Electrical stimulation device and electrical stimulation method using same

Abstract

Disclosed are an electrical stimulation device and an electrical stimulation method using same. An electrical stimulation method according to various embodiments of the present invention is performed by an electrical stimulation device for applying electrical stimulation to a user's body, the electrical stimulation device including at least one electrode unit. The electrical stimulation method may include the steps of: transcutaneously applying an electrical signal to at least a portion of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve of the user through the electrode unit; and collecting the user's biometric information generated as a result of applying the electrical signal.

Description

Electrical stimulation device and electrical stimulation method using the same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to a device and method for more efficiently providing electrical stimulation to a user's body.

[0002] Conventional brain stimulation methods primarily involve direct stimulation of the frontal and occipital lobes. These traditional brain stimulation methods attach electrode pads connected to electrical stimulation devices to the forehead or other areas. These devices then stimulate the brain based on pulse interval and pulse length profiles, altering the user's brainwave patterns and demonstrating the desired effects.

[0003] There is a need to provide an expandable stimulation method that can produce better brain stimulation effects in brain stimulation methods such as those attached to the forehead.

[0004] The technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problem, and to provide a device and method for expanding the brain stimulation area from the existing forehead area to the ear area.

[0005] In addition, the present invention provides a device and method that collects smoking events from an external device through embodiments of the present invention to provide a virtual smoking effect and at the same time provide functions such as monitoring of a biological state.

[0006] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0007] An electrical stimulation method according to an embodiment of the present invention is an electrical stimulation method using an electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to a user's body, wherein the electrical stimulation device includes at least one electrode unit, and may include a step of applying an electrical signal transcutaneously through the electrode unit to at least a part of the user's vagus nerve region; and a step of collecting the user's bio-information generated by applying the electrical signal.

[0008] An electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body that can be attached to at least a part of a user's body; and an electrode unit implemented at a specific location on the body to apply electrical stimulation to a portion of the user's auriculo-vagus nerve.

[0009] An electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body wearable on a user's body; a stimulation unit formed at a specific location on the user's body; a display; and a control unit that applies electrical stimulation to the user's auriculo-vagal nerve and generates virtual content based on biometric information collected in response to the electrical stimulation and outputs the virtual content through the display.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by expanding the brain stimulation area from the existing forehead stimulation area to the ear area, more efficient brain / nerve stimulation can be performed while simultaneously increasing user convenience.

[0011] In addition, when smoking arousal is achieved by an electrical stimulation device, smoking event information is collected from an external device and virtual information based on this is provided in an augmented reality manner, allowing the user to experience an environment similar to actual smoking.

[0012] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0013] Figure 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a vagus nerve stimulation area according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figures 2 and 3 are exemplary graphs showing bio-information according to electrical stimulation of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 4 is an exemplary diagram showing an electrical stimulation device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figures 5 and 6 are exemplary diagrams showing a stimulation unit of an electric stimulation device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0017] Figures 7a and 7b are exemplary diagrams of electrode parts according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] Figures 8a and 8b are exemplary diagrams showing the impedance of a conventional electrode part and the impedance according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an electrical stimulation method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram of an electric stimulation device and an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Fig. 11 is an exemplary diagram of an electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 12 is a configuration diagram of an electric stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of an electric stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Fig. 14 is an example of a screen that can be viewed through the display of an electric stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0026] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, one or more of the components between the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for use.

[0027] In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0028] Additionally, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0029] In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and / or at least one (or more) of B, C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

[0030] Additionally, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used.

[0031] These terms are intended only to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the component.

[0032] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, coupled or connected to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0033] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below," it can include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction based on one component.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0035] Figure 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a vagus nerve stimulation area below the ear according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] The auricular vagus nerve (VAN) is a branch of the vagus nerve, a sensory nerve connected to the parasympathetic nervous system. It is closely linked to the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, including heart rate, digestion, and breathing. Medically, it is known to modulate inflammatory responses in the body by releasing hormones and neurotransmitters, and is also used to manage inflammatory diseases.

[0037] As shown, the vagus nerve below the ear includes the antihelix (S1), the concha of the Cymba (S2), the concha of the Cavum (S3), and the tragus (S4) regions. The electrode unit (133) according to various embodiments of the present invention can stimulate at least some of these vagus nerve regions, for example, the concha-related S3 and S4 regions and the tragus S4 region.

