HK1237235B - Configurable system for evaluating stimulus sensitivity of a subject and method of use therefor - Google Patents

Description

Configurable system for evaluating stimulus sensitivity of a subject and method of using the same

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to perceived reality augmentation and perceived improvement. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a configurable system for assessing stimulus sensitivity of a subject and methods of using the same.

Background Art

The Fulcrum Principle is a phenomenon that occurs in different human systems. The Fulcrum Principle allows the detectability of signals below a threshold to be improved by injecting random or deterministic signals into the system. Therefore, the Fulcrum Principle appears to be an interesting and striking phenomenon that is applied in sensory systems to improve the sense organs, reflexes and/or motor mechanisms of the subject. Discussion of the Fulcrum Principle can be found in "On The Physical Fundamentals Of Human Perception And Muscle Dynamics: From The Fulcrum Principle To Phonons" (J.E.Lugo et al., 11th International Conference on Vibration Problems, Z.Dimitrová et al. (Editors), Lisbon, Portugal, September 9-12, 2013), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In fact, it has been shown that when a weak sensory stimulus (excitation signal) applied to an individual for stimulating one sense, reflex and/or motor mechanism is added to a second sense, reflex and/or motor mechanism with an appropriate amount of random or determined signal amplitude (facilitation signal), the weak sensory stimulus can then be detected and thereby a specific sense, reflex and/or motor mechanism reaction activated in response to the applied weak sensory stimulus.

For example, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0005532A1, entitled “Method and System for Improving a Subject’s Sensory, Reflex and/or Motor Mechanisms via Auditory, Tactile or Visual Stimulations,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes a method and system for improving the sensitivity of a subject’s first sensory, reflex and/or motor mechanism by stimulating a second sensory, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject. To this end, noise is applied to the second sensory, reflex and/or motor mechanism to improve the sensitivity of the first sensory, reflex and/or motor mechanism due to cross-modal stochastic resonance interactions.

There remains a need for improved definition, control, and flexibility of stimulation applied to a subject's secondary senses, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present disclosure, a system for evaluating stimulus sensitivity of a subject is provided. In the system, a first action channel is configured to provide a first type of stimulus to the subject. A reaction channel is configured to receive a response from the subject. A signal path is connected to the first action channel and the reaction channel. A controller is adapted to establish at least one of a first conversion loop and a first channel loop, wherein the first conversion loop includes the first action channel and forms a path termination in the signal path, and the first channel loop includes the first action channel forming a path through the signal path and terminating at a first reference unit.

According to the present disclosure, a method for evaluating the stimulus sensitivity of a subject is also provided. The method uses a system for evaluating the stimulus sensitivity of a subject. In the system, a first action channel is configured to provide a first type of stimulus to the subject. A reaction channel is configured to receive a response from the subject. A signal path is connected to the first action channel and the reaction channel. The controller is suitable for establishing at least one of a first conversion loop and a first channel loop, wherein the first conversion loop includes a first action channel and forms a path termination in the signal path, and the first channel loop includes a first action channel forming a path through the signal path and terminates at a first reference unit. The first action channel is used as an excitation signal source for stimulating a first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject. The second action channel is used as a promotion signal source for stimulating a second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject. The reaction channel is used to measure the physiological response of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism.

According to the present disclosure, a system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's first sense organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism is also provided. In this system, a boost signal source stimulates the subject's second sense organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism. A physiological response of the first sense organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism is measured. A controller adjusts the level of the boost signal based on the measured physiological response. Due to the fulcrum principle interaction, adjusting the level of the boost signal improves the sensitivity of the subject's first sense organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism.

The foregoing and other features will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of an illustrative embodiment thereof, given by way of example only in relation to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG1 shows a simplified block diagram of a feedback system and a feedforward system;

FIG2 is a block diagram illustrating a system for stimulating a subject according to an embodiment;

FIG3 is an example of single-point stimulation (direct loop) in a pure trans-immitance configuration in the system of FIG2 ;

FIG4 is an example of distributed stimulation (direct loop) in a purely transmissive configuration in the system of FIG2 ;

FIG5 is a tree diagram illustrating the circuit classification of the present disclosure;

6 is a configuration of the system of FIG. 2 showing switch positions for a channel loop for single-point stimulation;

7 is a configuration of the system of FIG. 2 showing switch positions for a converter circuit for single-point stimulation;

FIG8 is a configuration of the system of FIG2 showing switch positions for a channel loop for distributed stimulation;

FIG9 is a configuration of the system of FIG2 showing switch positions for a converter loop for distributed stimulation;

10A , 10B and 10C show various loop configuration examples of the system of FIG. 2 ;

FIG11 is a block diagram illustrating an example application of the system of FIG2 for stimulating a subject;

FIG12 is a diagram of a converter circuit in the application of FIG11;

FIG13 is a diagram of a channel loop in the application of FIG11;

FIG14 is a diagram of an interface circuit in the application of FIG11;

FIG15 is a diagram of the adaptive loop in the application of FIG11;

16 is a flow chart of a method for improving the sensitivity of a subject's first sense, reflex, and/or motor mechanism, according to an embodiment;

17 is a flow chart of a detailed sequence for adjusting the level of a boost signal based on a measured physiological response, according to another embodiment;

FIG18 is a perspective view of an implementation of a neural tuner, under an embodiment; and

19-24 provide experimental results obtained using the neural tuner of FIG18.

The same reference numbers in different drawings denote the same features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The system disclosed herein allows for exploring the sensory limitations of the subject's perception under test, while adjusting to improve, learn and/or enable enhanced capabilities and control over the subject's sensory perception. The system uses various types of stimulation circuits, including combined, single-channel amplification, feedback, feedforward, adaptive feedback or biofeedback stimulation circuits. In addition, the present disclosure provides methods and systems for improving the sense organs, reflexes and/or motor mechanisms of a subject via sensory stimulation with the aid of a stimulation circuit configurable interface. The stimulation circuit can be automatically turned on or off via a random or determined signal to stabilize and keep the subject in an optimal performance state.

