Patent ID: 12257392

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS.1-9are attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. The following detailed description refers to the accompanyingFIGS.1-9. The same reference numbers in different figures may identify the same or similar elements.

The devices, systems, methods, technologies and/or techniques (hereinafter, “systems and methods”) described herein may assist users who wish to learn and/or practice meditation. Meditation refers to a broad range of established and novel practices that result in entering a “meditative state,” which is generally associated with an enhanced mental state that is different from the typical states of human consciousness such as resting, sleeping, sitting, being active, etc. The enhanced mental state may be described as, for example, an enhanced state of focus, well-being, calm, detachment, bliss, insight, emptiness, a non-separate sense of self, altered consciousness, etc. Unlike traditional medical treatments, which provide benefits by directly treating symptoms, conditions, etc., the practice of meditation indirectly provides a variety of health benefits, including but not limited to mood improvement, cognitive benefits, athletic performance, addiction assistance, sleep, overall health, and enlightenment. The systems and methods may permit the user to more easily meditate by providing a signal to a portion of the brain, auricular nerves and/or cranial nerves via one or more distributors. The systems and methods may also, or alternatively, enhance meditation by adjusting the signal delivered to the user via the one or more distributors based upon the user's adjustment of a signal generator, instructions within the signal generator or another device and/or activity of the user's brain and/or cranial nerves. The systems and methods may provide meditation assistance to a single user and/or to two or more users in a group meditation system.

The systems and methods may provide a meditation enhancement system (hereinafter “meditation system”) that may include a signal generator that may generate a signal (e.g. electrical signal (e.g. alternating current and/or direct current, etc.), ultrasonic sound wave signal, magnetic wave signal, a temperature change, etc. that is delivered to one or more distributors (e.g. electrodes, pads that distribute the input signal, transducer probes, static and/or dynamic magnets, a thermal/sensory apparatus, etc.) located at or near the brain (e.g. the left and/or right frontal lobe, the left and/or right temporal lobe, the supplementary motor area or SMA regions of the brain (including Pre-SMA, SMA, etc.), the cingulate cortex (including the posterior cingulate cortex, PCC), the left and/or right insula, auricular nerves, and/or cranial nerves (e.g. olfactory nerve, optic nerve, trigeminal nerve, facial nerve, glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus nerve (including auricular vagus nerve), hypoglossal nerve, auriculotemporal nerve, auricular nerves, etc.) (hereinafter the “brain portion”). The distributors may be placed on any surface of the body that may provide an input signal to the brain portion, including, but not limited to, the forehead, above the left and/or right eyebrow, the left and/or right temple, the supraorbital region, around the crown of the head (to engage the SMA or PCC regions of the brain), in or around the ears and/or other areas on or near the brain, auricular nerves, and/or cranial nerves, including areas having little and/or no hair. In one embodiment, the meditation system may include a distributor that includes an anode placed over the right eye near the right temple and a cathode placed on the left forehead above the eyebrow. The input signal may flow from the anode to the cathode to stimulate the brain portion. The distributors may additionally, or alternatively, monitor and/or record brain activity (e.g. using electroencephalography (“EEG”), other sensors, etc.).

The signal may be in the form of electrical power (e.g. direct current, alternating current, etc.), sound waves (including ultrasonic waves, etc), magnetic waves, thermal energy, tactile input, a combination of the foregoing, etc. The signal generator may automatically adjust the signal (e.g. based on instructions contained on a memory associated with signal generator, based on feedback from sensors associated with the signal generator, etc.), be manually adjusted (e.g. by the user, a meditation instructor, etc.), or be adjusted by a user device and/or by another device. Additionally, or alternatively, the signal generator may be controlled/automatically adjusted by a user device, based upon a meditation application (software instructions executed to control/automatically adjust the signal generator) and/or in response to information associated with the user (e.g. received from sensors monitoring brain activity, pulse rate, etc.). Adjusting the signal (e.g. increase or decrease the strength, the frequency, etc.) may enhance meditation and/or deliver a specific meditation experience. Adjusting the signal may also, or alternatively, include removing the signal and allowing the user to continue to meditate without the signal, which may promote unassisted meditation.

The signal generator may provide the same and/or different signals to two or more users. The signal generator may also, or alternatively, limit the input signal to prevent the input signal from harming (e.g. electrocuting, burning, etc.) the user. In one non-limiting embodiment, the signal generator may include a source that corresponds to a direct current power source in the form of a battery that delivers power to a source and/or a user at a voltage (e.g. from less than about one volt to about fifty volts, more particularly, 1.5 volts, 3 volts, 3.7 volts, 4.2 volts, 5 volts, 6 volts, 9 volts, 12 volts, 20 volts, etc.) and current (e.g., 01 mA, 1 mA, 2 mA, 5 mA, 10 mA, 20 mA, etc.) to the distributors. The voltage and/or current may be constant and/or may vary based upon user input, instructor input, and/or instructions contained in the signal generator, a user device and/or another device. The voltage and/or current may be adjusted by a regulator (e.g. increase/decrease voltage, current, frequency, etc.) and/or applied directly to the user without adjustment. In one embodiment, the voltage may be adjustable to overcome a resistance associated with a user (e.g. based on parameters such as skin resistance, thickness, moisture content, oil content, skull thickness, etc.) while the current remains a relatively constant. In another embodiment, the regulator may adjust the signal as needed by the user to engage in meditation (e.g. from a first signal, to a second signal, to a third signal, etc.). The signal generator may run a test to determine the level of resistance to the signal associated with the user and may apply the signal only if the test indicates that the resistance is acceptable. The signal generator may also, or alternatively, continuously monitor the resistance to the signal and may stop providing the signal if the resistance is above a threshold.

The distributors may include an adhesive and/or another substance to connect the distributors to the user and may further include a conducting agent (e.g. a hydrogel, a polymer hydrogel, a saline-based gel or liquid, etc.) that may transfer (e.g. equally distribute across an area, provide a current density (e.g., 01 mA/cm2, .05 mA/cm2, 1 mA/mc2, 5 mA/cm2, 10 mA/cm2, etc.) to the user, etc.) the input signal to the user. The conducting agent may also, or alternatively, include one or more stimulants or biologically active substances (e.g. caffeine, etc.) that may be released to the user and that may further enhance meditation.

The meditation system may be used by a single user. Additionally, or alternatively, the meditation system may be administered to two or more users by one of the users and or by another person, such as a practitioner (e.g. a meditation instructor or teacher, etc.) and/or by a set of instructions (e.g. software instructions held in signal generator, a user device, another device connected to the signal generator and/or user device via a network, etc.), and/or guided by one or more of the two or more users. The meditation system may include meditation content, which may include audio content, video content, and/or virtual reality content. The meditation content may be provided directly by the signal generator, by a user device, etc. and/or indirectly by another device (e.g. headphones, a radio, a display, another device and/or through a virtual reality platform not included within the signal generator or user device, etc.).

The methods disclosed herein may include using the systems, methods, technologies and/or techniques disclosed herein to assist a user with meditation by providing a signal to a brain portion of the user. The systems and methods may further include adjusting the signal based upon information associated with the user obtained from a sensor located on the user, resistance associated with the user, and/or based upon instructions contained in a meditation application. The systems and methods may further include providing meditation content to the user to enhance meditation and/or further assist in the inducement of meditation.

FIG.1illustrates an example environment100in which the systems and methods described herein may be implemented. As shown inFIG.1, environment100may include a user110(e.g. a meditator, or person would like to meditate, using the systems and methods herein), a signal generator120, a connector130, one or more distributors140(referred to collectively as “distributors140” or individually as first distributor140-1, second distributor140-2, etc.), and/or a retainer150. The components illustrated inFIG.1are provided for explanatory purposes only, and the systems and methods described herein are not limited to environment100or the components provided therein. There may be additional devices, components or systems; fewer devices, components or systems; different devices, components or systems; or differently arranged devices, components or systems than illustrated inFIG.1. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.1may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.1.

