Abstract:
A multisensory stimulation system and method of use. The system includes a housing articulate on a support so as to align a marked viewport with an individual. The housing defines a viewing chamber which is an extension of a reflective light and image optical system chamber which receives light and images from one or more video monitors or images projectors and, in some embodiments, from alternate sources such as black lights and strobe light devices. The system also includes an aromatic sensory component, tactile sensation devices, an audio input system, and audio delivery devices.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention is generally directed to systems and methods for stimulating sensory perceptions including visual, aural, olfactory and tactile senses for purposes of mental and physical stimulation and therapy, relaxation and entertainment. The invention is further directed to multisensory systems for stimulating visual, audio and olfactory senses through enhanced visual presentations, monitored and selected audio inputs and monitored and selected olfactory inputs. 
     2. Brief Description of the Related Art 
     Systems have been created for purposes of sensory stimulation not only for enhanced entertainment reasons but for purposes of therapy for the release of stress as well to improve body functioning. Other concepts with respect to sensory stimulation have dealt with creating enhanced visual system displays, audio variations and/or olfactory inputs to create different moods for one or more persons subjected to such systems. By way of example, in the entertainment industry, basic visual systems have been modified to create three dimensional imagining to make visual presentations more realistic. Other variations of image projection include creating multiple lighting and strobing effects of image presentation in order to stimulate an individual&#39;s mind as it is responses to different colors, shades, light intensities and sequences, all for purposes of stimulating an individual&#39;s response to what is visually perceived. 
     As with changes in visual stimuli, changes in audio stimuli can also have an effect on an individual&#39;s feelings, mood and health. Dynamic audio presentations tend to increase heart rate and biorhythm functioning whereas more melodic softer or quieter audio presentations tend to create a soothing effect on individuals. 
     By combining different audio programming with visual presentations, the movie industry has attempted to change the manner in which people become involved while viewing a film. In some prior art presentations it has been proposed to provide aromatic essences which are released into a theater to combine with the visual and audio presentations to achieve yet a higher degree of individual involvement with the presentation of a film. A further stimulation includes providing movement or vibration of seats in theaters to further stimulate the individual through a sense of touch or through a sense of bodily orientation which changes as the visual and audio presentations change. By combining numerous sensory inputs a heightened interaction can be established between individuals and a programmed presentation. 
     To date, however, most multifaceted sensory stimulation systems have been provided in the entertainment industry for purposes of stimulating the senses of an audience. Such systems are not only costly and complex, they are also not adequate for use with specific individuals. Thus, there is a need to provide individualized sensory stimulation systems which utilize multiple sensory inputs which can be varied according to an individual and to an individuals response to such stimulation. Such sensory stimulation systems can be used not only for purposes of entertainment but, more importantly, for purposes of mental and physical therapy to reduce stress, relieve headaches, including in migraine cases, reduce tension to relieve high blood pressure, to alter moods in order to create a more beneficial and alert mental status for a given individual and/or for purposes of relaxation, mind stimulation and the like, all which can have a positive mental and physical effect on an individual. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a multisensory stimulation system and method of use of such a system which is specifically designed to overcome the shortcomings of prior art stimulation systems and which is particularly adapted for individualizing sensory stimulation. The system includes a primary housing which is articulated on a support so as to be selectively alignable with an individual who is seated relative to the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the individual is seated on a contoured reclined seating device so that the individual is physically relaxed when the system is in use. In some embodiments, the seating device may be provided with heat exchange elements to supplement sensory stimulation through heat and cold therapy or the seating device may be provided with vibrating transducers or other devices for tactile purposes or for adding massage therapy and stimulating sensory touch response for an individual when using the system of the invention. Although not disclosed in the preferred embodiment shown in the drawings, further modifications could be made to the system such as to reorient the seating device and/or the sensory stimulation system to generate further sensory responses of an individual during the use of the system of the invention. 
     The housing is designed with a viewport generally at one end thereof which viewport is designed such that an individual&#39;s eyes, nose and ears are generally directed into the housing and so that ambient light, sound and the like does not effect the individual. The viewport communicates visually with a main optical assembly mounted within the housing. The main optical assembly includes a plurality of reflective surfaces which are used to reflect light and images in a plurality of patterns to create varied visual effects. Light and images entering the main optical assembly are provided by one or more monitors or image projectors which are also mounted to the housing. Such monitors may be computer controlled monitors allowing presentation of specific programming from a data base or disc. Both preprogrammed and updated programming can be used to optimize the efforts of sensory stimulation for each individual utilizing the sensory stimulation system. In some embodiments, the monitor may be in the form of image projectors including television screens with are connected to an appropriate video input such as a video cassette, CD or DVD player so that prerecorded visual programs can be played through the monitor to an individual using the system. 
     The monitor is mounted on a frame within the housing so that the light and images therefrom are directed into the main optical assembly such that the light and images must be reflected from a plurality of reflecting surfaces before being transmitted for viewing to the viewport. This multi-reflection of light and images within the main optical assembly creates a three dimensional and floating effect to the images viewed within the housing. 
     To further change the visual characteristics of any program being presented by the internal monitor, secondary light sources and light controllers may be mounted to the housing and allowed to communicate within the main optical assembly to create secondary images or light patterns which border the primary or main images issuing from the monitor. The secondary optics one separately attached to one of the exterior panels of the main optical assembly and communicate through an optical lens port in which a Fresnel lens is mounted. An inlet end of the secondary optical assembly is in open communication with a portion of the screen of the monitor which is not utilized to create the main or primary image display. In this respect, the monitor screen is mounted such that only a portion of the monitor screen is communicated directly into the main optical assembly such that portions around the perimeter of the main screen or image display are not communicated directly into the main optical assembly but are available for transmission into the main optical assembly after passing through one or more of the secondary optical assemblies. 
     In the embodiment disclosed in the invention a single secondary optical assembly will be disclosed, however, it should be noted that a plurality of such assemblies may be used in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. 
