(E-173) Developing a Simple, Programmable, Wearable Display: Vital Sign Tracking and Piloerection Stimulation in Dangerous Fields

Introduction:: Studies have demonstrated that the human brain can integrate auditory and visual information into unified perceptions. Many visual displays have incorporated audio signals as a method for increasing the information that can be perceived. As humans engage in more complex endeavors and our audio and visual displays become more complex, there is an increasing need for alternative methods to relay information. The introduction of these new methods has opened up previously unexplored research in human perception as we learn more about neuroplasticity, sensory intersection, and how subtle inputs can have more significant ramifications on perception. Piloerection (goosebumps) consists of the contraction of arrector pili muscles (APM) in the dermal layer of the skin resulting in the extension of hair on the body. These muscles are under sympathetic control, our “fight or flight” nervous system, which is activated in response to a strong emotional stimulus such as anger, fear, or excitement. Previously, induction of piloerection has been demonstrated via pharmacological agents such as α-1 adrenergic agonists. The authors explore the use of electrostatic stimulation to induce piloerection and invoke an emotional response as a method for conveying information in settings where users may be visually and auditorily overstimulated. One such setting tested as an application for this device is Carbon Monoxide monitoring for firefighters in the field.


Materials and Methods:: An ELEGOO Uno Rev3 board and C++ Arduino code were used to develop a works-like prototype. A MAX30102 Pulse Oximeter Sensor and MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Sensor were interfaced with Arduino, and piloerection stimulation was done using an electrostatic generator and DC Voltage supplier at 3.3V and capped at 2A. All sensors and circuit boards were purchased through Amazon. The electrode material was selected by testing stimulation using either cardboard with or without aluminum foil and construction paper with or without aluminum foil. The highest stimulation level was ultimately achieved using construction paper and aluminum foil. Vital sign testing was conducted on three different users to test for accuracy. Piloerection testing was conducted on males with enough body hair to assess the degree of stimulation. The works-like prototype was tested with a set value of CO, and the CO sensor itself was tested alone with a gas stove. In practice, the threshold for CO detection will be set at 150 ppm for more than 5 minutes based on industry standards for home detectors. The resulting prototype is programmable, allowing for versatility in application and information conveyed. The device can also be placed on the back of the neck, backhand, arm, and leg.

Results, Conclusions, and Discussions:: Our vital sign monitor demonstrated the ability of the works-like prototype to accurately detect HR, temperature, and SpO2 levels compared to a pulse oximeter. In practice, these measurements would be compared with the user’s baseline. Piloerection testing was then conducted on the arm and back of the neck. The electrode was connected to the electrostatic generator, powered with a DC source, and held approximately 1-2 cm from the skin. It is essential that the electrode does not touch the skin and is not grounded. Results showed large numbers of unquantifiable hair stimulation upon visual inspection as well as a self-described "unmistakable" sensation of piloerection induction. The sensation was described as a noticeable, tingling sensation distinguishable from natural piloerection. The code written for the device is also versatile, and values can be adjusted to meet the needs of various specialties. Sensors other than CO, such as Ethanol, Methane, and Alcohol, were also successfully interfaced with the device, highlighting further potential applications.

CO levels become dangerous after an extended period of time, resulting in severe neurological and cardiac symptoms and eventual unconsciousness and death. A firefighter in a high CO environment may suffer from collapse and sudden death without warning signs. Therefore, there is a need for CO detection in a field in which they are already overly stimulated. Piloerection stimulation presents a unique and salient method to alert firefighters of hazardous CO levels without increasing visual and auditory stimuli. Monitoring CO levels and vitals allows one to alert firefighters when it’s time to retreat to avoid immediate and lasting effects on their health.

Devices like these can be further applied to various professions involving dangerous situations. Applications to be explored include alerting coal miners of hazardous methane levels and monitoring dangerous G-Force levels in fighter pilots. The investigators will next design a hardware module invoking piloerection and an API enabling independent parties to utilize the device based on their needs.


Acknowledgements (Optional): : We would like to thank the EnMed program for providing us with funding for materials and a space to conduct the project. We would also like to thank our mentors from NASA, Christopher Beck, Braeden Conrad, and Cody Burkhart, for their mentorship and guidance throughout.

References (Optional): : [1] Naroa Iriarte. (2022) PiloNape: Electrostatic Artificial Piloerection for Affecting Emotional Experiences. Universidad Pública de Navarra

[2] Jonathon McPhetres, Janis H. Zickfeld (2022). The physiological study of emotional piloerection: A systematic review and guide for future research. International Journal of Psychophysiology

[3] Benedek M, Kaernbach C. Physiological correlates and emotional specificity of human piloerection. Biol Psychol. 2011;86(3):320-329. doi:10.1016/j.biopsycho.2010.12.012

[4] Learning, L. (n.d.). Biology for majors II: Hair. Lumen. Retrieved April 20, 2023, from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-biology2/chapter/hair/

[5] Mehra, N. (2021, October 20). What are Goosebumps ? Urmitika Knowledge. Retrieved April 20, 2023, from https://www.urmitikaknowledge.com/post/what-are-goose-bumps

[6] Carbon monoxide poisoning and fire fighters. IAFF. (2020, February 11). Retrieved April 20, 2023, from https://www.iaff.org/carbon-monoxide/