U.S. patent application number 15/661363 was filed with the patent office on 2017-11-09 for wearable sensing and actuator systems, and methods of use.
The applicant listed for this patent is John H. SHADDUCK. Invention is credited to John H. SHADDUCK.
Application Number | 20170319430 15/661363 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56128180 |
Filed Date | 2017-11-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170319430 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SHADDUCK; John H. |
November 9, 2017 |
WEARABLE SENSING AND ACTUATOR SYSTEMS, AND METHODS OF USE
Abstract
Wearable sensors and cybernetic systems that allow one or more
operators to interact and control operations of electronic,
mechanical, robotic, or biomedical systems, and methods of use in
gynecology, female sexual response and female sexual
well-being.
Inventors: |
SHADDUCK; John H.; (Menlo
Park, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SHADDUCK; John H. |
Menlo Park |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56128180 |
Appl. No.: |
15/661363 |
Filed: |
July 27, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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14978932 |
Dec 22, 2015 |
9717644 |
|
|
15661363 |
|
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|
62095740 |
Dec 22, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 2201/5005 20130101;
A61H 9/0078 20130101; A61H 23/0263 20130101; G06F 1/163 20130101;
A61H 2201/5064 20130101; A61H 2201/5012 20130101; A61H 19/40
20130101; A61H 23/0245 20130101; A61H 23/0218 20130101; A61H
2201/0285 20130101; A61H 2201/5097 20130101; A61H 2201/5061
20130101; A61H 2201/5043 20130101; A61H 2201/1253 20130101; A61H
19/34 20130101; G06F 3/014 20130101; A61H 2201/1635 20130101; G06F
3/015 20130101; A61H 23/04 20130101; G06F 3/017 20130101; B64C
13/042 20180101; A61H 2201/5048 20130101; B25J 9/16 20130101; A61H
2201/0214 20130101; A61H 2201/1688 20130101; A61H 2201/165
20130101; A61B 5/11 20130101; G05G 9/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61H 19/00 20060101
A61H019/00; A61H 19/00 20060101 A61H019/00; A61H 23/04 20060101
A61H023/04 |
Claims
1. A method of controlled stimulation of tissue by both a first
individual and a second individual, the method comprising,
comprising: contacting sensory tissue of a the first individual
with an actuator; and actuating the actuator with a plurality of
control signals provided contemporaneously, where the plurality of
control signals includes at least a first control signal generated
by the first individual and a second control signal generated by
the second individual.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/978,932 filed on Dec. 22, 2015, which is a non-provisional
of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/095,740 filed on Dec. 22,
2014, the entirety of both of which is incorporated by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to wearable sensors and cybernetic
systems that allow at least two individuals to interact and control
operations of electronic, mechanical, robotic, or biomedical
systems, and methods of use in gynecology, female sexual response
and female sexual well-being.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The field of wearable sensors is growing rapidly, with
commercial products available for monitoring vital signs such as
body temperature, heart rate, and respiration. In a recent report,
Lux Research forecast that a new generation of sensors, called PFOE
sensors (printed, flexible, organic electronic sensors) are
destined for a future in which millions or billions of
wirelessly-connected devices will form the much-discussed "internet
of things", a large part of which may be wearable devices,
including new medical and athletic wearable devices.
[0004] This invention relates to the field of systems using
wearable sensors, and further includes wearable actuators, wearable
control systems and wireless systems for communication between
users wearing such systems. In a particular variation, this
invention relates to wearable systems with sensors, actuators and
control systems adapted for use in medical fields and the field of
female sexual response and well-being.
[0005] In recent years, there has been an increased focus on
women's health relating to sexuality and sexual response. On one
track, physicians, researchers and pharmacologists have led a
movement toward establishing female sexual dysfunction (FSD) as a
new category of disease. In a well known 1999 JAMA study, the
authors reported that 43% of surveyed American women experienced
sexual dysfunction (Journal of the American Medical Association,
Feb. 10, 1999). In this study, women were considered to have sexual
dysfunction if they reported any of the following: lack of sexual
desire, difficulty in becoming aroused, inability to achieve
orgasm, anxiety about sexual performance, or failure to derive
pleasure from sex. Further, the drug industry has attempted to draw
parallels between male and female sexual dysfunction, following the
success of Viagra (sildenafil) in treating male dysfunction. The
success of sildenafil has made women's sexuality a high-profile
research target.
[0006] On another track, women on their own have found means for
addressing the issue of dissatisfaction is their sex life, and it
is unlikely that they consider such dissatisfaction to be a disease
state. In 2000, critics of categorizing female sexual dysfunction
as a disease state were supported by the results of a preliminary
study by the Kinsey Institute. The Kinsey data indicated that women
considered that their emotional health and personal relationship
factors were the most important factors in sexual well-being,
rather than a quantitative metric such as achieving orgasm. In the
Kinsey survey, women ranked general well-being at the top as a
requirement, followed by emotional reactions during sexual
activity, the attractiveness of her partner, physical responses
during sexual activity, frequency of sexual activity with her
partner, and her partner's sensitivity.
[0007] It seems likely the incidence of female sexual dysfunction
has been exaggerated by parties other than the women themselves.
However, there certainly is a lack of sexual well-being that is
real for millions of women. In general, in women, sexual response
is much more qualitative than in men and relates to desire,
arousal, and gratification which cannot be easily observed or
measured.
[0008] Women are taking active measures to enhance satisfaction in
their sex life, and it appears that stimulus devices are popular
and effective. In the 2005 Durex Global Sex Well-Being Survey it
was reported that 43% of US respondents own a vibrator-type
stimulus device. Similarly, a 2009 Indiana University study
published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 53 percent
of all U.S. women have used a vibrator device.
[0009] Thus, it seems clear that stimulus devices may play a
significant role in woman's sexual well-being. Such well-being is
the result of a mind/body collaboration, that is, typically
involving two minds and two bodies. What is needed are stimulus
systems that are adapted for enhancing sexual response in women,
while at the same time providing avenues for improving the personal
relationship with her partner. More particularly, what is needed
are new forms of stimulus systems that are enabled by discrete
wearable sensors and actuators. Further, what is needed are
cybernetic stimulus systems that will improve communications
between a female and her partner while at the same time providing
for optimal stimulus in intimate moments. Further, what is needed
are cybernetic stimulus systems with data memory capabilities that
are adapted to train or remind the partners of optimal stimulus
inputs, or directly provide such inputs from algorithms that access
the stored data.
[0010] The details of several variations of the invention are set
forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other
features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the
description and drawings, and from the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a glove-like device that
carries a plurality of sensors positioned for stretchable actuation
by a finger or knuckle joint, with each sensor coupled to a
communication unit for sending signals to a control unit.
[0012] FIG. 2 is an enlarged exploded view of a stretch sensor that
comprises a thin film conductive lyriform structure that can be
embedded in an elastomer wall.
