Patent No. 4508105 Shadow generating apparatus

 

Patent No. 4508105  Shadow generating apparatus (Whitten, et al., Apr 2, 1985)

Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus for inducing various brain wave patterns through visual stimulation. The apparatus comprises a pair of spectacles or other viewing apparatus having a liquid crystal display embedded in each lens. By repetitively activating and deactivating the liquid crystals, shadows are generated which are perceived by the subject individual wearing the viewing apparatus. Responding to the frequency of shadow generation, the subject's brain is thereby induced to generate sympathetic brain wave frequencies. The apparatus finds particular utility in the generation of alpha waves. Because learning is enhanced when the brain is in the alpha state, activities such as listening to tapes or lectures and the like can be carried out with greater facility. Shadow generation is accomplished through the use of a timing mechanism for each liquid crystal display and the frequency for each is adjustable over a wide range, permitting synchronous or asynchronous timing.

Notes:

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention lies in the art of relaxation inducing devices, and in particular it relates to the field of visual stimulation through repetitive generation of shadows. By variation of the frequency in which said shadows are generated, the desired state of mind is attained, characterized by a specific wave pattern.

BACKGROUND ART

Heretofore, a multitude of devices have been used for controlling the brain wave activity of a human subject. Certain of the prior art inventions produce the required effect through electrical or chemical stimulation of the nervous system. Others make use of flashing lights or sounds. While all such devices may be effective to a greater or lesser degree, they have certain drawbacks. For example, direct chemical or electrical nerve stimulation can have serious side effects such as temporary loss of memory, lethargy and the like. Flashing lights or sounds have been known to produce epileptic seizures in susceptible individuals and are at the very least distracting.

The alpha state characterized by a particular brain wave pattern, is manifested by a high degree of alertness found to be conducive to learning.

By way of prior art devices are the following

U.S. Pat. Nos.: 3,219,028 to Giordino;

3,255,753 to Wing;

3,470,870 to Schoffer;

3,384,074 to Nautiola, et al;

3,712,292 to Zentmeyer;

3,718,132 to Holt, et al;

3,722,501 to Derouineau;

3,762,396 to Valentine, et al;

3,822,693 to King;

3,884,218 to Monroe;

3,967,616 to Ross;

3,993,043 to Adams, et al;

4,018,218 to Carlson, et al;

4,047,377 to Banks;

4,133,305 to Steuer;

4,157,088 to Gracey;

4,227,516 to Meland, et al;

4,282,864 to Pizer;

4,335,710 to Williamson;

3,773,049 to Rabichev, et al.