Thus, the configurable interface allows for the automatic selection of various experimental configurations. The interface supports several configuration types defined by the stimulation circuits required for the experiment to be performed.

Referring now to the accompanying drawings, FIG1 shows a simplified block diagram of a feedback system and a feedforward system. The stimulation loop can be defined as a function of the stimulus to be applied and as a function of a specific effect in the subject's perception or training. Loops with or without feedforward compensation (feedback stabilizing action between specific points) can also be defined at different block levels, including the exciter level, the channel level, involving several channels, or involving the subject itself. The loop can be implemented to involve analog signals, digital signals, or a mixture thereof, applying converters when necessary.

Loops can be defined as real-time loops (RTL), delay loops (DL) that delay the loop gain, delay compensation loops (DCL) that compensate for the time required to process signals from several stimuli simultaneously applied, rhythmic loops (CL) that delay the loop's action in a pre-established, random, or continuous manner, and so on. Delays are internal to the amplifier or to specific additional blocks (not shown). The primary function of delays is to compensate for differences in propagation time between channels. All loops defined here can have delays.

The closed-loop configuration allows the relationship between the parameters of the circuit to be stabilized based on the sampled variables and the feedback variables. The sampled and feedback variables can be, for example, current or voltage values. The stability rate (e.g., voltage gain) is used as a reference for two specific points, where the signal is first evaluated and then topologically reintroduced in the circuit, thereby closing the loop. If closed-loop feedback stabilization needs to be added to a specific stimulation channel, as a typical example of negative feedback, a sensor is used to make an assessment of the output signal from the channel action at the first of the two points. An electronic network sensor, microphone, thermometer, or any other similar sensor can be used. The sensor feeds a portion of the evaluated output signal into the feedback amplifier of the feedback channel. Typically, but not exclusively, the feedback amplifier will have a gain less than unity. At the input of the action amplifier in the direct channel, the output of the feedback amplifier is subtracted from the reference signal at the second point.

Many standard sensors are scalar sensors. Vector sensors are also considered, whose output depends not only on the magnitude value but also on the alignment of the sensor in space.

In the feedforward case, the system has a predetermined behavior in the face of environmental perturbations.

FIG2 is a block diagram illustrating a system for stimulating a subject according to the present embodiment. The system 100 includes control devices 104, 105, amplifier 102, actuator 106, sensor 108, a power supply (shown in a later figure), an operator interface (shown in a later figure), and an arrangement of active signal management equipment in a main control unit 110, arranged to perform tasks related to assessing stimulus sensitivity of a subject. FIG2 provides a non-limiting example of a system 100 having two (2) action channels and one (1) reaction channel, each action and reaction channel including one actuator 106 and one sensor 108. The actual number of action channels and reaction channels can vary and there is no a priori limit to these numbers. As described in more detail below, each of these channels can be configured to provide a direct (forward) channel and a feedback (reverse) channel. The main control unit 110 operates a switch (described below) that opens and closes to configure a configurable signal path 115. The configurable signal path 115 extends from the main control unit 110 itself to connect the main control unit to the action channel and the reaction channel. The control devices 104 and 105 can be implemented in the form of relays. Those relays 105 outside the main control unit 110 are usually implemented as actual physical devices (real relays). Those relays 104 integrated into the main control unit 110 can be implemented as actual physical devices or through software implementation (virtual relays).

The action channels manage the system actions on the subject. In the example of Figure 2, two (2) action channels provide auditory stimulation 120 and tactile stimulation (vibration) 122 to the subject under test. These action channels can be open loop channels. Alternatively, the action channels can be feedback channels implemented at the channel layer or at the conversion layer. When the signal flows from the main control unit 110 to the subject, in the case of negative feedback, the gain on the direct channel represented by the amplifier 102 (triangle pointing to the right) is negative and has a magnitude greater than 1. Therefore, the gain in the feedback channel represented by the amplifier 102 (triangle pointing to the left) has a positive value less than one.

The reaction channel manages the subject's actions (i.e., reactions) to the system 100. The reaction channel allows signals to flow from the subject to the main control unit 110. In the example of FIG2 , the reaction channel measures body temperature 124, which is provided as a signal to the main control unit 110. In the case of the reaction channel, for negative feedback, the direct path is from the reaction channel to the main control unit 110 and has a negative gain greater than 1, while the feedback path is in the opposite direction and has a positive gain less than 1.

For the action channel, the sensor 108 evaluates the evolution of the output signal applied to the subject. The actuator 106 of the action channel provides these signals to the subject. The corresponding sensor 108 monitors the performance of the actuator 106. For the reaction channel, the sensor 108 provides a signal representing the response of the subject, such as body temperature, and the actuator 106 represents the feedback compensation of these sensors 108 to control their efficiency in converting the subject's response in terms of temperature, force, skin resistivity, etc. The action channel and reaction channel configuration do not need to be implemented with electronic circuits. In the case of mass transfer equipment (such as fluid heaters or liquid coolers), mechanical actuators and electromagnetic devices, pneumatic interfaces (for example, for measuring blood pressure) may require regulator actions or valves. These are examples of actuators in the reaction channel.

It can be observed that the configurable signal path 115 formed by the switches SW1, SW2, SW3 and SW4 that are opened and closed according to commands from the control devices 104 and 105 allows the system 100 of Figure 2 to be reconfigured so that the action channel can be changed into a reaction channel, possibly exhibiting positive or negative feedback or feedforward. This dynamic configuration can be configured according to a pre-established program or alternatively according to the subject's response. The reconfiguration can be completed in real time or with a delay. Using the most effective configuration suitable for the test conditions being performed, the system 100 can allow the actual worker to find the response of the subject in the test being performed.

