Integrated signal generator for tinnitus therapy in which auditory stimulation signal and vibration stimulation signal are combined, integrated tinnitus therapy device for stimulating heterogeneous sensory organs by using heterogeneous stimulation signals, integrated tinnitus therapy system including same, and integrated tinnitus therapy method using application

Abstract

Provided are an integrated tinnitus system for stimulating heterogeneous sensory organs through a user terminal, and an integrated tinnitus therapy method using same. The method may comprise the steps of: measuring a tinnitus frequency of a user; generating a vibration stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency, and an auditory stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency; transmitting the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal to the user; and storing tinnitus therapy information including durations of the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal received by the user.

Description

An integrated signal generator for tinnitus treatment combining auditory stimulation signals and vibrational stimulation signals, an integrated tinnitus treatment device that stimulates heterogeneous sensory organs using heterogeneous stimulation signals, an integrated tinnitus treatment system including the same, and an integrated tinnitus treatment method utilizing an application

[0001] The present application relates to an integrated tinnitus system that stimulates heterogeneous sensory organs through a user terminal, which is a terminal of a user with tinnitus symptoms, and an integrated tinnitus treatment method using the same. More specifically, the application relates to an integrated tinnitus treatment system and an integrated tinnitus treatment method utilizing an application, comprising the steps of: measuring the tinnitus frequency of the user; generating a vibration stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency and an auditory stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency; transmitting the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal to the user; and storing tinnitus treatment information including the duration of the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal received by the user.

[0002] Generally, tinnitus refers to the phenomenon in which a person experiencing tinnitus subjectively perceives sound regardless of external sound stimuli. It is understood that the number of tinnitus patients in their 20s and 30s is rapidly increasing due to the increased use of smartphones and earphones, and the causes of tinnitus are known to be diverse, including noise, stress, and hearing loss.

[0003] Meanwhile, it is reported that 740 million people worldwide suffer from tinnitus, and in Korea, about 15% of the total population experiences tinnitus, with about 8% experiencing tinnitus symptoms that severely disrupt sleep and about 1% experiencing tinnitus symptoms that severely impede daily life.

[0004] When users initially perceive tinnitus, it triggers a negative emotional state and impairs inhibitory function in the brain's auditory center. This leads to increased perception of the tinnitus, which can exacerbate anxiety. Consequently, if left untreated, tinnitus is known to cause a vicious cycle that can lead to negative effects such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and, in severe cases, even suicidal impulses.

[0005] Although tinnitus can be classified in various ways depending on the criteria, it is generally divided into objective tinnitus, where the mechanism generating the actual sound can be identified, and subjective tinnitus, where only the individual perceives the sound and the mechanism of occurrence cannot be identified. Rehabilitation methods for treating subjective tinnitus include various approaches such as counseling, Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT), sound therapy, and tinnitus masking.

[0006] Among these, Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is a treatment method proposed by Jastreboff in 1990. It is currently widely practiced at numerous tinnitus centers worldwide and is known to demonstrate an effectiveness rate of over 80% in many reports. TRT involves establishing a treatment plan through appropriate patient evaluation, followed by retraining and sound therapy through individual counseling. Patient evaluation determines the treatment category based on the identification of the cause, severity, auditory hypersensitivity, and the presence of hearing loss, through a medical history review including a tinnitus questionnaire, as well as basic audiological and medical assessments. Directive counseling provides detailed explanations of the basic structure of the auditory system and the mechanisms of tinnitus using the Jastreboff model; through this process, it eliminates unnecessary fear of tinnitus and provides an opportunity for the patient to adapt to the phenomenon. It is to positively alter the autonomic nervous system and emotional responses to tinnitus, ultimately inducing habituation of the limbic system and autonomic nervous system, and furthermore, to habituate the perception of tinnitus.

[0007] Depending on the patient, the perception of tinnitus is reduced by using a noise generator or hearing aid to provide appropriate external sounds, and tinnitus habituation is induced by gradually inducing appropriate changes in the central nervous system. The process of tinnitus habituation requires about one year, and it takes more than one year and six months for adaptation to occur completely in the cerebrum.

[0008] However, these tinnitus treatment methods have a problem in that they require users to continuously wear a hearing aid-type tinnitus treatment device (virtually all the time) and, because they only output sound, make it difficult for users to wear the device continuously. Therefore, this invention aims to provide a more efficient integrated tinnitus treatment system utilizing soft palate stimulation therapy, as well as a tinnitus treatment method using an application.

[0009] The technical problem that this application aims to solve is to provide an integrated tinnitus treatment system and an integrated tinnitus treatment method that generate vibration stimulation signals and auditory stimulation signals and effectively deliver them to a user.

