WO2007021988A2

WO2007021988A2 - Psychoacoustic seat and relaxation process

Info

Publication number: WO2007021988A2
Application number: PCT/US2006/031466
Authority: WO
Inventors: William G. Hatcher, Jr.
Original assignee: Hatcher William G Jr
Priority date: 2005-08-10
Filing date: 2006-08-10
Publication date: 2007-02-22
Also published as: WO2007021988A3

Abstract

A motorized seat is provided in which a seating structure can be rotated at variable speeds and directions through an associated drive motor. In close proximity to the seating structure is an array of speakers through which music is played. An occupant seated in the chair experiences a variety of acoustical and rotational phenomena as the speed and direction of chair rotation is varied in accompaniment to the music. The seating apparatus and resulting process provides for a relaxing experience.

Description

PYSCHOACOUSTIC SEAT AND RELAXATION PROCESS

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application having serial number 60/796,974 filed on August 10, 2005, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention is directed towards a relaxation technique and an apparatus for carrying out the relaxation technique. The relaxation technique involves a process where a person is positioned on a seating structure such as a recliner chair or similar seating apparatus. The chair has a drive mechanism which provides for a variable speed and direction of rotation. In close proximity to the chair is an array of speakers through which music or other sounds are played. A participant, who is preferably blindfolded or in a dark environment, experiences a variety of acoustical and rotational phenomena as a speed and a direction of the chair rotation may be varied in accompaniment to an acoustical selection. The process and apparatus provides for a unique experience which is stimulating, relaxing, as well as recreational.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to a relaxation technique and apparatus for facilitating the relaxation technique. It is known in the art to provide interactive experiences which combine a motion controlled seating structure which may move in response to an interactive video/film projection. Such motion simulators provide both useful training and entertainment relative to simulated events such as a flight simulator, a theme park ride, or an arcade game. While such interactive simulators provide realistic training and/or entertainment, the experiences are designed to simulate a dangerous or thrilling activity. It is also known in the art to provide for a rotating table which operates at speeds of up to 5 rpm in which users can be reclined while they are subject to a slow rotation which is stated to be relaxing. One such system is commercially available under the trade name of BOSS™ by Innovation Technologies and Energy Medicine (E. Petersburg, PA).

While such rotational structures may provide a variety of entertainment and/or relaxation, the prior art does not provide for a process or apparatus in which an individual can be rotated at higher RPMs while subject to additional relaxing sensory experiences. Accordingly, there remains room for variation and improvement within the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one aspect of at least one of the present embodiments to provide for a seating structure for supporting at least one individual and in which the seating structure has a motorized rotation, the rotation being controllable by the individual.

It is yet a further aspect of at least one of the present embodiments to provide for a seating structure which may be rotated and in which an individual occupant or a separate observer can vary the rotational speed and direction of a rotation in response to an environmental stimulus such as music, sounds, or narrative recordings.

It is yet another aspect of at least one of the present embodiments to provide a relaxation technique providing the steps of: placing an individual within a seating structure; placing a plurality of speakers in proximity to a circumference of rotation defined by the seating structure; rotating the individual within the motorized seating structure at a first speed and in a first direction of rotation while music is being played through the plurality of speakers; varying at least one of either a speed or a direction of rotation in response to changes in the played music; repeating the steps of varying a speed and a direction of rotation in response to changes within the music, thereby providing a relaxed state for the individual.

It is yet a further aspect of at least one embodiment of the present invention to provide a relaxation technique in which the individual is either

MGC-1-PCT blindfolded or otherwise experiences the relaxation technique in a darkened environment.

It is a still further aspect of at least one embodiment of the present invention to provide a seating unit which is responsive to a remote control device operated by either the individual or an assistant, the remote control device including a programmable memory storage capability which saves a particular rotation pattern in terms of speed and direction for future use with a selected song.

It is yet a further aspect of at least one embodiment of the present invention to provide a rotating seating unit having a safety "kill switch" which is automatically engaged by either a simple movement of the occupant and/or release of a switch or sensor and which will rapidly stop the motion of the chair.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A fully enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the specification, including reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic view of an individual positioned in a rotatable chair as seen in proximity to a plurality of speakers. Figure 2 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3 is a partially exploded view showing additional details of the apparatus as seen in Figure 2.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a hand held control unit which may be used in controlling the speed and direction of the chair as seen in Figure 2. Figure 5 is a side view of an additional embodiment of the invention showing a slip ring motor drive unit and which can be directly controlled by a wired connection operated by the seated individual.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

MGC-1-PCT Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are set forth below. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used on another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Other objects, features, and aspects of the present invention are disclosed in the following detailed description. It is to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is a description of exemplary embodiments only and is not intended as limiting the broader aspects of the present invention, which broader aspects are embodied in the exemplary constructions.