Signal generator120may provide a signal to a distributor (e.g. first distributor140-1, second distributor140-2, etc.) and/or receive a signal back from a distributor via connector130as described herein. Signal generator120may provide, via connector130, a signal that corresponds to electrical power (e.g. direct current, alternating current, etc.), sound waves (including ultrasonic waves, etc.), magnetic waves, thermal energy, tactile input, etc. to the one or more distributors. Signal generator120may provide a constant signal to a distributor via connector130. For example, and not limitation, one example embodiment of signal generator120may provide a constant signal (i.e. an electrical signal varying only by about 10% in voltage and/or current for a period of time associated with a meditation and not adjustable by the user, etc.) in the form of a direct current electrical signal (“DC signal”). The DC signal may include a voltage that may be, for instance, about 2 volts to about 100 volts, preferably about 5 volts to about 40 volts, more preferably about 20 volts. The voltage used may be determined by a resistance associated with the user, a current level that will not harm the user, the amount of meditation assistance needed by the user, etc. The DC signal may include a current that may be, for instance, from 0.01 milliamps (“mA”) to 10 mA, preferably 0.1 mA to 5 mA, more preferably 0.5 mA to 2 mA. The current and/or voltage may be relatively constant and/or may vary based upon the treatment delivered, information associated with the user, etc. Signal generator120may have different settings that correspond to different signals. Additionally, or alternatively, signal generator120may have a setting that corresponds to providing a signal that varies between an upper threshold and a lower threshold at a constant frequency (e.g., .01 hertz, .5 hertz, 1 hertz, 5 hertz, 60 hertz, 120 hertz, etc.). For example, and not limitation, one example embodiment of signal generator120may produce a DC signal that varies (e.g. a linear change, a sinusoid, any other rate of change, etc.) between a low threshold of 3 volts to a high threshold of 20 volts and/or from a low threshold of 1 mA to a high threshold of 2 mA at a frequency.

Alternatively, signal generator120may be adjustable to modify the signal (i.e. increase the strength of the signal, the frequency of the signal, etc.) delivered to the user. For instance, a user and/or an instructor may manually adjust (e.g. using controller as described herein, etc.) signal generator120to modify the signal. Additionally or alternatively, signal generator120may automatically adjust the signal based upon executing instructions contained on a memory associated with signal generator and/or based upon instructions received from another device (e.g. a user device, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, signal generator120may execute and/or receive instructions to modify the signal in response to inputs (e.g. from sensors associated with the user, etc.) as will be discussed in greater detail later herein. Adjusting the signal may enhance meditation and/or provide two meditators with the same and/or similar meditation experiences. The signal generator may provide the input signal to one or more users. The signal generator may also, or alternatively, include safety mechanisms (e.g., fuses, limit switches, etc.) to limit the strength of the signal to prevent the signal from harming (e.g. electrocuting, burning, etc.) the user. The signal generator may also, or alternatively, execute instructions to perform a test sequence that may monitor a characteristic of the user and/or signal to determine whether the signal may be applied to a user. The test sequence may include, for example, an impedance test to determine the resistance to the signal when the distributors are applied to the user, when the resistance of the user is below a threshold associated with successful signal delivery, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the signal generator may continuously monitor a characteristic of the user and/or signal to determine whether a threshold has been crossed and may stop providing the signal if such threshold has been exceeded.

Connector130may connect two or more of the signal generator120and distributors140described herein, and other devices and/or components described later herein to transfer the signal from the signal generator to the distributors140, to receive the signal back from the distributors, to allow the signal generator to receive information from a sensor, etc. For example, and not as limitation, connector130may receive the signal from the signal generator120and deliver the signal to the one or more distributors140so that the signal may be applied to the user110. Additionally, or alternatively, connector130may receive the signal from one or more distributors140after the signal has been applied to the user110and deliver it back to signal generator120, such as to complete a circuit.

As shown inFIG.1, one embodiment of connector130may have a first end associated with one or more distributors140and a second end associated with the signal generator120. Additionally, or alternatively, connector130may have a first end associated with a first distributor and a second end associated with a second distributor. Additionally, or alternatively, connector130may have a first end associated with a signal generator, a second end associated with a first distributor140-1and a third end associated with a third distributor140-2. Connector130may be formed from a material or materials that may transfer a signal (e.g. conductive materials such as copper, etc., found in electrical wire, etc.), permit communication (e.g. electronic communication of data, etc.), and may include insulation (e.g. sheathing, etc.) that may prevent discharge of the signal along connector130anywhere other than through connector's130connections with distributors140and/or signal generator120. Connector130may connect to signal generator120and/or distributors via known connection styles (e.g. electrical connectors (e.g. snap lug connectors, barrel plug connectors, quick connectors, etc.), USB, splicing, etc.). While distributors140are shown connected to signal generator120via connector130, signal generator120may be directly connected to/formed as a part of one or more distributors140, which may eliminate the need for connector130.

Distributors140may connect to connector130and/or signal generator120to receive a signal. Distributor may transfer the signal to the user and/or receive a signal that has been transferred to a user via another distributor140(e.g. to complete a circuit by sending the signal back to signal generator120, etc.). Distributor140may correspond to one or more connections to a user which may be used to transfer a signal to the user. Distributor140may include a single connection, two connections (i.e. a first distributor and a second distributor), three connections, etc. In an example embodiment having two connections, first distributor may apply the signal to the user, and second distributor may receive the signal that has been applied to the user. For example, first distributor140-1may receive a signal from signal generator120and apply the signal to a brain portion of user110. The brain portion may be a portion of the brain, auricular region and/or cranial nerves of user110(e.g. the left and/or right frontal lobe, the left and/or right temporal lobe, the SMA and PCC regions of the brain, the left and/or right insula, olfactory nerve, optic nerve, trigeminal nerve, facial nerve, glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus nerve (including auricular vagus nerve), hypoglossal nerve, auriculotemporal nerve, auricular nerves, etc.). A second distributor140-2may receive the signal after it has been applied to the brain portion. In the example embodiment depicted inFIG.1, the signal may be applied to user110from the first distributor140-1, i.e. acting as an anode if applying electrical current, and may be applied to the user and received by the second distributor140-2, which may act as a cathode. In this arrangement, the locations of first distributor140-1and second distributor140-2may determine the brain portion to which the signal is applied (i.e. in, around and/or between first distributor140-1and second distributor140-2). As shown inFIG.1, the first distributor140-1may be placed over the right temple, and the second distributor140-2may be placed on the left side of the forehead above the eyebrow. However, the location of distributors140is not so limited. Distributors140may be placed in any location that may be used to apply the signal to the desired brain portion of the user110, including, for instance, the forehead, above the left and/or right eyebrow, the left and/or right temple, the supraorbital region, around the crown of the head, in and/or around the ears, and/or other areas on or near the brain, auricular nerves and/or cranial nerves, especially those areas with little and/or no hair (as too much hair may limit and/or preclude signal from being transferred to brain portion in some instances). WhileFIG.1depicts two distributors140, a user may apply less (e.g.1distributor) or more (e.g. 3, 4, 5, 6 or more distributors, etc.) in order to apply one or more signals to one or more brain portions.

