Circadian Rhythm Monitoring and Regulation Device (CMR)

The Department of Defense is concerned with circadian rhythm misalignments as they are known to affect judgment, psychomotor skills, and can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). At present, there is no comprehensive unobtrusive and easy-to-use solution that measures the circadian misalignment and automatically administers the appropriate therapy for realignment of circadian rhythm. Intelligent Automation, Inc. and the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute propose to develop an end-to-end Circadian rhythm Monitoring and Regulation device (CMR). It is composed of following subsystems: (1) Smart goggles with physiological (e.g. heart rate monitor, temperature sensor) and activity sensors, calibrated light sensors that collect ecological light/dark exposure patterns, and light regulation that uses electrochromic lenses and side emitting fiber optics to filter out and/or safely deliver circadian effective light as needed. (2) Smartphone/smartwatch application to automatically control the user"s circadian lighting needs and also allow the user to wirelessly input relevant information.. CMR system will meet all of the Army specifications, being compact, lightweight, and low maintenance. Human factors considerations, such as blue light hazard prevention, ergonomic form factor and ambidexterity will be considered in the design.