[0038] FIGS. 2 and 3 are exemplary graphs showing bio-information according to electrical stimulation of an embodiment of the present invention. The band power and electroencephalogram topography shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 were applied percutaneously to the Concha and Cymba concha using ear clip-shaped electrodes, and were executed under the following conditions: a frequency of 100 Hz, a pulse width of 300 μs, an interpulse of 0 μs Biphasic, a density of 1 mA, and a duration of 15 min. In addition, the following conditions were executed under the following conditions: a frequency of 25 Hz, a pulse width of 300 μs, an interpulse of 0 μs Biphasic, a density of 1 mA, and a duration of 15 min.

[0039] By applying electrical stimulation transcutaneously to at least a portion of the vagus nerve, it can be experimentally confirmed that energy increases in the theta wave region (201), as illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0040] Specifically, analysis of average band power across frequency bands revealed the most notable increases in theta and low-alpha waves. Theta waves are a cognitive / meditative waveform that occurs in the frequency range of 4–8 Hz. Changes in theta waves are associated with restful states like sleep and attentional focus when processing new information, suggesting they may reflect situations requiring conflicting information processing and attentional control.

[0041] As the band power of these theta waves increases, changes in cognitive processes such as attention, concentration, and memory appear, and the effect of improving concentration also occurs as the secretion of the hormone norepinephrine is promoted.

[0042] The above effect, in particular, can provide a virtual smoking effect in embodiments of the present invention because it shows an effect similar to the arousal caused by smoking. For example, a user wearing the electrical stimulation device (100) of the present invention can experience an arousal effect similar to smoking a cigarette when inhaling and exhaling through the aerosol generating device (200) while electrical stimulation is applied to the auriculo-vagus nerve. In addition, the control unit (160) can generate virtual AR smoke content corresponding to the exhalation motion of the user spitting out smoke and output it through the display (140). As a result, the user can feel arousal from smoking and experience a virtual AR smoking environment similar to actually smoking a cigarette.

[0043] Figure 3 is a biometric data representation of an electroencephalogram (EEG) topography, which can be used to confirm central brain activation through brain frequency analysis. By electrically stimulating the auriculovagal region, activation of the central brain region can be confirmed through EEG topography. Theta, measured in the central brain region, is associated with attention, concentration, and memory.

[0044] In addition, as illustrated in Fig. 3, a higher change can be experimentally observed when a frequency of 100 Hz is applied through the electrical stimulation device (100) than when a frequency of 25 Hz is applied.

[0045] Figure 4 is an exemplary diagram showing an electrical stimulation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] The electrical stimulation device (100) can be configured in various forms so that it can be attached to the user's body and detached, and can generate brain stimulation by transcutaneously applying electrical stimulation to the user's auriculo-vagus nerve area through the electrode portion (133).

[0047] The electrical stimulation device (100) can apply electrical stimulation transcutaneously to the user's auriculo-vagus nerve region as shown in FIG. 4 and collect the user's bio-information generated accordingly.

[0048] In Fig. 4, a simple ear clip-shaped electrical stimulation device (100) is illustrated. In Fig. 4, the ear clip-shaped electrical stimulation device (100) is fixed to the user's ear by a clip, and an electrode portion located at one end of the clip contacts the vagus nerve of the ear to apply an electrical signal. However, the electrical stimulation device (100) according to various embodiments of the present invention is not limited to this form.

[0049] According to various embodiments, the electrical stimulation device (100) can be implemented as a body that is detachable from the user's body and at least a portion of which is formed as a frame having a predetermined internal space.

[0050] Figures 5 and 6 are exemplary diagrams showing a stimulation unit (130) of an electric stimulation device (100) according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) may include an extension unit (131) and an electrode unit (133). An internal circuit module or cable may be configured in the internal space of the electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) so that current generated from an external power source or an internal power source is applied to the user's body through the electrode unit (133) through the extension unit (131).

[0052] The electrical stimulation device (100) can re-collect biometric information generated from the user through internal circuit modules or cables. As a non-limiting example, the cables for power supply and data communication, as described above, can be configured separately, but may also be implemented as an integrated unit. Meanwhile, the electrical stimulation device (100) can also collect biometric information generated from the user's body in response to electrical stimulation by further including a separate sensor unit.

[0053] Additionally, the electrical stimulation device (100) may include a control unit and a storage unit for applying electrical stimulation and changing the frequency, and collecting and monitoring user biometric information.

[0054] The control unit may control the overall operation and internal configuration of the electrical stimulation device (100), power supply and signal flow, and perform data processing functions. The control unit may include at least one processor.