     The inlet end of each secondary optical assembly communicates with a portion, normally an exterior or corner portion, of the monitor such that light from such portion enters a reflective interior of a secondary housing. A portion of one sidewall of the housing includes a shutter which is mirrored on its inner surface so as to form a reflective surface when the shutter is closed with respect the sidewall of the secondary housing. When the shutter is opened, a light source mounted exteriorly thereof can be used to direct light or pulses of light into the secondary housing and toward the Fresnel lens which is generally mounted at an angle relative to a primary axis of light coming from the monitor. An end portion of the secondary housing includes a plurality of angled mirrored surfaces for further reflecting light coming from the monitor at an angle toward and through the Fresnel lens. Therefore, the interior of the housing of the secondary optics assembly forms a mirrored tunnel extending between border portions of the monitor to the Fresnel lens. 
     The primary light source associated with the use of a shutter assembly is a blacklight source which is mounted in front of a reflector which directs the blacklight towards the Fresnel lens when the shutter is opened, such as by a servo or a solenoid mechanism which can be regulated in its timing sequences to pulse or slowly open and close the shutter to allow the blacklight to pass through the Fresnel lens into the main optical assembly. The blacklight is used to make visible flourescent lacquered images which are selectively applied on the reflective or mirrored surfaces on the interior of the main optical assembly. Under normal conditions and with the shutter closed such flourescent lacquered images can not be seen, however, upon opening of the shutter and activation of the blacklight source, the images become brilliant and are reflected off the additional reflective surfaces within the main optical assembly. 
     A further effect may be achieved by also mounting a strobe light adjacent the shutter and exteriorly of the mirrored tunnel of the secondary optic system. In this manner, when the shutter is opened, the strobe lighting may also be introduced into the main optical assembly through the Fresnel lens. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the Fresnel lens is convex from or toward the main optical assembly. 
     The system also incorporates audio speakers which are mounted adjacent the mask or headphones through which different audio outputs can be provided from essentially any exterior source of audio supply such as a conventional tape or disk player amplifier or the like. In addition, sounds can be routed through or from a computer or Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to create computer generated or enhanced sounds that can be varied to obtain different audio responses impressions to an individual utilizing the sensory stimulation system of the invention. 
     A further component of the sensory stimulation system of the invention is an aroma control system. The aroma system includes a plurality of essence containers which are mounted within the main housing. One or more pumps are provided to direct pressurized air through inlet tubes into the essences containers. Outlet tubes carry essences which have been defused or entrained into the air flow from the pumps toward a venturi which is mounted adjacent to the mask of the housing. The tubes extending from the essence bottles to the venturi are directed with at least some vertical component when the housing is in its normal use position such that any condensed essence returns to the essence containers or bottles by gravity. 
     The venturi communicates with a source of fresh air supply which includes a pre-filter and fan assembly which conducts outside fresh air toward the center of the venturi and toward an evacuation outlet provided in a collar portion of the mask. In this respect, the fresh air is directed through the venturi and entrains the aroma from the essence bottles therein through the activation of pressure actuated valves mounted adjacent to the venturi. In some embodiments, separate pumps will be interfaced with the essence bottles as opposed to a single pump and a plurality of valves. The fresh air having the essences entrained therein is thereafter generated across the face of an individual so as to be easily included before the air is positively evacuated from the housing. In the preferred embodiment, the air enters an evacuation outlet adjacent the mark where the air passes through a filter in which any exiting aromatics are removed before the air is discharged to the ambient environment. The pumps which provide air through various inlet lines to the essences bottles are controlled utilizing valves operable in response either to manual input or to a computer controller such that the different essences can be supplied either by a predetermined program, by continuously upgrading a program if reactions of a person are being monitored and inputted as they experience the sensory stimulation system or manually controlled by a separate operator. 
     The sensory stimulation system of the invention further includes an exhaust fan mounted adjacent the monitor which draws cooling air past the monitor and discharges it on an opposite side of the housing from the viewport. 
     Control of the various elements of the invention may be accomplished manually through a control panel mounted to one side of the housing. In some embodiments computer actuated controls may be utilized to create an interaction delivery system such that pre-programming may be updated or changed depending upon a person&#39;s responses. Responses may be based on biofeedback sensors, voice recognition devices, or other conscious or subconscious inputs to thereby enhance sensory simulation utilizing a variety of visual, audio and olfactory sensory actuators. 
     Utilizing the methodology of the present invention, an individual is initially seated on a chair in a somewhat reclined position after which an operator pivots the main housing on its support pedestal so that a mask at one end thereof is positioned in surrounding relationship with the individual&#39;s face. One or more handles may be provided for manipulation by the individual or an operator to ensure comfortable positioning of the mask and housing relative to the individual. 
     To stimulate the various senses, once the mask is correctly positioned, the programmer, a pre-programmed computer or a media playback device using pre-recorded media may be activated to control various sensory stimulation elements of the invention. By initially activating the visual input monitor, images are reflected off the multi-faceted mirror-like inner surface of the main optical assembly. Depending upon the types of images being projected or reflected, different responses are induced in the individual using the system. To further enhance the system, the secondary optics systems may be activated in which case the shutter associated with each secondary system is opened allowing the blacklight source to illuminate fluorescent areas which have been pre-applied to the various reflective surfaces within the main optical assembly such that additional reflective elements appear within the space of the primary optical assembly. As previously mentioned strobe lighting may also be introduced through the secondary optical assemblies at this time. 
