Multi-Axis Vestibular Stimulation Device for Reproducible Motor Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vestibular stimulation methods lack reproducibility, measurability, and variability in applying angular and linear accelerations, primarily affecting individuals with developmental disorders and balance issues, as they often only provide stimulation during acceleration and deceleration phases, failing to maintain consistent vestibular input.
Innovation Solution
A computer-controlled multi-axis rotational motion device that allows for continuous 360-degree rotations, enabling controlled and measurable vestibular stimulation by varying intensity, frequency, and duration of angular and linear accelerations along multiple axes, with independent control of pitch, yaw, and roll axes, and the ability to administer specific doses of vestibular stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional vestibular stimulation methods are used with acceleration only at beginning and end of profile, then the stimulation protocol is simple to implement, but the stimulation is not reproducible, measurable, or conducive to applying different patterns in different directions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors to detect the subject's physiological responses and feeds this information back to the controller, which automatically adjusts stimulation parameters to maintain consistency and achieve target responses, thereby improving reproducibility through closed-loop control
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables precise control and variation of multiple stimulation parameters including acceleration magnitude, frequency, duration, and directional patterns across different axes, allowing reproducible application of standardized stimulation protocols with customizable parameters
2Duration of action of moving object
If vestibular stimulation is applied only during acceleration and deceleration phases, then the stimulation duration is short, but the vestibular input is not consistent throughout the rotation cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous vestibular stimulation throughout the entire rotation cycle by applying controlled accelerations and decelerations at multiple phases, ensuring consistent vestibular input rather than limiting stimulation to only beginning and end phases
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies periodic acceleration and deceleration cycles at controlled intervals throughout the rotation, creating consistent rhythmic vestibular stimulation that maintains reliable input across the extended stimulation duration
3Measurement precision
If manual operation of vestibular stimulation device is used, then the device is easy to operate, but the stimulation cannot be precisely controlled or measured
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated computer-controlled system that uses sensors to precisely measure acceleration parameters and actuators to deliver controlled stimulation, achieving high measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and controllers that automatically monitor, measure, and adjust stimulation parameters without requiring manual intervention, enabling precise measurement and control while simplifying operation through self-regulating mechanisms
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
This solution provides quantifiable, repeatable, and customizable vestibular stimulation, effectively improving motor control, balance, and sensory integration in individuals with developmental disorders and balance issues, including those with incapacitating disabilities, by ensuring consistent vestibular input beyond acceleration and deceleration phases.
Implementation Method 1
enabling controlled and measurable vestibular stimulation by varying intensity, frequency, and duration of angular and linear accelerations
Implementation Method 2
enabling controlled and measurable vestibular stimulation by varying intensity, frequency, and duration of angular and linear accelerations
Data Source
AI summary
A method of motor reflex training a subject is provided. The method includes rotating a subject in a multi-axis rotational device comprising a pitch axis of rotation and a yaw axis of rotation. The rotation of each said pitch and yaw axis is independent of the other axis of rotation. The rotation velocity and acceleration around each said pitch and yaw axis controlled by a computer system. Said rotational device is configured to allow continuous rotation through more than 360 degrees around each said axis of rotation independently and simultaneously, while the subject performs a response test.