In describing the various figures herein, the same reference numbers are used throughout to describe the same material, apparatus, or process pathway. To avoid redundancy, detailed descriptions of much of the apparatus once described in relation to a figure is not repeated in the descriptions of subsequent figures, although such apparatus or process is labeled with the same reference numbers.

As seen in reference to Figure 1 , there is illustrated a diagrammatic view of a rotating chair 10 having an individual 20 positioned within the chair 10. As seen by the directional arrows, the chair 10 is capable of rotation in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. While chair 10 is seen here in the form of a recliner, any suitable seating member may be used though it is believed that a chair selected for comfort and which has an ability to assume various adjustable positions is more conducive to the relaxation process. As further seen in reference to Figure 1 , one or more speakers 40 are positioned outside of a location perimeter defined by the rotational movement of the chair 10 and the seated individual 20. While Figure 1 illustrates four speakers positioned an equidistance apart, the number of speakers and their placement may be varied. It has been found that providing at least three

MGC-1-PCT speakers set at roughly equidistance about a perimeter of rotation of the chair provides an enjoyable and relaxing experience. In addition, while Figure 1 illustrates that the sound direction from the speakers is targeted towards a center of the seating apparatus such as a chair 10, it is envisioned that the angle of the speakers may be varied so as to achieve a variation in the tonal qualities and sensory experiences of the described process. Each speaker 40 is in communication with a music playing device 42 such as an MP3 player. A conventional cable wire 44 may be used to connect the speakers to the music playing device 42 or conventional wireless speaker technology may be used. As further seen in reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the individual 20 may control the speed of rotation as well as the direction of rotation using a controller 30. In one embodiment of the invention, controller 30 uses wireless communication such as radio waves, Bluetooth™ technology, or other forms of wireless communication to communicate with an electronic receiver 60. Electronic receiver 60 will transmit signals to motor 50 which in turn controls the direction and speed of rotation of chair 10. It is also envisioned that the individual 20 may allow a bystander to use the controller 30 to operate the chair and audio controls.

As best seen in reference to Figure 3, additional details on the operation of one type of a chair 10 and motor 50 combination are illustrated. In the embodiment set forth in Figure 3, motor 50 engages a pulley 58. Pulley 58 is connected via a belt 56 to a larger pulley defining a roller bearing 54 for receiving a drive shaft 52. The drive shaft 52 is in communication with a coupling 14 having a bearing which supports chair 10. In response to the speed and direction of travel of motor shaft 59, the direction and speed of rotation is determined. As further seen in reference to Figure 3, the moving portions of the chair drive components can be positioned between a base 18 and an associated cover 16 which can be secured together through conventional fasteners 17. As seen in reference to Figure 3, the plurality of speakers 40 may be supported on a rigid stand which in turn is connected to a portion of the chair base. Alternatively, separate speakers which are not physically attached to any component of the chair may be used.

MGC-1-PCT In reference to Figure 4, the control unit 30, seen here in the form of a wireless remote control unit, may have a lay out of switches and buttons to control various parts of the chair and chair associated processes. For instance, input buttons 31 and 32 may be used to control the volume of the audio. Buttons 33 and 36 may be used to increase or decrease, respectively, the speed of rotation. Similarly, buttons 34 and 35 may control the relative clockwise or counterclockwise direction of rotation or provide controls for coasting of the chair. For convenience, a wrist lanyard 37 may be provided. As a safety feature, an on/off switch 39 is provided. An authorization card 38 may also be preset as a required element to prevent unauthorized use of the device. Further, the card 38 may further function as a conventional flash memory card which can save multiple patterns of chair movements. As used herein, the term "patterned chair movements" includes a sequence of rotation speeds, acceleration or de-acceleration rates, directions, and timing sequences of chair movement. In this manner, once a user identifies a desired sequence of a rotation pattern, the pattern may be stored for future use with a given piece of music. It is further envisioned that the flash memory card 38 can be provided with a series of pre-programmed rotation patterns which are recommended for use with selected musical performances. The flash memory card 38 may use a conventional CPU to record and read rotation patterns as is conventional within the art. Controller 30 may thus serve as a programmable controller which allows the user to select and save desired patterns of chair movements.

While not separately set forth on the Figures, it is envisioned that an embodiment such as that seen in reference to Figures 2 and 3 could have a series of light beam sensors interconnecting adjacent speakers 40. Such sensors, similar to the sensors used on elevator doors or garage doors, would disengage the motor and/or safely stop the chair if movement is detected between the speakers or in an unsafe positioning of the chair. This safety feature is designed to prevent injury of any spectators who may mistakenly approach the revolving chair.

An additional safety feature may include the provision of a seat belt or similar restraint which must be engaged before the drive motor will engage the chair. Similarly, if the restraint is unlatched during motion, a sensor can

MGC-1-PCT transmit that information to the drive motor or other control mechanism in order to bring the chair to a rapid but safe stationary position.