     During the visual display further sensory stimulation may be affected by activation of the speakers or headphones through input from a sound system and activation of the aroma system may be accomplished either manually, by pre-programmed computer input or by playback of prerecorded media queues. When the aroma system is activated, pressurized air will be directed from the pumps through selected ports so that the air is directed to predetermined essence containers or bottles mounted within the housing. The essences entrained in the incoming pressurized air then pass upwardly through discharge conduits to a venturi mounted interiorly of the housing and upstream of the primary optical assembly and viewport or mask. A fresh air stream is introduced through the throat of the venturi and will open injection valves associated with the discharge conduits from the aroma assembly thereby entraining the various aroma essences within the air flow which then passes through the primary optical assembly and in close proximity to an individual so that the aromas can be inhaled prior to being evacuated through evacuation opening in a collar of the mask. 
     It is the primary object of the present invention to provide a multisensory stimulation system and method for use of such a system which allows an individual to be subjected to selected combinations of visual, audio, olfactory and other stimulates and wherein the visual inputs may be varied by the use of primary and secondary optic systems. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide a multisensory stimulation system which can be utilized not only as an entertainment device but also as a therapeutical device wherein changes in visual, aural, olfactory, tactile and other stimulates can be used singularly or in various combinations to effect beneficial mental and physical response for an individual using the system. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide a multisensory stimulation system and method wherein the system can be adjusted to suit substantially any individual and wherein the system may be controlled either by a separate operator, by pre-programmed inputs or by interaction feedback or combinations thereof in order to achieve optimal stimulation response for each individual. 
     It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a multisensory stimulation system which includes both primary and secondary image displays such that the secondary images can be activated independently of the primary images thereby causing a unique and exciting interaction therebetween wherein images that are reflected into a main optical chamber from either the primary or secondary systems will appear to float in infinite space or on different planes forming uniquely perceived patterns of a visual environment as viewed by an individual using the system. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     A better understanding of the invention will be had with respect to the drawing figures wherein: 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective illustrational view of a preferred embodiment of multisensory stimulation apparatus of the invention in a loading position showing a movable platform supporting a chair on which a user of the system is seated and an operator for controlling operation of the system which is mounted within a movable housing pivoted to a support pedestal; 
     FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 showing the housing being pivoted into operable relationship with respect to an individual receiving multisensory stimulation having portions broken away; 
     FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1-3 showing a display and primary optics assembly of the invention which is mounted within the housing shown in FIGS. 1 and 2; 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the display and primary optics assembly of the invention showing the primary optical assembly in relationship with respect to a monitor for directing images therein; 
     FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view through a secondary optics assembly which may be utilized with the invention; 
     FIG. 6 is an image projection showing where the input from a monitor is used to direct images into either the primary or secondary optics assemblies of the invention; 
     FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view through the housing of the invention and showing an aroma system of the invention; 
     FIG. 8 is a schematic operational diagram of the aroma delivery system of the invention; 
     FIG. 9 is a front plan view of a control panel used in accordance with the invention; 
     FIG. 10 is an illustration diagram of a non-interactive control system of the invention; 
     FIG. 11 is a diagram of a modification to the control system of FIG. 10 allowing interaction; and 
     FIG. 12 is an illustrational diagram of an interactive control system of the invention. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     With continued reference to the drawing figures, the multisensory stimulation apparatus and system  20  of the invention is shown including a base or platform  21  which is designed to be maneuverable and, as shown in FIG. 3, may be mounted on a dolly assembly  22  including support wheels  23 . The platform  21  supports a seating device  25  which in the preferred embodiment shown includes a chair having a reclined seat for supporting a person “P” in a position to receive multisensory inputs from the apparatus. 
     In FIG. 1, the person “P” is shown as being seated in a reclined position from the seat  25  relative to a housing  26  in which the multisensory components of the invention are housed. The housing  26  is rotatably supported about a vertical axis “A—A” as shown by the arrow  27  in FIG.  1 . The housing is supported on a support post or ram  28  which is vertically adjustable with respect to a pedestal  30  by way of an operating lever  31  so that the height of the housing  26  may be selectively adjusted to appropriately aligned with a person “P” seated within the seating device or chair  25 . 
     As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the multisensory stimulation apparatus and system may be controlled by an operator “O” who has access to a control panel  34  mounted to a rear wall  35  of the housing. 
     In the position of the housing shown in FIG. 1, the housing is offset with respect to the chair so that the person “P” may have easy ingress and egress with respect thereto. After a person is seated, the housing is pivoted about the axis “A—A” such that a viewport  38  into the housing is aligned over the face of the person, as shown in FIG.  2  through the cut-away in the drawing figure. The housing may be pivoted by the operator “O” by manipulation of a handle  32 ′ or, in some embodiments, the housing may be pivoted by the person “P” by engaging one or both of two handles  32  mounted to the housing, see also FIG.  7 . Surrounding the viewport  38  is a soft generally annular mask  40  which is cushioned so as to protect the face of the individual from accidental injury and which also blocks out ambient light and sounds. The mask is preferably designed to minimize outside interference and distraction so that the eyes, ears and nose of the individual are essentially blocked from ambient conditions and are subject only to conditions of sensory stimulation as will be provided in the area of the viewport  38  during the operation of the system. The mask is preferably matte black to prevent light from reflecting upon it and thus entering the viewport, and is ideally made of sound absorbent material to reduce sound reflection. 
     With specific reference to FIG. 7, a more detailed showing of the soft mask  40  is shown surrounding the open viewport  38 . Mounted on opposite sides of the mask are audio speakers  42  (only one being shown in the drawing figure). The audio speakers  42  are electrically connected to an appropriate sound source such as a personal computer, CD player, radio, or other audio amplifier for purposes of receiving sound programming to provide for audio sensory inputs to the person “P” seated on the chair  25 . As opposed to, or in addition, headphones may be used for audio stimulation. Also mounted adjacent the mask is a microphone  44  by way of which the person seated in the chair may speak either to an operator “O” or to a voice recognition system associated with a computer controller for the multisensory delivery system. The person&#39;s voice can be used for analysis, such as stress level, or may be routed to a computer or DSP to create altered sounds, chair vibrations or visual imagery that is synchronized to the voice. As an example, a person might sing a song, hear it in 3-D with a new voice or echoes, while feeling chair vibrations moving through his or her body, and watching images of color and light appearing and transforming in their visual space. 
