Abstract:
A system for providing a therapeutic treatment to a mammal for a selected mammalian condition includes a wearable member configured for use about an upper torso of a mammal and an energy module configured to generate energy waves in an energy range particularly configured to provide a stimulation that is therapeutically effective treatment for the selected mammalian condition. The energy module is adapted to be supported by the wearable member about the upper torso of the mammal. The wearable member also includes a therapy delivery portion configured to position the energy module at a treatment site about the upper torso. The underlying idea of the teachings herein is to deliver non-invasive, non-electrical-inducing therapies and energies such as vibroacoustic, physioacoustic, kinesitherapy and phototherapy, through wearable and non-wearable apparatuses to animals and humans for therapeutic treatment.

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY AND CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/597,960, filed Feb. 13, 2012, entitled, “Method and Apparatus to Deliver External Stimulation to Humans and Animals for Therapeutic Effects”, the teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application is also related to U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0253236 to Snow et al and published on Oct. 4, 2012, which is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The invention is in the field of external therapeutic stimulation and delivery of therapeutic energy to animals or humans. 
         [0003]    Today it is well known to provide humans and animals with vibrational therapy through massage chairs, hand massagers, whole body vibration plates, handheld lasers or similar apparatuses that are applied to different parts of the body, sometimes with or without heat. These devices have served to relax the individual by stimulating the nervous system and promoting blood flow and increased oxygen to a particular part of the body to help with conditions and areas such as anxiety, post-operative healing, athletic and general performance, pain, aging, injuries, obesity, and general health. It would be desirable to provide similar therapy options to pets, humans and animals that are convenient and easy to use on a frequent basis, as the brain, nervous system, and body are in a constant state of change and all benefit from new stimulation. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Vibroacoustic therapy, physioacoustic therapy, along with kinesitherapy and phototherapy, are non-invasive treatment options that have been shown to benefit humans and animals by stimulating the body in various ways. The many benefits include but are not limited to: stress reduction, increased speed to healing, decreases in pain, improve flexibility and other musculoskeletal benefits, increases in blood circulation, improved spine and brain messaging, improved focus and performance, and many others. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, implantable neurostimulation and similar treatment modalities introduce an electrical signal into the body to deliver therapeutic benefits. The various embodiments described herein seek to improve upon these by providing non-invasive, non-electrical therapeutic systems that deliver the benefits in more user-friendly apparatuses and methods. 
         [0005]    The various embodiments disclosed herein are in the field of external stimulation and/or delivery of energy for therapeutic or medical purposes in various delivery mechanisms. More specifically, methods of focused delivery of non-electrical therapeutic energy via vibration, tones, audio, light or other similar energy sources, through wearable and non-wearable members such as collars, harness, halters, clips, belts, beds, pillows, plates, toys, stuffed animals, stand alone systems and attachments, or similar products, sometimes using embedded leads, conductors or other similar materials or methods are disclosed herein. The methods can be administered or delivered in the form of devices, systems or other products for animals or humans. Additionally, other example embodiments disclosed herein utilize wireless, remote and direct communication technology to interact with and control the device placed on or around the mammalian recipients. 
         [0006]    In one example embodiment, by delivering therapeutic energy, specifically tones, light and mechanical vibration to the upper torso region, the recipient receives benefit into the brain and cerebellum through ocular, vestibular and peripheral sensory systems. When tonal vibration is received into the ears, the vestibular cochlear nerve activates neurons that send electrical messages to specific end organs to create outcomes such as improved blood flow, which can increase oxygen levels, reduce inflammation and reduce recovery time from injuries. Similarly, when mechanical vibration is generated by an energy source and placed on a mammal, peripheral sensory nerves are activated. These nerves send signals to the receptor areas of the brain to create outcomes such as increased strength to support structures within the body. 
         [0007]    In one example embodiment, a system for providing a therapeutic treatment to a mammal for a selected mammalian condition includes a wearable member configured for use about an upper torso of a mammal. An energy module is included that is configured to generate energy waves in an energy range particularly configured to provide a stimulation that is therapeutically effective treatment for the selected mammalian condition. The energy module is adapted to be supported by the wearable member about the upper torso of the mammal. The wearable member also includes a therapy delivery portion configured to position the energy module at a treatment site about the upper torso. The underlying concept of the teachings is to deliver known non-invasive, non-electrical-inducing therapies and energies such as vibroacoustic, physioacoustic, kinesitherapy and phototherapy, through wearable and non-wearable apparatuses to animals and humans. 