Distributors140may be formed from a material or materials that may be conductive in order to transfer signal to user110and/or receive signal that has been applied to the user. For example, distributors140may include a conductive material (e.g., saline solution, single-layer conductive polymer hydrogel, multiple-layer conductive polymer hydrogel, etc.) that is used to transfer the signal to/from the user. The conductive materials used to form distributors140may be uniformly conductive which may spread the signal to the user at a uniform signal density (e.g. a current density of 0.01 mA/cm2to 5 mA/cm2, etc.) that may correspond to a safe level at which the signal may be applied (e.g. without burning, electrocuting, etc.) to the user. Distributors140may also include insulation, which may prevent the signal from being discharged anywhere other than where intended. Distributors140may additionally, or alternatively, include adhesives on a surface of the distributors140. The adhesive may maintain distributors140on a specific location on the user. Distributors140may be any size or shape. The surface of distributor140that is applied to the user may be sized to direct the signal to a specific brain portion (e.g. sized to fit on a specific location on the head) and/or to apply the signal at a signal density. For example, and not limitation, distributors140may range from 5 cm2to 65 cm2, preferably 10 cm2to 40 cm2, more preferably 12 cm2to 25 cm2. Distributors140may include conventional connectors to connect distributors140to signal generator120and/or connector130. Distributors140may also include one or more biologically active substances (e.g. stimulants, such as caffeine, etc.) that may be released to user (e.g. when the distributor140is applied to user, when a signal is applied to distributor, etc.) to further enhance meditation.

Retainer150may be a head garment, strap, visor, a clip, a headband, or other similar device that may maintain one or more distributors140on a user and/or determine the distance between a first distributor140-1and second distributor140-2. Additionally, or alternatively, retainer150may connect to one or more distributors140to transfer the signal to/from the distributor140to/from the signal generator120and/or the connector130. As shown inFIG.1, retainer150may maintain first distributor140-1and second distributor140-2on user110and may transfer the signal that has been applied to user110and received by second distributor140-2to connector130, such as via electrical or other connections on retainer, to be transferred back to signal generator120.

FIG.2illustrates a diagram of the signal generator120ofFIG.1. As shown inFIG.2, signal generator120may include a supply210, a regulator220, a controller230, a gauge240and a signal output250. The components of signal generator120may be connected in a way that allows them to communicate and/or distribute power, energy, a signal, etc. between the components. The devices, components and systems illustrated inFIG.2are provided for explanatory purposes only, and signal generator120is not intended to be limited to the devices, components, or systems provided therein. There may be additional devices, components or systems; fewer devices, components or systems; different devices, components or systems; or differently arranged devices, components or systems than illustrated inFIG.2. For example, while signal generator120is depicted as including a controller230, a regulator220and a gauge240, signal generator120may not include one or more of these elements. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.2may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.2.

Supply210may correspond to a source for the energy used to generate the signal. For example, and not as limitation, supply210may correspond to a source for electrical power (e.g. direct current, alternating current, etc.), sound waves, magnetic waves, thermal energy, tactile input, etc. to the one or more distributors. In an example embodiment, supply210may correspond to a source for electrical power and may be formed from one or more conventional batteries (e.g. a 1.2, 1.5, 3, 3.7, 4.2, 4.5, 5, 6, 9, 12, 24 etc. volt battery) and/or may be a connection to a source of power (e.g. a conventional electrical outlet, such as a 110 volt US outlet). In another example embodiment, source may correspond to power delivered from a user device (e.g. from the battery of a user device, from a connection, such as a USB connection, of the user device through which power may be transmitted, etc.). In another example embodiment, source may correspond to kinetic energy device (e.g. a manual crank, bike, etc. that converts kinetic energy into, for instance, electric energy, etc.).

Regulator220may receive energy from supply210and may transform (e.g. increase/decrease voltage, current, frequency, amplitude, etc.) the energy into a signal. Regulator220may include conventional regulating equipment, such as an inverter (to convert direct current into alternating current), a converter (alternating current to direct current), a voltage reducer/transformer (to reduce/increase voltage), a current regulator (to increase/decrease the current), an amplifier (to modify sound waves), etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the energy from supply210may be the signal. For example, and not limitation, regulator220may include a transformer to change the voltage delivered from supply210in order to provide a signal at an increased voltage (e.g. higher than the source voltage) that will allow the signal to overcome resistance associated with a user (e.g. based on conditions of the user, such as skin thickness, moisture content, hair, skull thickness, etc.), a decreased voltage (e.g. for more comfort, etc.) and/or allow a signal to be delivered at a current (e.g. a lower current than would be delivered at a lower voltage, a constant current, etc.).

Controller230may be operated by a user, another meditator, a meditation instructor, etc. or receive an input from the signal generator (i.e. a the signal generator may execute instructions to operate controller230, as further described herein), and/or another device, such as a user device/another device (via a network as further described herein), to adjust the signal via the regulator220. Additionally, or alternatively, signal generator and/or other devices may communicate directly with regulator220to adjust the signal. Controller230may be in any form (e.g. a dial, buttons, touch screen, other input devices, etc.) that may be used to provide information to regulator220to adjust signal (e.g. increase/decrease voltage, current, frequency, amplitude, etc.).

Gauge240may measure the signal and provide information associated with the signal (e.g. amplitude, frequency, voltage, current level, temperature, sound level, etc.) to a conventional gauge display (e.g. a liquid crystal display screen, an analog gauge, a display panel, etc.). The gauge display may be part of gauge240and may be located on signal generator120. Additionally, or alternatively, gauge240may send the information associated with the signal to another device.

Signal output250may correspond to a connection point (e.g. a plug, a socket, a nomex connector, a male and/or female fitting, a splice, etc.) that may connect signal generator120to connector130and/or distributors140to allow signal to be transferred from the signal generator120to a user and/or received back to the signal generator120from the user.

FIG.3illustrates an alternative example environment300in which the systems and methods described herein may be implemented. As shown inFIG.3, environment300may include a first user310-1associated with a signal generator320via a first connector130-1and a second user310-2associated with the signal generator320via a second connector130-2. First user310-1and second user310-2both meditate using the systems and methods described herein. First user310-1may be operably connected to a first distributor140-1, a second distributor140-2and a sensor330. For example, and not limitation, the first distributor140-1, second distributor140-2and sensor330may be connected to first user310-1with adhesive. Second user310-2may be operably connected to headphones340, a third distributor140-3and a fourth distributor140-4. The third distributor140-3and fourth distributor140-4may be secured to second user310-2via retainer150. The devices, components and systems illustrated inFIG.3are provided for explanatory purposes only, and environment300is not intended to be limited to the devices, components, or systems provided therein. There may be additional devices, components or systems; fewer devices, components or systems; different devices, components or systems; or differently arranged devices, components or systems than illustrated inFIG.3. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.3may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.3.

The first distributor140-1, second distributor140-2, third distributor140-3, and fourth distributor140-4may function that same as or similar to the first distributor140-1and second distributor140-2ofFIG.1. Additionally, or alternatively, retainer150may function the same as, or similar to, retainer150ofFIG.1. Additionally, or alternatively, the second connector130-2may function the same as, or similar to, the connector130ofFIG.1. First connector130-1may function that same as, or similar to, connector130ofFIG.1except that first connector130-1is connected to sensor330in addition to first distributor140-1, second distributor140-2, and signal generator320. In this configuration, first connector130-1may provide information from sensor330to signal generator320as further described herein.

Signal generator320may function similar to signal generator120ofFIGS.1and2except that, for instance, signal generator320may provide a signal to first user310-1and to second user310-2. The signal provided by signal generator320to first user310-1may be the same as and/or different from the signal provided by signal generator320to second user310-2. While signal generator320is depicted as providing a signal to two users, signal generator320may provide a signal to a single user and/or more than two (e.g. 3, 4, 5, 6 or more, etc.) users.

Signal generator320may receive information associated with first user310-1from sensor330via first connector130-1and may process the information associated with first user310-1to adjust signal (i.e. signal delivered to first user310-1and/or second user310-2) based upon the information associated with first user310-1. Signal generator320may adjust the signal based upon instructions contained on a memory associated with signal generator320as further described herein. Signal generator320may store, install and/or execute an application (e.g., a mobile application, logic, software application installed on a user device, server, etc.) that enables the signal generator320to provide a signal, to modify a signal, to receive and process information associated with a user, and/or to provide audio and/or video content as further described herein.