     Also provided in the area of the mask is an elongated exhaust port  46  through which air from the interior of the housing is drawn and passes through a forward portion of the housing through a filter  48  by way of an exhaust fan  49  which is mounted to direct airflow outwardly through an exhaust port  50  into the ambient environment. The exhaust system is particularly provided for use in purifying airflow leaving the housing which airflow may include entrained aromatics or essences as will be described hereinafter. The filter  48  is used to withdraw any aromatics before the air is discharged through the discharge port  50 . 
     As previously discussed, the multisensory stimulation system and apparatus of the present invention is specifically designed to provide a plurality of stimuli to an individual. These include visual, audio, olfactory and perhaps senses of touch or feel. A visual stimulation is provided by providing light from an image input or video monitor  60  having a display screen  61  which is mounted so as to project a portion of an image from the display screen into the interior of a primary reflection chamber which is formed of multiple inwardly reflecting panels. The monitor and display assembly is particularly shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The primary optical display chamber is designated at  62  and includes a plurality of intersecting angularly related wall segments having mirrored inner surfaces which reflect light and images into an open area  63  within the chamber  62 , as shown in FIG.  3 . The cutaway in FIG. 3 also shows the mirrored inner surfaces of the walls defining the primary reflective chamber and of the primary optical system. In the preferred embodiment, the primary optical chamber is formed as an extended rhombic dodecahedron which is generally a twelve sided figure. As shown, a portion of one end of the chamber has been cutaway to form an opening  65  which abuts a central portion of the display screen  61 , as shown in FIG. 4, to thereby allow the entry of light and images into the interior of the primary optical or reflective chamber. The opposite end of the chamber includes an opening into a reflective viewing chamber  68  which aligns with the viewport  38  defined centrally of the mask  40 . The inner walls of the viewing chamber are also reflective and receive light which has been reflected from the surfaces of the interior of the primary optical chamber and also some light which passes directly thereto from the display screen  61 . In this manner, a combination of reflected and direct lighting is viewed by an individual or person as they look into the viewing chamber. The multifaceted reflective surfaces create images that appear to float and change in space and thus give a great deal of depth and illusion as well as changing light patterns to objects to being viewed. By changing the images, light patterns, colors and other visual characteristics of the display, different stimulative responses can be obtained from to a person viewing the images in the viewing chamber. 
     The primary optical assembly  62  is mounted to spaced arms  70  of a frame  72  which surrounds the monitor and display screen  60  and  61 . The housing  26  is fixedly mounted about the frame  72 . 
     With specific reference to FIG. 3, whenever the monitor is operated, cooling air is drawn through the housing by way of a cooling fan  74  mounted along one of the back walls  75  of the housing. Air enters the housing through a lower portion thereof following the path shown by the arrows in FIG. 3 so as to convey heat from the monitor outwardly of the housing. Appropriate controls are connected to both the cooling fan  74  and the monitor  60  to ensure that whenever the monitor is turned on the cooling fan  74  is also activated to exhaust air from the housing. 
     The monitor  60  may be a conventional television monitor or may be a computer monitor or other light or image projector. In this respect, the monitor  60  may be connected to an appropriate control device as will be discussed hereinafter by way of which a variety of video inputs can be transmitted thereto. The video inputs may be supplied by a computer or from a VCR, video disk or DVD disk player. The video inputs to the monitor  60  may be preprogrammed such as by inputting pre-recorded visual images on a CD or DVD disk or, the video input may be continuously updated or altered depending upon inputs received by a person undergoing sensory stimulation. 
     With respect to the foregoing, the present invention provides for interactive changes with respect to sensory stimulation. As shown in FIG. 12, an individual may be monitored in order to determine what effects and responses a person undergoes in response to presented sensory stimulation. By way of example, the present invention may be used in cooperation with a biofeedback system wherein sensors, such as EEG or brainwave sensors, are applied to the person undergoing stimulation so as to provide feedback information with respect to body temperature, pulse rate, skin moisture, blood pressure and related bodily functioning. The sensors may be individually placed on the person before they receive sensory stimulation or some sensors may be incorporated into the seating device. In this respect, sensors may be placed along the arms of the seating device so as to be engageable with palm and fingers of an individual&#39;s hand whereby various bodily functions can be easily monitored. The information being monitored can be inputted to a computer system so that the information being received can be utilized to change programming of the visual as well as audio, olfactory or other sensory inputs used with the invention. In addition to the foregoing, the computer may also be connected to a profile or personal library which records the responses of an individual undergoing sensory stimulation. The profile or personal library can be continuously updated to enhance and to calibrate future sensory experiences. 
     In addition to the primary optical display assembly  62 , a secondary optical source or assembly may be secured adjacent to the primary optical assembly and communicate therewith in order to supply secondary images and light patterns into the primary optical display assembly. Images that are reflected from the secondary optical assembly into the primary optical chamber will appear to float in infinite space or on different planes transforming a perceived configuration of the overall environment being viewed in the viewing chamber. 
     The secondary optical assembly is designed to be mounted to supply secondary light and images through a viewport  82  provided in one of the walls of the primary optical display housing  62 . The panel or wall in which the viewport is provided is shown in FIG. 4 as being designated as  83 . With specific reference to FIG. 5, the secondary optical display assembly  80  is shown in greater detail. The display assembly includes an output Fresnel lens  81  of a size to be mounted within the lens port  82  in the panel  83  of the primary optical housing  62 . Light and images pass through the Fresnel lens into the primary optical display chamber by way of being transmitted from a portion of the monitor display screen  61  which falls outside of the portion of the display screen which transmit light and images directly into the primary optical display assembly. In this respect, and as shown in FIG. 6, the display screen  61  provides a central source of light and images as exemplified by the area  85 . The portion of the display screen  61  surrounding the area  85  may be used as a secondary source of light and images for one or a plurality of secondary optical display assemblies. As shown, an area  86  is shown which is aligned with the secondary optical display assembly  80  of FIG.  5 . The optical display assembly is shown only in cross section in FIG.  5  and may be substantially of any cross sectional configuration provided that the inner surfaces are reflective. In this respect, the secondary optical chamber forms somewhat of a tunnel having an end portion having a plurality of multifaceted angled surfaces as shown at  88  for redirecting light beams  89  toward the Fresnel lens  81  so the light passes into the primary optical display chamber after passing through the lens  81 . The tunnel configuration is generally defined by reference  90 . 