         [0008]    In another example embodiment, an apparatus for delivering therapeutic energy to at least a portion of a mammal for a selected mammalian condition comprises a therapy output device adapted to generate energy waves in an energy range configured to provide a therapeutic effect on a mammal. The apparatus further includes means for controlling the therapy output device with the controlling means including an amplifier, memory, and an audio file playing module. The apparatus further includes a power supply means operationally coupled to controlling means and to the therapy output device and a housing configured to enclose the therapy output device, controlling means and power supply means therein. 
         [0009]    In yet another example embodiment, a system for providing a therapeutic treatment to a mammal for a selected mammalian condition comprises an energy module adapted to generate energy waves in an energy range configured to provide a therapeutic effect on a mammal. The system also includes means for delivering the energy waves from the energy module to a treatment site, the energy delivering means being coupled to the energy module, wherein the energy delivering means is configured to direct the energy waves proximate to the treatment site of the mammal. 
         [0010]    In various example embodiments, the wearable devices are made from or include materials that help to transfer the therapeutic energy throughout the collar and are made from materials that are stretchable, lightweight and adjustable so that apparatus can be secured tightly to an animal and not be constrictive. Such devices have additional components, channels, or other elements to monitor, interact with, direct, control, or similarly embedded elements. In a related example embodiment, an apparatus such as a pad or plate is provided that includes a delivery of therapeutic energy. Such an apparatus may be constructed of pliable or rigid materials and it can be attached to crates, kennels, or similar to deliver therapeutic energy to animals. In yet another related embodiment, there is disclosed a method of delivering therapeutic energy as described herein that can be attached to chairs, beds, or similar items. In yet another embodiment, a device is provided that has flexible arms to grip the neck and locates the therapy output device at the upper torso or at the neck or spine area. Such an apparatus may also have foldable arms. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]      FIG. 1  shows a wearable collar or member that is placed around the neck of a mammal with a pouch or pocket to hold, or a base plate to attach, a therapeutic delivery device. 
           [0012]      FIG. 2  shows a harness that is placed on an animal such as a dog or cat, with a pouch or pocket to hold, or a base plate to attach, a therapeutic delivery device on top of a neck or along a spine of the animal. 
           [0013]      FIG. 3  shows a collar that is placed around a neck of an animal with a pouch or pocket to hold, or a base plate, to attach a therapeutic delivery device on the top of the neck or along the spine of the animal. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3A  shows a wearable member secured around an upper torso of an animal or, attaches to an existing collar. 
           [0015]      FIGS. 4A-4C  illustrates a halter or wearable member that is placed around the neck and over and around the ears of an animal such as a horse or cow. 
           [0016]      FIGS. 5A-5B  shows a wearable device that is placed on or around the neck of a human and incorporates a therapeutic delivery method. 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  illustrates pillows that include a pouch or pocket to hold a therapeutic delivery device. 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  illustrates clothing that can be worn by animals or humans that include a pouch or pocket to hold, or a base plate, to attach a therapeutic delivery device. 
           [0019]      FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate a therapeutic delivery device that is attached to or placed in the pouch, pocket, or base plate of the various Figures listed herein.  FIGS. 8C and 8D  detail a charging stand that can be used with the device described in  8 A. 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  illustrates an elongated therapeutic delivery device that distributes the internal components to make a unit longer and with a less height form factor. 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  illustrates a non-wearable therapeutic delivery device that delivers low frequency tones, audio and resulting vibrations out of the device. 
           [0022]      FIG. 11  is another embodiment of a vibration speaker delivery system. 
           [0023]      FIG. 12  illustrates a delivery mechanism where the Treatment system is enclosed and attached to a surface to help deliver the therapy over a longer distance. 
           [0024]      FIG. 13  illustrates the Treatment system to be included inside the product for a flat surface. 
           [0025]      FIG. 14  illustrates another way of attaching the system to a surface and allows the system to be outside of the mechanism of delivery and still delivering stimulation. 
           [0026]      FIG. 15  illustrates a method of attaching a treatment system externally to pet housing products. 
           [0027]      FIG. 16  illustrates a method of externally attaching a treatment system to products such as chairs or recliners for calming or reducing stress. 