[0010] Another technical problem that this application aims to solve is to provide an integrated tinnitus treatment system and an integrated tinnitus treatment method with improved tinnitus treatment effects.

[0011] Another technical problem that this application aims to solve is to provide an integrated tinnitus treatment system and an integrated tinnitus treatment method with improved user convenience.

[0012] Another technical problem that this application aims to solve is to provide an integrated tinnitus treatment system and an integrated tinnitus treatment method that shorten the treatment period.

[0013] Another technical problem that this application aims to solve is to provide an integrated tinnitus treatment system and an integrated tinnitus treatment method with reduced user discomfort.

[0014] The technical problems that this application aims to solve are not limited to those described above.

[0015] To solve the above technical problem, the present application provides an integrated tinnitus treatment system that stimulates heterogeneous sensory organs through a user terminal, which is a terminal of a user with tinnitus symptoms.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the integrated tinnitus treatment system may include a vibration stimulation unit inserted into the user's oral cavity and stimulating the soft palate within the user's oral cavity, an auditory stimulation unit stimulating the user's auditory organ, and a server communicating with the user terminal.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the server may include identifying the user's tinnitus frequency and transmitting an auditory stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the auditory stimulation unit.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the server may include identifying the user's tinnitus frequency and transmitting a vibration stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the vibration stimulation unit.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the vibration stimulation unit may include a vibration member comprising a column structure having one end closed and the other end open and having a hollow interior, and a cover member comprising an interior space in which the vibration member is received, wherein the vibration member is inserted into the cover member in a first direction and one end of the cover member contacts the inside of the user's oral cavity.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the server may include identifying the user's tinnitus frequency, transmitting a vibration stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the user's soft palate in the oral cavity, and simultaneously transmitting an auditory stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the user's auditory organ.

[0021] To solve the above technical problem, the present application provides an integrated tinnitus treatment method that stimulates heterogeneous sensory organs through a user terminal, which is a terminal of a user with tinnitus symptoms, by utilizing an application.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the integrated tinnitus treatment method may include the steps of measuring the tinnitus frequency of the user, generating a vibration stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency and an auditory stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency, transmitting the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal to the user, and storing tinnitus treatment information including the duration of the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal received by the user.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the present application, an integrated tinnitus treatment system comprises a vibration stimulation unit inserted into the oral cavity of a user and stimulating the soft palate within the user's oral cavity, an auditory stimulation unit stimulating the user's auditory organ, and a server communicating with the user terminal, wherein the server may include identifying the user's tinnitus frequency, transmitting an auditory stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the auditory stimulation unit, and transmitting a vibration stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the vibration stimulation unit. Accordingly, the tinnitus treatment effect may be enhanced.

[0024] Additionally, the vibration stimulation unit may include a vibration member comprising a column structure having one end closed and the other end open and a hollow interior, and a cover member comprising an internal space in which the vibration member is received, wherein the vibration member is inserted into the cover member in a first direction and one end of the cover member contacts the inside of the user's oral cavity. Accordingly, user convenience may be improved.

[0025] In addition, the method may include identifying the tinnitus frequency of the user, transmitting a vibration stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the soft palate in the user's oral cavity, and simultaneously transmitting an auditory stimulation signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency to the user's auditory organ. Accordingly, the treatment period may be shortened.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present application, an integrated tinnitus treatment method may include the steps of measuring the tinnitus frequency of the user, generating a vibration stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency and an auditory stimulation signal frequency having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency, transmitting the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal to the user, and storing tinnitus treatment information including the duration of the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal received by the user. Accordingly, the user's discomfort may be reduced.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a flowchart illustrating an integrated tinnitus treatment method according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an integrated tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a vibration stimulation unit of a tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a vibration member of a tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0031] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along A-A' of Figure 4.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a cover member of a tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0033] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along B-B' of Figure 6.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a tinnitus treatment application according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0035] FIGS. 9 and 10 are drawings for explaining a control method of a tinnitus treatment system using a tinnitus treatment application according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0036] FIG. 11 is a signal flowchart for explaining the operation of a tinnitus treatment system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0037] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a tinnitus treatment system according to an actual use example of the present application.

[0038] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a control unit of a tinnitus treatment system according to an actual use example of the present application.

[0039] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining a vibration member of a tinnitus treatment system according to an actual use example of the present application.

[0040] FIGS. 15 and 16 are drawings for illustrating a vibrating member with an attached vibrator according to an example of actual use of the present application.

[0041] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and may be embodied in other forms. Rather, the embodiments introduced herein are provided to ensure that the disclosed content is thorough and complete and to ensure that the concept of the present invention is sufficiently conveyed to those skilled in the art.

