Vehicle Motion Sickness Mitigation via Electrical Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motion sickness is more prevalent in autonomous vehicles compared to human-operated vehicles, necessitating effective mitigation systems.
Innovation Solution
An in-vehicle system featuring a motion sickness mitigation device (MSMD) that generates electrical stimulation pulses, integrated into various vehicle components such as seatbelts, armrests, and center consoles, and controlled by a system that detects potential motion sickness conditions using sensors like galvanic skin cell sensors, EEG sensors, and GPS systems, to provide targeted therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If autonomous vehicle systems are implemented, then vehicle automation level is improved, but motion sickness prevalence increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by detecting early signs of motion sickness through sensors (galvanic skin response, heart rate, temperature) and administering electrical stimulation therapy before the condition worsens. The controller monitors physiological parameters continuously and activates the MSMD when thresholds indicating impending motion sickness are detected, preventing the full development of nausea and discomfort associated with autonomous vehicle travel.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion sickness mitigation device serves as an intermediary between the autonomous vehicle system and the occupant's physiological response. It introduces a mediating electrical stimulation mechanism that bridges the disconnect between visual input (showing stationary vehicle interior) and vestibular input (detecting vehicle motion), thereby resolving the sensory conflict that causes motion sickness in autonomous vehicles.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical stimulation therapy is applied, then motion sickness symptoms are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by integrating multiple functions into a single compact device: the MSMD incorporates both detection capabilities (through integration with vehicle sensors and physiological monitors) and treatment capabilities (electrical stimulation delivery) in one unit. The device can be integrated into various vehicle components such as seatbelts, armrests, or headrests, making it universally applicable across different vehicle types and configurations without requiring separate detection and treatment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the motion sickness detection subsystem and the electrical stimulation treatment subsystem into a unified integrated system. The controller combines sensor data processing, symptom assessment algorithms, and stimulation parameter control into a single control unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive motion sickness mitigation functionality.
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 effectively mitigates motion sickness by delivering tailored electrical stimulation to vehicle occupants, improving comfort and reducing the likelihood of motion sickness during vehicle travel.
Implementation Method 1
a motion sickness mitigation device (MSMD) integrated into a vehicle and configured to generate electrical stimulation pulses upon actuation
Data Source
AI summary
An example system for mitigating motion sickness within a vehicle is provided. The system includes a motion sickness mitigation device (MSMD) integrated into the vehicle and configured to generate electrical stimulation pulses upon actuation. The system also includes a controller operatively connected to the MSMD. The controller is configured to: obtain signals indicative of a potential motion sickness condition; determine whether a motion sickness conditions exists based on the signals; and, in response to determining that a motion sickness condition exists, actuate the MSMD.