           [0028]      FIG. 17  illustrates separate forms of delivering the system that do not attach to other products. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0029]    The various example embodiments disclosed herein include various methods and apparatuses to deliver non-invasive external therapeutic stimulation, specifically tones, vibration, and light, to animals and humans. Apparatuses include wearable embodiments such as animal harnesses, collars, wraps, shirts and halters, as well as human neck pillows, neck wraps and shirts. Non-wearable embodiments include pillows, plates, chair and kennel attachments, balls, toys and stuffed animals. In each apparatus, a method or device to deliver therapeutic stimulation is inserted or attached.  FIGS. 1 through 7  describe wearable form factors;  FIGS. 8 through 11  detail simple and easy to use delivery methods or devices; and  FIGS. 12 through 17  show non-wearable form factors. 
         [0030]    Referring now to the Figures,  FIG. 1  describes an example embodiment of a therapy system  100  that includes a wearable collar or band member  101  with clasp  102  that is placed around the neck of a mammal with a pouch or pocket  103 , or a base plate to attach, to hold a therapeutic delivery device  104  on top of a neck or along a spine of a mammal. Pouch  103  (or pocket or base plate) is positioned to hold therapy device  104  in place on top of the neck and along the spine so as to deliver therapeutic energy that can be heard easily through the ears, felt easily along the spine and into the brain, and perceived easily by the eyes. The additional benefit of these embodiments is to allow the simple removal of therapy device  104  to be recharged, repaired or replaced, without removing wearable member  100 . 
         [0031]    Still in more detail of  FIG. 1 , the construction of the collar or band or wearable member  100  includes the following: a band made from lightweight and breathable materials and fabrics so as not to be constrictive to the animal or mammal. An adjustable strap (such as  102 ) is placed around the neck between the head and front legs and fitted snugly to secure it in place. The adjustable strap around can be looped through a hook and secured by a hook and loop system clasp  101 , buckle or similar method. A pouch or pocket  103  that has a slot or opening with a flap closure to allow easy and secure access to attach and remove device  104 , such as needed to recharge, change settings, replace, or similar. A base plate (not shown) can be placed into the harness with the function being to attach and secure therapeutic delivery device  104 . Extension leads  150 , conductive materials or similar elements could be embedded or inserted into the harness so as to help transfer the vibrations coming from the therapeutic device and spreading throughout the harness to help deliver the therapy. 
         [0032]      FIG. 2  in greater detail describes a wearable harness  200  with clasp  201  that is placed on an animal  10  and includes a pouch or pocket  203  to hold, or a base plate to attach, a therapeutic delivery device  204 . The pouch, pocket or base plate (therapy delivery portion)  203  is positioned to hold device  204  in place on top of  12  neck and along spine  14  so as to deliver vibrational energy that can be heard easily through the ears, felt easily along the spine and into the brain, and perceived easily by  16  eyes. The additional benefit of these embodiments is to allow the simple removal of device  204  to be recharged, repaired or replaced, without removing the wearable member. 
         [0033]    Still in more detail of  FIG. 2 , the construction of the harness  201  with support band member  206  includes the following: a band made from lightweight and breathable materials and fabrics so as not to be constrictive to animal  10 . An adjustable strap or support member  206  is placed around an upper torso  11  and/or neck  12  behind front legs  18  and fitted snugly to secure it in place. Adjustable strap  206  around the torso can be looped through a hook and secured by a hook and loop system, clasp  205 , buckle or similar method. A pouch or pocket  203  that has a slot or opening with a flap closure  210  to allow easy and secure access to attach and remove device  204 , such as needed to recharge, change settings, replace, or similar. A base plate (not shown) that is placed into or onto the harness with the function being to attach and secure therapeutic delivery device  204 . The extension leads, conductive materials or similar method (not shown) can be embedded or inserted into the harness so as to help transfer the vibrations coming from the therapeutic device and spreading throughout the harness to help deliver therapy. An adjustable collar  201 / 202  placed around the neck of the animal to help hold the pouch in position and securely on the animal. In a related embodiment, an adjustable breast strap that is attached to the underside of the collar to the underside of the torso strap and between the front legs includes a blood pressure or heart rate monitoring system that connects to and activates device  204 . 