[0042] Additionally, although terms such as first, second, third, etc., have been used to describe various components in the various embodiments of this specification, these components should not be limited by such terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Accordingly, what is referred to as the first component in one embodiment may be referred to as the second component in another embodiment. Each embodiment described and illustrated herein also includes its complementary embodiment. Furthermore, in this specification, "and / or" is used to mean including at least one of the components listed before and after it.

[0043] In the specification, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should not be understood as excluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, components, or combinations thereof. Additionally, in the following description of the invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known functions or configurations could unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a flowchart for explaining an integrated tinnitus treatment method according to an embodiment of the present application, FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an integrated tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application, FIG. 3 is a perspective view for explaining a vibration stimulation unit of a tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application, FIG. 4 is a perspective view for explaining a vibration member of a tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along A-A' of FIG. 4, FIG. 6 is a perspective view for explaining a cover member of a tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along B-B' of FIG. 6.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, an integrated tinnitus treatment device according to an embodiment of the present application can stimulate a different sensory organ of a user (1) who has tinnitus symptoms. The integrated tinnitus treatment device may include a vibration stimulation unit (100), a control unit (200), and an auditory stimulation unit (300).

[0046] The tinnitus information of the above user (1) is measured (S100).

[0047] The above user (1) may be defined as a patient with tinnitus symptoms who hears abnormal sounds in the ear or head without external sound stimulation. The method for measuring the above tinnitus information may be carried out by utilizing audiometric testing equipment and technology based on the subjective report of the above user (1). Tinnitus information, such as the range and intensity of the tinnitus frequency experienced by the above user (1), may be used to establish an appropriate treatment plan. The above tinnitus frequency may be defined as the frequency of the tinnitus felt by the above user (1).

[0048] Based on the measured tinnitus information, a vibration stimulation signal and an auditory stimulation signal are generated (S200).

[0049] Generally, the soft palate, also known as the roof of the mouth, can be defined as the relatively soft posterior part of the palate. For the treatment of tinnitus, the field of Korean medicine utilizes soft palate stimulation therapy, which involves using pharmacopuncture or regular acupuncture to stimulate the soft palate muscles and reduce swelling of the muscles controlling the Eustachian tube. It is known that soft palate stimulation therapy restores normal Eustachian tube function and alleviates sound symptoms.

[0050] The above vibration stimulation unit (100) can transmit a vibration stimulation signal to the soft palate in the oral cavity of the user (1). The above vibration stimulation unit (100) may include a vibration member (120) and a cover member (140).

[0051] The above-mentioned vibrating member (120) is formed to extend in a first direction and may have a hollow column structure. The inside of the above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may accommodate a power source, a substrate (124) to be described later, etc. One end of the above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may be closed, and the other end may be formed open. The above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may be inserted inside the above-mentioned cover member (140) to be described later. The above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may generate a vibration stimulation signal through a vibrator (125) to be described later and may indirectly transmit the vibration stimulation signal into the oral cavity of the user (1) through the above-mentioned cover member (140).

[0052] Although not shown, the vibration stimulation signal may include a specific pattern or a random stimulation pattern. For example, the vibration stimulation signal may be transmitted to the user (1) by repeating the same pattern, such as maintaining vibration for 1 second and stopping vibration for 1 second. Alternatively, the vibration stimulation signal may be transmitted to the user (1) as a random stimulation pattern that maintains vibration for a random amount of time and stops vibration for a random amount of time.

[0053] The above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may be formed from a material having high hardness, tensile strength, and torsional strength, but low elasticity and ductility. For example, the above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may be manufactured from plastic materials such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), and polyamide (PA), but is not limited thereto. The above-mentioned vibrating member (120) may include a connecting part (121), an extension part (122), a protrusion part (123), a substrate (124), and a vibrator (125).

[0054] The coupling portion (121) may be formed on the closed end side of the vibration member (120). The coupling portion (121) is an area inserted into the oral cavity of the user (1) and may be formed of a material that is relatively flexible compared to the extension portion (122) and the protrusion portion (123). The coupling portion (121) may include being inclined to have a first inclination (A) from the extension portion (122). The coupling portion (121) may include a coupling hole (121a).

[0055] For example, the first inclination (A) may include an obtuse angle of 165° to 175°. Through the first inclination (A), one end of the vibration member (120) can efficiently transmit a vibration stimulation signal to the soft palate in the oral cavity of the user (1). Accordingly, the tinnitus treatment effect can be improved.

[0056] The coupling hole (121a) may be formed through a second direction intersecting the first direction. The coupling hole (121a) may accommodate the vibrator (125). Although not illustrated, the coupling hole (121a) may include a retaining projection on which the vibrator (125) is seated.

[0057] The extension portion (122) may include connecting the coupling portion (121) and the protrusion. As described above, the extension portion (122) may be formed to have the coupling portion (121) and the first slope (A).

