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Method and apparatus for sensory stimulation

  • US 20090079550A1
  • Filed: 09/18/2008
  • Published: 03/26/2009
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/18/2007
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for producing an electrosensory sensation to at least one body member to be stimulated, the apparatus comprising:

  • one or more conducting electrodes, each conducting electrode being provided with an insulator wherein, when the at least one body member to be stimulated is proximate to the conducting electrode, the insulator prevents flow of direct current from the conducting electrode to the body member to be stimulated and a capacitive coupling over the insulator is formed between the conducting electrode and the at least one body member to be stimulated;

    a high-voltage source for applying an electrical input to the one or more conducting electrodes, wherein the electrical input comprises a low-frequency component in a frequency range between 10 Hz and 1000 Hz;

    wherein the capacitive coupling and electrical input are dimensioned to produce an electrosensory sensation;

    whereby the electrosensory sensation is produced independently of any mechanical vibration of the one or more conducting electrodes or insulators; and

    wherein the apparatus further comprises means for conveying information via the electrosensory sensation by modulating the electrical input according to said information.

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