threshold; Increase the number of virtual spiders and decrease their virtual distance from the user if the physiological data indicate a heart rate below the specified threshold. Reduce the number of virtual spiders and increase their virtual distance from the user if the physiological data indicates a heart rate above the specified threshold. [4] The system of claim 1 and 3, wherein the virtual spiders are equipped with the following features: illuminated features consisting of green lights on the face and red lights on the tail, realistic crawling animations and synchronized audio effects that simulate the movement of the spider. [5] The system of claim 1, further comprising: a security module in communication with a heart rate monitor; and a virtual reality processing module configured to monitor the rate of change of the received physiological data, detect rapid increases in heart rate indicative of user exertion, and automatically modify the virtual environment to reduce the exertion intensity upon detecting user exertion. [6] The system of claim 5, wherein the security module further comprises: a virtual panic button displayed within the virtual environment; wherein activation of the virtual panic button triggers: an immediate brightening of the virtual environment; and the removal of all virtual spiders from the immediate vicinity of the user. [7] The system of claim 1, wherein the virtual reality processing module further comprises a data logging module within the CPU of the virtual reality processing module configured to record the user's physiological responses during therapy sessions, track changes in heart rate fluctuations across multiple sessions, and generate progress reports based on the recorded data. [8] The system of claim 1, wherein the virtual reality processing module is further configured to initialize the virtual environment with a single virtual spider, gradually introduce additional virtual spiders based on the stability of the user's heart rate, and adjust the ambient light conditions in correlation with the number of virtual spiders. [9] The system of claim 1, wherein the CPU of the virtual reality processing module is configured via a Unity-based platform that enables it to represent the virtual environment, process physiological data in real time, and implement dynamic behavioral adjustments for the virtual spiders. [10] The system of claim 1, wherein the computing device is configured to: simultaneously runs an Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to process sensor data and synchronizes the processed sensor data with the virtual reality application to make real-time environmental adjustments.

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