Enhanced Method and Apparatus for Stimulating Neural Activity

Publication ID: 24-11857733_0001_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:Direct Improvements & Enhancements

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Enhanced Method and Apparatus for Stimulating Neural Activity,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857733_0001_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857733_0001_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,733.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

An improved system for stimulating neural activity, leveraging dynamic adjustments based on user mental acuity, brain activity, and personalized settings to optimize neural stimulation.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent, 'Method and apparatus for stimulating neural activity,' has limitations in providing an optimal neural stimulation experience. Specifically, the static flickering areas and audio output may not be tailored to individual users, leading to varying levels of effectiveness. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing dynamic adjustments and real-time feedback mechanisms to enhance neural stimulation.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The enhanced system comprises a video display with dynamically adjustable flickering areas, an audio output, and at least one processor. The processor enables the video display to display two portions, including a first portion for displaying information and entertainment and a second portion for stimulating neural activity. The second portion is adjustable based on the user's mental acuity and response time, as measured by the smartphone's operating system. Additionally, the system includes a sensor to detect the user's brain activity, allowing for real-time adjustments to the flickering areas and audio output. The system can also be integrated with gaming environments to create a more immersive experience, increasing user engagement and neural stimulation. Furthermore, a database of user profiles enables personalized neural stimulation by retrieving and applying preferred settings based on the user's identity.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce novel and non-obvious improvements over the original patent, including dynamic adjustments based on user mental acuity, real-time brain activity feedback, and personalized settings. These enhancements provide a more effective and tailored neural stimulation experience, distinguishing the new inventive concept from the original patent.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of sensors to detect brain activity, such as EEG or fMRI, or integrating the system with wearable devices or virtual reality environments. Variations could also include using different algorithms to adjust the flickering areas and audio output or incorporating additional features, such as biofeedback mechanisms or cognitive training exercises.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The enhanced system for stimulating neural activity has significant commercial potential in various industries, including gaming, education, and healthcare. The system's ability to provide a more effective and personalized neural stimulation experience could lead to increased adoption and revenue growth in these markets. Additionally, the system's potential to improve cognitive function and mental well-being could lead to new opportunities in the wellness and self-improvement industries.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61M21/02
A A61 A61B5/4064
A A61 A61N5/0618
A A61 A61N5/0622
A A61 A61M2021/0044
A A61 A61N2005/0663

Field of Art

Biomedical engineering, neural stimulation technologies, human-computer interaction, with expertise in neurostimulation apparatus design, cognitive performance measurement, and interactive display systems

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A professional with advanced degree in biomedical engineering or neuroscience, understanding of neural stimulation techniques, signal processing, human-computer interaction design, and familiarity with smartphone and display technologies

Obviousness Rationale

A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's neural stimulation apparatus by introducing dynamic adjustment mechanisms and personalization features that are well-established in human-computer interaction and neurotechnology domains. The core neural stimulation concept remains consistent, with the PTD primarily adding algorithmic and adaptive intelligence to the existing technological framework. These modifications represent incremental improvements that would be obvious to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize neural stimulation technologies.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Video display with neural stimulation capabilities
PTD Variation
Dynamic adjustment of flickering areas based on user mental acuity and response time
Obviousness Reasoning
Predictable application of adaptive user interface design principles, where display characteristics are modified based on real-time user performance metrics
Source Patent Element
Apparatus for neural stimulation using display and audio output
PTD Variation
Integration of brain activity sensors for real-time stimulation parameter adjustment
Obviousness Reasoning
Known technique of incorporating biometric feedback to modulate technological interventions, representing a standard approach in personalized medical technology
Source Patent Element
Information and entertainment display system
PTD Variation
Gaming environment integration for enhanced neural stimulation immersion
Obviousness Reasoning
Obvious combination of interactive entertainment technologies with neural stimulation principles, following established design patterns in cognitive engagement systems
Source Patent Element
Basic neural stimulation apparatus
PTD Variation
User profile database for personalized flickering frequency and duty cycle
Obviousness Reasoning
Standard practice of implementing user-specific customization in digital systems, representing a predictable technological evolution
Source Patent Element
Display-based neural stimulation method
PTD Variation
Algorithmic adjustment of stimulation parameters based on exposure time
Obviousness Reasoning
Logical extension of existing technological concepts, applying known computational techniques to optimize neural stimulation effectiveness
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857733 and the comprehensive technical variations disclosed herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art would find the claimed neural stimulation apparatus and methods obvious and non-patentable. The present disclosure demonstrates that the proposed innovations represent predictable combinations of known techniques in neural stimulation technology, lacking the requisite non-obviousness for patent protection under 35 U.S.C. ยง 103.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,733
TitleMethod and apparatus for stimulating neural activity
Assignee(s)SYMBOLICS INC.