FIG3 is an example of a single point stimulation (direct loop) in a pure transmission configuration in the system of FIG2 . The loop shown in FIG3 provides a single point stimulation (SPS). One example shown in FIG3 is sound stimulation. Another type of SPS is a point light source. FIG4 is an example of a distributed stimulation (direct loop) in a pure transmission configuration in the system of FIG2 . Distributed stimulation can be provided using one or more exciters. For example, as in the case of FIG4 , a single wide surface exciter can be used to provide vibration stimulation. Alternatively, multiple single point exciters can be used. The loop shown in FIG4 provides distributed stimulation (DS). FIG4 shows an example of a vibrating surface attached to the body of a subject. In FIG3 and FIG4 , the loop shown is a direct loop (DL) that uses, for example, a vibrating pin acting on a finger or a vibrating surface acting on the entire palm, with a single-mode interaction acting in pure transmission (PTI) on a single sensation of the subject.

FIG5 is a tree diagram illustrating the circuit classification of the present disclosure. As introduced above, the circuit can include single point stimulation (SPS) or distributed stimulation (DS). Either can be used as a direct circuit (DL) or a mixed circuit (ML), wherein, for example, by providing audio and video stimulation simultaneously, a single or distributed stimulation acts on a combination of sense organs. ML examples are provided herein below. Distributed stimulation is provided in pure transducer impedance (PTI), while mixed stimulation is provided in transconductance impedance (CI). PTI examples are provided in FIG3 and 4, while CI examples are provided herein below. Each given circuit can have a positive or negative gain, with a gain amplitude ranging from zero (0) to infinity (∞).

FIG6 is a configuration of the system of FIG2 , illustrating the switch positions of the channel loop for single-point stimulation. FIG7 is a configuration of the system of FIG2 , illustrating the switch positions of the transducer loop for single-point stimulation. FIG8 is a configuration of the system of FIG2 , illustrating the switch positions of the channel loop for distributed stimulation. FIG9 is a configuration of the system of FIG2 , illustrating the switch positions of the transducer loop for distributed stimulation. The opening or closing of switches SW1, SW2, SW3, and SW4 in accordance with commands from control devices 104 and 105 creates various types of loops within configurable signal path 115. These direct loops are configured in a pure transducer immittance (PTI) manner ( FIG3 , 4 , 6-9 ). Non-limiting examples of direct loops provide audio signals that form auditory stimulation and are related to auditory perception.

Figures 8 and 9 show three (3) different actuator/sensor pairs used to provide distributed stimulation. In one variation, three (3) independent SPS loops can be used to provide the same type of stimulation.

Figures 10A, 10B, and 10C show examples of various circuit configurations for the system 100 of Figure 2. In these figures, hybrid circuits (ML) are configured with transconductance (CI). They can, for example, provide an audio signal that induces auditory stimulation 120 and is associated with tactile perception 122, or an audio signal that induces tactile stimulation (from the inherent vibration of the audio signal) and is associated with visual perception.

Switches SW1A, SW2A, SW3A, and SW4A are part of the configurable signal path 115 for the first action channel. Switches SW1B, SW2B, SW3B, and SW4B are part of the configurable signal path 115 for the first action channel. In FIG10A , the stimulation channel is in an open loop, as evidenced by the opening of switches SW4A and SW4B in the feedback path of these channels. Feedback channel 200 is provided to return information about the subject's response. In contrast, FIG10B and FIG10C illustrate the closing of switches SW4B and SW1B to create a closed loop within the stimulation channel, creating a feedback path within the stimulation channel in addition to feedback channel 200. FIG10B and FIG10C illustrate that the feedback path within the stimulation channel can consist of either a transducer loop or a channel loop. FIG10C also illustrates the addition of a variable T0, provided by a temperature sensor, representing the temperature of the subject's surroundings. This addition enables system 100 to become a feedforward system, wherein the main control unit 110 gains the ability to modify the system's behavior as a function of T0. For example, the system 100 may have the ability to "learn" which configuration is most effective as T 0 changes. Thus, the system 100 has the ability to evaluate its performance and manage configurations accordingly.

The system 100 of Figures 10A, 10B and 10C can be configured to operate in open-loop or closed-loop mode, providing transducer loops, channel loops, or a combination thereof, with or without parameters for feed-forward operation. Thus, a large number of different configurations can be defined.

In one variation, the system 100 may apply the stimulation using any interface speakers, monitors, etc. In another variation, the system 100 uses natural stimulation sources to provide ambient sounds or images.

The loop can be configured with a wide range of positive or negative feedback gains, from very low positive or negative feedback gains, approaching or reaching open loop, to very high positive (incoming) or negative (outgoing) feedback gains. The feedback gain can be varied according to predefined (sequential, random, etc.) or adaptive operating modes.

While Figures 2, 10A, 10B, and 10C illustrate embodiments using feedback compensation (as described in Figure 1, top), another embodiment of system 100 may be provided with feedforward compensation (as described in Figure 1, bottom). Figure 10C actually illustrates both feedback and feedforward compensation.

The general operation of system 100 will now be described with reference to Figures 11 to 15. Figure 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example application of the system of Figure 2 for stimulating a subject. Figure 12 is an illustration of a transducer circuit in the application of Figure 11. Figure 13 is an illustration of a channel circuit in the application of Figure 11. Figure 14 is an illustration of an interface circuit in the application of Figure 11. Figure 15 is an illustration of an adaptive circuit in the application of Figure 11. Considering first Figures 11 to 15, non-limiting examples illustrate providing auditory, tactile, and visual stimulation to a subject while a surface thermometer provides feedback from the subject to system 100.

For the purposes of simplicity and clarity, the operation of the system 100 is described with respect to a specific, non-limiting example of configuring different channels involving auditory, tactile, and visual stimulation actuators and surface thermometers. The stages associated with these channels are equipped with sensors (microphones, accelerometers, heaters and light sensors, electrical feedback networks) configured as feedback loops. It is also contemplated that the operation of the system 100 can be extended to multiple simultaneous stimulations using various numbers of channels/stimulation modules and stimulation devices.