[0013] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of another stretch sensor that
comprises a thin conductive polymer layer that can be embedded
within an elastomer wall.
[0014] FIG. 4A is a schematic view of a stimulus system that uses
fluid actuators corresponding to the invention with an elevational
view of an actuatable device adapted for wearing on a human hand
and controllable by finger movement.
[0015] FIG. 4B is a phantom view of the stimulus system of FIG. 4A
disposed about a human wrist, hand and fingers.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of components of the stimulus
system of FIG. 4A, including electrical components, wireless
transmission components, controls units and memory units.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a view of human hand of FIG. 4B from a different
angle showing finger actuation of stretch sensors of the stimulus
system.
[0018] FIG. 7A is a chart showing a method of the invention
relating to controlling the amplitude of pulses of an actuatable
region of the device of FIG. 4A over a time interval or
episode.
[0019] FIG. 7B is a chart showing another method relating to
controlling the frequency of pulses of an actuatable region of the
device of FIG. 4A over an episode or session.
[0020] FIG. 8 is a chart showing another method relating to
controlling the amplitude and frequency of pulses of an actuatable
region of the device of FIG. 4A over a time interval.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a stimulus system as in FIG.
4A further including a second actuatable device adapted for wearing
on a second person's hand.
[0022] FIG. 10 is a chart showing another method of the invention
relating to two partner's interactively controlling the amplitude
of pulses of an actuatable region of the device of FIG. 4A over a
time interval.
[0023] FIG. 11A is a sectional view of a fluidic actuator region of
the device of FIG. 4A in a non-actuated position.
[0024] FIG. 11B is a sectional view of a fluidic actuator region of
FIG. 11A in an actuated position.
[0025] FIG. 12A is a first component of another variation of a
stimulus system that uses fluidic actuation with the component of
FIG. 12A consisting of a non-disposable glove-like body that
carries a drive unit or motor and sensors operated by finger
movement.
[0026] FIG. 12B is a second component of the stimulus system of
FIG. 12A with the component of FIG. 12B consisting of a disposable
glove-like body that carries the fluidic actuator that is
detachably coupled to the body of FIG. 12A.
[0027] FIG. 13 is another variation of the first component of a
stimulus system similar to that of FIG. 12A.
[0028] FIG. 14 is a view of another variation of a stimulus system
which includes an entirely disposable glove-like stimulus device of
the type illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B or FIGS. 12A-12B that carries
both sensors and actuatable regions.
[0029] FIG. 15 is a schematic view of another variation of a
stimulus system which includes a glove-like device of the type
illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B that has a control unit that is adapted
to receive music signals and controller algorithms that can
modulate applied stimulus in response to aspects of music.
[0030] FIG. 16A is a schematic view of another variation of a
stimulus system which includes a glove-like device that carries a
suction source that communicates with ports in the actuator region
to suction tissue against the actuator surface.
[0031] FIG. 16B is a sectional view of the actuator region with an
undulating surface of the device of FIG. 16A taken along line
16B-16B.
[0032] FIG. 16C is a sectional view of another actuator region of
the device of FIG. 16A similar to that of FIG. 16B.
[0033] FIG. 17 is an enlarged sectional perspective view of the
undulating actuator surface of FIG. 16B showing suction ports and
flow channels therein.
[0034] FIG. 18A illustrated a step in a method of the invention
wherein a user is (i) moving the undulating actuator surface of
FIG. 17 into close proximity to targeted tissue and (ii) activating
the suction source to cause aspiration through the ports.
[0035] FIG. 18B illustrates a subsequent step with the suction
source engaging and suctioning the targeted tissue against the
undulating actuator surface together with activating the actuator
to apply stimulus to the tensioned and stretched tissue.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] FIGS. 1-2 illustrate a wearable glove-like device 10
corresponding to the invention which carries a plurality of sensors
15 that can be affected or actuated by articulation of a joint in
the user's hand, for example finger joints, knuckles or another
joint. The wearable device 10 can have a form-fitting body 16 that
is made of a thin woven stretch fabric or can be a molded
elastomeric material depending on its application. In one
variation, each sensor 15 can be a lyriform resistive sensor which
is shown in FIG. 2 and which can be disposed between first and
second layers 18a and 18b of an elastomer to form the sensor. The
sensor can be carried in the form-fitting glove body 16 to be held
close to a joint. The type of sensor shown in FIG. 2 comprises a
very thin layer 22 of conductive material such as gold, platinum,
copper or the like. The thin conductive layer 22 can be from about
10 nm to 50 microns in thickness. The thin conductive layer 22 is
configured with a plurality of substantially parallel cuts or slits
25 which are intermediate the end portions 28a and 28b of the
conductive layer 22 to which electrical leads 40 are coupled. As
can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the electrical leads 40 are connected
to a battery 45 and communication unit 50. In operation, the
battery 45 and a processor control chip 55 can control electrical
current flow through the sensor 15, and stretching or flexing of
the sensor will cause one of more of the slits to open and form a
gap which will in turn greatly increase the resistance of the
sensor, with corresponding signals registered by the processor chip
55 and communication unit 50. Thereafter, the communication unit 50
can send signals, for example, wirelessly to a control unit 60. The
control unit 60 then can be operatively coupled to a target system
65, which be a radio, computer, dvd player, video game, toy, robot,
exoskeleton, vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, remote tool, medical
instrument, or other similar target system. The thin conductive
layer 22 of the lyriform sensor can be from 1 mm to 20 mm in
length, 1 mm to 10 mm in width and have from 1 to 1000 slits 25
therein. The elastomer layers that house the conductive layer can
be silicone, urethane or a similar elastomeric material. The device
body 10 can have from 1 to 20 or more sensors 15 close to a user's
finger and/or thumb joints, knuckles, wrist, etc.
[0037] In one variation, the wearable device 10 can be coupled to a
smartphone app, wherein the smartphone app is configured simply to
provide a bluetooth link to a remote system to turn said system
ON/OFF. For example, the wearable device 10 could be a user's
driving gloves that carried a sensor of type described above with
reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, and actuation of the sensor could turn
an automobile radio or other auto accessory ON/OFF. In another
variation, the sensor and its associated microcontroller can be
configured to actuate the sensor sequentially to adjust the radio
volume step-wise up and down, or change stations up and down,
etc.
[0038] FIG. 3 shows another variation of sensor 70 which is similar
that of FIG. 2 except the conductive layer 72 is a conductively
doped polymer, such as a silicone doped with carbon or metallic
particles. The conductive layer can be from 1 micron to 1 mm thick
and also can optionally have lyriform slits therein (not shown).
This sensor would operate similar to the sensor 15 of FIG. 2
described above. In another variation, the conductive layer of a
metal or polymer can be a PFOE (printed, flexible, organic
electronic) sensor with a printed pattern on an elastomer substrate
and be adapted to increase resistance upon stretching.
