About OUR TECHNOLOGY
Well here it is - Synchronized Impulse Design is a patented multisensory technology that connects music with other effects such as lights and tactile vibration, in real-time.
How it works: Preprocessed audio files are encoded with inaudible high frequency, short duration sine waves (hash marks US Patent 8463389). This process begins with beat detection algorithms evaluating transients in the audio file. Once a beat is detected, a hash mark is encoded into those specific temporal positions corresponding with the beat and mixed into a new audio file - formatted as mp3, m4a, wav etc.
These encoded songs are then loaded to a device such as tablet or smart phone. The song audio plays in normal fashion with the output connecting to a hardware device that "listens" for the encoded hashmarks. Once a hashmark is detected, output 1 triggers the multisensory stimulus such as light and/or tactile vibration, while output 2 sends the music to speakers/headphones. This occurs in real time, thus producing a crisp, synchronized sensation with audio.
From a standpoint of process automation, this technology stands apart in that it can pre-process an entire library of songs (15,000) in a single day. The encoded song files are then ready to interface with the hardware device with little or no configuration required of the DJ/end user.
This technology is well suited for:
- DJs that desire to have lighting effects fully automated without tweaking software editors
- Gamers seeking a tactile experience across different frequency spectra
- Augmented reality enthusiasts as well as music therapists and educators that seek to bring a real-time multisensory modality into their curriculum
- Hearing impaired people that desire a tactile sensation commensurate with musical rhythm
- Neurological research and development scientists
- Electro-acupuncture practitioners that seek to bring a multisensory rhythmic modality to the electrical stimulation at precise acupoints.
multisensory versions
Electrical
This prototype is the one that started it all and arguably the most Frankenstein-like! The original idea for this concept stemmed from a visit to a chiropractor in Nashville, TN. While lying on my stomach receiving electrical stimulation (TENS) to the lumbar region, and feeling somewhat bored, the idea sprouted that the treatment would be all the more enjoyable if there was music pulsing with the electrons! As such the Audio eStim was born. The main obstacle to a unit that delivers electrical impulses is the fact that it is classified as a Class C medical device and requires FDA approval / clinical trials etc. Certainly not the route I was willing to take.
Lights
This synchronized impulse version triggers LED lights from inaudible hash markings within the streaming audio. The hashmark detection is facilitated by Arduino controller and the LEDs are triggered via LRA driver chips. However, the logic and sequencing of output exists completely within the encoded audio stream.
Tactile Vibration
Similar setup as the lights, this version outputs a vibration in real time to the musical rhythm via LRA (Linear Resonant Actuator) motors. The sensations are synchronized with the music and the motors can be triggered in unison or in varied sequenced patterns of delivery.
Heart Rate Monitor & Tactile
The team is currently working on a prototype that incorporates tactile vibration output in conjunction with biometrics such as heart rate/heart rate variability. The idea is to provide a positive tactile effect when the recipient is able to control their heart rate. So for instance if the heart rate drops below 80 bpm, the vibration effect turns on along with music. It's part of the self-awareness thought process to provide a rewarding sensation once the recipient takes control of their physio metrics.
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