[0055] The processor can generate information or control the configuration of the electrical stimulation device (100) by executing instructions stored in the memory. The processor can be configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or any other type of processor well known in the art of the present invention.

[0056] The storage unit can store data received or generated from the control unit or other components of the electrical stimulation device (100). The storage unit can include, for example, a memory, a cache, a buffer, etc., and can be configured with software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of at least two or more of these. The memory can store instructions related to the control of the electrical stimulation device (100) and data for generating information.

[0057] In Fig. 5, the extension (131) is illustrated in the form of a cable, but is not limited thereto and may be implemented in the form of a fixed frame. In this case, the extension (131) may be implemented in the form of a frame that is curved to have a predetermined curvature so that the electrode portion (133) can be inserted into the inner area of ​​the user's ear.

[0058] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the extension portion (131) in FIG. 5 may be inserted into an internal space (s) of the electrical stimulation device (100) or the stimulation portion (130). At least a portion of the extension portion (131) or the electrode portion (133) may be introduced into this internal space (s), and may be configured to be exposed to the outside again when an electrical stimulation is to be applied.

[0059] According to various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, at least a portion of the electrical stimulation device (100) or the stimulation unit (130) may include a guide portion (134) to enable length adjustment. This guide portion (134) may be implemented in a form in which two or more portions are separated from each other in a portion of the electrical stimulation device (100) or the stimulation unit (130), and may include a rail structure that provides a sliding function to enable a form in which the length can be extended or contracted. This guide portion (134) may provide an extra length for the electrode portion (133) to be well-fitted to the inner area of ​​the user's ear.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the guide portion (134) may be made of a different material from the extension portion (131) to have different physical properties (e.g., strength, ductility, elasticity, etc.). This allows for more precise positioning of the electrode portion (133).

[0061] Meanwhile, separately from the above guide portion (134), each of the extension portions (131) may have different lengths or be configured to be adjustable in length. For example, when the user pulls the electrode portion (133), the remaining portion of the extension portion (131) in the internal space (s) may be additionally exposed to the outside, and at least a portion of the extension portion (131) may be retracted into the internal space (s) so as to elastically reduce in length again.

[0062] As shown in Fig. 6, since the physical length of the electric stimulation device (100) or the stimulation unit (130) can be adjusted independently in two ways, better convenience can be provided to the user.

[0063] Meanwhile, the electrical stimulation device (100) or the stimulation unit (130) may be implemented in a flexible form that has at least some areas that are flexible, have adjustable lengths, and can be bent so that electrical stimulation can be easily performed at a relatively precise location as a specific area inside the ear. To this end, at least some of the components or at least some of the physical components of the electrical stimulation device (100) or the stimulation unit (130) may be made of, but are not limited to, silicone, TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), latex, nylon, polyurethane, TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), etc.

[0064] Although not shown, according to various embodiments, the electrical stimulation device (100) may include a fixed electrical stimulation device (100) or an insertable electrical stimulation device (100) depending on the physical form and the type of electrode portion (133).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the fixed electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) may include a frame including a ring or hook to be hung on the ear. The fixed electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) may be implemented in a form in which the frame including the electrode unit (133) is branched or extended in a certain area of ​​the frame of the fixed electrical stimulation device (100) so that the electrode unit (133) is positioned in an area adjacent to the user's ear. The fixed electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) may also be formed in a structure similar to, for example, a bone conduction type earphone.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the insertable electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) may be implemented in the form of a commonly used earphone, and the insertable electrical stimulation device (100) or stimulation unit (130) may include components such as an earbud, an eartip, a housing, and a cable. The earbud is a part that is directly inserted into the ear and serves to transmit sound, and the eartip is a part that is attached to the end of the earbud to help it adhere to the ear. The eartip may be composed of various materials such as silicone, foam, and rubber. The housing is an outer case that protects the earbud and the eartip, and the cable may include a communication circuit that transmits current and collects stimulation information. According to various embodiments, the earbud and the eartip may be included in the aforementioned electrode unit (133), and the cable may be included in the extension unit (131).

[0067] According to various embodiments, the electrode unit (133) may include at least one or more electrode units, and as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the electrode units (133) may be configured in multiple numbers. For example, the electrode units (133) may be implemented in two or three numbers to apply electrical stimulation to the user's auriculo-vagus nerve region.

[0068] According to various embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, at least some of the plurality of electrode portions (133) may have different sizes. In this way, the plurality of electrode portions (133) protruding to stimulate the vagus nerve are formed to have different sizes and lengths, thereby enabling more effective stimulation of the respective vagus nerve regions.

