SP -- A METHOD OF ENCOURAGING PHYSIOLOGICAL SELF-REGULATION THROUGH MODULATION OF AN OPERATOR'S CONTROL INPUT TO A VIDEO GAME OR TRAINING SIMULATOR The purpose of this notice is to inform potential participants of an upcoming NASA technology forum. NASA Langley Research Center s Crew/Vehicle Integration Branch has developed a method and apparatus for modulating the control authority (i.e., control function) of a computer simulation or game input device (e.g. joystick, button control) using physiological information so as to affect user performance in the simulation or game (LAR-15817-1P). A second aspect of the invention is to use the device, along with a computer simulation or game, to effect physiological state or physiological self-regulation according to some programmed criterion (e.g., increase, decrease, or maintain) in order to perform better at the game task. When the affected physiological state or physiological self-regulation is the target of self-regulation or biofeedback training, the game play reinforces therapeutic changes in the physiological signal(s). The feedback is, however, implicit in the task and not explicit in the form of direct feedback (e.g., bar graphs, tracings, etc.) and therefore offers subtler conditioning of the desired physiological response(s) than conventional biofeedback methods and apparatuses. This notice announces NASA s desire to enter into a licensing agreement (or joint research and development agreement) with the private sector to commercialize existing proprietary technology. Accordingly, a technical briefing will be held December 15-16, 1999 in Norfolk, VA at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Langley researchers will be on hand to discuss the technology and demonstrate its operating characteristics. The technology will be made available to the participant(s) in accordance with NASA s Patent Licensing Regulations. Interested manufacturers should submit an expression of interest and a statement of qualification, including: technical experience and competence in biofeedback training methods and apparatuses and related technologies, related manufacturing capabilities, previous experience in commercializing similar products, marketing skills (i.e., resources and ability to reach targeted markets); and the financial condition of the firm. This synopsis is for information and planning purposes only and is not to be construed as a commitment by NASA; nor will NASA pay for the information solicited. Respondents will not automatically be notified of the results of the evaluation, but those deemed fully qualified will be considered in any resulting solicitation for the requirement. This is not an announcement of an Request For Proposals. Expressions of interest should be submitted by December 1, 1999. Requests for additional technical information should be directed to Dr. Alan Pope at 757-864-6642. All licensing questions should be directed to David T. Shannon at 757-864-1937. WEB: Click here for the latest information about this notice, http://nais.msfc.nasa.gov/cgi-bin/EPS/bizops.cgi?gr=D&;pin=23#WorkShop- 2. E-MAIL: David T. Shannon, d.t.shannon@larc.nasa.gov. Posted 11/19/99 (D-SN402348).

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