[0058] The above protrusion (123) may be formed on the open other end of the vibration member (120). The protrusion (123) may include a first protrusion (123a) and a second protrusion (123b) formed protruding from the outer surface.

[0059] The first protrusion (123a) may be formed at the open end of the other end of the vibration member (120). As described above, the first protrusion (123a) may be formed protruding from the outer surface of the vibration member (120).

[0060] The second protrusion (123b) may be formed spaced apart from the first protrusion (123a). The second protrusion (123b) may also be formed protruding from the outer surface of the vibration member (120).

[0061] In other words, the first protrusion (123a) can facilitate the separation of the vibration member (120) from the cover member (140). Additionally, when the vibration member (120) and the cover member (140) are combined, the second protrusion (123b) can increase the bonding force. Consequently, the first protrusion (123a) and the second protrusion (123b) can facilitate the combination and separation of the vibration member (120) and the cover member (140).

[0062] The substrate (124) may be inserted into the empty interior of the vibrating member (120). At least a portion of the area of ​​the substrate (124) may be exposed through the coupling hole (121a). The vibrator (125) may be placed on the exposed portion of the substrate (124) and electrically connected. The substrate (124) may be connected to a power source to supply power to the vibrator (125), which will be described later.

[0063] The above vibrator (125) may include a shape that minimizes fatigue applied to the jaw joint, etc., when placed in the oral cavity, while providing appropriate vibration to the soft palate in the oral cavity. For example, the above vibrator (125) may include a flat cylindrical shape with a diameter of 1.5 cm to 2.5 cm and a height of 0.7 cm to 1.3 cm. The above vibrator (125) may convert electrical energy into vibration energy and output a vibration stimulation signal. As the above vibrator (125) operates, vibration can be transmitted to the soft palate in the oral cavity of the user (1). The above vibrator (125) may output a vibration stimulation signal at a frequency of 20 Hz to 10,000 Hz in terms of symptom relief and therapeutic efficacy, but is not limited thereto. The above vibrator (125) may be placed on the catch of the above coupling hole (121a). Alternatively, the vibrator (125) may be detached from the coupling hole (121a) as needed.

[0064] That is, the vibrator (125) can be easily attached and detached from the coupling part (121), and can be easily replaced if the vibrator (125) malfunctions or breaks down. Accordingly, maintenance is easy, and the convenience of use for the user (1) can be improved.

[0065] The cover member (140) may have a column structure that extends in the first direction and has a hollow interior. One end of the cover member (140) may be closed, and the other end may be formed open. As described above, the cover member (140) may accommodate the vibration member (120). The cover member (140) may wrap the vibration member (120) so that the vibration member (120) can be used hygienically. The cover member (140) may be formed of a material that has lower hardness, tensile strength, and torsional strength compared to the vibration member (120), but higher elasticity and ductility. Additionally, the cover member (140) may be formed of a material that is harmless to the human body as it is a part that comes into direct contact with the inside of the user's (1) oral cavity. For example, the cover member (140) may be made of silicone, but is not limited thereto. The above cover member (140) includes an internal space for accommodating the vibration member (120) and may include an end portion (141), an extension portion (142), and a other end portion (143).

[0066] The above-mentioned end portion (141) may be formed on the closed end side of the cover member (140). The above-mentioned end portion (141) is an area inserted into the oral cavity of the user (1) and may be formed of a material that is relatively flexible compared to the extension portion (142) and the other end portion (143).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the cover member (140) is capable of hardness adjustment and can be manufactured from various grades of silicone material with adjusted hardness. In this case, the end portion (141) can be manufactured from soft and flexible silicone with low Shore A hardness, and the other end portion (143) can be manufactured from hard and strong silicone with Shore A hardness. The cover member (140) can be manufactured by laminating and curing two grades of silicone, one with low Shore A hardness and the other with strong Shore A hardness, and then blending the boundary between the two silicones. The silicone used at this time may include RTV silicone and urethane silicone, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] According to another embodiment, the cover member (140) may be manufactured by adding a filler. In this case, the end portion (141) may be manufactured from pure silicone, and the other end portion (143) may have its viscosity and hardness improved by adding the filler. The rigidity of the cover member (140) can be controlled by adjusting the amount of the filler added. The filler used at this time may include, but is not limited to, silica powder, fiber reinforcing agents, etc.

[0069] According to another embodiment, the flexibility and hardness of the cover member (140) can be controlled by adding a curing agent. In this case, the one end (141) side can have its flexibility improved by adding less of the curing agent, resulting in slower curing. Additionally, the other end (143) side can have its hardness improved by adding a larger amount of the curing agent than the amount added during the manufacture of the one end (141), resulting in faster curing. The amount of curing agent used at this time can be added according to the manufacturer's recommended ratio range.