Sensor330may monitor the first user310-1to obtain information associated with the first user310-1and provide (e.g. via connector130-2, directly to signal generator320via a direct connection and/or a wireless connection, etc.) information associated the first user310-1to the signal generator and/or a user device or other device as further described with respect toFIG.5. Information associated with the first user310-1may include, for instance, conditions associated with a brain portion (e.g. brain waves, etc.) as well as other biological information associated with the first user310-1(e.g. heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, etc.). Sensor may be any type of traditional sensor for measuring biometric activity, including electroencephalography sensors, electrocardiogram sensors, heart rate sensors, transducers, etc. Sensor330may be separate from and/or formed as a part of distributors140. While sensor330is depicted on user310-1's forehead, sensor330may be on any location of a user (e.g. arm cuffs, fingertip sensors, chest-mounted sensors, etc.).

Sensor330may provide information associated the first user310-1to signal generator320. Signal generator320may process the information associated with the first user310-1and may transmit (e.g. via gauges, a display on signal generator320or anther device, via headphones, etc.) the information associated with the first user310-1to the first user310-1, the second user310-2and/or some other person or device. Additionally, or alternatively, signal generator320may execute instructions to modify the signal delivered to first user310-1and/or second user310-2based upon the information associated with the first user310-1. While sensor330is depicted as a single sensor on first user310-1, there may be multiple sensors on each user. Signal generator320may execute instructions to modify a signal delivered to a user based upon information associated with the user obtained from one or more sensors associated with the user. Additionally, or alternatively, signal generator320may store information associated with a user on memory included within signal generator320(or another device) and may execute instructions to modify the signal based upon a comparison of the stored information associated with a user with the signal delivered to the user at the time.

Headphones340may be standard headphones (e.g. headphones, ear buds, etc.) and/or any other known device that may deliver audio content to second user310-2. Additionally, or alternatively, audio content may be delivered to one or more users via a speaker, which may be part of the signal generator320, a user device, and/or another device. While headphones340are shown on second user310-2, first user310-1and/or any other person may obtain audio content via headphones340. The audio content may include a variety of meditation content including, for example, training instructions to assist the user when meditating (e.g. recorded meditation sessions conducted by a meditation instructor or practitioner), calming music, soothing sounds, binaural beats, etc. The audio content may be provided to headphones340by signal generator320, by a user device associated with signal generator320and/or by another device via a network as will be described later. The audio content may be modified based upon information associated with the user obtained from sensor330. The same audio content may be delivered to multiple users at the same time to provide a group meditation experience. Additionally, or alternatively, different audio content may be delivered to different users based upon, for instance, each user's preference, the user's brain waves/biological state as measured by a sensor, etc. In addition to audio content, the systems and methods herein provide that video content may be delivered through a display associated with the signal generator320, a user device and/or another device. The video content may facilitate meditation (e.g. instructions on meditation provided by, for instance, an instructor or practitioner, background for optimum meditation setting, such as calming relaxation videos, nature scenes, etc.).

FIG.4illustrates a diagram of example components of signal generator320ofFIG.3. Additionally, signal generator320may contain one or more of the components of signal generator120depicted inFIG.2, such as a supply, regulator, etc. Signal generator320may include bus410, processing unit420, memory430, ROM440, storage device450, input device460, output device470, communication interface480and/or signal control490. Bus410may include a path that permits communication among the components of signal generator320depicted inFIG.4. In other implementations, signal generator320may include fewer components, additional components, different components, or differently arranged components than illustrated inFIG.4. For example, signal generator320may include a user device (as described later herein). In still other implementations, one or more components of signal generator320may perform one or more tasks described as being performed by one or more other components of signal generator320.

Processing unit420may include a processor, multiple processors, microprocessors, or other types of processing logic that may interpret, execute, and/or otherwise process information and/or data contained in, for example, the storage device450and/or memory430. The information may include computer-executable instructions and/or data that may implement one or more embodiments of the systems and methods. Processing unit420may comprise a variety of hardware. The hardware may include, for example, some combination of one or more processors, microprocessors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific instruction set processors (ASIPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), graphics processing units (GPUs), or other types of processing logic that may interpret, execute, manipulate, and/or otherwise process the information. Processing unit420may comprise a single core or multiple cores. Moreover, processing unit420may comprise a system-on-chip (SoC) or system-in-package (SiP). Additionally, or alternatively, processing unit420(and/or another component of signal generator320) may be configured to generate and/or update keys (e.g., encryption keys, rotating keys, etc.).

Memory430may include a random access memory (RAM) or another type of dynamic storage device that may store information (e.g. information associated with a user, meditation schedules, instructions, programs, etc.) and instructions for execution by processing unit420. ROM440may include a ROM device or another type of static storage device that may store static information and/or instructions for use by processing unit420. Storage device450may include a magnetic and/or optical recording medium and its corresponding drive. In some implementations, memory430or storage device450may also be implemented as solid state memory, such as flash-based memory.

Input device460may include a mechanism that permits a user, instructor and/or one of the components of environment300(e.g. signal information from distributors, information associated with a user from sensors330, etc.) to input information to signal generator320, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a pen, a button, a single or multi-point touch interface, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a microphone, voice recognition and/or biometric mechanisms, etc. Output device470may include a mechanism that outputs information to the operator, including a display, a speaker, jack for headphones340, etc. In the case of a display, the display may be a touch screen display that acts as both an input and an output device. Input device460and/or output device470may be haptic type devices, such as joysticks or other devices based on touch.

Communication interface480may include any transceiver-like mechanism that enables signal generator320to communicate with other devices (e.g. sensors, distributors, user devices, other signal generators, etc.) and/or systems. For example, communication interface480may include mechanisms for communicating with another device or system via a network (e.g. a local area network, the internet based on, for example, an Internet version 6 (IPv6) protocol, an Hypertext Transfer Protocal (HTTP), a secure HTTP protocol (HTTPS), a tunneling protocol, etc. and/or via wired or wireless link (e.g., a Bluetooth protocol, a near-field protocol, beaming, etc.)), e.g., a network interface card.

Signal generator320may perform certain operations in response to processing unit420executing software instructions contained in a computer-readable medium, such as main memory430. For instance, signal generator320may implement a meditation application by executing software instructions (e.g. a meditation application including signal instructions based upon information associated with the user, video content, audio content, etc.) from main memory430. A computer-readable medium may be defined as a non-transitory memory device, where the memory device may include a number of physically distributed memory devices. The software instructions may be read into main memory430from another computer-readable medium, such as storage device450, or from another device via communication interface480. The software instructions contained in main memory430may cause processing unit420to perform processes described herein as being performed by signal generator (e.g. adjusting the signal, etc.). Alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of, or in combination with, software instructions to implement processes described herein. Thus, implementations described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

Signal control490may perform the functions of controller230(modify a signal, such as by converter, inverter, etc.) and/or regulator220(convert energy from source to a signal) ofFIG.2. Signal control490may modify signal manually, similar to controller230ofFIG.2. Additionally, or alternatively, signal control490may be controlled automatically by signal generator320based upon instructions contained on signal generator320and/or received by signal generator320.

FIG.5illustrates an alternative example environment500in which the systems and methods described herein may be implemented. As shown inFIG.5, environment500may include a user510operably connected to a first distributor140-1, a second distributor140-2, a sensor330via retainer150, and a signal generator320, which may be operably connected to the first distributor140-1second distributor140-2and sensor330via connector130. The user510may additionally, or alternatively, be operably connected to a user device520which may communicate with the signal generator320via a network530as further described herein. The devices, components, networks, and systems illustrated inFIG.5are provided for explanatory purposes only, and environment500is not intended to be limited to the devices, components, or systems provided therein. There may be additional devices, components or systems; fewer devices, components or systems; different devices, components or systems; or differently arranged devices, components or systems than illustrated inFIG.5. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.5may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the devices, components or systems ofFIG.5.

The connector130, first distributor140-1, second distributor140-2, signal generator320, sensor330, and retainer150may function the same and/or similar to the similarly named components described above with respect toFIGS.1&3. In addition, one or more of signal generator320, sensor330, first distributor140-1and/or second distributor140-2may communicate with user device520via network530.