[0039] Now turning to FIGS. 4 A-4B, 5 and 6, a variation of a
stimulus system 100 using a glove-like device with sensors
graphically represented. In FIGS. 4A-4B, the system 100 is adapted
for applying stimulus to a female body and includes a form-fitting
glove-like device body 104 that has a proximal body portion 105
that carries a drive unit 110 for actuating an actuatable region
115, a distal body portion 120 that carries at least one actuatable
region 115 and a medial body portion 122 that operatively couples
together the proximal and distal body portions 105 and 120. FIG. 4A
schematically illustrates the device body 104 in perspective view
and FIG. 4B shows the device body 104 in phantom view as worn by a
human hand 124 and wrist or forearm of a first person 125. The
system is configured for applying stimulus to targeted sites of a
female body which can be any types of erogenous zone or tissue,
herein at times referred to a sensory tissue. Such sensory tissue
can be erogenous tissue of any type A-Z, for example, as identified
at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erogenous_zone. The system 100 of
FIGS. 4A, 5 and 6 is particularly adapted for stimulation of a
female's Grafenberg spot, clitoris, among other sites with one
objective being any type of orgasm in the female (e.g., clitoral,
vaginal, squirting, etc.).
[0040] The system is also adapted for applying stimulus to sensory
tissue that might not be commonly identified as an erogenous zone
and may be individual-specific, with the objective of
stimulus-induced `frisson`. Frisson is a sensation akin to
shivering, and is typically expressed as an overwhelming emotional
response combined with piloerection or goosebumps. Frisson is a
short duration pleasurable sensation, in which the skin of the
lower back typically flexes, and shivers rise upward and inward
from the shoulders and neck and may extend to the cheeks. The face
may become flush and hair follicles experience piloerection. The
sensation can occur in a series of waves moving up the person's
back in rapid succession. The stimulus that is needed to produce a
frisson is quite specific to the individual, but as will be
understood from this disclosure, a female and her partner may
experiment with the stimulus system and improve communication while
experiencing the stimulus. A system adapted for frisson will have
systems for audible stimulus as well as visual stimulus, and allows
the partners to plan in advance what audible and visual stimulus
may be optimal. Often, it would be expected that musical stimulus
would enhance an episode and can induce or evoke frisson, which
musical stimulus can utilize the earpieces 222 and 225 (see FIGS.
4A and 9) of the invention. Visual stimulus can be provided by
computer screen, smartphone screen, or other light display device
that may be in the background. The memory and control units of the
system can harmonize and synchronize the tactile stimulus, audible
stimulus, visual stimulus, and temperature stimulus, as will be
described below.
[0041] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of components of the stimulus
system 100 of an exemplary variation of the invention described
herein.
[0042] More in particular, the variation of FIGS. 4A-4B has a
distal body portion 120 that is adapted to be carried by first
(index) and second (middle) finger, 126 and 128, of first person
125 (or non-receiving partner as designated herein) who will use
the distal body portion 120 to provide stimulus to a second person
140 (designated the receiving partner herein). In one variation,
this distal body portion 120 can be fabricated of a flexible
polymeric material such as silicone or a urethane. As will be
described below, this distal body portion 120 carries sensors and
electrical leads which can be embedded in a molded silicone or
other similar flexible polymer.
[0043] In FIG. 4A, the medial portion 122 of the device body 104
also can be formed or molded of a flexible polymer and typically
can be molded together with the distal body portion 120. The
proximal body portion 105 is worn on the user's wrist and/or
forearm and can have any type of wrap-around attachment mechanism,
such as a fabric or polymeric hook and loop (e.g., Velcro)
attachment 142. This body portion 105 can be fabricated of any
suitable materials such as a stretchable woven material, molded or
sheet silicone, etc. As will be described below, the proximal body
portion 105 carries a drive source 110 and (optionally) a control
unit 145 together with other electrical components which can be
disposed in an interior chamber of a silicone (or other polymer)
housing of the body portion 105.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, it can be seen that the distal
body portion 120 is dimensioned to fit over at least one user
finger, and in this variation has first and second passageways 146a
and 146b to receive two user fingers. The passageways 146a and 146b
can have a closed end or be open-ended, and the device body around
each finger can be closely coupled to on another or separated.
[0045] As can be seen in FIG. 4A, the distal body portion 120
carries at least one actuatable region 115, and in this variation
has two independent actuatable regions, with each such actuatable
region 115 proximate the location of the user's fingertips in each
passageway 146a and 146b. By the term `acutatable region`, it is
meant that a deformable or flexible surface 148 of the body 120 can
be deflected, bulged or otherwise be pulsed outward from the body
surface 148 in rapid intervals to thereby apply stimulating forces
to targeted sensory tissue. In one variation shown in FIGS. 1 and
4A-4B, the actuatable region 115 is a fluidic actuator and can
comprise a fluid-tight interior chamber 150 that communicates
through flow channel(s) 152 with the drive source 110, which can be
any suitable pump mechanism. This variation can be either pneumatic
or hydraulic (i.e., gas or liquid actuated) with pump mechanisms
described further below.
[0046] In the variation of FIGS. 4A-4B, the actuatable region 115
can have a surface dimension ranging from 5 mm.sup.2 to 20
mm.sup.2. In a high amplitude or high stimulus variation, the
actuated region 115 can be fluid-actuated with an interior chamber
150 (see FIG. 11D) having a volume when expanded ranging from about
0.5 cc to 2 cc's or more. Of particular interest, the use of
fluidic actuators allows for low or high amplitude pulses or
displacement of the surface of body 148 and the control unit 145
allows for many variations in timing of pulse intervals as
graphically represented in FIGS. 7A-7B, further described below. In
this variation, the amplitude and actuation rate can be selected
from a wide range, which is not possible with vibrating devices
which typically use a coin type motor. When in use, the actuatable
region 115 can deform, displace and pulse the elastomeric body
surface 148 upwardly from about 0.5 mm to 2 mm, which is a much
larger displacement than can be provided by conventional vibrator
devices, such as eccentric motor vibration mechanisms. The wall of
the body in which the actuator region 115 is carried can be very
thin, for example less that 2 mm, less than 1 mm and less than 0.5
mm in thickness when the interior chamber 150 is not actuated. The
control unit 145 can actuate the actuatable region 115 at rates
ranging from 1 Hz to 50 Hz or more. In general, the fluidic
actuator can operate at a lower pulse frequency than conventional
eccentric motor vibrator mechanisms or other actuator
mechanisms.
[0047] Of particular interest, a variation of the system as shown
in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5 and 6 includes a user-actuated communication
unit 160A that sends signals indicated at 165 to the control unit
145 to operate the device. The system 100 includes intuitive
finger-actuated means for controlling device operation, which
includes turning the device ON/OFF, and controlling other selected
operational parameters, which typically includes the amplitude of
displacement of the actuatable region 115 and pulse rate
(frequency) or sequence of intervals of displacement and relaxation
of the actuatable region 115 (see FIG. 7A). In more complex
variations, other operational parameters may be modulated which
include the intensity or speed of the expansion phase of the
actuatable region, the speed of the relaxation phase, including
acceleration and deceleration rates in these phases. The time
interval of the expanded or amplified state and the relaxed state
also can be controlled. In still other variations, the system may
use conventional vibrating motor components to produce stimuli, and
similar finger-actuated mechanisms may be used. The system may also
use a combination of fluidic and vibratory elements, as will be
described below.