[0070] The above-mentioned end portion (141) may include being inclined to have a second slope (B) from the above-mentioned extension portion (142).

[0071] For example, the second slope (B) may include an obtuse angle of 165° to 175°, similar to the first slope (A). Through the second slope (B), one end of the cover member (140) can efficiently transmit a vibration stimulation signal to the soft palate in the oral cavity of the user (1). Accordingly, the tinnitus treatment effect can be improved.

[0072] The extension portion (142) may include connecting the one end portion (141) and the other end portion (143). The extension portion (142) may be formed to have the one end portion (141) and the second slope (B).

[0073] The other end portion (143) may be formed on the open other end side of the cover member (140). The other end portion (143) may include a third protrusion (143a) formed protrudingly and a recessed coupling groove (143b) formed in the cover member (140).

[0074] The third protrusion (143a) may be formed at the open end of the cover member (140). As described above, the third protrusion (143a) may be formed protruding from the outer surface of the cover member (140). The third protrusion (143a) may prevent the first protrusion (121a) of the vibration member (120) from being drawn into the interior of the cover member (140).

[0075] That is, when the vibration member (120) is inserted into the interior of the cover member (140), it can be easily separated using the third protrusion (143a).

[0076] The coupling groove (143b) may be formed spaced apart from the third protrusion (143a) and may be formed on the inner surface of the cover member (140). As described above, the coupling groove (143b) may be formed by being recessed from the inner surface of the cover member (140). When the vibration member (120) is inserted into the interior of the cover member (140), the coupling groove (143b) may accommodate the second protrusion (123b) of the vibration member (120).

[0077] In other words, when the above-mentioned vibration member (120) is inserted into the interior of the above-mentioned cover member (140), the bonding force can be increased through the above-mentioned second protrusion (123b).

[0078] Accordingly, it becomes easier to optionally combine or separate the vibration member (120) and the cover member (140), and user convenience can be improved.

[0079] The above vibration stimulation signal and the above auditory stimulation signal are transmitted to the user (1) (S300).

[0080] The control unit (200) may be electrically connected to the vibration stimulation unit (100) and the auditory stimulation unit (300). The control unit (200) may adjust the vibration stimulation signal of the vibration stimulation unit (100) by operation of the user (1). For example, the control unit (200) may adjust the intensity, frequency, period, duration, etc. of the vibration stimulation signal generated by the vibrator (125) of the vibration stimulation unit (100), but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the control unit (200) may adjust the intensity, frequency, period, duration, etc. of the auditory stimulation signal generated by the auditory stimulation unit (300), which will be described later, but is not limited thereto.

[0081] As described above, the auditory stimulation unit (300) may be electrically connected to the control unit (200). The auditory stimulation unit (300) may stimulate the auditory nerve of the user (1) through an auditory stimulation signal. The auditory stimulation unit (300) may help the user (1) adapt to the tinnitus symptoms by delivering an auditory stimulation signal to the auditory organ of the user (1) who has tinnitus symptoms. For example, the auditory stimulation unit (300) may generate an auditory stimulation signal having a frequency of 6000 Hz.

[0082] Alternatively, if the tinnitus frequency felt by the user (1) can be measured, the auditory stimulation unit (300) may generate an auditory stimulation signal having a frequency similar to the tinnitus frequency. The auditory stimulation signal may include an acoustic signal having the same frequency as the tinnitus frequency.

[0083] Although not illustrated, the auditory stimulus signal may include a plurality of auditory stimuli. The auditory stimulus signal may include a first auditory stimulus signal and a second auditory stimulus signal.

[0084] The first auditory stimulus signal may include background sounds such as heartbeats, wind sounds, and other sounds that can be heard in nature, having a low frequency (20Hz to 500Hz).

[0085] The second auditory stimulus signal may include having a higher frequency than the first auditory stimulus signal. If the tinnitus frequency is measurable, the second auditory stimulus signal may have a frequency substantially identical to the tinnitus frequency. The second auditory stimulus signal may include a beep having a specific pattern or a random pattern.

[0086] The above auditory stimulation unit (300) may be a bone conduction speaker. If the above auditory stimulation unit (300) is a bone conduction speaker, the bone conduction speaker may be mounted at a position corresponding to the halo hearing area. The bone conduction speaker can stimulate the halo hearing area and transmit an auditory stimulation signal to the user (1).

[0087] Huncheonggu can be defined in the field of Korean medicine as a point used in scalp acupuncture therapy, consisting of a line drawn 2 cm forward and backward from a point 1.5 cm just above the tip of the ear, with a length of 4 cm. Scalp acupuncture therapy can be defined as an acupuncture treatment method that treats diseases of the central nervous system by inserting needles under the skin of the head corresponding to projection zones of various parts of the brain, including the rotation and grooves of the cerebral cortex.