     In order to provide additional optical effects, the present invention also incorporates supplemental light sources. In this respect, and as shown in FIG. 5, a secondary source of light such as a blacklight  92  is mounted within a chamber  93  exteriorly of the secondary reflective tunnel  90 . The secondary light source is connected to a control assembly as will be discussed in greater detail and is activated upon the opening of a slide shutter mechanism  94  which covers an opening  95  in a side portion of the tunnel  90 . The shutter is controlled by a servo or other actuation member  96  which is also electrically connected to a control assembly. The solenoid or other mechanism includes a rod  97  connected to the shutter  95  and when activated is effective to open the shutter  94  relative to the opening  95  in the sidewall  90  of the tunnel. Simultaneously, the blacklight  92  is activated and thereby directs blacklight waves into the primary optical chamber through the Fresnel lens  81 . 
     In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, various internal portions of the primary optical chamber may be pre-treated with flourescent type materials which only become visible upon activation with a blacklight source. Therefore, whenever the blacklight source is activated different flourescent images will also appear and be reflected throughout the other images and light patterns being created and being reflected through the primary optical chamber and thus will be viewable by a person viewing the interior through the viewing chamber. 
     To create additional light patterns, a strobe light assembly  100  may also be provided within the chamber  93 . The strobe light  101  may be pulsed or activated whenever the shutter  94  is opened relative to the opening  95  by selective control of a control mechanism as will be discussed hereinafter. The additional pulsation of visible light will create a further visual stimulation for a person viewing the images and light patterns within the viewing chamber. Upon closure of the shutter  94  both the strobe light and the blacklight will be deactivated. Access to the supplemental light sources is through a panel  120  in the housing  26 . 
     As previously mentioned, although only a single secondary optical assembly is shown in the drawing figures a plurality of such assemblies may be mounted adjacent to the primary optical assembly and communicate therewith through appropriate lens ports such as the one shown at  82  in the drawing figures. 
     Although not shown in the drawing figures, it is possible to time or sequence the visual effects presented to the primary optical chamber and viewable through the viewport by controlling the monitor and secondary light sources so as to be controlled by an audio input. By appropriate amplification, filtering and/or processing the audio and visual sensory displays can be appropriately correlated. 
     The present invention also provides for olfactory stimulation by allowing one or more of a plurality of essences, such as appropriate oil essences, to be entrained in a supply of air which is directed to the viewing chamber and which passes adjacent to the mask  40  as previously described, so that various selected essences or aromatics may be sensed by the person seated adjacent to the multisensory stimulation apparatus  20 . 
     With particular reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the aromatic supply system of the invention will be disclosed in greater detail. A plurality of containers  100  are mounted within the housing and are filled with essence oils or other aromatics generally in the form of liquids. Each container has a top closure  101  through which an air inlet line  102  extends. The inlet lines extend from a distribution header  104  mounted within an upper portion of the housing  26  which header includes a plurality of valves (not shown) for selectively connecting various of the inlet lines  102  with selected essence containers  100 . Pressurized air is provided to the distribution header  104  by suitable fan or pump  105  also mounted within the upper portion of the housing  26 . A controller  245 , as shown in FIG. 8, is electrically connected to the distribution header  104  and the pump  105  and is controllable to selectively operate one of valves associated with one of the air input lines  102 . From each of the containers  100  aromatic exhaust lines  108  extend upwardly through the lids  101  to a plurality of injection valves  110  mounted in the throat of a venturi  112  which is mounted so as to form an opening into the viewing chamber. The opening in which the venturi is seated is formed generally at  114  in drawing FIG.  4 . The valves, are open due to pressure of pressurized air within the aromatic exhaust lines  108  and serve to inject pressurized air having essence oils entrained therein into the throat of the venturi  112  as ventilation air is drawn through a prefilter  115  mounted within the housing upstream of a fan assembly  116 . 
     As opposed to using separate valves for connecting the inlet lines  102  with the containers  100 , a plurality of pumps may be used with each pump connected to supply airflow to a container. The pumps, or valves, may be controlled to operate in cooperation with one of the other sensory delivery systems. By example, the pumps or valves to the containers can be activated in response to an audio activated controller which uses audio signals or tones to activate the pumps or valves. 
     The fan assembly draws ambient air  119  into an isolated section of the housing  26  and directs it exteriorly of the primary optical chamber to the throat of the venturi  112  where essence oils are entrained by venturi action into the air stream. The air stream passes through the venturi into the viewing chamber  68  and across the viewport  38  to the exhaust outlet  46  formed in the viewport mask  40 . The air with the aromatics entrained therein is thereafter directed through the filter assembly  48  as previously described before being exhausted to atmosphere through the exhaust opening  50 . 
     Each aromatic exhaust tube  108  is connected to a spring loaded valve such that the valve closes when no pressurized air flows through the connected exhaust tube. It should be noted as shown in FIG. 7 that the orientation of the exhaust tubes  108  is such that a vertical component is maintained along the full length of the tube so that any aromatics are essences which may condense along the length of the tube will drain by gravity back into the containers  100  thus preventing contamination of the injector valves  110 . The rate of air flow through the venturi  112  may be controlled by operation of the fan assembly  116  to thereby vary the olfactory stimulation for a person who is utilizing the multisensory stimulation apparatus of the invention. 
