Discreet Craving Input Actuator for Addiction Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for managing cravings associated with addiction lack a discreet and effective method for users to communicate cravings and receive support, leading to high relapse rates due to the absence of a device that can be used inconspicuously and provide timely, tailored assistance.
Innovation Solution
A craving control device with a housing that can be worn or carried discreetly, featuring a craving input actuator, wireless communicator, and sensors to track craving timing, frequency, and intensity, along with distraction features like textured surfaces and timers, and sensors for user and environmental parameters, which communicates data to an external device for proactive support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing devices for managing cravings are used, then users can track cravings and receive coaching tips, but the devices lack a discreet form factor for input mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The craving input actuator is integrated within the housing of the drug delivery device, creating a nested structure where the input mechanism is contained within the existing device body. This allows the device to maintain a compact, discreet form factor while still providing functional input capabilities for craving tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions into a single unit: drug delivery, craving input detection, craving tracking, and coaching tip provision. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate devices or complex external accessories, achieving discreteness while maintaining comprehensive craving management capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing behavior modification devices are used, then motivational messages can be provided, but the devices cannot receive unprompted input from the user indicating cravings
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables users to self-report cravings by providing a simple manual input mechanism that allows unprompted user activation. This self-service capability lets users independently indicate cravings without requiring external prompting or complex automated detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The craving input actuator serves as an intermediary between the user's internal craving state and the device's tracking system. This simple mechanical or tactile interface mediates the transmission of craving information from the user to the device, enabling unprompted input without requiring complex sensing or communication infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If smartphone applications are used for craving tracking, then users can record cravings and see progress, but the applications lack an easy and discreet form factor for input
Solution Approach 1:
The craving input functionality is nested within the portable device housing, creating a compact integrated unit that combines the input mechanism with the tracking and delivery functions. This eliminates the need for separate smartphone applications and provides a self-contained solution with discreet dimensions suitable for carrying.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the craving tracking and input functionality from the smartphone ecosystem into a standalone portable device. This extraction creates a discrete physical device that operates independently of smartphones, providing easy and discreet access to craving input capabilities without requiring external devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A craving control device comprising a housing, a craving input actuator supported by the housing, a wireless communicator supported by the housing, and a controller is provided. The craving input actuator can be configured to obtain information from a user pertaining to a timing, frequency, or intensity of a craving. The controller can be operatively connected to the craving input actuator and the wireless communicator to communicate craving information received by the craving input actuator via the wireless communicator to a device external to the housing. The device external to the housing can be a personal communication device. The housing can be sized and configured to be enclosed in the user's hand and or to be placed in a pocket of the user's clothing. Methods for using the craving control devices are also provided.