[0088] The above auditory stimulation unit (300) may include a headset speaker. If the above auditory stimulation unit (300) is a headset speaker, it may generate an auditory stimulation signal by applying vibration to the air through a diaphragm.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit (200) can control the frequency of the vibration stimulation signal generated by the vibrator (125) and the frequency of the auditory stimulation signal generated by the auditory stimulation unit (300) to be substantially the same. That is, the frequency of the vibration stimulation signal and the frequency of the auditory stimulation signal can be determined to be the same within a certain error range. For example, the auditory stimulation unit (300) can generate an auditory stimulation signal having a frequency of 6000 Hz. When the control unit (200) controls the auditory stimulation signal to have a frequency of 6000 Hz, the vibration stimulation signal can also be controlled to have a frequency of 6000 Hz.

[0090] Accordingly, the user (1) can receive the auditory stimulus signal and the vibration stimulus signal of substantially the same or similar frequency, and can reinforce, activate, and tune specific neural pathways. In this case, the auditory stimulus signal and the vibration stimulus can stimulate the same neural circuit (such as a multisensory integration area associated with the auditory cortex) to induce strong neuroplasticity (a phenomenon in which experience causes functional and structural changes in the nervous system). Alternatively, if the tinnitus frequency is concentrated in a specific frequency band, the auditory stimulus signal and the vibration stimulus signal similar to the specific frequency can be provided to reduce the overactivation of the neural signal for the tinnitus frequency due to the resonance effect.

[0091] In addition, the vibration stimulation signal transmitted into the oral cavity and the auditory stimulation signal transmitted to the auditory organ are synchronized with each other, so that the brain of the user (1) can perceive the two stimuli as a single stimulus. Accordingly, the neural network can be reconfigured in a direction that suppresses the tinnitus frequency, thereby allowing for more effective relief and treatment of tinnitus symptoms.

[0092] According to another embodiment, the control unit (200) can control the frequency of the auditory stimulation signal generated by the auditory stimulation unit (300) to be higher than the frequency of the vibration stimulation signal generated by the vibrator (125). For example, if the control unit (200) controls the auditory stimulation signal to have a frequency of 6000 Hz, it can control the vibration stimulation signal to have a frequency of 4000 Hz, which is lower than 6000 Hz.

[0093] It is known that tinnitus frequencies generally occur in the high frequency (approximately 4 to 8 kHz) range. Accordingly, the user's attention can be distracted by directly competing with the tinnitus frequency through the high-frequency auditory stimulus signal and additionally providing a sensory stimulus that is clearly distinguishable from the tinnitus signal through the low-frequency vibration stimulus signal.

[0094] According to another embodiment, the control unit (200) can control the frequency of the auditory stimulation signal generated by the auditory stimulation unit (300) to be lower than the frequency of the vibration stimulation signal generated by the vibrator (125). For example, if the control unit (200) controls the auditory stimulation signal to have a frequency of 6000 Hz, it can control the vibration stimulation signal to have a frequency of 8000 Hz, which is higher than 6000 Hz.

[0095] In this case, the aforementioned relatively low-frequency auditory stimulus signal can mimic sounds commonly heard in nature, such as a heartbeat or the sound of wind. Such auditory stimulus signals can induce a sense of psychological stability and help relieve tension and reduce stress. On the other hand, the aforementioned relatively high-frequency vibrational stimulus signal can strongly stimulate sensory nerves through the skin, muscles, and bones, thereby distracting attention.

[0096] In other words, the user (1) with tinnitus symptoms can receive the auditory stimulation signal and the vibration stimulation signal of different frequencies to activate a wider neural pathway and further enhance neuroplasticity. In this case, the auditory stimulation signal mainly stimulates the auditory cortex, and the vibration stimulation signal stimulates the tactile and proprioceptive pathways (such as the trigeminal nerve or intracranial nerves), thereby stimulating the user's (1) nerves complementarily. That is, this is applied when the tinnitus frequency is not fixed to a specific frequency (such as tinnitus like full-band white noise), thereby more effectively alleviating and treating the user's tinnitus symptoms.

[0097] As a result, since the causes and symptoms of tinnitus vary from patient to patient, the tinnitus information (frequency, intensity, etc.) of the user (1) can be analyzed and a personalized treatment for the patient can be designed, thereby more effectively alleviating tinnitus symptoms and obtaining optimal results.

[0098] FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining a tinnitus treatment application according to an embodiment of the present application, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are diagrams for explaining a control method of a tinnitus treatment system utilizing a tinnitus treatment application according to an embodiment of the present application, and FIG. 11 is a signal flow diagram for explaining the operation of a tinnitus treatment system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 11, a different sensory organ can be stimulated through a user terminal (210), which is a terminal of a user (1) with tinnitus symptoms. The integrated tinnitus treatment system may include a vibration stimulation unit (100), a control unit (200), an auditory stimulation unit (300), and a server (400).