[0069] Figures 7a and 7b are exemplary diagrams of an electrode portion (133) according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to various embodiments, the electrode portion (133) may include an electrode (133_1) and a conductive foam sheet (133_2).

[0070] The electrode (133_1) performs the function of applying electrical stimulation to the user's body or measuring biosignals.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the electrode (133_1) may have a predetermined area and thickness. Experimentally, the area of ​​the electrode (133_1) may be formed to be 78.5㎟ (radius 5mm) or more. In addition, the thickness may be preferably 0.8mm or more, but is not limited thereto. If the electrode (133_1) has a value smaller than this area, it may be difficult to apply sufficient electrical stimulation. Such size and thickness may be experimentally determined, thereby enabling the efficient application of electrical stimulation to users with various physical conditions.

[0072] The conductive foam sheet (133_2) may include, but is not limited to, silicone, polyurethane, hydrogel, rubber, conductive fiber, etc., so as to maintain consistent contact, conduct electricity, and comfortably adhere to the user's skin. In addition, the thickness of the conductive foam sheet (133_2) can be varied.

[0073] In one embodiment, a wet type conductive foam sheet (133_2) may be used to increase electrical conductivity. For example, the electrode portion (133) may include, but is not limited to, a wet electrode portion, and a dry electrode portion is also possible. In the case of a wet electrode portion, the conductive foam sheet may be configured by spraying or applying a conductive polymer or solution, and may also be implemented by mixing a conductive material into an electrically conductive gel (e.g., hydrogel) on at least a portion of the foam sheet.

[0074] Meanwhile, it is important to keep impedance low, as its magnitude can significantly affect pain perception. As shown in Fig. 8A, the impedance measured when using conventional electrodes is high due to the conductive silicone electrode contact, which can cause the user to experience pain. When adopting a wet electrode unit or a wet conductive foam sheet (133_2) configuration, the impedance is lowered, as shown in Fig. 8B, allowing for more efficient electrical stimulation.

[0075] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an electrical stimulation method according to an embodiment of the present invention. At least some of the steps in Figure 9 may be omitted or their order may be changed, and the aforementioned embodiments may be performed at any step in Figure 9.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 9, the electrical stimulation device (100) can stimulate the user's vagus nerve (S910). For example, the user can turn on the electrical stimulation device (100), adjust the position of the electrode unit (133) so that the electrode unit (133) is positioned in the vagus nerve region inside the ear, and then apply an electrical signal.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the electrical stimulation device (100) can apply an electrical signal by varying the frequency (S930). For example, the electrical stimulation device (100) can apply an electrical signal at a frequency of, for example, 20 Hz to 150 Hz. In particular, experimentally, the electrical stimulation device (100) can apply an electrical signal at a frequency of 100 Hz.

[0078] The electrical stimulation device (100) can collect stimulation information (S950). The electrical stimulation device (100) can collect the user's biometric information generated by applying an electrical signal to the user's vagus nerve region. This allows feedback information based on vagus nerve stimulation to be obtained for each user.

[0079] Fig. 10 is a conceptual diagram of an electric stimulation device (100) and an external device (e.g., an aerosol generating device (200)) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electric stimulation device (100) of Fig. 10 illustrates an embodiment configured in a different form from the electric stimulation device (100) of Fig. 4. At least some components (e.g., a stimulation unit (130), an electrode unit (133), etc.) of the electric stimulation device (100) of Fig. 4 and the electric stimulation device (100) of Fig. 10 may be identical.

[0080] The electrical stimulation device (100) can be configured to be detachably attached to the user's body, and can generate brain stimulation by transcutaneously applying electrical stimulation to the user's auricular nerve area through the stimulation unit (130).

[0081] As a non-limiting example, the electrical stimulation device (100) can be implemented in a wearable manner, and can apply electrical stimulation to the user's auriculo-vagus nerve area and collect the user's bio-information generated accordingly.

[0082] In addition, the electric stimulation device (100) can be connected to the aerosol generator (200) in communication with the aerosol generator (200) to collect smoking event information generated from the aerosol generator (200) and output content to the display (140) along with the user's biometric information according to the electric stimulation.

[0083] According to various embodiments, the electrical stimulation device (100) may include a body (105) that can be worn on a user's body. The body (105) forms the overall appearance of the electrical stimulation device (100) and may form a frame and an internal space in which components of the electrical stimulation device (100) can be arranged.