User device520may include any computation and communication device capable of providing audio, visual and/or virtual reality content and/or communicating via a network530. For example, user device520may include a tablet computer, a personal communications system (PCS) terminal (e.g., such as a smart phone that may include data processing and data communications capabilities), a personal gaming system, a virtual reality system, a combination of the foregoing and/or another type of computation or communication device. Additionally, or alternatively, user device520may include logic, such as one or more processing or storage devices, that can perform processing activities on behalf of a user, signal generator320and/or another one or more of the components and/or devices described herein.

User device520may be configured to perform communication operations by sending data to and/or receiving data via network530from one or more of signal generator320, sensor330, distributors140, and/or another device (e.g. another user device, another signal generator, sensor, etc.). Data may refer to any type of machine-readable information having substantially any format that may be adapted for use in one or more networks and/or with one or more components. Data may include digital information or analog information. Data may further be packetized and/or non-packetized. User device520may include logic for performing computations on user device520and may include the components illustrated inFIG.4in an example implementation. Such components may execute one or more instructions to perform functions as described herein. In one non-limiting implementation, the user device520may not be in persistent communication and/or connection with network530but may, when accessed and/or communicated with, communicate with signal generator320, sensor330, another user device520, and/or another device.

User device520may store and/or execute a meditation application to enable the user device520to communicate with the signal generator320, one or more distributors140and/or sensors330to obtain and/or monitor information associated with the user510and/or information associated with the signal. Additionally, or alternatively, the meditation application may communicate with signal generator320to provide meditation instructions, which may include instructing the signal generator320on the strength, frequency, and/or another parameter of the signal to be delivered to user510. The meditation instructions may be based upon instructions stored on a memory associated with user device and may, for example, adjust the signal based upon information received from sensor330, a distributor140, etc. In one non-limiting example embodiment, user device520may include a signal generator. For example, and not limitation, user device520may process information associated with the user510received from sensor330and may communicate with signal generator320to adjust the signal delivered to the user510. Additionally, or alternatively, user device520may communicate with a user device associated with another user and/or another person (e.g. meditation instructor, etc.) to send information associated with the user510, to adjust the signal delivered to the user510, etc. Additionally, user device520may provide audio, video and/or virtual reality content to the user510and/or may modify the audio, video and/or virtual reality content delivered to the user510based upon instructions contained in the meditation application, information received from sensor330, signal generator320, another user device, etc. Virtual reality content may, for example, simulate a group meditation session in which the user may view other virtual meditators, virtual instructors, etc. A virtual meditation session may replicate a one-on-one and/or group meditation session.

Network530may include one or more wired and/or wireless networks. For example, network530may include a wide area network (WAN) a metropolitan network (MAN), a telephone network (e.g. the Public Switched Telephone (PSTN)), an ad hoc network, an intranet, the Internet, a fiber optic based network, and/or a combination of these or other types of networks. Additionally, or alternatively, network530may include a cellular network, a public land mobile network (PLMN), a second generation (2G) network, a third generation (3G) network, a fourth generation (4G) network (e.g., a long term evolution (LTE) network), a fifth generation (5G) network, and/or another network. The devices, components and/or systems, described herein, may communicate via network530to provide assistance with meditation pursuant the systems and methods described herein. WhileFIG.5depicts user device520communicating with signal generator320via a wireless network, all of the devices herein may communicate via wired and/or wireless networks. For example, and not limitation, connector130and/or an additional connector (not shown) may connect user device520to first connector140-1, second connector140-2, sensor330and/or signal generator.

FIGS.6A-6Eillustrate a non-limiting example embodiment of a distributor600that may be used in connection with the systems and/or methods described herein. Distributor600may include a first layer601, a second layer602, an anode610, a cathode620, a connecting section630, signal carriers640, and a signal connection section650. The components illustrated inFIGS.6A-6Eare provided for explanatory purposes only, and the disclosure herein is not intended to be limited to the components reflected in the drawings. There may be additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than illustrated inFIGS.6A-6E. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the components of the distributor600may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the components of distributor600. For example, and not limitation, anode610and cathode620are described herein as providing the signal to the user and receiving the signal that has been applied to the user, respectively. Alternatively (and depending on how the distributor is connected to a user device) anode610may serve as cathode620and vice versa. Further, the signal may cause anode610to serve as cathode620and vice versa (e.g. alternating current signals, reversing the flow of the signal via the signal generator, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, while electrical connectors651and652are illustrated as residing at a single signal connection section650, electrical connectors651and652may be split, with one residing near the anode610and the other residing near the cathode620, or at any other location(s) on distributor600.

Distributor600may provide an electrical signal (e.g. AC signal or DC signal) to a user via anode610and cathode620using the systems and/or methods described herein. Distributor600may include a first layer601that may correspond to a layer of material that may form a base for distributor600. First layer601may be formed from a material or materials of sufficient strength and toughness to support the static and/or dynamic loads (e.g., forces, torques, tensions, compressions, stresses, strains, etc.) imparted to distributor600by the user (e.g. applying distributor600to user, removing distributor600from user, twisting distributor600, etc.). Further, first layer may be formed from a material that is an electrical insulator (e.g. polymers, plastics (polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, PVC, etc.), Teflon, other known insulators, etc.) to limit and/or prevent the signal from passing through first layer601. While first layer601is shown as being formed from a single piece of material, first layer601may be composed of one or more pieces of material. The types and shapes of first layer601are not intended to be limited to those shown inFIGS.6A-6E.

First layer may serve as a base for the conducting elements (e.g. signal dispersers660, signal distributors670, signal carriers640, electrical connectors651and652, etc.) of distributor600. For example, as shown in the embodiment reflected inFIGS.6A-6E, first layer601forms a part of anode610, cathode620, connecting section630and signal connection section650.

Distributor600may also include second layer602. Second layer602may, like first layer601, be an electrical insulator. Additionally, or alternatively, second layer602may provide a textured surface to some or all of distributor600. Second layer602may be formed from a material or materials of sufficient strength and toughness to support the static and/or dynamic loads (e.g., forces, torques, tensions, compressions, stresses, strains, etc.) imparted to distributor600by the user (e.g. applying distributor600to user, removing distributor600from user, twisting distributor600, etc.). Further, second layer602may be formed from a material that is an electrical insulator (e.g. polymers, plastics (polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, PVC, etc.), Teflon, combinations of insulators, other known insulators, etc.) to limit and/or prevent the signal from passing through second layer602. Second layer602may also, or alternatively, include a textured surface. While second layer602is shown as being formed from a single piece of material, second layer602may be composed of one or more pieces of material. The types and shapes of second layer602are not intended to be limited to those shown inFIGS.6A-6E.

Anode610may provide the user with a signal using the systems and/or methods described herein. As shown inFIG.6B, anode610may include first layer601, second layer602, signal disperser660and signal distributor670. The components associated with anode610in the Figures are provided for explanatory purposes only, and the disclosure herein is not intended to be limited to, or to require, the components reflected in the drawings. There may be additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than illustrated inFIGS.6A-6E. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the components of anode610may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the components of anode610(e.g. a layer may be removed, signal disperser and/or distributor may be combined, have one removed, etc.).

