Developing a Sleep Control Biofeedback Device

Abstract

  Biofeedback devices that control the natural sound volume and promote sleep are widely available. Studies have reported that these devices help improve sleep onset in people with difficulties in falling asleep. Using a vibrating body massage is also known to improve circulation. In passive music therapy, vibrating devices and devices that effectively modify sound sensations are combined to promote sleep. We developed a sleep-promoting biofeedback device that incorporates physical vibrations. The device produces vibrations and a high-quality acoustic signal when a thin vibrator and a sensor are placed under the pillow. The biosensor in this device detects the onset of sleep and reduces sound and vibration intensity according to the participants’ wakefulness level. We expected this device to shorten the sleep onset latency. The results of a verification study indicated that participants evaluated sound and vibration attenuation by feedback control from this device as comfortable, suggesting that the device could improve participants’ sleep onset latency. The results also indicated that the device could be used as a biofeedback treatment technique because the participants can learn to relax their muscles when the volume and vibration decrease. Biofeedback technology facilitates controlling and recognizing people’s physical and emotional states. We propose that this device could increase a person’s ability to fall asleep comfortably and quickly.