The experiments are predefined and implemented as software tools in the main control unit 110. The loop configuration is defined by the configurable signal path 115 which is managed by the main control unit 110.

The main control unit 110 is connected to a power supply 132. It evaluates several relevant variables, processes statistical data, and manages the configuration mode of the system 100. The main control unit 110 also manages the operator interface 130 and the configurable signal path 115, which provides the connection between the operator interface 130 and other components of the system 100.

A configurable signal path 115, managed by an operator interface 130 connected to the main control unit 110, links analog and digital signals that configure the circuit, define the operating mode of the system 100, control channel parameters, and establish functional operations involving the system 100 and the subject under test.

The input-output block serves as an interface between the input-output block and the channel actuator or channel sensor.

The input-output transducer acts as a channel actuator or sensor and includes, for example, headphones, vibrators, thermometers, monitors, etc. The input-output transducer can be used in closed-loop operation.

The operator interface 130 is a human-machine interface, including, for example, a monitor, a keyboard, a pointing device, etc., all of which are not shown but are well known. The monitor can also be used as a visual stimulation actuator.

The configured circuit is defined as a function of the experiment to be performed on the subject and switches from one configuration to another as a function of the evolution of a variable or in an adaptive manner, eg depending on the voluntary or involuntary response of the subject.

In both the case of a single-point direct loop for auditory stimulation and a distributed direct loop for tactile stimulation, the transducer circuit 140 shown in FIG12 is used to stabilize the response from the actuator response. In more detail, the transducer circuit 140 itself stabilizes the actuator action. It can, for example, improve its frequency response, linearize its phase shift to avoid harmonic distortion, or flatten its gain along the spectrum, reduce its parameter drift when the ambient temperature changes, etc. These improvements are introduced into the signal arriving at the corresponding input relay (the closer control device 105) as a reference, that is, the signal is the signal presented at the reference input of the transducer circuit. If this signal contains any distortion, the transducer reproduces the distortion. The transducer itself does not introduce further significant distortion.

Channel loop 142, shown in FIG13 , is used to stabilize the variable response in the direct loop case. Adding channel loop 142 improves overall channel performance. The signal presented at the reference input of the aforementioned transducer loop now exhibits further reduced distortion, even compared to when only the transducer loop is used, due to the added negative feedback action. While transducer loop 140 has a fast reaction time, channel loop 142 provides a higher level of control. Longer loops exhibit longer propagation times.

The interface loop 144 shown in FIG. 14 stabilizes the combination of variable responses in the case of a hybrid loop.

The adaptive loop 146 shown in FIG. 15 has parameters, again such as phase shift, that depend at least in part on a response or reaction from the subject.

In operation of the system 100, an operator activates the main control unit 110, for example, via a button or key located on the operator interface 130. Using the operator interface 130, the operator can select the desired loop type to activate stimulation of the subject, such as, for example, visual stimulation, acoustic stimulation, vibration stimulation, etc. For example, auditory stimulation can be activated via a single-point direct loop (as shown in FIG3) and tactile stimulation can be activated via a distributed direct loop (as shown in FIG4). The operator can then connect the stimulation device corresponding to the selected type of stimulation to the main control unit 110 via the appropriate loop. The examples of FIG12-15 include three (3) transducer loops 140, three (3) channel loops 142, and one (1) interface loop 144 to form an adaptive loop 146. The main control unit 110 automatically configures the system mode, evaluates the variables involved, calculates statistics, and establishes links between the components of the system 100 through the configurable signal paths 115.

The system 100 of Figure 2 is flexible with respect to the number of stimuli. It is also easy to operate and can be easily transported.

More specifically, as shown in FIG11 , the system 100 generates different stimuli simultaneously. The subject can wear a main control unit 110 on a belt secured around the waist. A first stimulation device in the form of an acoustic stimulation device 150, a sensor device in the form of a temperature measurement device 152, and a second stimulation device in the form of a vibrator 154 are connected to the main control unit 110 via a configurable signal path 115.

Figures 12-15 illustrate the implementation of several circuits to implement a subject under the influence of two simultaneous sensory stimuli using the system 100 of Figure 2. In Figures 12-15, the subject is under the influence of two sensory stimuli applied simultaneously by an acoustic stimulation device 150 and a vibration stimulation device 154, and the temperature is sensed by a thermometer 152. The setup of Figures 12-15 has been used in the laboratory to demonstrate that the tactile sensitivity of a subject can be improved via acoustic stimulation.

Of course, it will be appreciated that many other such combinations of stimulation are possible, with two (2) or even more stimuli being applied simultaneously.

The concept of the Fulcrum Principle can be used to improve a subject's sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms, and more specifically, to improve a subject's general sensitivity and postural balance. The present disclosure illustrates improving the sensitivity of a subject's sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms by stimulating a different sensory mechanism using a facilitating signal. A stimulation circuit interface is used to control the level of the facilitating signal.

For the fulcrum principle to occur in a nonlinear system, the nonlinear system requires the following three parameters: (i) a threshold value, (ii) a facilitation signal, which can be stochastically determined or deterministic, and (iii) subthreshold information (i.e., an excitation signal), wherein the subthreshold information relates to the excitation signal applied to the sensory mechanism and has an amplitude that is too low (below the threshold) to allow the sensory mechanism to react to the excitation signal. The optimal amount of facilitation signal added can produce the best improvement in the detection of the excitation signal. In fact, when too little facilitation signal is added, the subthreshold excitation signal information is still below the threshold and cannot be detected. When an excessively strong facilitation signal is added to the excitation signal, the facilitation signal becomes too strong relative to the information content of the excitation signal, and therefore, the excessively strong facilitation signal will randomize the reactions of the sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms of the subject that respond to the excitation signal.