[0100] Since the above vibration stimulation unit (100), the control unit (200), and the auditory stimulation unit (300) are substantially identical to the vibration stimulation unit (100), the control unit (200), and the auditory stimulation unit (300) of the integrated tinnitus treatment device described above, a detailed description is omitted.

[0101] The tinnitus treatment information of the above user (1) is stored (S400).

[0102] The server (400) can communicate with the user terminal (210) of the user (1) and the administrator terminal (220) of the administrator (2). The server (400) can store tinnitus treatment information of the user (1).

[0103] The user terminal (210) used by the user (1) can measure tinnitus treatment information received by the user (1) through the vibration stimulation unit (100), the control unit (200), and the auditory stimulation unit (300).

[0104] For example, the tinnitus treatment information may include the intensity, frequency, period, and duration of the vibration stimulation signal received by the user (1), and the intensity, frequency, period, and duration of the auditory stimulation signal.

[0105] In particular, the user terminal (210) may store the duration of the vibration stimulation signal and the duration of the auditory stimulation signal received by the user (1) for tinnitus treatment in the server (400) of the tinnitus treatment application to be described later. The user terminal (210) may include a user display (211) that displays the tinnitus treatment information, etc., a communication module, a GPS, a memory, etc.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 9, the administrator (2) can collect user information of the user (1) during an initial consultation or medical examination through the administrator terminal (220) and store the user information in the server (400). Meanwhile, when the user (1) enters login information through the user terminal (210), the user information stored in the server (400) can be provided by the administrator (2). Accordingly, tinnitus frequency information suitable for tinnitus treatment can be received to generate tinnitus treatment information. The tinnitus treatment information generated by the user (1) can be stored in the server (400). The administrator (2) can check the tinnitus treatment information stored in the server (400) through the administrator terminal (220).

[0107] Referring to FIG. 11, the user (1) can access user information and tinnitus treatment information of the server (400) by entering login information through the user terminal (210). The vibration stimulation unit (100) and the auditory stimulation unit (300) can receive tinnitus frequency information of the tinnitus treatment information entered by the administrator (2) from the server (400) through the control unit (200). Accordingly, the vibration stimulation unit (100) and the auditory stimulation unit (300) can generate a signal corresponding to the tinnitus treatment information generated by the administrator (2).

[0108] That is, the vibration stimulation unit (100) can generate a vibration stimulation signal according to the prescription of the attending physician, who is the manager (2), and the auditory stimulation unit (300) can generate an auditory stimulation signal according to the prescription of the attending physician, who is the manager (2).

[0109] Accordingly, the tinnitus information (frequency, intensity, etc.) of the user (1) can be analyzed, and a personalized treatment for the patient can be designed, thereby more effectively alleviating tinnitus symptoms and obtaining optimal results.

[0110] A tinnitus treatment application according to an embodiment of the present application can be displayed through the user display (211) of the user terminal (210).

[0111] When accessing the tinnitus treatment application through the user terminal (210), the user display (211) may display the start screen of the tinnitus treatment application. The user display (211) may display the serial number of the tinnitus treatment device, an app logo, a treatment start button, etc.

[0112] After the user (1) presses the "Start Treatment" button through the user terminal (210), the user display (211) may display a login screen. The user (1) may access the main screen for patients as shown in FIG. 14 by entering an ID and password that are assigned through the administrator (2) or pre-assigned.

[0113] When the user (1) accesses the main screen for the patient through the user terminal (210), the user display (211) can display user information such as the age, gender, nationality, contact information, and date of the last visit of the user (1) registered at the time of the initial examination. The user display (211) can display prescription information such as the affiliation, contact information, email address, date and time of prescription, and contents of the prescription of the attending physician. In addition, the user display (211) can display the device connection status of the vibration stimulation unit (100) and the auditory stimulation unit (300).

[0114] The above device connection status can be updated and displayed whenever the connection confirmation button is clicked. Additionally, if the above device connection status is normal, the user display (211) can switch from the patient main screen to the treatment screen.

[0115] After the vibration stimulation unit (100) and the auditory stimulation unit (300) are connected, the user display (211) can display how to wear the device. Afterwards, the user display (211) can display a treatment start button as shown in FIG. 16.

[0116] After the user (1) presses the treatment start button, the user display (211) can display a back button, the treatment frequency being transmitted, the treatment progress, the target time, a pause button, a treatment end button, etc.

[0117] When the user (1) presses the back button, the user display (211) can switch to and display the main screen for the patient.