It is also envisioned that an additional safety feature would include a timer feature to limit the duration of chair rotation so that a chair must be stopped and re-engaged. For instance, a timer switch (not illustrated) could be used in association with the drive motor to prevent chair rotation from extending beyond a maximum duration of, for example, 15 minutes. In this manner, should a user of the chair be unable to stop the chair or lose consciousness, the patterned chair movements will cease at a predetermined interval and must then be reset before the chair will resume operation. As seen in reference to Figure 5, an additional embodiment of a rotating chair 10 apparatus is seen. In this embodiment, drive motor 50 is in communication with a series of slip rings 70 and which in turn are in communication with support bearings and spindles as previously described. In this particular embodiment, a handheld control unit 30 can be attached to an arm rest or other structure of the chair to provide for direct communication with the drive motor. For chair embodiments where there is an interest in weight and size reduction, it is believed that the use of a slip ring 70 drive mechanism can achieve a more compact and economical drive system. A variety of different drive motors 50 could be used involving AC direct drive motors, DC direct drive motors, as well as a belt-drive motor mechanism. For maximum enjoyment, it is preferred that a quiet, variable speed motor be employed capable of providing the rpm speeds of a chair and a conventional sized adult with an ability to achieve a range of both rpms as well as acceleration/de-acceleration rates and an ability to smoothly transition from one rotational direction to the opposite direction. For example, a 1.5 HP, 1750 rpm AC motor operating on 3-phase, 230 vac is available from Leeson, Part No. 121180 along with related braking kits, gear boxes, and accessories (Leeson Electric Corporation, Graffton, Wl). In operation, chair 10 and related drive mechanism are used to rotate an individual 20 in either a clockwise or counterclockwise initial direction. As seen in reference to Figure 1 , the direction of rotation moves the individual through the sound waves promulgated by the various speakers. The speed of revolution may be from about 0 to about 45 revolutions per minute. While the

MGC-1-PCT drive motor and equipment are capable of achieving a higher rate of rotation, it is believed that routine use of rpms higher than about 30 detract from the pleasurable and relaxing aspects of the experience.

During the course of the rotation, the head of individual 20 is brought in close proximity to the plurality of speakers 40. As a result, the volume as well as the perceived direction of the music constantly changes as the individual is rotated. For instance, as seen in reference to Figure 1 , as the individual is rotated in a clockwise direction, the individual's left ear perceives an increase in volume from the speaker at the 12 o'clock position. Simultaneously, the individual's right ear experiences a lessening of volume relative to the sound coming from the speaker at the initial 9 o'clock position. Further, the user experiences a type of a Doppler effect in which subtle variations in the musical tones are experienced as the individual perceives sounds from approaching or receding speakers. Additionally, the individual is preferably wearing a blindfold 22 or is otherwise in a dark environment such that visual stimulus does not occur. The rotation generates a wind effect which is perceived on the individual's face and exposed extremities and which too is varied depending upon the direction or rotation and the speed of rotation. While individual responses may vary, it has been found that a relaxing experience is obtained listening to music which exhibits variations in the tempo. Further as the music tempo changes, it is beneficial to vary either the speed of rotation and/or the direction of rotation. For instance, during slower portions of a musical piece, a relatively slow rotation in the range of about 0 to about 5 rpms is helpful. As the tempo increases, the speed of rotation can be increased. Further, within any particular musical piece, the fastest tempo is well suited for faster rotation on the order of 30 rpms or greater depending upon the preferences of the individual.

It has also been found to increase the enjoyment and relaxation of the experience to change the direction of rotation during a song. Often, there are natural breaks within a musical composition such as when there is a change in tempo. In association with such moments, it is helpful to alter the direction of rotation. Likewise, following a very dynamic or fast paced tempo which changes to a slower tempo, the tempo change provides a useful interval to

MGC-1-PCT allow the chair to either "coast", if permitted by the motor and associated rotation mechanism, or have the motor duplicate a coasting effect by holding constant or slowly decreasing the rpms so as to simulate coasting. Likewise, intervals of deceleration are helpful as the transition from one direction of travel to another direction of travel occurs.

It is useful to employ a chair motor which can provide a smooth transition in the chair rotational speed and direction. For instance, if a dc motor is used, opposing current can be used to slow down or stop the chair rotation. For an ac motor, various forms of clutches and brakes may be used to control the rate of deceleration and/or to bring the chair to a halt.

Pneumatic motors are also known in the art which, by the nature of their design, can use a pneumatic pressure to slow, stop, and/or reverse the direction of the motor and the associated chair. Whichever form of a braking system is adopted, the musical and sensory experience of the chair is increased if the changes in chair rotational speed and direction can be brought about in a smooth manner without any jerking or uneven motions which detracts from the experience.

