Apparatus and method for monitoring and improving the alertness of a subject
US5595488A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 4, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jan 21, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 4, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG09B5/04
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and method for monitoring and for improving the state of alertness of a subject while he continues to perform a primary task, driving a vehicle, operating machinery, etc. The apparatus includes stimulation apparatus for issuing stimuli to the subject and response apparatus for enabling the subject to reply to the stimuli. The stimuli can be audible, visual or tactile. Test results are processed and compared to baseline values taken when the subject is displaying a normal state of alertness. The rate of activation of the stimulation apparatus increases inversely with a deteriorating state of alertness of the subject to improve the state of alertness of the subject. The apparatus can be fashioned in a wide range of devices including a hand-held portable device, a wristwatch, a behind-the-ear (BTE) clip, a pair of spectacles, and for installation in a steering wheel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.