[0084] In Fig. 10, only an embodiment in which the body (105) is formed entirely of smart glass in the shape of glasses is shown, but the shape of the body (105) is not limited thereto, and it can also be implemented in the form of a scouter-style smart glass that has one display and is formed to be hung on one ear, as in Fig. 11.

[0085] The body (105) may include a first region (101) including at least one display (140) and a second region (102) including a stimulus portion (130).

[0086] When the electrical stimulation device (100) is configured in the form of glasses as illustrated in FIG. 10, the first region (101) may include a display (140) in the form of a lens through which virtual content is output in the form of AR (Augmented Reality) or VR (Virtual Reality). This first region (101) may be an area representing the front (front part) of the glasses.

[0087] Additionally, the second region (102) is a region representing the temple (e.g., the bridge) of the glasses, and may refer to a region including a stimulation unit (130) according to various embodiments of the present invention. This stimulation unit (130) may be configured to extend from a specific region of the second region (102).

[0088] The electrical stimulation device (100) may be an electronic device capable of providing augmented reality functionality. The electrical stimulation device (100) may include a device configured to be worn on a user's body (e.g., a head-mounted display (HMD) or an AR glasses device in the form of glasses). Meanwhile, the electrical stimulation device (200) may be configured to be coupled to an external electronic device, such as a mobile device, or may communicate with an external electronic device.

[0089] The electrical stimulation device (100) can collect smoking event information by communicating with an aerosol generating device (200) capable of generating a smoking event. The aerosol generating device (200) may be, for example, an electronic cigarette, which generates an aerosol by inserting a stick containing tobacco components and heating it with a heater. Although FIG. 10 illustrates an aerosol generating device having a specific form of an electronic cigarette, the aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present invention is not limited to the form of FIG. 10.

[0090] In order to transmit smoking event information generated through the aerosol generator (200) to the electric stimulation device (100), the aerosol generator (200) may include at least one or a combination of a power source, a printed circuit board, a control unit (e.g., a processor), a sensor, a heater, a memory, and a communication unit. At least one of the power source, the printed circuit board, the control unit, the sensor, the heater, the memory, and the communication unit may be placed inside the body of the aerosol generator (200).

[0091] The user can smoke by putting the upper part of the stick (S) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth and inhaling air, and smoking event information generated by smoking can be transmitted to the electric stimulation device (100) through the communication unit of the aerosol generator (200). To this end, the communication unit of the aerosol generator (200) can include at least one of a mobile communication module (e.g., LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.), a wireless Internet module (e.g., Wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, etc.), and a short-range communication module (e.g., Bluetooth™, RFID, NFC, etc.).

[0092] Smoking event information is information related to a smoking event generated from an aerosol generator (200), and may include, for example, information such as whether the user is currently smoking, the smoking progress rate, and the type of cartridge or stick.

[0093] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (200) of FIG. 10 may also be included as a system of the present invention. For example, a brain stimulation system according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an electrical stimulation device (100) and an aerosol generating device (200).

[0094] Figure 12 is a configuration diagram of an electric stimulation device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] The electric stimulation device (100) may include at least one of a communication module (110), a sensor unit (120), a stimulation unit (130), a display (140), a power supply unit (150), a control unit (160), and a storage unit (170), and at least some of these may be located in an internal space or a specific area of ​​the body (105) of the electric stimulation device (100).

[0096] The communication module (110) communicates between the electric stimulation device (100) and the aerosol generating device (200). The communication module (110) may include at least one of a mobile communication module, a wireless Internet module, and a short-range communication module.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the mobile communication module can communicate through a mobile communication network built according to technical standards or communication methods for mobile communication (e.g., LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the wireless Internet module is a module for wireless Internet access, and can communicate via WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (wireless-fidelity), Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) Direct, etc.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the short-range communication module may support short-range communication using at least one of Bluetooth™, radio frequency identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA), ultra wideband (UWB), ZigBee, and near field communication (NFC) technologies.

[0100] The sensor unit (120) can collect the operating status (e.g., power, temperature, etc.) of the electric stimulation device (100) and the user's biometric information, and can transmit the collected information to the control unit (160). The sensor unit (120) can include, for example, at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0101] The stimulation unit (130) may be configured in various forms in at least a portion of the body (105) of the electrical stimulation device (100) (e.g., a leg), and may stimulate the brain by applying an electrical signal to the inside of the user's ear. As a non-limiting example, the stimulation unit (130) may also apply electrical stimulation to the brain by directly applying electrical stimulation to the forehead or head, as well as the auriculo-vagus nerve region.