     Although not shown in the drawing figures, a removable panel may be provided in the housing  26  which can be removed to gain access to the pump  105  and the distribution header  104 . A panel  122  permits access to the containers  100  such that changes may be made with respect to the various aromatics which are being dispensed therefrom. 
     A schematic of the operational characteristics of the aromatic sensory delivery system is shown in block diagram in FIG.  8 . The aroma controller is electrically connected to the air pump  105  and to the distribution header  104  which includes the valves for selectively opening the aroma inlet conduits  102  to the essence bottles  100 . By selecting the proper inlets  102  different essences can be entrained within the pressurized air which flows from the air pump  105  through the header  104 . Thereafter, the aromatic air passes through the discharge conduits  108  through the injection valves  110  into the venturi  112  where the aromatics or essences are entrained within the circulation air flow which has been filtered in the filter  115  with the air being drawn by the fan assembly  116 . The air then passes to the viewing chamber  68  where the aromas are made available in the area of the viewport  38  before being discharged through the discharge outlet  46  and filtered at  48  before being discharged atmosphere at  50 . A fan flow controller  201  controls the operation and speed of the fan assembly  116  and therefore the rate of air flow through the viewing chamber. 
     With particular reference to FIG. 9, one configuration of control panel  34  of the present invention is shown in greater detail. The control panel  34  is strategically placed along the back panel  35  of the housing  26  as shown in FIG.  1 . The panel includes a master power switch  130  which, when in an “ON” position also activates the cooling fan or fans  74  for the monitoring display. A separate switch  200  is used to activate aroma controller  245 , which in the embodiment shown, is an audio tone controller, which in turn controls the aroma pump  105  and the valves of the distribution header  104 . Air into the viewing chamber is provided by actuation of switch  201  which controls the inlet fan assembly  116  as well as the exhaust fan  49  which discharges filtered air through exit port  50 . The rate of air flow through the venturi is controlled by an adjustment knob  203  which thus regulates the operating speed of the fan assembly  116  and the discharge fan  49 . 
     An input port  205  is provided to switch the internal monitor  60  on and off, and to change its built-in settings, such as by use of an infrared remote control. Switch  206  is provided for enabling or disabling the servo or solenoid  96  which operates or opens the shutter  94  and simultaneously activates the blacklight source  92  to supply blacklight into the secondary optics tunnel  90 . Switch  208  is provided for enabling or disabling the strobe light apparatus  100 . 
     As previously discussed, in addition to the primary sensory stimulation systems of the invention including the visual, audio and aromatic, the present invention also may include either a heating, cooling or vibrational component which is affiliated with the chair or seating device  25 . In FIG. 9, switch  210  is provided which is electrically connected to multiple transducers  212  and/or heat exchange devices such as heating or cooling elements  213  mounted within the cushioning and armrests of the seat or chair  25 . 
     Audio, video and other and control signals are carried through a cable harness which extends up through the base into the housing  26 , and then are distributed throughout the machine via a wiring harness, similar to those in an automobile, to the proper device or controller. 
     The control panel shown in FIG. 9 is generally used for manual system enabling or activation, however, an appropriate computer may be used with the system of the present invention. The computer may be electrically connected to each of the primary working components of the system including the monitor  60 , the secondary light source shutter controller  96  and the blacklight source  92 , the secondary light source strobe  100  and to the airflow fans for use with the aromatic sensory delivery system including the controller switch  201  connected to the exhaust fan  49  and the intake fan assembly  116 , and the controller  245  for the pump  105  and the distribution header  104  associated with the aromatic containers  100 . The computer may also be connected to automatically control operation of the chair vibrators  212  or heat exchange devices  213  associated with the chair and may be connected to an audio input system which may be a DVD player or the like which is connected to power the speakers  42  or headphones by way of which sound is transmitted to a person experiencing the multisensory stimulation. The computer may also be connected to any type of video programming device to control the programming of the device such as by selection of a particular track of a DVD system to provide images to the monitor  60 . 
     With respect to FIG. 10, an illustrational diagram is shown with respect to the operating and control components of one form of non-interactive embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment a computer or computer-like device can be used to provide program control to the various sensory stimulation input systems of the invention. As illustrated, the computer-like device is in the form of a DVD player  218  which receives a program disk  219  with video and encoded digital surround sound signals (Dolby™ or DTS). 
     The DVD player includes a built-in decoder for processing the surround sound, either Dolby™ Digital or DTS. In the illustration, the DVD player includes a first video output  220  which is connected by way of cable  221  to the video monitor  60  associated with the invention. The left and right sound outputs  222  and  223  are connected through cables  224  and  225  to a headphone amplifier  226  which may be mounted within the housing  26  of the invention, or adjacent thereto, and to which is connected binaural audio headphones  230 . As opposed to using the headphones  230 , the speakers  42  built into the housing may be connected to the amplifier  226 . 
     Utilizing additional auxiliary outputs from the DVD player, the transducers  212  mounted to the chair  25 , or the heat exchange elements  213  associated with the chair, may be controlled, and in like manner, so can the secondary or blacklight and strobe light sources and aroma system of the present invention. 
     As shown in FIG. 10, outputs  231  and  232  from the DVD player are connected through cables  233  and  234  respectively to a stereo audio amplifier  235  which may be mounted within the housing  26  or adjacent thereto. The stereo audio amplifier is electrically connected through cables  236  to the transducers  212  of the chair  25  and may also be connected to the heat exchangers  213 . 
     In addition to the foregoing, additional analog line outputs  240  and  241  of the DVD player may be connected through cables  242  and  243 , respectively, to the aroma controller  245 . The controller  245  is not only connected to the aroma control system but is also connected to control the various light and shutter mechanisms of the present invention. In the illustration, the controller  245  is a tone controller which converts the sound signals received from the DVD player into electrical pulses for controlling the strobing of the strobe light  100 . Although not specifically shown, the controller may be separately connected to the shutter mechanism  96  and to the blacklight  92  of the invention. Further, the controller is connected to the pump and valves  105  and  104  of the aroma system of the present invention, such that aroma is supplied depending upon audio signals received at the controller. 