The seated individual experiences a variety of sensations both during and after the rotation has occurred. For instance, the individual perceives the accompanying music from a constantly changing perspective of volume and perceived sound source locations. It has been observed that individuals who may select a well known or favorite song as part of the process frequently report hearing instruments or aspects of the music which they have never before noticed. Further, individuals report an increased awareness of other senses such as touch, primarily noted by the increased sensitivity and awareness of skin to the accompanying breeze. The deprivation of light and visual stimulus is also believed important in that many individuals experience the sensation of movement in one direction when in fact the individual is traveling in the opposite direction. Such sensations frequently occur during intervals of coasting following a sudden increase in rotational speed and/or a sudden change of direction at a higher rotational speed. The combined effect is extremely relaxing as the body experiences the range of auditory and physical sensations. For instance, the body correctly perceives the direction or rotation based upon the breeze generated by movement. However, at

MGC-1-PCT times the individual will also experience the sensation of traveling in the opposite direction. In addition, the changes of pressure within the inner ear affects ones perception of balance and equilibrium while being rotated. The overall effect provides one with a safe and comforting environment in which to interactively engage with music in a fashion which alters the listening experience. In addition, the body is subjected to a series of unusual sensory experiences which are relaxing and, in turn, enhance the enjoyment of the accompanying music.

The brought about state of relaxation can be achieved quickly using a single song having a duration as brief as 3 to 5 minutes. At the conclusion of the song, the individual has the option of continued rotation at a very slow rpm or coasting until rotation is stopped. Thereafter, the individual may continue to enjoy the relaxing state in the dark environment as the body's equilibrium returns to its initial state. It is frequently observed during this transition period that the seated and blindfolded individual may continue to experience a comforting sensation of slow rotational movement even when stationary. At times the stationary individual experiences the sensation of a reversal of direction.

As is readily appreciated, the process and experience described above also subjects the individual's body to other stimuli. The rotation does exert a certain level of a perceived centrifugal force. The centrifugal force does bring about changes in blood flow and other circulatory fluids and which does affect the seated individual. It is not uncommon, following a period of rotation within the chair, that an interval of light headedness or vertigo may occur, though the individual is aware that he or she is safely positioned within the chair 10. The ability to achieve the therapeutic benefits of the relaxation as well as just the enjoyment of the auditory and physical phenomena does not appear limited to one form or genre of music. For instance, it appears that any music which an individual finds enjoyable can be used to bring about the relaxed state. For instance, classical music, relaxation nature sounds, jazz, or rock, irrespective of whether there is vocal accompaniment or not and narrative tapes, have been found to be an enjoyable experience. For voice recordings such as a book on tape, the variations in speed and rotation may be matched to appropriate themes, plots, or actions within the narrative story.

MGC-1-PCT Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described using specific terms, devices, and methods, such description is for illustrative purposes only. The words used are words of description rather than of limitation. It is to be understood that changes and variations may be made by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present invention which is set forth in the following claims. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged, both in whole, or in part. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained therein.

MGC-1-PCT

Claims

THAT WHICH IS CLAIMED:

1. A relaxation technique comprising the steps of: placing an individual within a seating structure, the seating structure responsive to a drive mechanism for rotating the seating structure at variable speeds and alternating directions; placing a plurality of speakers in proximity to a circumference of rotation defined by said seating structure; rotating said individual within said seating structure a first speed and in a first direction of rotation while music is being played through the plurality of speakers; varying at least one of either a speed or a direction of rotation in response to changes in the played music; and, repeating the steps of varying a speed and a direction of rotation in response to changes within the music.

2. A motorized chair comprising: a seating unit adapted for receiving an individual; a drive mechanism in communication with said seating unit, said drive mechanism controlling both the direction and speed of rotation of said seating unit; and, a controller, said controller in communication with said drive unit and providing user inputs to vary a direction and a speed of rotation of said seating unit.

3. The motorized chair according to claim 2 wherein said controller further includes a memory storage device, said memory storage device providing a programmable and repeatable sequence of movements of said seating unit.

4. The motorized chair wherein said drive mechanism permits the seating unit to coast in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

5. The relaxation technique according to claim 1 wherein said step of placing the plurality of speakers further includes placing at least three speakers in proximity to said circumference of rotation.

6. The relaxation technique according to claim 1 wherein said step of varying at least one of either a speed or a direction of rotation

MGC-1-PCT includes permitting said seating structure to coast without any external acceleration or de-acceleration force being applied to the seating structure.

7. The relaxation technique according to claim 1 wherein when said individual is within said seating structure, said individual has an opaque covering placed over said individual's eyes.

8. The motorized chair according to claim 2 wherein said drive mechanism is selected from the group consisting of a direct drive AC motor, a direct drive DC motor, or a motorized belt drive.

MGC-1-PCT