[0048] In one variation shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5 and 6, the
user-actuated communication unit 160A includes at least one stretch
sensor in the distal body portion 120, and in this variation has
first and second sensors 170a and 170b that can send control
signals 165 to control unit 145. Each sensor 170a and 170b is
disposed proximate a passageway 146a and 146b and is adapted to
respond to stretching or bending forces caused by the user bending
his or her fingers. A sensor can be a resistive stretch sensor be
of the type shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 such that when the sensor body
is flexed, the resistance across the sensor increases. Other types
of flex sensors are known such as the type used in a Nintendo Power
Glove. Sensors are available from Robot Mesh, 11232 120th Ave. NE,
Suite 201, Kirkland Wash. 98033 USA. In one embodiment, the sensors
170a and 170b provide different signals for different degrees of
flexing or stretching, thus the sensors can signal the control unit
115 to increase an operating parameter, for example amplitude or
pulse rate over a range, depending on the degree of flexing of a
sensor. Thus in one variation, as the user increasingly bends his
or her fingers, the control unit 115 will increase the pulse rate
of the actuatable region 115. In FIG. 4A, low power electrical
leads (not shown) extend from the sensors 170a and 170b to the
control unit 145. It should be appreciated that any type of sensor
may be used, such as a capacitance flex sensors as is known in the
art.
[0049] In a variation shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, the user-actuated
communication unit 160 also includes a pressure sensor 175 in the
distal body potion 120 between the finger receiving passageways
146a and 146b. This sensor 175 is adapted to respond to compressing
forces caused by the user squeezing or tightening the space between
his or her fingers to thereby compress the sensor 175. In one
embodiment, a thin film type of pressure sensor can be used and can
provide different signals for different degrees of applied pressure
to thereby signal the control unit to increase an operating
parameter over a range, for example, an amplitude range for
actuatable region 115. A type of resistive pressure sensor is
available from Tekscan, Inc., 307 West First Street, South Boston,
Mass. 02127 USA. In FIG. 1A, the low power electrical leads to
pressure sensor 175 are indicated at 176. It should be appreciated
that any type of pressure sensor 175 may be used, such as a
capacitance pressure sensor. It can easily be understood that a
stretch sensor could be used in place of the pressure sensor,
wherein the user would move his or her fingers apart to actuate the
sensor.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7A, aspects of the invention can be
graphically illustrated. FIG. 6 represents the user's fingers
articulating the device's distal body portion 120 between several
positions. In a variation, the system 100 also uses the sensors
170a and 170b as an ON/OFF switch and the system is not actuated
when the sensors are in the straight or repose position A of FIG.
6. The system is switched ON when the sensors are flexed a selected
degree, such as a selected degree in the range of 5.degree. to
20.degree., represented as angle B in FIG. 6 which corresponds to
the `5 second` mark in FIG. 4A when the system is actuated.
Thereafter, further flexing of the sensors 170a-170b in FIG. 6 to
exemplary angles C and D sends control signals which indicate
resistance, for example, and the control unit 145 increases
amplitude at the corresponding `20 second` mark and `115 second`
mark of a stimulus episode 180 as depicted in FIG. 7A. The control
unit 145 compares the control signal 165 from the sensors to a
look-up table of values from which a corresponding power level to
operate the drive unit 115 is selected, which in turn adjusts the
amplitude of the actuatable region 115 as represented in FIG. 7A.
In one variation, the person 125 wearing the device body 120 can
simply articulate his or her finger and maintain the finger in a
stable position and the drive unit 115 will actuate the actuatable
region 115 at the predetermined amplitude and pulse rate. In other
words, the non-receiving partner 125 can remain passive and the
stimulation forces will be applied to the targeted site of the
receiving partner. In FIG. 7A, at the `210 second` mark, the user
125 straightens his or her fingers to the angle indicated at
position A in FIG. 6 and the actuation is turned off. FIG. 7A
simply depicts graphically hypothetical amplitudes and pulse rates
of stimulus over an episode 180 or time period of stimulation,
wherein a real system can have more of a continuously variable
amplitude based on the continuous flexing back and forth of sensors
170a-170b. In this variation, the two sensors are redundant.
[0051] FIG. 7A shows the system being operated at about 2 Hz, but
it should be appreciated that any baseline frequency is possible
that commences upon system actuation. After understanding FIG. 7A,
it can be understood that the user 125 can contemporaneously
actuate the pressure sensor 175 between the finger receiving
passageways 146a and 146b (see FIG. 4A) to alter pulse frequency.
FIG. 7B shows an example of user-actuated modulation of frequency
wherein compression of sensor 175 increases pulse frequency. For
simplicity, FIG. 4B indicates the compression of sensor 175 (from
position X to Y) which corresponds to the change in frequency shown
in FIG. 7B at the `110 second` mark. It should be appreciated that
frequency can vary over a wide range in response to a range of
compression levels of sensor 175.
[0052] From FIGS. 4A, 4B, 6, 7A and 7B, it can be understood that
the system can vary an operating parameter by a very intuitive
movement which is the simple flexing a finger or two fingers 126
and 128. At the same time, the fingers of the non-receiving partner
125 actually carry the actuatable regions 115 of the stimulus
device--and all the while this partner 125 contemporaneously may be
performing an independent digital stimulatory action at the
targeted site of the receiving partner 140. In one variation, the
increased flexing of a finger at the targeted site will be in the
direction of increased actuator intensity at the site, which is
logical and matches what the user might do in the absence of the
device. Thus, in general, the invention can be considered to
provide a biorobotic assist device that can simply apply the
stimulus, or in another alternative can amplify, augment or
otherwise modulate the stimulatory forces that a partner 125
wearing the device might provide to the receiving partner 140.
