Abstract

This thesis explores the intersection of whole-body vibration (WBV) and neurophysiological analysis to improve sleep quality and understanding of insomnia. The work is divided into two primary areas: the development of a novel traveling-wave vibration system for sleep enhancement and the analysis of electroencephalography (EEG) metrics in individuals with insomnia versus good sleepers. A vibrating sleep system capable of generating programmable traveling-wave patterns is designed and prototyped. Through iterative development and user trials, the system enables highly controlled mechanical stimulation in the form of traveling-wave vibration. Key advancements include independent amplitude and speed modulation and customizable wave patterns. Simple wave patterns at low travel rate (~0.5 Hz) and subtle relative peak amplitude are preferred. The experience is well received by a demographic of higher age. EEG-based analysis of sleep stages and discrepancy conditions using spectral band powers (Delta, Beta) and entropy metrics (SampEn, MSE) identifies neurophysiological differences between individuals with insomniacs and good sleepers. Using linear mixed-effects modeling, the study highlights significant EEG variations linked to insomnia, such as heightened Delta during wakefulness and increased Beta power and SampEn during sleep. Together, these contributions advance both the technology for non-pharmacological sleep interventions and the understanding of EEG correlates of insomnia. The findings provide a foundation for integrating vibration-based therapy with neurophysiological diagnostics for personalized sleep treatments.

Degree

MS

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering; Mechanical Engineering

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2024-12-11

Document Type

Thesis

Keywords

electroencephalography, EEG, sleep stages, band power, spectral power, sample entropy, multiscale sample entropy, whole body vibration, traveling-wave vibration, insomnia

Language

english

Included in

Engineering Commons

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