A non-restrictive aspect of the present disclosure relates to stimulating the sensory mechanism of a particular type of subject to improve the sensory organs, reflexes and/or motor mechanisms of another type of the same subject. Some experiments show that applying auditory noise as a facilitating signal to the subject's ear can regulate the sense of touch of his/her index finger, regulate the myoelectricity (EMG) activity of his/her leg muscles and/or regulate the stability map scanning area during posture maintenance. In other experiments, the facilitating signal is deterministic, and the harmonious (harmonic) sound to the subject's ear regulates the sense of touch of his/her calf. In other experiments, the harmonious visual signal to the subject's eyes regulates the sense of touch of his/her calf. Therefore, these experiments show that the interaction in the human cortex is the interaction based on the fulcrum principle, forming a multi-sensory integration system. Under the influence of the facilitating signal in the multi-sensory integration system, the generalized state of the subject can be enhanced, including postural balance.

When the subject is under the influence of several stimuli, the application of the fulcrum principle includes using a promotion signal to improve the sensitivity of the subject to the excitement signal. The excitement signal is applied to stimulate the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject. The promotion signal is applied to stimulate the second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject 36. The physiological response of the subject 36 is measured at the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism. The level of the promotion signal is adjusted based on the measured physiological response. For example, in order to improve the tactile sensitivity of the subject to the excitement signal, as shown in Figure 11, the subject is provided with an acoustic signal that forms a promotion signal. The adjustment of the acoustic promotion signal allows to find the optimal level for improving tactile sensitivity. The process of finding this optimal level using the physiological response of the target is described in more detail below. It will be understood by readers with the benefit of the present disclosure that the "optimal level" of improving tactile sensitivity or adjusting the promotion signal as applied herein is intended to represent a desired or satisfactory level, and does not mean an absolute performance level.

Figure 16 is a flow chart of a method for improving the sensitivity of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of a subject according to an embodiment. Sequence 200 may include an operation 202 for stimulating the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of a subject using a source of an exciting signal, and an operation 204 for adjusting the level of the exciting signal to the threshold value of the minimum detection at the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism. Then in operation 206, the source of the promotion signal is used to stimulate the second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject. Operation 208 comprises using a sensor to measure the physiological response of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism. Then in operation 210, the level of the promotion signal is adjusted based on the physiological response of the measurement. The application of the promotion signal adds that the measurement of the physiological response provides a kind of adaptive loop, adjusts the level of the promotion signal thus, and improves the sensitivity of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism owing to the interaction of the fulcrum principle. This is an example of a hybrid loop.

In sequence 200, the boost signal may be, for example, a stochastically determined signal or a deterministic signal, and the physiological response may include, for example, temperature measured at a first sense, reflex, and/or motor mechanism.

In a variation in sequence 200, operation 204 for adjusting the level of the excitement signal to the threshold of minimum detection at the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can include reducing the level of the excitement signal until it is no longer detectable by the subject. Once at a sub-threshold level, the machine interface automatically increases or the subject manually increases the promotion signal. When the promotion signal amplitude increases, the excitement signal sensation increases accordingly to a point where it feels like a maximum value. This point is called the maximum sensation point. If the promotion signal increases more, the excitement signal sensation begins to decrease until it weakens again. This point is the noise threshold level, which will be the new reference. The promotion signal needs to be applied for at least one minute before switching to the next noise level. The maximum sensation point will be 5 decibels lower than this point. The interface can automatically attenuate this 5 decibels by including an electronic attenuator.

Stimulating any of the first or second senses, reflexes and/or motor mechanisms may be achieved by applying an auditory signal to at least one ear of the subject, by applying a visual signal to at least one eye of the subject, by applying a tactile signal to at least one part of the subject's body, by applying an electromagnetic signal to at least one area of the subject's body, by applying a thermal signal to at least one area of the subject's body, by applying a vibration signal to at least one area of the subject's body, by providing the subject to detect an odor, or by providing the subject to taste a taste sample.

Stimulation of any of the first or second senses, reflexes and/or motor mechanisms may be achieved by directly applying an excitatory or facilitatory signal to a specific area of the subject's body.

The stimulation of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can be realized by stimulating two different areas of the body of the experimenter and applying the exciting signal in a differentiated manner so as to stimulate the range between the two different areas of the body of the experimenter. The stimulation of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can be realized by further stimulating several areas of the body of the experimenter and distributing the exciting signal so as to stimulate the range covered by these several areas of the body of the experimenter. The stimulation of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can be realized by distributing a plurality of different exciting signals on the body of the experimenter alternatively.

Stimulation of the second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can be achieved by stimulating two different areas of the subject's body and applying the facilitation signal differently so as to stimulate the range between the two different areas of the subject's body. Stimulation of the second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can be further achieved by stimulating several areas of the subject's body and distributing the facilitation signal so as to stimulate the range of the subject's body covered by the several areas. Stimulation of the second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism can alternatively be achieved by distributing multiple different facilitation signals over the subject's body.

FIG17 is a flowchart of a detailed sequence for adjusting the level of a boost signal based on a measured physiological response according to another embodiment. In one embodiment, operation 210 of FIG16 may include operations 211-217. Operation 211 includes initially not applying a boost signal. Operation 212 includes obtaining a first physiological response measurement when the boost signal is not present. Operation 213 then includes increasing the level of the boost signal, after which operation 214 includes obtaining a next physiological response measurement. Operation 215 detects an inflection point in the next physiological response measurement. After detecting the inflection point for the current level of the boost signal, if, in operation 216, the predetermined maximum level of the boost signal is not reached, operations 213, 214, and 215 are repeated. After the predetermined maximum level of the boost signal is reached in operation 216, operation 217 includes selecting a level of the boost signal that provides a maximum physiological response, which increases as the duration of obtaining the physiological response is increased, so as to complete the adjustment of the level of the boost signal based on the measured physiological response.

In one variation, the operation 214 of acquiring each physiological measurement can be performed in real time. A skilled reader having the benefit of this disclosure will be able to adjust the acquisition time within this range or a wider range depending on the specific implementation of the method. In the same or other variations, the operation 217 of selecting the level of the boost signal that provides the maximum physiological response, wherein the physiological response increases with the duration of the acquisition of the physiological response, can include calculating the integral of each physiological response measurement over the duration of its acquisition, calculating the gradient of each physiological response, wherein the gradient is normalized by its own amplitude, calculating the product of the integral and the gradient for each physiological response, and then selecting the highest positive product.