[0053] FIG. 8 indicates another adaptive aspect of the invention
wherein the stimulus system 100 accommodates active movements of
the user 125, for example, the `come-hither` movements of fingers
by the non-receiving partner 125 during use of the stimulation
system. For example, consider that the user 125 articulates his or
her fingers back and forth generally as indicated FIG. 6, which
shall be called come-hither movements herein. Such movements send
signals from the sensors and communication unit 160A to the control
unit 145. In one variation, the signals are processed by a control
algorithm that monitors such a back and forth (come-hither)
articulation of the fingers. If the algorithm detects rapid
come-hither movements performed a pre-determined number of times in
short interval, for example 2 to 10 articulations in 1 to 5
seconds, then the algorithm will recognize that the non-receiving
partner 125 seeks to actively use his or her fingers to provide
stimulus together with the actuator stimulus, and thereafter the
control unit 145 will adjust its control of the drive unit 110 to
harmonize or synchronize the actuation of the actuator region 115
with the user's (i.e., non-receiving partner 125) digital
movements. In this aspect, the control unit 145 can modulate the
pulse rate (frequency) to match the non-receiving partner's rate of
finger articulation, or in another algorithm provide a pulse rate
that is a multiple of the rate of finger movement. In another
example, the control unit 145 can modulate the amplitude in
addition to frequency, for example, to provide that a pulse will
reach its peak at each moment that the user's fingers are most
articulated (i.e., position D in FIG. 6). In another variation, the
amplitude of the actuation of the actuatable region 115 can be
reduced a selected amount to harmonize with the user's digital
articulation. In other words, the combination the partner's
come-hither finger movements and the pulse amplitude may provide
too great a stimulatory force on the target tissue, and this the
control unit 145 modulates the intensity to allow the non-receiving
partner 125 to be a more active participant. The control unit 145
can further provide an algorithm for detecting when the
non-receiving partner stops 125 performing the come-hither finger
movement, and thereafter the control unit 115 can take over control
of the drive unit 110 to provide stimulus again based on the degree
of sensor actuation for both amplitude and pulse rate. The
algorithm can further provide a `smoothing` code to insure there is
a non-abrupt move from the `modulated` operating parameters to the
new operating parameters. Thus, algorithms on the control unit can
insure that frequency and amplitude of stimulus are not in any way
canceling the digital movements of the user, and instead are
harmonized with the user's movements. This aspect of the invention
will differentiate the experience for both partners from
commercially available vibrator-type devices which are simply
`on/off` or a `higher/lower` speed.
[0054] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate another interactive and adaptive
aspect of the invention wherein the system 100 provides for a
subtle, non-verbal interaction between the receiving partner 140
and the non-receiving partner 125 during a stimulation episode 180.
In FIG. 9, it can be seen that the female or receiving partner 140
wears a device 200 having a device body 210 on her hand, which in
one embodiment can be a body that can fit over one or more fingers.
In the variation of FIG. 9, the receiving party's device body 210
resembles the distal body portion 120 of the non-receiving
partner's wearable device. The device body 210 of FIG. 9 is adapted
for manipulation by the receiving party 140 to `fine tune` or
modulate the stimulatory forces applied to her targeted sensory
tissue during a stimulus episode 180 in which the intensity is
initiated by her partner (i.e., the non-receiving partner 125). In
one variation, the device body 210 has at least one stretch or flex
sensor 212 that is a part of a second communication unit 160B and
transmitter 220 that is adapted to send signals to the control unit
145. As in the non-receiving partner's device 120 (see FIG. 4A),
the sensor 212 can send a plurality of signals via a transmitter
220 (in this case wirelessly, e.g., in Bluetooth) dependent on the
degree of articulation of her fingers. In the variation of FIG. 9,
the device body 210 carries two sensors, but they can be considered
to be redundant and signals therefrom are conformed by the second
communication unit 160B and control unit 145 into a single signal
215 which is sent to the drive unit 110.
[0055] The receiving partner 140, or the partners together, can
select between different modes of `interaction` to operate the
device 210 and thereby interact with the stimulus system 100. More
particularly, the receiving partner can select a manner in which
her device body 210 can be manipulated to modulate the intensity of
stimulus that has been initiated by the non-receiving partner 125.
The mechanics of mode selection is further described below. In one
interaction mode, for example herein called a cooperative or
`fine-tuning` mode, the receiving partner's purposeful flexing of
the sensor 212 (see FIG. 9) signals the controller 145 to augment
or reduce the intensity at which other (non-receiving) partner 125
is operating the device 120 and actuator region 115. In this
embodiment, the sensor 212 can have an intermediate `rest` position
or `no-adjust` position indicated at R which signals the control
unit 145 to make no changes in the on-going operating intensity
parameters. The sensor 212 in a less articulated or straightened
position R1 can send signals to progressively reduce the on-going
(and potentially changing) intensity that is set or being adjusted
by the non-receiving partner 125. The term intensity as used herein
means amplitude, frequency, or the combination of amplitude and
frequency. If the receiving partner 140 moves her fingers to the
more articulated position R2, the sensor 212 sends signals 215 that
will progressively increase the intensity of the stimulatory
forces. This mode of operation then makes both partners' inputs
contemporaneously interact to ultimately control the drive unit
110, with the receiving partner `fine-tuning` the stimulatory
forces which only the receiving party 140 can optimize in an
immediate and non-verbal manner. In an on-going stimulus episode
180, then both partners can continue to modulate inputs and the
resulting stimulatory effects. This mode can continue until the
receiving partner 140 returns the sensor 212 to its rest position R
in FIG. 9.
[0056] FIG. 10 graphically depicts a hypothetical episode of
interaction between the partners 125 and 140. In FIG. 10, the
non-receiving partner 125 actuates the system at time BB which
provides a certain amplitude and frequency of stimulus using the
device body as described previously. That partner 125 then at time
BB and at time CC increases the amplitude of stimulation. Then, at
time DD, the receiving partner 140 actuates her device 210 from the
rest position R to the R1 position (see FIG. 9) which lowers and
fine-tunes the amplitude to provide the desired level of stimulus.
As can be seen in FIGS. 4A, 9 and 10, the partners wear wireless
(e.g., Bluetooth) earpieces 222 and 225, which can serve the
purpose of providing a subtle, non-verbal means of informing the
partners of each others actuation of system components. In this
case, the receiving partner's modulation of stimulus may be
accompanied by a tone in earpiece 225 of her partner 125, which
will be a cue that the receiving partner 140 wishes to fine-tune
the stimulus. The tone, or sequence of intermittent tones, can be
configured to indicate to the non-receiving partner 125 whether the
actuation is being up- or down-modulated by the receiving partner
140. Additional aspects or this `fine-tuning` interaction mode will
be described below.
[0057] In a second mode of interaction, the receiving partner's
articulation of the body 210 and sensor 212 will displace and
replace signals from the non-receiving partner's first
communication unit 160A which can be termed a `replacement` mode.
In selecting this mode, the receiving partner 140 in effect seeks
to temporarily control the intensity of the stimulatory forces
applied to the target site. The receiving party can then adjust
intensity by variably flexing the sensor 212. Again, this
replacement mode can continue until the receiving partner 140
returns the sensor 212 to its rest position R in FIG. 9.
[0058] In a third mode of interaction, the receiving partner's
articulation of body 210 and sensor 212 will interrupt and replace
signals from the non-receiving partner's first communication unit
160A for a time interval, for example from 2 seconds to 20 seconds
or more which can be termed an `interruption` mode. In selecting
this mode, the receiving partner 140 wishes to influence the
stimulatory forces, but also may wish to receive her partner's
spontaneous or unpredictable modulation of stimulatory forces. This
mode can continue until the end of a pre-selected time interval, or
the mode can end when the receiving partner returns the sensor 212
to its rest position R.