     In accordance with the non-interactive embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 10, it can be seen that a very simple computer-like device, such as a DVD player, can be utilized to receive DVD program disks in order to create and control signals going to each of the sensory stimulation systems of the invention. The use of the DVD player can be regulated in accordance with other controls of the control panel shown in FIG. 9 to create further variations in sensory stimulation. 
     The generally non-interactive embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 10 may be modified to allow a person undergoing therapy to become interactive to vary the sensory stimulation developed by each of the systems of the present invention. By way of example, and as previously noted, a microphone  44  is incorporated with the soft mask of the invention such that a person seated within the chair  25  can communicate to a computer-like device in order to effect the programming and input to the sensory systems. 
     With particular reference to FIG. 11, an illustrational diagram is shown with respect an alternative embodiment of operating and control system of an interactive type in accordance with the teachings of the invention. In this embodiment, one or more audio inputs can be selectively connected to a computer-like device such as a DSP (digital signal processor) and synthesizer  250 . As shown, the microphone  44  is connected to the DSP/synthesizer  250  by way of a pre-amp mixer  304 . As opposed to a microphone or in addition thereto, other types of audio inputs can be electrically connected to provide either digital or analog signals as inputs to the DSP/synthesizer  250 . As illustrated in the drawing figure, an electronic keyboard  300  or electronic musical instrument, such as a guitar  302 , maybe used to generate audio outputs which are supplied to the DSP/synthesizer  250  by way of the pre-amp mixer  304 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the DSP/synthesizer  250  is an “airFX”™ device which is essentially two instruments in one functioning both as a synthesizer and as a DSP. Both the synthesizer and the DSP take control commands from an infrared device  251  which is similar in function to a keyboard or other input device such as a game joystick. By an individual moving a hand over the infrared device, changes are made in the input signals to the DSP/synthesizer and, thereby, changes are made in the output  252  from the DSP/synthesizer. In effect, the infrared device tells the DSP/synthesizer what to play when the DSP/synthesizer is an synthesizer mode. When the DSP/synthesizer is in a DSP mode the infrared device controls the internal DSP to modify sounds which are inputted into it from the pre-amp mixer  304 . The “airFX”™ is a device manufactured by Alesis. 
     The output signals  252  from the DSP/synthesizer are fed to the amplifiers  226 ,  235  and controller  245 . The amplifier  226  provides signals to the headphones  230  whereas the amplifier  235  is connected as described with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 to the transducers  212  and/or heat exchange elements  213  associated with the chair  25 . Controller  245  provides signals to control the secondary optical assembly including the shutter actuation member  96 , the blacklight  92  and the strobe assembly  100 . In addition, the controller  245  provides input to the pump  105  and valves  104  of the aroma system of the invention such that aroma is supplied depending upon audio signals received at the controller. 
     As shown, the DSP/synthesizer  250  provides the output signal  252  preferably into a mixer  306  which is connected to provide signals to a video processor  307  connected to a video switcher  308  which supplies an output signal to the video monitor  60 . In a similar manner, the mixer  306  is connected to provide output to a plurality of special “effect boxes”  310 ,  311  and  312 . The special effect boxes are added to the system to adjust any of the output signals from the mixer  306  as desired. For example, the effect box  310  may be used to change signals to increase or decrease sound reverberation or to change treble and base frequencies as desired. Further, the signals can be changed to create echoes or to change the sound to an acoustics of concert hall or other room as is well known in the art. The signals from the “effect boxes”  310 ,  311  and  312  are thereafter inputted to the amplifiers and controller  226 ,  235  and  245 . 
     As previously noted, in this embodiment of the invention, the non-interactive embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 10 may be modified allowing a person undergoing therapy to become interactive to vary the sensory stimulation signals developed by the systems of the invention. In this respect, and as shown in FIG. 11, signals from a computer-like device, such as the DVD player  218  of FIG. 10, can be mixed with the signals coming from the DSP/synthesizer  250 . As shown, the output signals from the DVD player can be used to modify the signals coming from the DSP/synthesizer  250  before the signals reach the monitor, the amplifiers or the controller as previously described. The DVD player is shown as being connected through line  221  to the video switcher  308  to thereby vary the output signal therefrom to monitor  60 . The outputs  224  and  225  are shown as being connected to a mixer  314  which receives input signals from the processing and effects box  310 . The outputs  233  and  234  from the DVD player  218  are connected to a mixer  316  to modify the signal coming from the effect box  311 . Further, the outputs  242  and  243  of the DVD player are shown as being connected to a mixer  318  which is used to vary the signals coming from the effect box  312  before the signals are passed to the controller  245 . 
     The mixers can be used to combine and adjust levels of audio and video signals as is desired. The mixers can be used at any point along the signal chain in order to join separate signal streams together to thereby modify the final input into the amplifiers and controllers of the invention. The video signal of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 is processed at the video processor  307  such as by utilizing an “Eye Candy” computer program. The output from the video processor is thereafter fed to the video switcher  308  where the input signals from the DVD player  218  are used to modify the signals further before the signals are passed to the monitor. In this manner, the output from the video processor is mixed with the video from the DVD player, when desired, so as to create optional video effects such as providing picture-in-picture effects, transparent overlays and the like at the monitor  60 . 
     It should be noted that the functioning of each of the elements described in FIG. 11 can be accomplished by a dedicated computer workstation with appropriate software and related audio hardware. 
     In the foregoing manner, a person using the microphone can use their own voice to alter the effects of the sensory inputs to both the visual, audio, olfactory, tactile and sensory input systems of the invention. 