         [0034]    In order to deliver the therapy, device  204  or similar therapeutic device, is inserted and placed securely into the slit opening of the pouch or pocket, or snapped into the base plate. Once positioned on top of the neck and spine, the device can be activated as needed so as to deliver tonal and vibrational energy for a set time. The tonal and vibrational energy is delivered at specific frequencies that activate or inhibit certain mechanisms or functions in the mammalian body. 
         [0035]    Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 3A ,  FIG. 3A  shows a therapy system  300  that includes a wearable collar  301  that is placed and worn around neck  12  of an animal  10  that includes a pouch, pocket  303  or base plate (not shown) to hold a therapeutic delivery device  304  on top of the neck and along spine  14 . The pouch, pocket or base plate extends  306  from the front of the collar near the head of the animal and back towards the rear. It may have a rigid border  307  to help hold the pouch on top of the spine and to keep it from slipping under the neck. The benefit of this design is a smaller form factor than system  200 , without the need for the band around the torso. 
         [0036]    In one example embodiment of the therapy, a therapy deliver apparatus described in system  300  was applied to seven canines that were suffering from anxiety, were administered the therapy for five minutes each by placing the collar around the neck of the animal, positioning the device on top of the spine, and activating the device. The therapy source was an audio file that played a series of tones ranging from 65 to 300 Hz through the vibration speaker that could be heard and felt by the animals. A veterinary behaviorist measured anxiety symptoms, along with heart rate readings and echograms assessments. On six out of seven dogs, a significant decrease in all measurements was recorded. 
         [0037]    In another example embodiment of the therapy, a therapy delivery apparatus described in system  300  was applied to one dog with severe separation anxiety that obsessively licked the floor while the owner got ready to leave the house was administered the therapy for five minutes for three days in a row. Each time after device activation, the dog stopped the licking behavior and sat calmly by the owner&#39;s feet. At the end of the three day trial, the owner observed that the dog&#39;s anxiety was significantly improved, indicating that a wearable system that is used consistently would result in positive outcomes. 
         [0038]    The construction materials and delivery of therapeutic energy are similar to those described in the other therapy systems described above. Referring now to  FIG. 3A  is a wearable band  301 A with clasp  302 A that has a pouch, pocket  303 A or base plate that sits on top of the neck or spine of an animal to hold therapeutic delivery device  304 A, and is placed and secured around the torso. A unique feature of this is adding the ability to connect device  304 A to an existing collar via extension  308  that includes support member  306 A. This benefit allows the owner to use the band for therapy in conjunction with using their existing collar  301 A. The construction materials and delivery of therapeutic energy are similar as those described in earlier therapy systems above. Support member  306 B is made of a mesh-like material in this example. Pocket  303 A includes a flap  310 A to enclose device  304 A in this example. 
         [0039]    Referring now to  FIGS. 4A-4C , a therapy system  400  is shown which includes a wearable halter  401  with size adjusting material that is placed around the neck and ears of an animal such as a horse  40  or cow that includes a pouch, pocket  403  or base plate that sits between or near the ears to hold a therapeutic delivery device  404 . A unique feature of this design is having the ability to keep device  404  in place near the ears and over the brain and spinal column. In  FIGS. 4B and 4C , the construction materials and delivery of therapeutic energy are similar as those described in the Figures above. 
         [0040]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a therapy device  500  is shown that includes a wearable device  501  that is placed on and around the neck  51  of a human  50  and incorporates a therapeutic delivery device  504  such as described in more detail in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . In this example embodiment, device  501  has a tensile-based, retractable, foldable or similar arm extensions  501  to hold the unit  504  securely in place on the back of the neck. The arm extension (or extensions) are foldable similar to sunglasses and securely stored when not in use. Uses for this type of design  500  include anxiety, balance and stability, training, performance improvement and recovery for sports such as golf, relaxation and focus for travelers and professionals such as doctors. Construction materials for device  500  could be similar to those listed in Figures above and the delivery of therapeutic energy is similar as those described in the Figures above. 
         [0041]    In one example embodiment, device  500  was successfully used on nine humans with balance and stability issues, along with reduced kinesthetic strength and elevated blood pressure, were given the therapeutic device to wear around the neck for five minutes. On each human, balance, stability, blood pressure and kinesthetic strength were improved by delivering vibrational and tonal energy in the ranges of 45 through 250 Hz. Additionally, two of these patients suffered from shoulder and knee pain. After the therapy was administered, both patients indicated that their level of pain had been reduced dramatically. 