[0102] According to one embodiment, in the case of a glasses-shaped device having two second regions, i.e., two bridges, as shown in FIG. 10, the stimulation unit (130) may be formed only in one of the second regions, i.e., one bridge. For example, the stimulation unit (130) may be formed only in the left bridge when viewed from the front of the user wearing the device. This is because the second region on the right side may be connected to the heart.

[0103] The stimulation unit (130) can apply an electrical signal provided from the power supply unit (150) to a specific area of ​​the user's body, for example, an area inside the ear. The stimulation unit (130) can be formed as a frame having a predetermined internal space by extending or branching from at least a portion of the second area (102) of FIG. 10, and a cable or circuit board for power supply and data communication can be provided in the internal space.

[0104] Although not shown, an internal circuit module or cable may be configured in the internal space of the electrical stimulation device (100) so that the current generated from the power supply unit (150) passes through the extension unit (131) of the stimulation unit (130) and is applied to the user's body through the electrode unit (133). In addition, the stimulation unit (130) may re-collect bio-information generated from the user through the internal circuit module or cable. As a non-limiting example, the cables for power supply and data communication as described above may be configured separately, but may also be implemented as an integrated unit. The collected bio-information may be transmitted to the control unit (160) or storage unit (170) of the electrical stimulation device (100).

[0105] Meanwhile, the electrical stimulation device (100) can also collect bio-information generated from the user's body according to electrical stimulation through the sensor unit (120) separately from the stimulation unit (130).

[0106] In an electrical stimulation device (100) in the form of smart glasses, the stimulation unit (130) may be formed to extend from one end (e.g., leg area) of the second region (102) of the body (105) as a location where it is easy to stimulate the vagus nerve region inside the ear. However, this is not limited to this, and the stimulation unit (130) may also be implemented in a form that has a frame that branches from a specific region of the second region (102) and extends to the inner ear region.

[0107] At least a portion of the stimulation unit (130) may be inserted into the internal space (s). That is, for external finishing, at least a portion of the second region (102) of the body (105) or at least a portion of the region of the stimulation unit (130) extended from said portion may be formed as the internal space (s). At least a portion of the extension unit (131) or the electrode unit (133) may be inserted into this internal space (s), and may be configured to be exposed to the outside again when an electrical stimulus is to be applied.

[0108] Although not shown, according to various embodiments, the stimulation unit (130) may include a fixed stimulation unit or an insertion type stimulation unit depending on the physical shape and type of electrode unit (133).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the fixed stimulation unit (130) may include a frame including a ring or hook to be hung on the ear. This fixed stimulation unit (130) may be implemented in a form in which the frame branches and expands at a specific point in the second region (102) of the body (105), and the frame including the electrode unit (133) may be implemented in a form in which the frame branches or extends in a certain region of the frame so that the electrode unit (133) is positioned in an area adjacent to the user's ear. This fixed stimulation unit (130) may also be formed in a structure similar to, for example, a bone conduction type earphone.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the insertable stimulation unit (130) may be implemented in the form of a commonly used earphone, and the insertable stimulation unit (130) may include components such as an earbud, an eartip, a housing, and a cable. The earbud is a part that is directly inserted into the ear and serves to transmit sound, and the eartip is a part that is attached to the end of the earbud to help it adhere to the ear. Such an eartip may be composed of various materials such as silicone, foam, and rubber. The housing is an outer case that protects the earbud and the eartip, and the cable may include a communication circuit that transmits current and collects stimulation information. According to various embodiments, the earbud and the eartip may be included in the aforementioned electrode unit (133), and the cable may be included in the extension unit (131).

[0111] The stimulation unit (130) may include an electrode unit (133). The electrode unit (133) may include an electrode (133_1) and a conductive foam sheet (133_2).

[0112] The display (140) can visually display at least one of the electrical stimulation device (100), user information including the user's biometric information, or smoking event information. According to one embodiment, the display (140) can include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of force generated by the touch. The display (140) can be configured as an AR or VR-based display configured in a transparent lens shape to provide a field of view to the user and simultaneously output content.

[0113] The power supply unit (150) supplies power from the outside of the electrical stimulation device (100), supplies power to the internal circuit including the internal battery, or provides the power required to generate a stimulation signal.

[0114] The control unit (160) can control the overall operation and internal configuration of the electrical stimulation device (100), power supply and signal flow, and perform data processing functions. The control unit (160) can include at least one processor.

[0115] The processor can generate information or control the configuration of the electrical stimulation device (100) by executing instructions stored in the memory of the storage unit (170). The processor can be configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or any other type of processor well known in the art of the present invention.