[0118] When the user (1) presses the treatment end button after the tinnitus treatment is finished, the server (400) can store the tinnitus treatment information that the user (1) received through the vibration stimulation unit (100), the control unit (200), and the auditory stimulation unit (300). In this case, the user display (211) can switch to display the main screen for the patient.

[0119] As described above, the tinnitus treatment information may include the intensity, frequency, period, and duration of the vibration stimulation signal received by the user (1), and the intensity, frequency, period, and duration of the auditory stimulation signal. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the tinnitus treatment information may be displayed through the user terminal (210), including whether the treatment has been achieved (not achieved, completed), etc.

[0120] The tinnitus treatment information of the user (1) can be managed through the administrator terminal (220), which is the terminal of the administrator (2) of the tinnitus treatment application according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0121] The above administrator terminal (220) can communicate with the above server (400). When accessing the above tinnitus treatment application through the above administrator terminal (220), the tinnitus treatment information of the above user (1) can be modified, deleted, and managed. The above administrator terminal (220), like the above user terminal (210), may include an administrator display (221) that displays the above tinnitus treatment information, etc., a communication module, GPS, memory, etc. The above tinnitus treatment application can display a main screen for medical use through the administrator display (221) of the above administrator terminal (220).

[0122] After the administrator (2) presses the "Start Treatment" button through the administrator terminal (220), the administrator display (221) can display a login screen. The administrator (2) can access the main screen for doctors as shown in FIG. 19 by entering a pre-specified ID and password.

[0123] When the above administrator (2) accesses the above user main screen through the above administrator terminal (220), the above administrator display (221) can display user information of a plurality of the above users (1).

[0124] When the above administrator (2) clicks on the user information of a single user (1), the administrator display (221) may switch to and display a patient-specific management screen. The administrator display (221) may display patient-specific user information, prescription information, and tinnitus treatment information.

[0125] The above administrator (2) can store prescription information, including the treatment frequency that the user (1) must receive treatment for, in the server (400) through the administrator terminal (220). Accordingly, the server (400) can store prescription information by date and by patient and display it through the administrator terminal (220).

[0126] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining a tinnitus treatment system according to an actual use example of the present application, and FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a control unit of a tinnitus treatment system according to an actual use example of the present application.

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the tinnitus treatment system can generate and transmit vibration stimulation signals and auditory stimulation signals to a user. As described above, the tinnitus treatment system may include a vibration stimulation unit, a control unit, and an auditory stimulation unit.

[0128] The above vibration stimulation unit can be inserted into the oral cavity of a user with tinnitus symptoms. The vibration stimulation unit can generate a vibration stimulation signal and transmit the vibration stimulation signal to the soft palate within the user's oral cavity.

[0129] The above auditory stimulation unit can generate an auditory stimulation signal through earphones, speakers, headsets, bone conduction speakers, etc. The above auditory stimulation unit can transmit the auditory stimulation signal to the user's auditory organs.

[0130] The control unit is electrically connected to the vibration stimulation unit and can adjust the intensity, frequency, period, duration, etc. of the vibration stimulation signal and the auditory stimulation signal. The control unit may be connected to the auditory stimulation unit wirelessly or via a wire. For example, the control unit may communicate with the auditory stimulation unit via Bluetooth, but is not limited thereto.

[0131] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining a vibrating member of a tinnitus treatment system according to an actual use example of the present application, and FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 are drawings for explaining a vibrating member with a vibrator attached according to an actual use example of the present application.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, the vibration member of the tinnitus treatment system can be connected to a power source to generate a vibration stimulation signal. As described above, the vibration member includes a vibrator and can convert electrical energy into vibration energy.

[0133] The above vibrator is selectively detachable and attached to a coupling hole located at one end of the vibration member, thereby facilitating maintenance and improving user convenience.

[0134] As a result, the user's soft palate in the oral cavity can be stimulated using the above-mentioned vibration member, while the user's auditory organs can be stimulated through the above-mentioned auditory stimulation unit.

[0135] Accordingly, by simultaneously transmitting vibration stimulation signals to the soft palate in the oral cavity and effectively transmitting auditory stimulation signals to the auditory organs, tinnitus symptoms can be relieved and treated more quickly and effectively.

[0136] Although the present invention has been described in detail using preferred embodiments, the scope of the invention is not limited to specific embodiments and should be interpreted by the appended claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that many modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An integrated tinnitus treatment system that stimulates heterogeneous sensory organs through a user terminal, which is a terminal of a user with tinnitus symptoms, A vibration stimulation unit inserted into the oral cavity of the user and stimulating the soft palate within the user's oral cavity; An auditory stimulation unit that stimulates the auditory organs of the user; and An integrated tinnitus treatment system that stimulates heterogeneous sensory organs, including a server communicating with the above-mentioned user terminal.

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