         [0042]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , there are illustrated top and bottom views of other therapy systems  600  including both wearable  602  pillows and non-wearable  603  pillows that include a pouch or pocket  613  to hold a therapeutic delivery device  614 . Pillow  602  can be placed and worn on the neck of an individual while traveling, sitting in chairs, or resting. Pillow  604  can be used while lying down, sleeping, resting in a seated position, or similar. 
         [0043]    Referring again to  FIG. 6 , pouch or pocket  613  to hold delivery device  614  can be placed in the front pouch  613 B, closer to the wearer, or in the rear pouch  613 A, to allow for easier access. The pouch or pocket can be accessed and secured in place by a foldable lining, a zipper, buttons, or similar method. 
         [0044]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , there is shown therapy delivery system  700  that includes a wearable shirt  701  and an animal wrap or shirt  710 , both for animals and humans that include a pouch or pocket  703  to hold a therapeutic delivery device  704  on the back of the neck and along the spine of the subject. Animal shirt or torso wrap  710  is placed on an animal with the pouch pocket  703  (or base plate) sitting along a spine, near the upper torso and neck region of the subject. Construction materials are similar to previous descriptions and Figures listed herein. Shirt  701  for humans can be worn with a pouch or pocket  703  on the back, on the upper torso, and potentially included in the neck collar. Construction materials, manufacturing methods and fabrics are similar to known shirts, and to those listed herein. 
         [0045]    Referring now to  FIGS. 8A-8D ,  FIG. 8A  shows a therapeutic delivery device  800  that can be inserted into or attached to the therapy delivery systems described herein, or used by itself In this example embodiment, unit  800  includes a housing  802  comprised of a rigid bottom plate  804 , flexible top overlay  806 , a controller push button  808 , lighted top display  810 , an opening  812  to attach or hold automatic or wireless controls. Unit  800  also includes a port  814  (not shown) near opening  812  to be used as a data and communication port. The benefits of this design are a short form factor, flexible mid-plate and lightweight so as to be easily worn. 
         [0046]    Referring now to  FIG. 8B , there is shown the internal components to  FIG. 8A  that may include a programmable control board  820  that includes energy generating sources such as audio files, a power source such as a battery  822 , micro switch  824  with support plate  826 , wireless connectivity operation  832 , accelerometer or other monitoring device  834 , and a vibration speaker or transducer device or therapy output device  830 , LED light source  825  or similar method to output therapeutic vibrational energy. The unit can also include functionalities such as an accelerometer, wireless connectivity, and vitals monitoring capabilities. A therapy output device support plate  831  and a control button cover  810 B is also included. 
         [0047]    Referring further to  FIGS. 8C and 8D , there is shown a therapy device and charger system  850  that includes therapy unit  800  and charging station  852  and/or communication portal for device  800  described in  FIG. 8A . One benefit of incorporating such a station into the system is to move charging mechanisms off of the device and onto the base unit, thus decreasing the weight and size of the wearable device. Charging station  852  includes a front  854  and back cover  856 , a receptor plate  860  with ridges to hold device  800 , power recharging board  862  and communication ports  864  to access device  800 . Optimal hose plugs  870  prevent slipping of station  852 . 
         [0048]    Referring now to  FIG. 9 , there is shown exploded and side views of therapy unit  900  of a different form factor of a therapeutic delivery device  900  described in  FIGS. 8A and 8B . The internal components and product features are similar and include a housing comprised of a top cover  902 , a bottom pliable bottom  904 , a control button  908  and cover  910 , attachment opening  912 , control board  928 , micro switch  924 , LED  925 , switch support plate  926  and a therapy output device  930 , such as a speaker or transducer. The benefits of this design are a lower height form factor as the components are distributed, and a longer form factor for additional therapeutic touch points to the mammalian recipient with a bendable portion  950  to accommodate mammal form. 
         [0049]    Referring now to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , there are shown non-wearable, external, stimulation devices,  1000 A and  1000 B respectively, to deliver vibration, tones and audio to humans and animals for therapeutic purposes. These devices have a power mechanism, volume, and intensity controls, a power source, a rechargeable outlet, and a mechanism to store data or stimulation methods on the device. This data can be in many forms such as tones, music, and the like. This device can be used as pictured, as a stand-alone product, as whole inside other delivery products such as below, and also broken into components and used in different forms. Also described are ways to remotely or wirelessly control and interact with the system, such as simple handheld devices, keypads, touch screen, or similar devices. These devices can be in many shapes and forms, and the components detailed below can be used separately without the specifically described structures. 