Anode610may receive a signal (e.g. a signal that has been provided to distributor from, for instance, a signal generator) that is to be applied to a user and apply the signal to the user at an area of contact. The signal may be applied to the user by signal disperser660and/or signal distributor670. Signal disperser660may correspond to an area of conductive material that approximately defines the area of contact between the anode and the user and through which signal is distributed when signal is delivered to user. Ideally, the signal is evenly dispersed across the area of signal disperser660. As shown inFIGS.6A,6B and6E, signal disperser660may correspond to metallic array (e.g. a grid of metal wires or other solid metallic components, a grid formed from silver print, electrically conductive paint, or similar conductive material which may be applied to first layer, etc.) that receives the signal from signal carrier640-1and disperses the signal across the area of signal distributor660. The area of signal distributor660is ideally approximately equivalent to the area of contact with user when distributor600is applied to user. Dispersing the signal across the area of signal disperser660may make applying the signal to the user safer and/or more comfortable for the user (i.e. may prevent injury or burns by spreading the signal across the area, prevent or reduce signal spikes, etc.). The area of signal disperser660may be determined by the signal delivered to the user (i.e. the amounts of voltage and/or current, etc.) to ensure that the signal is comfortable/not harmful yet still sufficient to stimulate meditation. The area of signal disperser660may determine the size of anode610and/or cathode620, which may have about the same area of contact with the user. Signal disperser660may be placed between first layer601and signal distributor670(if signal distributor670is used/is separate from signal disperser660). In some instances, signal disperser660is applied directly to the user, such as when signal distributor670is not included in distributor600. In those embodiments, a user may apply a conducting material (e.g. ultrasound gel, saline solution, oils, jellies, creams, etc.) between distributor600and the user to make applying the signal safer and/or more comfortable.

Signal distributor670may correspond to a conducting agent that receives the signal from signal disperser660and distributes the signal across an area of contact with the user. Alternatively, signal distributor670may receive the signal from signal carrier640and may distribute the signal across the area of contact with the user, which may eliminate the need for signal disperser660. Signal distributor670may be located between signal distributor660and the user when the distributor is applied to the user (i.e. covering the signal distributor). Signal distributor670may be formed from a material or materials that are electrically conductive and that may be used to comfortably (i.e. distributing the signal across the area of signal distributor670) apply a signal to the user. For example, and not limitation, signal distributor may be formed from hydrogel (e.g. such those hydrogel products sold by R&D medical products), polymer gels, a saline gel, etc. Additionally, signal distributor670may be a material that serves as an adhesive to temporarily bond anode610and/or cathode620to a user, which may connect distributor600to the user to allow the user to meditate using the systems and/or methods described herein. In this embodiment, a user may apply the anode610to a brain portion by simply placing signal distributor670at the desired location and allowing the adhesive of signal distributor670to hold the anode610in the desired location. Signal distributor670may receive the signal from signal disperser660and may spread the signal across the area of contact with the user, which may further make the delivering the signal safer and/or more comfortable to the user.

Cathode620may receive the signal that was provided to the user via anode610and may route the signal back to electrical connector652(e.g. via signal carrier640-2). As shown inFIG.6E(and the similarities with6B), cathode620may be formed from the same and/or similar components as anode610(and may serve as anode610when, for instance, the signal is received by distributor600at electrical connector652). For example, cathode620may include first layer601, second layer602, signal disperser660and signal distributor670. The components associated with cathode620in the Figures are provided for explanatory purposes only, and the disclosure herein is not intended to be limited to, or to require, the components reflected in the drawings. There may be additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than illustrated inFIGS.6A-6E. Also, in some implementations, one or more of the components of cathode620may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another one or more of the components of cathode620(e.g. a layer may be removed, signal disperser and/or distributor may be combined, have one removed, etc.).

Cathode620may receive the signal that was applied to the user via anode610and may deliver the signal back to electrical connector652via signal carrier640-2. Cathode620may define an area of contact with the user that may be equal to the area associated with the signal disperser660and/or signal distributor670of the cathode. In some embodiments, cathode620may serve as anode610when the connector associated with electrical connector652carries the signal to distributor600.

Connecting section630may correspond to section of distributor600that connects anode610and cathode620and/or cathode620(or anode610) to signal connection section650. Connecting section630may be any size and shape. As shown inFIG.6A, connecting section630may help orient anode610and cathode620by setting the distance between the two. Additionally, or alternatively, connecting section630may orient anode610and cathode620for placement on a target area of a user. For example, in the embodiment depicted inFIG.6A through6E, when anode610is placed roughly at or around the right temple (e.g. not on hair line, roughly between right eye and right ear), connecting section630may orient cathode620such that it may be placed over the left eye or at some area on the forehead roughly over the left eye. This orientation is depicted inFIG.7C. Connecting section630may be formed in any size and/or shape to connect and/or orient the components of distributor600, including, but not limited to, the orientation ofFIG.7Band any other orientations needed to allow the anode and/or cathode to provide a signal to the brain portions described herein.

Connecting section630may also, or alternatively, include a signal carrier640which may transfer the signal between components of distributor600. For example, in the embodiment depicted inFIGS.6A and6C, connecting section630may include signal carrier640-2, which may carry the signal between cathode620and electrical connector652. Connecting section630may be formed from first layer601and/or second layer602, which may also form part of anode610, cathode620and connecting section650. Additionally, or alternatively, connector630may include third layer631. Third layer631may insulate signal carrier640-2by partially surrounding signal carrier640-2. Insulating signal carrier640-2may prevent signal from being disrupted (e.g. due to an arc, short, etc.). Third layer631may be formed the same or similar materials as first layer601and/or second layer602. Additionally, or alternatively, third layer631may correspond to a paint, sealant and/or coating that has insulating properties.

As shown inFIGS.6A,6B and6D, signal connection section650may be one or more areas of distributor600that includes one or more electrical connectors, such as electrical connectors651and652. While the embodiment depicted inFIGS.6A,6B and6Dreflect a single signal connection section650that includes both electrical connectors651and652, there may be separate signal connection sections for each electrical connector. As shown inFIG.6D, signal connection section650may be formed from first layer601and/or second layer602. In the embodiment depicted herein, second layer602may, as shown inFIG.6B, wrap around first layer601to reside on both sides of first layer601. As shown inFIG.6D, this configuration may allow second layer to insulate electrical connectors651and652and signal carriers640-1and640-2. This method of insulating components may also, or alternatively, be used on other areas of distributor600, such as connecting section630. Electrical connectors651and652may be electrically connected to anode610and cathode620, respectively. For example, electrical connectors651may have a first end which may connect to an electrical connector (such as an electrical connector of connector130or a connection with signal generator) to receive an electrical signal from signal generator and a second end which may connect to signal carrier640(e.g. signal carrier640-1) to provide the signal to anode610. Electrical connector652may have a third end which may connect to cathode620(e.g. via signal carrier640-2) to receive the signal from cathode620and a fourth end which may connect to an electrical connector (such as an electrical connector of connector130, a connection with signal generator, etc.) to provide the signal to signal generator. As depicted inFIG.6D, electrical connector651has a first end651-A that connects with a standard electrical connector, such as quick connector, a snap, a plug, etc., and a second end651-2that is located opposite first layer601from first end651-A. Second end651-B may contact signal carrier640-1to transfer the signal from the electrical connector651to anode610via signal carrier640-1. Similarly, electrical connector652may have a first end associated with an electrical connector and a second end, opposite the first layer from first end, associated with signal carrier640-2.

In the embodiment depicted herein, signal carriers640and signal emitters660may be formed from an electrically conductive material that may be directly applied (e.g. painted, soldered, etc.) to first layer601for ease of manufacture. For example, signal carriers640and signal emitters660may be formed from an electrically conductive coating (e.g. silver trace, PCB trace, nickel-based paints, etc.) that may be applied to first layer601to create the conductive paths of distributor600. Alternatively, the conductive paths herein may be formed from other conductive materials, such as copper wire, solid conductive materials, etc.

FIGS.7A through7Cdepict alternative non-limiting environments in which the systems and/or methods described herein may be implemented. As shown inFIG.7A, environment700may include a user110who may be wearing a headband710that includes a first distributor711(e.g. an anode, etc.) and second distributor712(e.g. a cathode, etc.). The headband700may apply the first distributor711and/or second distributor712to the user and retain them in place on the user. Additionally, the headband700may partially or completely cover the distributors711and712. Headband710may be connected to a signal generator, such as signal generator320, via connector713. While signal generator320is depicted as being separate from headband700, headband700may include a signal generator on or inside of headband700, which may provide an all-in-one arrangement (i.e. all components are on headband) that allows the user to practice the systems and methods described herein.