Of course, the system 100 and its components introduced in the previous description of Figures 2-4 and 6-15, and variations of such system 100 and components can be used to apply the method and improve the sensitivity of the subject's first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism. Thus, the system 100 can include a source of a stimulating signal for stimulating the subject's second sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism, a sensor for measuring a physiological response of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism, and a controller, such as the main control unit 110 or a controller built into the main control unit 110, for adjusting the level of the stimulating signal based on the measured physiological response. As an example, the sensor can be configured to measure the temperature at the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism.

In some embodiments, the fulcrum principle interacts with each other, and system 100 can adjust the level of promotion signal and improve the sensitivity of the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of subject. In system 100, the source of promotion signal can include visual stimulation device, vibration stimulation device, electromagnetic stimulation device, thermal stimulation device, tactile stimulation device, acoustic stimulation device, the smell (such as fragrance) placed in the short distance of subject or the taste sample that subject can taste. The source of promotion signal can be configured to directly stimulate the specific area of the body of subject. Or, system 100 can include two sources, for applying the promotion signal of distinction by stimulating two different areas of subject, so as to stimulate the range between two different areas of the body of the tester. In another alternative, system 100 can include multiple sources, for applying distributed promotion signal by stimulating several areas of subject's body, so as to stimulate the range covered by these several areas of subject's body, or include multiple different types of sources, for applying multiple different promotion signals to subject's body.

The controller of system 100 may be capable of performing or controlling the execution of all of the operations of the sequence of Figures 16 and 17, including, but not limited to, performing each physiological measurement acquisition for a duration in a range between one (1) and two (2) minutes, and further including, but not limited to, selecting a level of the boost signal that provides a maximum physiological response by calculating the integral of each physiological response measurement over the duration of its acquisition, calculating the gradient of each physiological response, wherein the gradient is normalized by its own amplitude, calculating the product of the integral and the gradient for each physiological response, and selecting the highest positive product, where the physiological response increases with the duration of the acquisition of the physiological response.

System 100 may include a source of an excitation signal for stimulating a first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism of the subject, etc. In this case, the controller is configured to adjust the level of the excitation signal to a subthreshold level at the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism before adjusting the level of the facilitation signal. The controller can also be configured to adjust the level of the excitation signal at the first sense organ, reflex and/or motor mechanism to a subthreshold level by reducing the level of the excitation signal until it is no longer detectable by the subject. Once at the subthreshold level, the machine interface automatically increases or the subject manually increases the facilitation signal. When the facilitation signal amplitude increases, the excitation signal sensation increases accordingly to a point where it feels like a maximum value, which is called the maximum sensation point. If the facilitation signal increases more, the excitation signal sensation begins to decrease until it weakens again. This point is the noise threshold level, which will be the new reference. The facilitation signal needs to be applied for at least one minute before switching to the next noise level. The maximum sensation point will be 5 decibels lower than this point. The interface can automatically attenuate this 5 decibels by including an electronic attenuator. The source of the excitation signal can include a visual stimulation device, a vibration stimulation device, an electromagnetic stimulation device, a thermal stimulation device, a tactile stimulation device, an acoustic stimulation device, an odor (e.g., fragrance) placed within a short distance of the subject, or a taste sample that the subject can taste. A stimulator connected to the source of the excitation signal can apply the excitation signal to a first sense organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism, and another stimulator connected to the source of the facilitation signal can apply the facilitation signal to a second sense organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism.

The system 100 may also include an interface for connecting the system 100 to a computer for transferring information related to the stimulation procedure thereto.

The actual realization of above-mentioned system 100 and method has been implemented and is described below.Figure 18 is the perspective view of the realization of neurotuner (neurotuner) according to an embodiment.System 200 comprises main control unit 210, and it is usually in conjunction with most of the elements of the system 100 of Fig. 2.Main control unit 210 comprises the source of promotion signal and the source of excitement signal, has independent signal control 212 and 214.This system 200 also comprises the promotion signal interface 216 that is connected to audio earphone 218 and the excitement signal interface 220 that is connected to tactile signal actuator 222.Tactile signal actuator 222 also can be used as temperature sensor or temperature can be measured separately using the temperature sensor 224 that is connected to main control unit 210 via physiological response interface 226.Finally, this system 200 comprises the operator interface 228 that is used to control main control unit 210 automatically.

The system 200 uses a computer interface comprising a transducer circuit 140 and a channel circuit 142 for measuring the evolution of the subject's peripheral temperature, which in this particular example represents a sign of arousal. This computer interface is based on the fact that the subject's peripheral temperature, measured at their limbs, varies depending on the amount of blood perfusing the skin. This, in turn, depends on the client's sympathetic nervous system. When people become nervous, their fingers tend to become colder. This phenomenon is well known in the field of relaxation training, in which subjects learn to actively increase their finger temperature. The subthreshold level here represents a state of nervousness.

Six (6) subjects were similarly trained. The subjects were not asked to learn to actively increase their finger temperature. Instead, the increase in finger temperature was facilitated by the use of an effective auditory randomly determined signal. The subjects began the experiment with a no-facilitating signal condition for two (2) minutes, and then, during each two (2) minute period, three randomly determined signal levels ranging from low, medium, to high amplitudes were applied to the audio headset 218. Finally, for another two (2) minute period, the no-facilitating condition was applied again. A tactile signal stimulator 222 was tied to the palm side of the index finger using Velcro to obtain a reading of their finger temperature. Figures 19-24 provide experimental results obtained using the neuromodulator of Figure 18. These figures were obtained from six (6) subjects, represented as S1-S6. In each of Figures 19-24, the upper portion shows a graph of the palmar temperature of the index finger over time, which is divided into the following five (5) consecutive conditions: (a) no boosting signal, (b) low randomly determined level, (c) medium randomly determined level, (d) high randomly determined level, and (e) no boosting signal. The lower portion of the figure shows a histogram of the best index associated with the auditory conditions (a-e) of the randomly determined boosting signal, which are described below.