[0116] The storage unit (170) can store data received or generated from the control unit (160), the electrical stimulation device (100), or other components of the brain stimulation system. The storage unit (170) can include, for example, a memory, a cache, a buffer, etc., and can be configured with software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of at least two or more of these. The memory can store instructions related to the control of the electrical stimulation device (100) and data for generating information.

[0117] Although not shown in Fig. 12, the electrical stimulation device (100) may additionally include a camera module, an audio module for sound output, a haptic module for vibration output, etc., to more efficiently output content.

[0118] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an electrical stimulation device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. At least some of the steps in Fig. 13 may be omitted or their order may be changed, and the aforementioned embodiments may be performed at any step in Fig. 13. For convenience of explanation of Fig. 13, reference is made to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is an exemplary diagram of an AR screen that can be viewed through a display (140) of an electrical stimulation device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Referring to Fig. 13, the electrical stimulation device (100) can stimulate the user's vagus nerve and collect information (S1310).

[0120] For example, a user can turn on the power of the electrical stimulation device (100) and wear the electrical stimulation device (100) like glasses. Then, the position of the stimulation unit (130) is adjusted so that the electrode unit (133) is located in the vagus nerve area inside the ear, and then an electric signal is applied.

[0121] When the electric stimulation device (100) applies an electric stimulation, an item (901) indicating a signal that an electric stimulation has occurred through the electric stimulation device (100) is shown in FIG. 14. Through this, the user can recognize that the electric stimulation is currently in progress.

[0122] In addition, the electrical stimulation device (100) can collect bio-information generated by applying electrical stimulation to a user through a stimulation unit (130) or a sensor unit (120), and can display an AR item (903) representing the collected bio-information through a display (140) as in Fig. 14. In Fig. 14, for example, an electrocardiogram is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various bio-information such as heart rate and body temperature can be displayed.

[0123] Next, the electrical stimulation device (100) can collect smoking event information (S1330).

[0124] For example, a user inserts an electronic cigarette stick into the upper portion of an aerosol generator (200) and turns on the aerosol generator (200) to operate it. When the user places the stick in his / her mouth and inhales and exhales, the aerosol generator (200) can transmit the user's actions and smoking event information related to the electronic cigarette to the electrical stimulation device (100). In this case, recognition of the user's actions, such as inhaling and exhaling, may also be performed through the electrical stimulation device (100).

[0125] Next, the electrical stimulation device (100) can output content corresponding to smoking event information (S1350).

[0126] For example, the electrical stimulation device (100) can generate an item (905) corresponding to smoking event information (e.g., smoking progress rate, inhalation and exhalation movements) received from the aerosol generating device (200). To this end, the control unit (160) can recognize the duration and exhalation point of the user's inhalation movement and output virtual cigarette smoke content through the display (140). The control unit (160) can output a larger amount of smoke content through the display (140) as the duration of the inhalation movement becomes longer.

[0127] This content output operation is not limited to step S1350, and can be performed continuously along with information collection according to electrical stimulation in steps S1310 and S1330.

[0128] By the above actions, the user can visually perceive virtual cigarette smoke content while inhaling and exhaling the stick of the aerosol generating device (200) while viewing an actual landscape through the transparent display (140), thereby satisfying the smoking arousal caused by the electrical stimulation.

[0129] An electrical stimulation method according to an embodiment of the present invention is an electrical stimulation method using an electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to a user's body, wherein the electrical stimulation device includes at least one electrode unit, and may include a step of applying an electrical signal transcutaneously through the electrode unit to at least a part of the user's vagus nerve region; and a step of collecting the user's bio-information generated by applying the electrical signal.

[0130] In an electrical stimulation method according to some embodiments, the step of applying the electrical signal may include applying the electrical signal to at least one region of the concha, cymba concha, and tragus of the ear.

[0131] In an electrical stimulation method according to some embodiments, the step of applying the electrical signal may include a step of providing the electrical stimulation by varying the frequency.

[0132] An electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body that can be attached to at least a part of a user's body; and an electrode unit implemented at a specific location on the body to apply electrical stimulation to a portion of the user's auriculo-vagus nerve.

[0133] An electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments may further include an extension portion connected to the electrode portion and having an adjustable length.

[0134] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the electrode portion is configured in plurality, and at least some of the plurality of electrode portions may have different sizes.

[0135] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the electrode portion includes an electrode and a conductive foam sheet, and the conductive foam sheet may be configured as a wet type.

