Vehicle Headrest Neurostimulation for Motion Sickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motion sickness, caused by disparities between vestibular and visual inputs during vehicle travel, is not effectively alleviated by existing therapies which require user action and may have side effects.
Innovation Solution
A transcranial neurostimulation system integrated into a vehicle headrest with conductive electrodes and sensors that adjust stimulation based on occupant and vehicle conditions, using transcranial direct current stimulation to alleviate motion sickness symptoms without user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If behavioral or pharmacologic therapy is used to alleviate motion sickness, then motion sickness symptoms can be addressed, but the therapy requires user action and may have side effects
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest system automatically detects motion sickness conditions through sensors and applies transcranial neurostimulation without requiring user action. The system monitors vital signs, vehicle motion parameters, and environmental factors to autonomously activate treatment, eliminating the need for user initiation while providing reliable symptom alleviation.
2Extent of automation
If transcranial neurostimulation system is integrated into headrest with conductive threads, then the system provides automated treatment, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the headrest structure: conductive threads are integrated into the headrest covering material, sensors are embedded within the headrest, and the neurostimulation electrodes are formed as part of the headrest assembly. This merging of treatment, sensing, and structural functions into a single integrated unit reduces overall system complexity while maintaining automated treatment capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If conductive threads are stitched and/or woven into headrest material, then the electrode integration is simplified, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible conductive threads that can be stitched or woven into the headrest covering material. This approach allows the electrodes to conform to the flexible headrest structure while maintaining electrical conductivity. The thread-based implementation simplifies integration compared to rigid electrode structures, as the flexible threads can be incorporated during standard headrest manufacturing processes without requiring precise positioning of rigid components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides effective, side-effect-free alleviation of motion sickness symptoms by automatically adjusting stimulation based on occupant and vehicle data, enhancing comfort and reducing symptoms like dizziness and nausea.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one electrode comprises a conductive thread stitched and/or woven into the material of a covering of the headrest
Implementation Method 2
using transcranial direct current stimulation to alleviate motion sickness symptoms
Data Source
AI summary
A transcranial neurostimulation system for a vehicle, the transcranial neurostimulation system comprising at least one electrode formed into an article of vehicle furniture such as a headrest of a seat.