Torso-based tactile feedback system for patients with balance disorders

A tactile feedback vest was developed to provide sensory information to patients with balance disorders. The system was designed to detect levels of imbalance that are imperceptible to patients with balance deficit, and to provide intuitive and appreciable sensory feedback that allows for rapid balance correction. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based pneumatic actuators were clustered on the ventral, dorsal, left and right surfaces of the tactile vest to provide multi-directional sensory feedback. Two biaxial accelerometers were mounted near the shoulder to measure linear and angular acceleration of the upper torso, and a system controller that regulates communication between the sensors and actuators was developed. Actuator deflection was characterized to optimize tactile feedback. Average deflections of 2.6 mm and 7.1 mm were recorded with input pressures of 1.6 psi and 4.0 psi, respectively. In future studies, human perceptual testing will be performed to optimize the system for clinical use.