FIG.7Billustrates an alternative non-limiting environment in which the systems and/or methods may be provided to a user. As shown inFIG.7B, environment720may include a user who may be connected to a first distributor721and a second distributor722which are connected to a signal generator, such as signal generator320, via connector723. First distributor721may be located at or near an auricular region of the user110, and second distributor722may be located at or near a supplementary motor area of the user110. First distributor721and/or second distributor722may connect to signal generator320, such as via connector723, to allow a signal to be delivered to a user to facilitate meditation using the systems and/or methods described herein.

FIG.7Cillustrates another non-limiting environment in which the systems and/or methods may be provided to a user. As shown inFIG.7C, environment730may include a user110who has applied distributor600to a brain portion, the distributor being connected to a signal generator, such as signal generator320, via connector731. As discussed with regard toFIGS.6A-6E, distributor600is applied to a brain portion of user, and the connecting section of distributor600may help orient the anode and cathode of the distributor600such that the anode is placed near the right temple and the cathode is placed approximately above the left eye. Distributor600may receive a signal from signal generator320via connector731to provide the signal to the user110.

FIG.8illustrates a diagram of a non-limiting example embodiment of a signal generator that may be used in connection with the systems and/or methods described herein. As shown inFIG.8, signal generator800may include a housing801, a display810, one or more input devices820(e.g. as shown,820-1, . . .820-N where N≥1, input devices are collectively referred to as “input devices820”), signal connections830-1and830-2, and speaker840. Additionally, signal generator800may include the same and/or similar components to signal generator120and signal generator320, such as those components described in relation toFIGS.2and4.FIG.8depicts example components of signal generator800, but in other implementations, signal generator800may include fewer components, additional components, different components or differently arranged components than illustrated inFIG.8. For example, while input devices820are depicted as buttons, input devices may include any type of input device, including keyboards, keypads, joysticks, switches, dials, touchscreens, etc. In still other implementations, one or more components of the signal generator800may perform one or more tasks described as being performed by another one or more of the components of signal generator800.

Housing801may include a chassis that mechanically secures and/or covers some or all of the components of signal generator800. Speaker840may include a component to receive input electric signals from signal generator800and transmit audio output signals, which communicate audible information to a user of the signal generator800.

Display810may include a component to receive electrical signal and present to the user a visual output in the form of text, images, video and/or a combination of text, images and videos, which visual output may communicate visual information to the user of the signal generator800. In one implementation, display810may display text, images, videos and/or a combination of text, images and/or videos in response to inputs, such as via input devices820and/or inputs from signal connections830. Additionally, or alternatively, display810may display text, images, videos and/or a combination of videos in response to signal generator800executing instructions (such a via a processor, like processing unit420, etc.), including instructions based, in whole in or in part, on inputs received from input devices820, signal connections830, etc. The visual output may include information associated with the signal (e.g. signal presence, signal strength, signal level, etc.), the user (e.g. impedance of the user, etc.), information associated with using the signal generator (i.e. the signal generator is on, a distributor is connected, a circuit is closed, etc.), and/or other meditation content. Display810may be a touch screen that presents one or more images that correspond to control buttons. The one or more images may accept, as input, mechanical pressure from the user (e.g. when the user presses or touches an image corresponding to a control button or combinations of control buttons) and display810may send electrical signals to a processor, such as processing unit420, that may cause signal generator800to transmit information, perform a function, etc.

Input devices820may include mechanisms that permit a user to input information to signal generator800, such as keyboards, keypads, buttons, switches, etc. The arrangement of input devices820depicted inFIG.8is only one example arrangement of input device820or input devices820that may be included in signal generator800. Input devices800may include one or more input mechanism that may permit a user to operate signal generator800. As depicted inFIG.8, input devices820may include an on button820-1, used to activate/turn on the signal generator800; a first mode button820-2, used to select a first signal to be output by signal generator800; a second mode button820-3, used to select a second signal to be output by signal generator800; a third mode button820-4, used to select a third signal to be output by signal generator800; and an off button820-5, used to deactivate/turn off the signal generator800. The first signal, second signal and third signal may be any of the signals described herein. In one embodiment, the signal generator800generates signals that correspond to a DC electrical signal (such as from about 2 volts to about 40 volts, preferably from about 9 volts to about 20 volts), and the first mode, second mode and third mode may correspond to different current levels, generally from about 0.1 milliamps to 5 milliamps. For instance, the first signal may correspond to a first current level of about 1 milliamp, the second signal may correspond to a second current level of about 1.5 milliamps, and the third signal may correspond to a third current level of about 2 milliamps. The current levels and voltage levels output by signal generator800may vary and may be determined by the needs of the user, the power source of signal generator, etc. Also, in other embodiments, signal generator800may output other signals, such as magnetic, AC power, etc.

Signal connections830may be receptacles, connections, quick disconnects, etc. via which signal generator800provides a signal. The embodiment of signal generator800depicted inFIG.8reflects two signal connections830-1and830-2, but other embodiments of signal generator800may include additional signal connections830(such as in the event that signal generator is designed to provide a signal to multiple users) or a single signal connection. The signal connections830-1and830-2may correspond to connections for an electrical signal. For example, signal connection830-1may provide the signal to an electrode (i.e. an anode) that provides the signal to a user, such as anode610. Signal connection830-2may correspond to a connection that receives the signal that has been applied to the user and received by an electrode (i.e. a cathode such as cathode620) so that a circuit may be closed, allowing the signal to flow.

In addition to providing the signal, modifying the signal, and providing information associated with the signal, signal generator800may execute instructions to test the ability of signal generator800to provide a signal. For instance, and not limitation, signal generator800may conduct an impedance test which may provide a signal (which may be the signal to be provided to induce meditation, a low current, low voltage signal that is imperceptible to the user, etc.) to the user (i.e. via distributor) to test whether the circuit is closed or whether the resistance associated with the user may be too high to provide the signal. If the resistance is above a threshold, the signal generator may not provide the signal to the user. In one embodiment, the signal generator provides a relatively small current (e.g. 10 microamps, 100 microamps, etc.) to the distributor, and the signal generator measures the resistance associated with the user (e.g. across the circuit including the distributor with known resistance and the user) to determine the resistance, such as using Ohm's law. The maximum resistance may vary depending upon the signal to be delivered (e.g. electrical signal, other forms of signals, etc.), the strength of the signal to be applied (e.g. 5 volts, 20 volts, 40 volts, etc.), the placement of the distributor (the distance between the anode and cathode) and many other factors. In one embodiment, the threshold resistance for a 20 volt signal is within a range of 5,000 ohms to 20,000 ohms, more preferably 10,000 ohms (10k(2), such as when the distributor is positioned as shown inFIG.7C. The threshold may vary widely for the reasons described herein.

Many other types of tests may be conducted by the signal generator800, such as tests on the power level, ability to provide a signal, etc. The signal generator800may provide the signal only if the impedance test confirms an acceptable resistance associated with the user. If the impedance is above a threshold, the user may be prompted to lower resistance, such as by using a new/different distributor, cleaning the area of contact between the distributor and the user, etc. The impedance test may be conducted at any time, such as when the device is turned on, when one of the signal modes is selected, etc. Alternatively, the signal generator may constantly measure impedance and provide the signal only when the impedance is at an acceptable level.

FIG.9is a flow chart of an example process900that may be used to facilitate meditation using the systems, methods, technologies and/or techniques described herein. Process900may be performed using one or more of the devices associated with the meditation environments described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, some or all of process900may be performed using a device or collection of devices separate from, or in combination with, the devices associated with the meditation environments described herein. As shown inFIG.9, process900may include cleansing a contact area (BLOCK910), which may occur when a user uses a cleanser (e.g., alcohol, an astringent, soap, a facial cleanser, a wipe that contains a cleanser, etc.) and/or a wipe, paper towel, etc. to clean the area(s) of skin on which a distributor may be placed. Cleaning the contact area may lower the impedance associated with the user. The contact area of the user may be any of the areas associated with a brain portion described herein.