[0059] The non-receiving partner's wearable device 210 can utilize
one of several types of mode-selection mechanisms, and in one
variation uses the pressure sensor 222 to signal the control unit
as to which mode is selected. For example, the pressure sensor 222
can be pressed twice in a sequence comparable to a `double-click`
of a mouse to cycle through the options of the three modes. In
effect, a selected sequence of manipulations can be adapted to
select the interaction mode desired by the receiving partner 140. A
similar sensor arrangement can be provided on the receiving
partners device body 210.
[0060] In another aspect of the invention, referring to FIGS. 4A, 5
and 9, the system also includes a memory unit 240 which can record
the data that reflects the modulating operating parameters that
were utilized over a stimulus episode or session. In one variation,
the data 250 (FIG. 5) can be sent wirelessly from the control
unit's processors and memory to a base memory unit 240 for storage
and/or to a cloud-based memory unit indicated at 260 in FIGS. 5 and
9.
[0061] In one variation, the memory units 240 of 260 store data
that reflect each episode 180, which can be viewed in a display
(i.e., phone, tablet or computer) in condensed graphic form much as
depicted in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8 and 10 to show amplitude and frequency
of stimulus during an episode. In particular, the data in a memory
unit 240 or 260 can be displayed to highlight portions of an
episode 180 in which the receiving party 140 modulates the input
and stimulus initiated by the non-receiving party 125. This
`modulating` data can then be instructional to the non-receiving
party 140 for use in a future stimulus episode between the
receiving and non-receiving parties 140 and 125. This data can is
useful in an aspect of the invention which is to enhance
communication between the partners and thus which can contribute to
enhanced female satisfaction with her partner.
[0062] In another variation, the control unit 145 and memory units
240, 260 (FIGS. 5 and 9) are designed to provide feedback to the
users, based on having algorithms that analyze one or more previous
stimulus episodes. In one example, the control unit 145 can compare
a number of previous episodes and determine if there is any common
characteristics under which the receiving partner 140 intervenes to
modulate the non-receiving partner's `leading-to` stimulus inputs
that led up to her intervention. Such `leading-to` inputs can
relate to stimulus intensity, interval of time following start of
the episode, etc. If the control unit 145 and its algorithms find
comparable interventions and stimulus modulations by the receiving
partner 140, then the control unit 145 in real time can `look` for
similar `leading-to` inputs and if such inputs are identified, then
the control unit can signal the non-receiving partner that he or
she is delivering such `leading-to` stimulus, which signal can be a
tone in the earpiece 225. The control unit 145 could signal the
partner 140 by another means, such as a vibrator in the device,
electrode stimulation, etc., for a non-receiving partner 125 that
might be inattentive, distracted, tired or otherwise asleep at the
wheel. A tone signal in the earpiece 225 could also have tone
features that indicate an up-modulation or down-modulation is
needed to match the prior data of receiving party intervention. The
control unit also can notify the receiving partner 140 of the
`leading to` inputs by her partner, which may usefully remind her
of the previous episode, inform her that the system has discovered
a commonality among the previous episodes, and/or allow intentional
non-intervention to permit her partner to independently modulate
inputs. The system 100 thus can provide a form of subtle
intervention that can unobtrusively assist both partners in
optimizing stimulus in an episode. In another variation, algorithms
may be developed based on group data (see below) and will function
as a form of artificial intelligence to suggest stimulus options to
either or both of the partners during an episode. In another
variation, the users can elect to have the artificial intelligence
algorithms assume control of stimulus, it the system sees a pattern
for which it has a calculated response, or a partner 125 who is
remote from the receiving partner 140 could use remote access to
control stimulus with the receiving partner wearing and positioning
the device at the targeted sensory site.
[0063] FIGS. 11A-11B show schematic sectional views of the actuator
region 115, and illustrates that the polymer material on either
side of the actuator chamber 150 can be very thin, for example,
from about 0.02 mm to 0.5 mm which can be as thin as a condom. This
is unlike other vibrator devices which do not allow for intimate
contact between partners. In this variation, when the actuator
region 115 is non-actuated (FIG. 11A), the contact between the
non-receiving partner's fingers and the tissue of the targeted site
will be very close, practically as if the device did not exist. In
another variation, the actuator region 115 itself or the area
surrounding it can be perforated to allow further tactile sensing
through the membrane. In the variation that has a perforated
actuator region 115, the region would expand around each such
perforation or aperture and amplitude would be lessened compared to
an actuator region as shown in FIG. 11B.
[0064] In another variation, referring back to FIG. 5, a memory
unit can make the data available to a central analytic processing
(CAP) system 280 which can assemble and analyze data from a
plurality of episodes of different receiving parties 140 (group
data). For example, the manufacturer of the system or an
independent analytics group associated with system manufacturer can
provide an analytic system to which users can anonymously and
voluntarily send episode data. Each user can have an ID number, and
the data can be accompanied by user definition of the type or
objective of the episode (e.g., type A-Z as referenced above) and
other relevant data. The CAP system 280 then can process that data
to compare different users' stimulus parameters and outcomes which
can lead to potential new understandings of stimulus and response.
Such data may be useful for medical and pharmacological research in
fields relating to female response to stimulus as described herein
where data is certainly lacking.
[0065] In general, a method of the invention for promoting
well-being in a female comprises stimulating a first (female)
person's target sensory tissue with a second person's digital
movements to apply stimulus wherein the digital interface with the
site includes a thin member worn by the second person and wherein
the thin member includes a fluidic actuator. Further, the fluid
actuator is actuated by, and actuation parameters are controlled
by, the second person's digital movements. The method further
comprises controlling an actuation parameter by signals from the
first person and/or by signals from a control unit 145.
[0066] In a method corresponding to the invention, a first person
wears a stimulus device and contacts a female's targeted site with
the device wherein the first person sends first control signals to
a control unit to select operating parameters of a drive mechanism
of the device to apply a stimulus to the site and wherein the
female in response to sensations from the stimulus sends second
control signals to the control unit to adjust the operating
parameters.