The following observations can be drawn from the experimental results:

1) In subjects S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5, under the first condition without a promotion signal, the temperature decreased on average.

2) In general, one of the randomly determined levels was more effective in increasing temperature among all participants.

3) In subjects S1, S3, S4, and S6, under the final condition without a promotion signal, the temperature decreased on average.

4) Only in subjects S2 and S5, under conditions without a facilitatory signal, did the temperature increase on average.

5) Overall, auditory random deterministic signals effectively increased temperature.

The maximum sensation point is measured as follows: the experiment is started and there is no boost signal condition for two (2) minutes. The interface measures the temperature change. At a low amplitude level, manually start the application of the auditory random determination signal. Observe whether the temperature rises, in which case, maintain this level until the temperature starts to drop. Raise the level of the boost signal again to a medium amplitude level. When the random determination signal amplitude level is high, that is, the predetermined maximum value of the experiment, repeat the process. In most subjects, the temperature will drop in the presence of this high amplitude random determination signal. The operator interface 228 then calculates the integral of the surface under the curve of the upper part of Figures 19-24. The operator interface 228 also calculates the average gradient normalized by its own amplitude. Of course, depending on the positive or negative slope of the curve, a positive or negative unit value is provided accordingly. The product of the area under the curve and the positive or negative unit specifies the optimal boost signal level, also referred to as the optimal index in this article. Therefore, the optimal boost level is the one with the highest positive optimal index. The operator interface 228 may automatically determine which boost levels provide the best metrics, but this determination may of course be done manually based on experimental results.

In one variation, an adaptive loop can be implemented; the operator interface 228 can also automatically apply the required auditory enhancement signal to find the optimal index. The operator interface 228 can calculate the temperature gradient in real time. If the gradient is positive or zero, the auditory enhancement amplitude is not changed. Otherwise, the auditory enhancement signal is incremented until the gradient is zero or positive again. It has been observed that a waiting time of two (2) minutes before the operator interface 228 increases the auditory enhancement level is satisfactory. If the gradient remains negative after two noise level increments, the operator interface 228 can be configured to stop the process and automatically determine the optimal index as described in the above paragraph.

The present disclosure has been described in the foregoing specification by way of non-limiting embodiments provided as examples. These illustrative embodiments may be modified at will. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the specification as a whole.

Claims (36)

