There is growing interest in coupling an inertial measurement unit (IMU) with galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) to deliver motion-dependent vestibular stimulation. An IMU-coupled GVS system presents the ability to adapt to measured movement in real-time and test open-loop versus closed-loop protocols. Possible test scenarios involve:1) stimulation responsive to head movement, 2) movement dependent balance assistance, 3) vestibular sensorimotor integration, and 4) adaptive stimulation in response to changing orientation.
This state-of-the-art solution offers configurable coupling algorithms, on-board data logging of IMU data, GVS current delivery, and trigger events; the flexibility to deliver arbitrary waveforms; and uses user-replaceable rechargeable batteries. The device is wirelessly controlled using an Android Mobile application that allows the operator to visualize the raw IMU signal, set desired IMU sensor combinations to trigger GVS current, and set subject profiles.