Controller Input Modulation for Implicit Biofeedback Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biofeedback systems are limited in their ability to effectively modify physiological activity during tasks, as they often require direct focus on physiological signals, are boring, and do not translate well to physically active scenarios or cooperative gameplay, and existing methods require extensive video game programming to implement.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that modulate the input of an interactive device, such as a game controller, based on physiological signals from a player, allowing implicit reinforcement of desirable physiological changes through game play, enabling collaborative gameplay and integrating biofeedback into dynamic video games or simulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional biofeedback systems use direct EEG displays to train attention, then physiological self-regulation can be achieved, but the training becomes boring and predictable causing frustration and loss of motivation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines conventional EEG biofeedback training with video game gameplay by merging the physiological self-regulation task with game objectives. The EEG-based attention training is integrated into the game framework, allowing users to achieve both physiological self-regulation and game progression simultaneously, thereby maintaining motivation while achieving therapeutic goals
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller modulation system as an intermediary between the EEG signals and the game environment. Instead of directly displaying EEG data, the system modulates controller inputs based on physiological states, creating an indirect feedback loop that maintains game flow while providing physiological training without breaking immersion
2Reliability
If biofeedback systems require focus on physiological signals for training, then self-regulation can be achieved, but it distracts from challenging professional tasks in job-related settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses controller modulation as an intermediary that translates physiological states into subtle gameplay adjustments without requiring direct attention to physiological signals. This allows physiological self-regulation to occur implicitly during natural gameplay or task performance, making the system adaptable to professional training settings where maintaining task focus is critical
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the physiological feedback to automatically modulate gameplay parameters without requiring the user to consciously monitor or adjust anything. The controller input is automatically adjusted based on detected physiological states, enabling continuous training during natural task performance
3Reliability
If video games are modified to implement biofeedback training, then physiological training during gameplay is achieved, but extensive reprogramming or complete construction of new games is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a separate controller modulation layer that sits between the existing game software and the hardware controller. This intermediary system captures physiological signals and modulates controller inputs accordingly, allowing biofeedback training to be integrated into existing games without requiring access to or modification of the game's source code
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the biofeedback functionality from the game software itself, creating an independent module that handles physiological signal processing and controller modulation. This segmentation allows the biofeedback training capability to be applied to multiple different games without modifying each game individually
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods and apparatuses provided for modifying the effect of an operator controlled input device on an interactive device to encourage the self-regulation of at least one physiological activity by a person different than the operator. The interactive device comprises a display area which depicts images and apparatus for receiving at least one input from the operator controlled input device to thus permit the operator to control and interact with at least some of the depicted images. One effect modification comprises measurement of the physiological activity of a person different from the operator, while modifying the ability of the operator to control and interact with at least some of the depicted images by modifying the input from the operator controlled input device in response to changes in the measured physiological signal.