[0136] An electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body wearable on a user's body; a stimulation unit formed at a specific location on the user's body; a display; and a control unit that applies electrical stimulation to the user's auriculo-vagal nerve and generates virtual content based on biometric information collected in response to the electrical stimulation and outputs the virtual content through the display.

[0137] An electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments is implemented in the form of smart glasses, wherein the body may include a first region including the display; and a second region including the stimulation unit.

[0138] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the stimulation unit may be implemented at one end of the second region.

[0139] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the stimulation unit may include at least one electrode unit that applies electrical stimulation; and an extension unit that is connected to the electrode unit and has an adjustable length.

[0140] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the electrode portion is configured in plurality, and at least some of the plurality of electrode portions may have different sizes.

[0141] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the electrode portion includes an electrode; and a conductive foam sheet, wherein the conductive foam sheet can be configured as a wet type.

[0142] An electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments further includes a communication module that communicates with an external device to collect smoking event information, and the control unit can output virtual content corresponding to the smoking event information through the display.

[0143] In an electrical stimulation device according to some embodiments, the stimulation unit may display virtual content generated based on the biometric information and virtual content corresponding to the smoking event information so as to be distinguished from each other on a screen output through the display.

[0144] The term '~ part' used in this embodiment means a software or hardware component such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or an ASIC, and the '~ part' performs certain roles. However, the '~ part' is not limited to software or hardware. The '~ part' may be configured to be on an addressable storage medium and may be configured to play one or more processors. Thus, as an example, the '~ part' includes components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functionality provided within the components and '~ parts' may be combined into a smaller number of components and '~ parts' or further separated into additional components and '~ parts'. Additionally, components and '~parts' may be implemented to regenerate one or more CPUs within a device or secure multimedia card.

[0145] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. An electrical stimulation method using an electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to a user's body, wherein the electrical stimulation device includes at least one electrode portion. A step of applying an electrical signal transcutaneously through the electrode unit to at least a part of the user's auricular nerve area; and An electrical stimulation method comprising a step of collecting a user's bio-information generated by applying the above electrical signal.

2. In paragraph 1, The step of applying the above electric signal is: An electrical stimulation method comprising applying the electrical signal to at least one area of ​​the concha, cymba concha, and tragus of the ear.

3. In paragraph 1, The step of applying the above electric signal is: An electrical stimulation method comprising a step of providing electrical stimulation by varying the frequency.

4. A body that can be attached to at least a part of the user's body; and An electrical stimulation device comprising an electrode unit implemented at a specific location of the body to apply electrical stimulation to the user's auricular nerve area.

5. In paragraph 4, The above electrical stimulation device, An electrical stimulation device further comprising an extension part connected to the electrode part and having an adjustable length.

6. In paragraph 4, The above electrode part is composed of multiple parts, An electrical stimulation device, wherein at least some of the plurality of electrode portions have different sizes.

7. In paragraph 4, The above electrode part includes an electrode and a conductive foam sheet, An electrical stimulation device wherein the above-mentioned conductive foam sheet is wet-formed.

8. A body that can be worn on the user's body; A stimulation part formed at a specific location on the user's body; display; and An electrical stimulation device comprising a control unit that applies electrical stimulation to a user's aural nerve, generates virtual content based on biometric information collected in response to the electrical stimulation, and outputs the virtual content through the display.

9. In paragraph 8, The above electrical stimulation device is implemented in the form of smart glasses, The above body, a first region including the display; and An electrical stimulation device comprising a second region including the above-mentioned stimulation unit.

10. In paragraph 9, An electrical stimulation device, wherein the above stimulation unit is implemented at one end of the second region.

11. In paragraph 8, The above stimulation part is, At least one electrode portion for applying electrical stimulation; and An electrical stimulation device comprising an extension part connected to the electrode part and having an adjustable length.

12. In paragraph 11, The above electrode part is composed of multiple parts, An electrical stimulation device, wherein at least some of the plurality of electrode portions have different sizes.

13. In the 11th paragraph, the electrode part, electrodes; and Includes a challenging foam sheet, An electrical stimulation device wherein the above-mentioned conductive foam sheet is wet-formed.

14. In paragraph 8, Further comprising a communication module for communicating with an external device to collect smoking event information, An electrical stimulation device in which the control unit outputs virtual content corresponding to the smoking event information through the display.

15. In paragraph 8, The above stimulation part is, An electrical stimulation device that displays virtual content generated based on the biometric information and virtual content corresponding to the smoking event information in a manner that is distinct from each other on a screen output through the display.

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