EMDR Prototype Device

This EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) prototype device is designed to support therapeutic applications, primarily focusing on facilitating bilateral stimulation (BLS) through synchronized LED lights and vibrating motors. BLS has shown effectiveness in helping individuals process trauma and manage stress through eye movements and other tactile feedback. This prototype provides an affordable, user-friendly option for self-administered or practitioner-assisted EMDR therapy.

EMDR prototype

Key Features

1

LED Bilateral Stimulation:

Two LED strips, each with eight individually addressable LEDs, create a visual stimulus that alternates between left and right, promoting eye movement that mimics the natural REM cycle.

2

Vibration Motors:

Two vibration motors enhance the BLS experience by providing tactile feedback synchronized with the LED transitions, stimulating both sides of the body alternately.

3

Customizable Settings:

The LED colors, brightness, and vibration timing can be adjusted to match specific therapeutic needs, offering a personalized EMDR experience.

Usage

Initial Setup

Power the Arduino and motor driver board. Ensure all connections are secure.

Operational Cycle:

Upon starting, the LED and motor sequence initiates. The left strip and motor activate first, followed by the right, and this alternation continues.

Adjustment

Modify delay values in the code to alter the transition speed between left and right stimuli.

More Info 

Components

  1. Arduino Uno R3 – Controls LED and motor functions based on coded sequences.
  2. LED Strips (WS2812B) – Each strip contains 8 addressable LEDs; connected to pins D2 and D3 for left and right side control.
  3. Vibration Motors – Two 12V DC motors provide haptic feedback, driven by a motor controller board with inputs set to pins 5 and 6.
  4. Motor Driver Board – Facilitates motor control by switching signals based on the Arduino output pins.

Wiring Setup

  1. LED Strips: Connect one strip to D2 and another to D3. Each strip is powered by the Arduino’s 5V output and ground.
  2. Motor Driver Board: Connect motor inputs to pins 5 and 6 of the Arduino, with the external 12V supply powering the motor board.
  3. Power Supply: A separate 12V DC supply is required for the motor driver board, while the Arduino Uno is powered via USB or a separate 5V supply

Code Functionality

The code cycles through a sequence where:

  1. Left and Right LED Strips: LEDs on each strip alternate in sync with motor vibrations to create left-to-right transitions.
  2. Motor Vibration: Motors activate based on the side of the LED sequence, enhancing the tactile experience. Each side vibrates in sync with its corresponding LED strip

Future Enhancements

  • Mobile App Integration: To allow users to control speed, color, and intensity settings remotely.
  • Additional Stimulus Modes: Incorporate audio cues or haptic feedback with varying patterns.
  • Battery-Powered Option: For portability and wireless operation, adding a rechargeable battery pack and power management.

Prototype images

Conclusion

This EMDR prototype serves as a stepping stone toward creating a fully functional, customizable device for therapeutic use. Through careful tuning of visual and tactile feedback, it offers an immersive BLS experience intended to aid in emotional processing and stress reduction.