[0067] FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate another variation of stimulus
system 400 that is similar to the previously described version
except the system's functional parts are separable to provide
re-useable and disposable components. In FIG. 12A, a non-disposable
wearable body 402 is shown which can be glove-like that again has a
proximal portion 405 that carries the drive source 110, control
unit 145 and memory unit 240. The bulk of body 402 can be a woven
material that is very thin and flexible similar to a woman's nylon
stockings. The body 402 has a distal portion 420 that carries at
least one sensor 425 that operates as described previously. Such a
sensor 170 can be positioned proximate a finger or knuckle joint,
or another hand joint, to be actuated by finger or hand motion. For
example, the sensor 425 can be on the outside or inside of a finger
joint and is shown on the outside of the finger joint. Although two
sensors are shown, a single sensor positioned on one finger is
possible. While FIG. 12A shows a glove-like body 402, another
variation as in FIG. 13 can simply have a proximal body portion 405
as described above with electrical leads 418 coupled to an
elastomeric portion that carries sensor 425 and is configured for
fitting over a finger.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, it can be seen that the
non-disposable wearable body 402 does not carry the actuatable
region 115. Instead, FIG. 12B shows a disposable body 440 that is
adapted for wearing over the sensor-carrying body 402 and is
configured to carry the at least one actuatable region 115. The
disposable body 440 has a proximal end 442 that has a connector 445
for coupling to the proximal body portion of the non-disposable
body 402, for example coupling pneumatic flow channels 448a and
448b to the drive unit 110 or pump mechanism in the non-disposable
body 402. In this embodiment, the disposable body 440 can be very
thin, for example, 0.02 mm to 0.10 mm in thickness to allow for
maximum sensitivity between the partners. In one variation, the
connector 445 can couple a pneumatic line and channels 448a and
448b to an air pump. In another variation, the connector 445 can
lock a sealed chamber or bladder (not shown) carried by the
disposable body 440 into a receiving part of the non-disposable
body 402. The pump mechanism in this variation is a motorized
component that compresses and decompresses the chamber or bladder
to actuate the actuatable region 115.
[0069] Referring to the variations described above, the pump
systems can be of any type, for example an electromagnetic pump as
known in the art and used in fluidic systems. Other types of micro-
or miniature pumps can be used, such as piston pumps, diaphragm
pumps, vane pumps, roller pumps, peristaltic pumps, screw pumps,
impeller pumps and the like. Various micropumps and systems for use
in fluidic systems are described in the following U.S. patents
which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. Nos.
8,616,227; 8,591,834; 8,590,573; 8,389,960; 8,343,442; 8,282,896;
8,206,593; 8,168,139; 8,157,434; 8,105,824; 8,104,514; 8,058,630;
8,007,746; 7,837,946; 7,695,683; 7,691,333; 7,666,361; 7,640,947;
7,476,363; 7,392,827; 7,368,163; 7,291,512; 7,118,910; 7,075,162;
7,005,493 and 6,953,058.
[0070] The proximal portions of the systems described above that
are worn on the user's wrist carry a battery that may be
replaceable or re-chargeable. In one variation, the battery can be
an inductively re-chargeable battery as is known in the art.
[0071] In another variation, the device worn by the user can
include one or more accelerometers which can send signals to the
control unit and memory unit. Such accelerometer signals can detect
and quantify the user's finger movements separate from the fluidic
actuator's movements and such signals can be used in feedback to
the user during use, for storage in the memory unit for future
reference as to preferences, for providing limits to system
actuation, etc.
[0072] FIG. 13 illustrates a non-disposable wearable body 402' that
is a variation of the first component of a stimulus system similar
to that of FIG. 12A. In this variation, the body 402' has a reduced
form factor with a single sensor 425 that is carried on a distal
portion 420' adapted for fitting on a single human finger.
[0073] FIG. 14 is a view of another variation of a stimulus system
500 which includes an entirely disposable glove-like stimulus
device 505 similar to the types illustrated in FIG. 9 and FIGS.
12A-12B that includes actuatable regions 515a, 515b and 515c and at
least one sensor 525 carried therein. The sensor 525 can be a
lyriform sensor of the type shown in FIGS. 1-2. The actuatable
region again can be fluidic chambers 105 (see FIG. 11B) within in a
very thin elastomer wall as described previously. FIG. 14 shows
that the proximal part 542 of the device 505 includes a connection
portion 545 for coupling to a wearable body 550 carrying a drive
unit 110, control unit 145 and memory unit 240 as described
previously. In all other respects, the stimulus system 500 of FIG.
14 operates as described above with the variations of FIGS. 4A and
9. In one variation, the connection portion 545 comprises a
resilient tubular member with a sealed interior chamber that
communicates with the actuators fluidic chambers 150 (see FIG.
11B), and the drive unit 110 can be a roller that alternatively
compresses and relaxes the resilient tube to drive the actuator
regions 115a-115c. The sealed fluidic system can be filled with air
or a liquid such as sterile water.
[0074] In one variation that is directed to stimulation and/or
causing a frisson effect, the system can carry a liquid that can be
cooled in the wearable body 550 by a cooling mechanism 570 which
can be a Peltier element. In another variation, the fluidic system
can provide for circulation to and from the actuator portions
540a-540c and a coolant fluid can be provided by a liquid gas
cartridge or canister (e.g., a CO2 canister, argon canister or
liquid nitrogen canister) that is detachably coupled to body 550
for a single use of limited use.
[0075] In another variation, the device could include another
sensor disposed proximate to the user's thumb to actuate the
actuator 515c near the thumb. This embodiment would require a
second fluid passageway from the drive unit to the actuatable
region 515c.
[0076] In other variations, the wearable device carrying the drive
unit, control unit and/or memory unit can be worn at least in part
by a body portion selected from the group of a hand, wrist, arm,
leg and torso. In other variations, sensor can be configured to
respond to bending, stretching, compressing, shaking, swiping,
touching or a combination thereof. For example, a device worn on a
torso can be useful for a system that can be operatively and
detachably connected to a condom that carries one or more fluidic
actuators of the types described above (cf. FIGS. 12-12B).
[0077] In another variation, an actuatable region 115 of a stimulus
device of the type shown in FIG. 4A or 12B can have an actuatable
region 115 including apertures extending through and around the
expandable fluidic chamber 150 (not shown).
[0078] In other variations, the actuatable region 115 can
optionally consist of alternative actuator mechanisms, including at
least one of an eccentric rotating mass vibration mechanism, a
linear resonant actuator, a piezoelectric actuator and an
electro-active polymer actuator. In another variation, the
actuatable region 115 can be a fluidic chamber as described above
overlying one of the just-described alternative actuators (not
shown). In another variation, the actuatable region 115 can be an
annular fluidic chamber with one of the just-described alternative
actuators surrounded by the annular fluidic chamber (not
shown).
[0079] A method of making a stimulus device, comprising providing
first and second elastomeric layers and bonding together said first
and said second elastomeric layers except for a flow channel and
chamber to form a monolithic elastomeric structure as can be
understood from FIGS. 12A-12B.
[0080] Another method of the invention can be understood from the
description above and FIGS. 4A-4B and 9, the female or receiving
partner could wear the glove-like device having the actuatable
regions and position these regions in contact with her sensory
tissue and then allow her partner to control the system operation
remotely which may be useful for episodes in which the partners are
in different locations.