     With specific reference to FIG. 12, an illustrative diagram of another embodiment of the operating and control system of the invention is disclosed which is designed to provide for complete interactive control of the sensory stimulation systems by a person undergoing treatment or therapy. The interactive system includes the use of biofeedback sensors and possibly a voice recognition system as well as various other input devices to both subconsciously and consciously manipulate or alter the programmed control of the sensory stimulation system. Programmed Control may be accomplished by utilization of one or more available generic or proprietary interactive multimedia systems, virtual reality systems, or game systems, which with associated computers, media synthesizers, media processors and players and the like, provide output to the delivery systems by way of conventional adapters or interfaces. Further, such program control systems can generate real-time or access stored data which can be maintained as libraries and available either locally or remotely and made available such as over the internet. 
     One of the unique features of the interactive system of the present invention is that it can be set up to allow for subconscious as well as conscious intervention on the part of a person undergoing treatment or therapy. As shown in the drawing figures, subconscious control is provided through biofeedback and other sensors which are utilized to supply information to a processor  260 . The subconscious biofeedback and other sensors are generically shown as being connected through an input  261 . Such sensors not only reflect the subconscious mind of the person but also the physical conditions of the individual&#39;s body. 
     The interactive system of FIG. 12 may also include conscious input signals, such as through an input  263  to the processor  260 , which inputs are connected to devices which can be manipulated by the person, such devices may reflect responses to various senses being stimulated as well as to a subject&#39;s preferences and/or choices as experienced during treatment or therapy. Such conscious control devices are generally identified at  265  and may include, but are not limited to, signals received by voice command such as through the microphone  44  as discussed with respect to FIG. 11, hand manipulation devices including squishy gelpads, joysticks, trackballs, mouses, MIDI controllers including keyboards, drumpads, breath and infrared devices, motion trackers, including infrared devices, dataGloves and the like. 
     In the present embodiment, additional control over the sensory stimulation program is permitted by the operator “O” who controls the processor  260  through an input  266  from a computer device  267 . The operator can monitor the program on the computer  267  in order to evaluate and/or intervene in the control of the sensory systems of the present invention depending upon the input received from components of the system. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the processor  260  may be utilized to develop a profile or personal library with respect to each person undergoing therapy. A the profile or personal library  268  is shown as being connected to the processor  260  and such library may contain information specific to control of the sensory systems of the present invention which are individualized to a person undergoing treatment or therapy. 
     As shown further in FIG. 12, the processor  260  may be connected to an interactive media controller  270  which may be designed to allow control using pre-prepared software programs. The multimedia controller  270  is connected to a plurality of media processors and/or players, media synthesizers and media databases  271 ,  272 , and  273 . The media processors and players  271  may include multimedia playback systems and/or multimedia storage or playback devices which are available locally or over a network. Such devices may include hard drives, DVD, DVD-ROM and CD-ROM drives, VCRs, tape players, hi-fi audio equipment, multi-track audio cards, MIDI and synthesizer-type playback devices, dual monitor video cards and even film projection devices. The media processors and players may also include media mixers, routers and switches, DSPs, converters and amplifiers to combine, modify, transform, alter or adjust any media signal or format for final media output. By way of example, the processors and players can manipulate existing files from the media program database. In this manner changes can be made such as adjusting the volume or adding reverb or echoes to recorded sound files, reversing the color output in video, lightening or darkening existing or generated images, combining two images together on one screen, etc. 
     The media synthesizers  272  may include real-time devices which are used to generate new or original media files such as sounds, images and other signals for file control and display. These may include systems such as music synthesizers responding to a hand on a keyboard, or fractal images being created by biological inputs altering a mathematical formula that structures a creation, or a virtual reality simulation generated by a wave of the hand causing the user to float through an abstract world of colors, light and sound. The media database  273  may include a software library which can contain databases containing moving or still images, color palettes, fonts, symbols, words and music, tones and vibrations, aroma control sequences, MIDI control data, mathematical formulas, specifications, texture maps and other information which is pre-prepared for altering the file output from the interactive media controller  270 . The media database  273  contains the raw material or building blocks for the various media players and processors  271  and the media synthesizers  272  to store, present or play back, refashion, assemble, alter, base new content upon, generate totally or in part from, or manipulate as directed by the interactive media controller  270  or other controller or program. 
     As shown, the output from the interactive media controller is connected through a plurality of outputs  281 ,  282 ,  283  and  284  to the various sensory input systems of the invention. As shown, output  281  can be utilized to control the transducers  212  associated with the seat  25  of the invention, whereas the output  282  may be connected to control audio output. Output  283  may be connected to the primary and secondary optic systems of the invention while output  284  may be connected to the aroma control system of the invention. 
     In addition to the foregoing, an output  285  from the interactive multimedia controller  270  may be connected directly to the operator&#39;s computer  267  to allow continuous monitoring of the treatment or therapy. 
     As previously noted, it may be beneficial to establish a subject profile or personal library to monitor and to control treatment and therapy. Such a profile or personal library may be developed in response to previous treatments, monitoring an individual&#39;s response to current treatment, establishing likes and dislikes by questions and answers prior to undergoing therapy or treatment and the like. It is preferred, however, to develop the personal library or profile of an individual so that it is possible to avoid possible problems, such as possible adverse responses due to allergies, subject&#39;s sensitivities, such as to audio volumes and light levels, or conditions which could have a possible adverse effect on an individual undergoing therapy or treatment. 
     In view of the foregoing, the multisensory stimulation system of the present invention allows a person to experience individualized programs of varied stimulation elements including audio, visual, olfactory, tactile and the like wherein the stimulation may be varied to enhance responses. Further, individual profiles or libraries can be created so that programs can be uniquely configured for facilitating treatment and/or therapy. 
     The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention has been presented to illustrate the principles of the invention and not to limit the invention to the particular embodiment illustrated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by all of the embodiments encompassed within the following claims and their equivalents.