1. A system for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject, comprising: The first action channel is configured to provide the subject with a first type of stimulus; A reaction channel is configured to receive a response from the subject, wherein the first action channel and the reaction channel are implemented by an actuator and a sensor; The signal path is connected to the first action channel and the reaction channel; and The controller is adapted to establish at least one of the following: The first conversion loop includes the first action channel and forms a path that terminates in the signal path. The first channel loop includes the first action channel that forms a path through the signal path and terminates at the first reference unit. The interface loop includes the first action channel, the response channel, and the first reference unit, wherein the first reference unit has a first initial parameter value; and The adaptive loop includes a first action channel, a response channel, and a first reference unit, wherein the first reference unit adjusts from a first initial parameter value to a first adaptive parameter value based on the response from the subject. The signal path described therein is an automatically configured signal path consisting of switches that open and close according to commands from the controller. The signal path allows the system to be dynamically reconfigured in real time or with a delay, based on a pre-established program or the subject's response, so that the action channel can become a response channel. 2. The system for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 1, comprising multiple action channels. 3. The system for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 1, comprising multiple response channels. 4. The system for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 1, wherein the signaling pathway extends from a main control unit including the controller to connect the main control unit to the first action channel and the response channel. 5. The system for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 1, comprising a second action channel configured to provide a second type of stimulus to the subject and connected to the signaling pathway. 6. The system for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 5, wherein the controller is further adapted to establish: The system comprises a second conversion circuit, a second channel circuit, and a hybrid circuit. The second conversion circuit includes a second action channel and a second relay unit of the signal path. The second channel circuit includes a second action channel and a second reference unit of the controller. The hybrid circuit includes a first action channel, a second action channel, a first reference unit, and a second reference unit. The interface loop further includes a second action channel and a second reference unit, wherein the second reference unit has a second initial parameter value; and The adaptive loop further includes the second action channel and the second reference unit, wherein the second reference unit adjusts from the second initial parameter value to the second adaptive parameter value based on the response from the subject. 7. A method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject using the system of claim 6, comprising: The first action channel is used as an excitation signal source to stimulate the subject’s first sense, reflexes and/or motor mechanisms. Using the second action channel as a facilitating signal source to stimulate the subject's secondary sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms; and The physiological responses of the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms are measured using the aforementioned response channels. 8. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 7, comprising: The level of promoting signals is adjusted based on the measured physiological response; Among them, due to the interaction of the fulcrum principle, adjusting the level of the facilitating signal improves the sensitivity of the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms; This improves the sensitivity of the subject's first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms. 9. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 7, wherein the facilitating signal is a deterministic or randomly determined signal. 10. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 7, wherein stimulating the second sensory organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism comprises elements selected from the group consisting of: applying an auditory signal to at least one ear of the subject, applying a visual signal to at least one eye of the subject, applying a tactile signal to at least a portion of the body of the subject, applying an electromagnetic signal to at least one area of the body of the subject, applying a thermal signal to at least one area of the body of the subject, applying a vibration signal to at least one area of the body of the subject, providing the subject with a sample for detecting odors, and providing the subject with a sample for tasting flavors. 11. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein stimulating the subject's second sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms comprises applying the facilitating signal directly to a specific area of the subject's body. 12. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein stimulating the subject's second sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms comprises differentially applying the facilitating signal by stimulating two different areas of the subject's body to stimulate the area between the two different areas of the subject's body. 13. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein stimulating the subject's second sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms comprises distributing the facilitating signal by stimulating several areas of the subject's body to stimulate areas of the subject's body covered by several areas. 14. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein stimulating the subject's second sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms comprises applying a plurality of different facilitating signals. 15. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the physiological response includes temperature measured at the first sensory organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism. 16. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, comprising: a) Do not apply any encouraging signals; b) Acquire the first physiological response measurement in the absence of a stimulating signal; c) Increase the level of the promoting signal; d) Obtain the next physiological response measurement; e) Detect the inflection point of the next physiological response measurement; f) Following the detection of the inflection point, repeat operations c), d), and e) until the predetermined maximum level of the stimulating signal is reached; Adjusting the level of the facilitating signal based on the measured physiological response includes selecting the level of the facilitating signal that provides the maximum increase in physiological response during its acquisition. 17. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 16, wherein each physiological measurement is acquired in real time. 18. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 16, wherein selecting the level of the facilitating signal that provides the maximum increase in physiological response during its acquisition comprises: Calculate the integral of each physiological response measurement over its acquisition period; Calculate the gradient for each physiological response, where the gradient is normalized by its own magnitude; For each physiological response, calculate the product of the integral and its gradient; and Choose the product with the highest positive value. 19. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to any one of claims 7 to 10, comprising: Use an excitatory signal source to stimulate the first sensory organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism; and Before adjusting the level of the facilitating signal, the level of the excitatory signal is adjusted to the minimum detection threshold at the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism. 20. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 19, wherein adjusting the level of the excitation signal to a minimum detection threshold at the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism comprises reducing the level of the excitation signal until it is no longer detectable by the subject. 21. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 20, comprising, after reducing the level of the excitation signal until it is no longer detectable by the subject, increasing the stimulating signal until the excitation signal weakens again. 22. The method for assessing the stimulus sensitivity of a subject according to claim 19, wherein stimulating the first sensory organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism comprises elements selected from the group consisting of: applying an auditory signal to at least one ear of the subject, applying a visual signal to at least one eye of the subject, applying a tactile signal to at least a portion of the body of the subject, applying an electromagnetic signal to at least one area of the body of the subject, applying a thermal signal to at least one area of the body of the subject, applying a vibration signal to at least one area of the body of the subject, providing the subject with a sample for detecting odors, and providing the subject with a sample for tasting flavors. 23. A system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary senses, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms, comprising: A signal source is provided to stimulate the secondary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms of the subject. Sensors for measuring the physiological responses of the first sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms; and A controller is provided for automatically selecting the source of the stimulating signal and automatically adjusting the level of the stimulating signal based on the measured physiological response and the evolution of the physiological response measured in multiple measurements; Specifically, due to the interaction of the fulcrum principle, adjusting the level of the facilitating signal improves the sensitivity of the subject's first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms. The controller is configured as follows: a) Do not apply any encouraging signals; b) Acquire the first physiological response measurement in the absence of a stimulating signal; c) Increase the level of facilitating signals; d) Obtain the next physiological response measurement; e) Detect the inflection point of the next physiological response measurement; f) Following the detection of the inflection point, repeat operations c), d), and e) until the predetermined maximum level of the stimulating signal is reached; g) The level of the facilitating signal is adjusted by selecting the level of the facilitating signal that provides the maximum increase in physiological response during its acquisition. 24. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary senses, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23, wherein the stimulating signal source is selected from the group consisting of: visual stimulation devices, vibration stimulation devices, electromagnetic stimulation devices, thermal stimulation devices, tactile stimulation devices, auditory stimulation devices, odor sources placed at close range to the subject, and devices for providing taste samples for the subject to taste. 25. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the stimulating signal source is configured to apply direct stimulation to a specific area of the subject's body. 26. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23 or 24, comprising two sources for applying distinct facilitating signals by stimulating two different regions of the subject's body to stimulate a region between the two different regions of the subject's body. 27. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23 or 24, comprising a plurality of sources for applying distributed facilitating signals by stimulating several regions of the subject's body to stimulate areas of the subject's body covered by the several regions. 28. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary senses, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23 or 24, comprising multiple different types of sources for applying multiple different stimulating signals to the patient's body. 29. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23 or 24, further comprising an interface for connecting the system to a computer for transmitting information about stimulus processing to the computer. 30. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the sensor is configured to measure temperature at the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism. 31. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23, wherein the controller is configured to acquire each physiological measurement in real time. 32. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23, wherein selecting the level of the facilitating signal that provides the maximum increase in physiological response during its acquisition comprises: Calculate the integral of each physiological response measurement over its acquisition period; Calculate the gradient for each physiological response, where the gradient is normalized by its own magnitude; For each physiological response, calculate the product of the integral and its gradient; and Choose the product with the highest positive value. 33. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 23, comprising: Excitation signal sources are used to stimulate the first sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms; and The controller is configured to adjust the level of the excitation signal to a sub-threshold level at the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism before adjusting the level of the facilitating signal. 34. The system of claim 33 for improving the sensitivity of a subject's first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the level of the excitation signal to a sub-threshold level at the first sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism by reducing the level of the excitation signal until it is no longer detectable by the subject. 35. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary senses, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms according to claim 33, wherein the excitation signal source is selected from the group consisting of: visual stimulation devices, vibration stimulation devices, electromagnetic stimulation devices, thermal stimulation devices, tactile stimulation devices, auditory stimulation devices, odor sources placed at close range to the subject, and devices for providing taste samples for the subject to taste. 36. The system for improving the sensitivity of a subject's primary sensory organs, reflexes, and/or motor mechanisms as claimed in claim 33, comprising: A stimulator, connected to the excitation signal source, is used to apply the excitation signal to the first sensory organ, reflex, and/or motor mechanism; and Another stimulator, connected to the facilitating signal source, is used to apply the facilitating signal to the second sensory, reflex, and/or motor mechanism.