Advancing and Validating Galvanic Induced Disorientation Simulation Trainer (GIST)

We developed a functional laboratory disorientation trainer prototype. The end deliverable is a system that astronauts will regularly use to simulate landing and recovery type tasks and that is used to develop sensorimotor standards to gage suitability to perform tasks. We adapted an existing portable constant current stimulation design (that incorporates an in-built IMU) into a first functional version of a galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) disorientation trainer that fully meets the stated deliverables of the solicitation. The early prototype was single channel, wirelessly charged, had data logging capability, ~5 hour run time, 1 mA current limit, and provided full control via a bluetooth connected smartphone app. We adapted it into a 2 channel version to allow simulating pitch and roll tilt, increase current limit to 5 mA and related voltage compliance, provide option for user-adjustable manual gain, emergency on-off switch, incorporate user-switchable rechargeable batteries, and external /manual event triggering. Phase-1 established a laboratory version of the disorientation trainer culminating in pilot testing with 3 participants. Astronauts experience changes in vestibular function while in a microgravity environment leading to spatial disorientation upon return to Earth. This compromises performance during landing and any tasks performed soon afterwards. A non-invasive electrical stimulation technique called Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS) has been used to reproduce post-flight postural instability. The electrical current stimulates the afferent neurons of the vestibular system and disrupts vestibular input. However, the GVS method that currently exists does not sufficiently mimic astronauts’ post-flight neurovestibular experience. Their disorientation is contingent on head-tilt, unlike the experience induced by regular GVS. Therefore, we will build upon the GVS approach, but with a coupling scheme that conceptually will better mimic astronauts’ spatial orientation perceptions post-flight. Our device will be capable of inducing illusory motion in both roll and pitch axes in response to head-tilt orientation and angular velocity as measured by a head mounted IMU We developed a functional laboratory disorientation trainer prototype. The end deliverable is a system that astronauts will regularly use to simulate landing and recovery type tasks and that is used to develop sensorimotor standards to gage suitability to perform tasks. We adapted an existing portable constant current stimulation design (that incorporates an in-built IMU) into a first functional version of a galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) disorientation trainer that fully meets the stated deliverables of the solicitation. The early prototype was single channel, wirelessly charged, had data logging capability, ~5 hour run time, 1 mA current limit, and provided full control via a bluetooth connected smartphone app. We adapted it into a 2 channel version to allow simulating pitch and roll tilt, increase current limit to 5 mA and related voltage compliance, provide option for user-adjustable manual gain, emergency on-off switch, incorporate user-switchable rechargeable batteries, and external /manual event triggering. Phase-1 established a laboratory version of the disorientation trainer culminating in pilot testing with 3 participants.

Upon successful completion of Phase-2, we will have validated our device for inducing spatial disorientation using a range of simulated operational tasks. We envision our technology being used by NASA JSC to train all crew-members. In the future, there is potential for NASA to use the same technology to treat space sickness. We have begun discussions with private space companies on incorporating our technology. In addition, technology can be used as a countermeasure for space sickness. Further commercial applications include medical (e.g. correction of balance impairment in Traumatic Brain Injury) and virtual / augmented reality in training and entertainment.

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