[0081] In the system variations described above, there may be a
default mode of harmonizing inputs from the users when the system
is activated, with the stimulus parameters pre-selected for various
degrees of actuating the sensor 170a and 170b as described with
reference to FIGS. 2-6. In another variation, a smartphone, iPad or
similar devices may be adapted to communicate with the control unit
to change the operating mode, or to adjust default stimulus
parameters. In general, a method of the invention comprises
engaging targeted female sensory tissue with an actuatable device
surface worn by a human hand, applying stimulus from the device
surface to the targeted tissue and selecting operating parameters
on a touchscreen of a wireless device communicating with a
controller operatively connected to the actuatable device.
[0082] FIG. 15 schematically depicts another variation of a
stimulus system 600 which again includes a glove-like stimulus
device 605 similar to the type illustrated in FIG. 9, with the
device 605 having actuatable regions 615a and 615b. The actuatable
regions again can be fluidic chambers 105 (see FIGS. 11A-11B)
within in a very thin elastomer wall as described previously or can
be an eccentric rotating mass vibration mechanism, a linear
resonant actuator, a piezoelectric actuator or an electro-active
polymer actuator. The proximal part 620 of the device 605 again
carries, or is coupled to, a drive unit 110 for driving the
actuator regions 615a and 615b, a control unit 145 and a memory
unit 240 as described above. In this variation, the control unit
145 is adapted to receive signals 622 (e.g., bluetooth signals)
from a music source 625 such as a smartphone, radio or computer
that sends the music signals 622.
[0083] In response to the music signals, the system 600 can apply
stimulus from the actuator regions to the targeted tissue with the
stimulus parameters being controlled and modulated by the control
unit 145 in response to an `aspect` of the music, or in response to
multiple aspects of the music. The `aspects` of the music that may
be used by a controller algorithm to modulate stimulus parameters
can be pitch, beat, rhythm, tempo, loudness and/or timbre. In one
variation, the stimulus parameters that can be modulated in
response to music are frequency and/or amplitude of motion of the
actuator region as described previously. In another variation, the
amplitude of suction through a surface of the actuator region (and
the resultant tissue stabilization and/or stretching) can be
modulated in response to the music signal 622. An additional system
variation is shown below in FIGS. 16A-16C, 17, 18A and 18B that
provides subsystems for incorporating suction ports into an
actuator surface.
[0084] In the variation described above, the controller algorithms
can be configured to harmonize the music signals and actuator
response to the user(s) input by replacement of the user inputs,
interruption of the user inputs or up/down modulation of user
inputs, similar to the partner-to partner modes of harmonization
described above.
[0085] Now referring to FIGS. 16A-18B, another system variation 650
is shown that includes suction functionality integrated into a
surface layer of an actuator region. More in particular, FIG. 16A
shows a wearable device 655 that is similar to previous embodiments
with this variation having a single actuatable region 660 but it
should be appreciated that multiple actuatable regions are possible
as in previous embodiments. The proximal part 664 of the device 650
again includes or is connected to a drive unit 110 for actuating
the actuator region 660, a control unit 145 and a memory unit 240
as in previous variations. In this variation, the proximal part 664
of the device 650 also carries a motor driven pump or vacuum source
670 that communicates with a flow channel 672 in the wearable
device 655 that extends to the actuator region 660. FIG. 16B is a
sectional view of one variation of an actuator region 660 which has
a channeled or undulating surface 675 that is shown in a greatly
enlarged cut-away view in FIG. 17. As can be seen in FIG. 17, the
undulating surface 675 has aspiration ports 680 in the troughs 682
of the actuator surface. Each of the ports 680 communicates with an
interior flow channel branch 672a-672c that extends back to the
flow channel 672 and to the suction source 670. The undulations can
have a height ranging from about 0.5 mm to 5.0 mm with a similar
range from peak to peak of the undulations.
[0086] In the variation of actuator shown in FIGS. 16A and 17, it
can be seen that at least one mechanical actuator or vibration
mechanism 690 is carried inward of the undulating surface 675 and
inward of the flow channel branches 672a-672c and ports 680. The
actuator is a linear resonant actuator, an eccentric rotating mass
vibration mechanism, or a piezoelectric actuator. It also would be
possible to have a fluidic actuator as described above disposed in
a layer below the flow channel branches 672a-672c and ports 680.
FIG. 16C illustrates another similar actuator region 660' that has
two actuators or vibrating mechanisms 690' that have different
orientations relative to one another, which again can be a linear
resonant actuator, an eccentric rotating mass vibration mechanism,
or a piezoelectric actuator. Multiple actuators that apply stimulus
in different vectors is believed to be useful for the stimulation
of targeted tissue from different angles which can synchronized to
be in unison or can be sequential. The periphery of the undulating
surface 675 can be planar as in FIG. 16A, convex as in FIG. 16B or
concave depending on the device and targeted tissue, and in
general, the targeted soft tissue can conform to shape of the
undulating surface 675.
[0087] FIGS. 18A and 18B are greatly enlarged sectional views of
the undulating surface 675 of a stimulus device in use and
illustrate a method of engaging the targeted tissue. FIG. 18A shows
the undulating surface 675 in close proximity to a target tissue
surface. In this variation, the undulating surface 675 has an inner
layer 692 of an elastomeric material and surface layer 695 of a
very low modulus elastomer that can conform to any tissue surface.
In various embodiments, the surface layer 695 can be fluid
impermeable and hydrophilic. FIG. 18A shows the suction source 670
being actuated with aspiration forces indicated by arrows 696.
[0088] FIG. 18B shows the undulating surface 675 moved into contact
with the targeted tissue and the suction forces indicated by arrows
696 pulling the tissue surface into the undulations. This has the
effect stabilizing the tissue to better receive the stimulation
forces indicated at 700 from the actuator 690. Further, the tissue
surface will be somewhat stretched and tensioned in the direction
of arrows 702 in FIG. 18B which can make receptors in the targeted
tissue more receptive to stimulation. Further, the suction forces
applied to the targeted tissue can increase blood flow to the
engaged tissue which can be important in a stimulation episode. In
general, a method of stimulus for promoting female well-being
comprises engaging a targeted surface of female sensory tissue with
a device worn on a human hand to thereby stretch or tension the
targeted surface, and applying stimulus from the device surface to
said tensioned tissue surface to stimulate sensory tissue. The
method includes applying suction to the targeted tissue surface
through a plurality of flow passageways and ports distributed over
the device surface. The method further includes applying the
stimulation forces in unison or sequentially from different
actuators along different vectors. Further, the stimulation forces
can be modulated by the subject and her partner interactively as
described in previous embodiments.
[0089] In another variation, the actuator surface 675 as in FIGS.
16A-18B can be fabricated with a second set of flow pathways and
ports for providing fluid inflows to the targeted tissue from a
fluid reservoir 710 in the wearable device 655 (see FIG. 15). A
fluid for delivery through the system can be a lubricating fluid, a
cooled fluid, a heated fluid, an aromatic fluid, a hydrating fluid,
a therapeutic fluid or a pharmacologic fluid.
[0090] A number of embodiments of the invention have been
described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention.
* * * * *
References