Process900may further include applying a distributor to the user (BLOCK915) at the contact area. The distributor may include a single point of contact with the user, two points of contact (such as an anode and cathode), three points of contact with user, etc. The points of contact may be at or near the brain, auricular nerves, brain portion (e.g. the left and/or right frontal lobe, the left and/or right temporal lobe, the supplementary motor area or SMA regions of the brain (including Pre-SMA, SMA, posterior SMA, etc.) the left and/or right insula, the cingulate cortex (including posterior cingulate, PCC), and/or cranial nerves (including olfactory nerve, optic nerve, trigeminal nerve, facial nerve, glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus nerve (including auricular vagus nerve), hypoglossal nerve, auriculotemporal nerve, auricular nerves, etc.). The distributors may be placed on any surface of the body that may provide an input signal to the brain portion, including, but not limited to, the forehead, above the left and/or right eyebrow, the left and/or right temple, the supraorbital region, around the crown of the head (to engage the SMA and PCC regions of the brain), in or around the ears and/or other areas on or near the brain, auricular nerves, and/or cranial nerves, including areas having little and/or no hair.

Process900may further include connecting the distributor to the signal generator (BLOCK920). Connecting the distributor to the signal generator may include using a connector, such as connector130, that may transfer a signal from signal generator to distributor. Connector may include one or more wires or other conductive components that may permit the signal to be transferred along connector. Connector may also include electrical connectors (e.g. fittings, receptacles, etc.) that may be used to connect to distributor and/or signal generator. Alternatively, signal generator may be permanently connected to, or formed as a part of, distributor, which may eliminate the need to connect distributor to signal generator.

Process900may also include initiating the signal generator (BLOCK925), which may include operating an input device (e.g. a button, a switch, a keypad, etc.) to turn on the signal generator and/or otherwise prepare the signal generator for operation. Initiating the signal generator may cause signal generator to conduct an impedance test (BLOCK930-YES), which may cause the signal generator to run a test (BLOCK940) to determine whether the impedance (i.e. resistant to electrical current flow, resistance to another type of signal, etc.) associated with a user is acceptable. Acceptable impedance may be, for instance, 5,000 ohms, 10,000 ohms, 20,000 ohms, etc. when the signal is an electrical signal and depending upon the particular signal to be applied and the placement of the distributor. The impedance test may include providing a low energy electrical current to the user via the distributors. The impedance test may further include determining the resistance is acceptable when the low energy electrical current is received by the signal generator after being applied to the user, which may confirm a closed circuit. When the lower energy electrical current is received by the signal generator, the impedance may be determined using, for instance, a multimeter or similar technology used to calculate electrical resistance, continuity, etc. The low level electrical current may not be perceptible by the user. The impedance test may be run before operating the signal generator to apply the signal (BLOCK960). Additionally, or alternatively, the signal generator may constantly monitor impedance during use by, for instance, measuring impedance when applying the signal when the signal corresponds to an electrical power signal. In this embodiment, the signal may automatically shut off if the impedance level exceeds a threshold, which may occur when, for instance, the distributor accidentally comes off of the user, etc. The signal generator may notify the user (e.g. via a sound through a speaker, text and/or symbols on a display, etc.) that the impedance is acceptable or unacceptable, may provide the impedance of the user, etc. In some embodiments, the impedance of the user may decline once the signal has been applied for a period of time (e.g. one minute, two minutes, ten minutes, etc.).

If the impedance level is acceptable (BLOCK950-YES) or if the signal generator does not conduct an impedance test (BLOCK930-NO), the user may operate the signal generator to apply a signal (BLOCK960). If the impedance level is not acceptable (BLOCK950NO), the user may attempt to reduce the impedance by, for instance, cleansing the area of contact between the user and the distributor (BLOCK910). The user may repeat the steps described above as needed and conduct a second impedance test to determine whether the the impedance level associated with the user is acceptable. If the impedance level is acceptable, the user may operate the signal generator to apply a signal.

Operating the signal generator to apply the signal (BLOCK960) may include any type of user input (e.g. via an input device) that may cause the signal generator to generate and output a signal to a distributor. For example, and not limitation, operating the signal generator to generate and apply the signal may include depressing a button, flipping a switch, etc. Operating the signal generator to apply the signal may be the same input by the user undertake to initiate the signal generator. For example, and not limitation, the user may initiate the signal generator, which may prompt the signal generator to conduct an impedance test and, upon passing the impedance test, the signal generator may begin applying the signal to the distributor(s).

Generating the signal may include, for instance producing the signal (e.g. via a battery, coil for magnets, etc.) and conditioning the signal, such as with a signal controller, to provide a signal at a particular strength, frequency, etc. Outputting the signal may include passing the signal directly to the distributor (e.g. via connection between signal generator and distributor) or passing the signal via a connector or series of connections through which the signal may be distributed to distributor and then to the user.

Once the signal is applied to the user, the user may attempt to meditate (BLOCK970). Attempting to meditate may include, for instance, engaging in any of the practices and/or techniques used to enter a meditative state, such as sitting or lying comfortably, focusing on meditation, breathing calmly, listening to music, listening and/or watching meditation enhancing instructions/virtual reality content, etc. While meditating and/or attempting to meditate, the user may determine that the meditation is not successful and/or could be optimized (such as by reducing the signal to require the user to meditate with less assistance) (BLOCK970-NO), which may cause the user to operate the signal generator to change the signal (BLOCK985). Operating the signal generator to change the signal may including changing from a first signal (i.e. which results from BLOCK960) to a second signal. The second signal may be stronger (i.e. have a higher amplitude, frequency, current level, etc.), which second signal may help the user engage in meditation when the user is having difficulty engaging in meditation. Additionally, or alternatively, the second signal may be associated with a lower strength than the first signal, such as when the first signal was too strong (i.e. uncomfortable and/or distracting) or when the user wants to meditate with less assistance from the signal generator (i.e. to move toward a goal of unassisted meditation). If the user determines that the second signal is appropriate for meditation, the user may continue to mediate. If the user determines that the second signal does not cause a successful meditation and/or the meditation could be optimized, the user may again operate the signal generator to change the signal from a second signal to a third signal.

The user may apply the signal (or adjust the signal or remove it in some as shown by BLOCK985) and continue meditating until the meditation is successful (BLOCK980-YES), at which point the user may complete the meditation (BLOCK990). Completing the meditation may include removing the distributor, turning off the signal generator, etc.

The foregoing description provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure or may be acquired from practice of the embodiments. It will be apparent that the assemblies, systems, methods, technologies and/or techniques, as described above, may be implemented in many different forms of implementations described herein and illustrated in the figures. The actual or specialized components and/or materials used to implement the assemblies, systems, methods, technologies and/or techniques is not limited to the embodiments; it should be understood that components and/or materials may be designed to implement the assemblies, systems, methods, technologies and/or techniques based on the description herein.

It should be emphasized that the terms “comprises”/“comprising” when used in this specification are taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or other groups thereof.

No element, act or instruction used in the present application should be construed as critical or essential to the embodiments unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Where only one item is intended, the term “one” or similar language is used. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise.

While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will recognize that other changes and modifications may be made to the foregoing embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, specific shapes of various elements of the illustrated embodiments may be altered to suit particular applications. Additionally, the meditation system, and components thereof, may have different components or be designed in different shapes using different methods of connection without departing from the spirt of the invention disclosed herein. For example, and not limitation, the size and/or shape of distributor may be determined by the brain portion(s) the distributor is intended to target. Further, the embodiments disclosed herein may be used in different applications.

It is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the disclosure herein and the equivalents thereof.