Horizen: Real-Time Integration of Multisensory Cues for Motion Sickness Reduction in Vehicles

Overview

This project aims to design a single, contained module that reduces the effect of motion sickness in cars by providing additional visual, auditory, and/or haptic cues to the passengers. According to Deng et al. (2024), a human’s electrodermal activity (EDA) strongly correlates to motion sickness. Therefore, the final device must produce a statistically significant reduction in EDA. The visual component utilizes an LED array and an accelerometer, where pixels on the array move a calculated amount and direction to counteract motion sickness caused by lateral (side-to-side) and longitudinal (front–back) displacement. Using the I2S protocol and a digital amplifier, the auditory component plays simulated car engine noises that are shifted in pitch and volume depending on engine throttle (which is collected using an OBDII that connects directly to the vehicle). Finally, the haptic component utilizes a disassembled massage chair that vibrates according to the motion of the car. Finally, the entire project was tested together using an EDA sensor and a post-ride motion sickness survey. Across all trials, Horizen reduced skin conductivity throughout the ride compared to the control condition, indicating a measurable reduction in physiological signs associated with motion sickness. With a p-value of 0.0197, these results are statistically significant. Horizen represents a more inclusive solution that alleviates the discomfort of motion sickness. In the future, I hope to test with more participants to understand the limitations of this device as well as its ideal use cases.

Competition history

• CSEF 2026 Electronics & Electromagnetics (Senior Division) · Entry S-10-06

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