         [0050]    In various example embodiments, included with the devices are components such as a:
       Power button  1118 —to turn the control panel on or off   Vibration or other similar speaker  1124  to deliver vibrations, tones or audio into humans or animals for therapeutic benefits by way of or through a plate  1134  (rigid or pliable)   Data port  1125 , hard drive, or other similar method to store and deliver   Battery  1126  or other device for storing power to operate the device   Within a housing  1138     Electronics operating board for controlling the device (not shown)   Volume controls  1122     Indicator lights—showing which stimulation method is selected or active   Plug-in—for external power or audio loading (or data loading)  1125     Remote control to operate device without having to manually touch (via cable  1136  in  FIG. 11 )   Wireless port—to remotely connect to device       
 
         [0062]    Still referring to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , when the user turns on the device, consistent energy in the form of vibration, tones or other frequency energy is delivered through vibration speaker  1124  and into an attached surface or plate  1134 . Here, the human or animal will interact, hear or feel the vibrational energy for health benefits for a set period of time. The user can manually turn off the device or it will turn off automatically after a set period. 
         [0063]    The vibration, tones or audio functions will be available in multiple levels that can be controlled via the mode button and stored on the disk drive. The wireless port allows the user to control the unit from a remote location, via a handheld, remote, or other similar communication method a Wi-Fi system connected to the Internet. The materials and surfaces described below that the system attaches to or is included into, may have leads, specific materials or other transmittal components embedded into it to deliver stimulation more consistently through the products. The construction details of the invention in  FIGS. 10 and 11  include the system being made from metal, plastic, ceramic, glass (hardened) or other casing material. 
         [0064]    Referring now to  FIGS. 12 ,  13  and  14 , (like components from  FIGS. 10 and 11  are used) are top and side views of other therapy systems  1100 A and  1100 B of delivering external therapeutic stimulation by attaching the system to pliable and rigid surfaces  1134  made from materials such as wood, metal, plastic, ceramic, thick glass or other similar hard surface. The various systems can be attached directly to surface, inside an enclosure  1138  via speaker  1124  that is on top, embedded inside, or on the side of the delivery surface or plate. In a related embodiment, electrodes or leads  1137  are included to help deliver therapy. A main benefit of this method is to allow for secure, safe and reliable ways of delivering the stimulation over a larger surface for uses such as next to, or included into, products such as pillows, mattresses, beds, crates or other similar surfaces. These can help calm, heal, decrease pain, or have other beneficial uses. 
         [0065]    Referring now to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , are described other methods and form factors of attaching the therapy systems, such as  1138 , disclosed herein, safely, securely and therapeutically to surfaces, enclosures, such as crates  1139 , kennels, chairs  1140 , or other fixed surface where animals or humans sit  1140 , lie down or spend time. Benefits here include simple ways of delivering stimulation to help calm, heal, decrease pain, or other similar uses, in various attachment formats. 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIG. 17 , shown therein are methods of delivering the system in an enclosed box format  1104 , for uses such as on a tabletop or other hard surfaces, and in formats such as a ball  1141  or other shape such as a toy or stuffed animal  1142 , for uses inside kennels, crates, or other similar enclosures. Health benefits are similar to above descriptions. Additional benefits include: 1) safety issues as protection from falling, chewing, etc.; 2) mobility to take and use any places; and 3) security from dust and other harmful effects over just using the system as a standalone device. 
         [0067]    The following U.S. patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,101,810; 5,178,134; 5,314,403; 5,895,348; 6,024,407; 6,193,677; 6,615,197; 7,445,607; 7,981,064; 8,077,884; and 8,079,968. 
         [0068]    Other known vibrational systems include: the X-Vibe Vibration Sound System (www.innovationx.tv) and the Smart Vest and VibraMax Systems by Nexneuro (www.nexneuro.com), but these fail to provide the form factor and simplicity provided by the various embodiments described herein. 
         [0069]    This written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is presently described. A person of ordinary skill should understand and appreciate that there are variations and combinations to the methods described herein, and should therefore not limit the invention to what is described, but by all the embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention.