The Cthulhu Shield is an amazing open - source platform for sensory substitution and augmentation. It allows you to take sensory information and present it in a different form to another sensory organ. This lets your brain turn it into useful data. With the Cthulhu Shield, anyone can experiment and build devices to expand their sensory experience. It directly attaches to a 5V Arduino development board and uses an 18 - electrode Flexible Electrode Array to electrically activate nerve endings in your tongue. This 'tongue I/O' is great for replacing weakened or missing senses and can also be used for augmentation, like sensing infrared or ultrasonic signals or getting Internet updates. You can create different touch sensations on the tongue, draw shapes, feel sound frequencies, get directions, control your computer, or even operate a mobility device. It can also sense if your tongue touches different electrodes. You can attach other SparkFun sensors to your Arduino, such as a pressure sensor, which is useful if you have hand nerve damage or wear thick gloves. Many have used tongue stimulation with pressure sensors or accelerometers to improve balance. Note: The Cthulhu shield needs an Arduino R3 - compatible device, like the SparkFun RedBoard or SparkFun RedBoard Qwiic, which are sold separately.
Using the Cthulhu Shield is quite easy. First, make sure you have an Arduino R3 - compatible device, like the SparkFun RedBoard or SparkFun RedBoard Qwiic. Connect the Cthulhu Shield directly to your 5V Arduino development board. Then, you can start experimenting with the 18 - electrode Flexible Electrode Array. Place it on your tongue to start experiencing different touch sensations. You can attach other SparkFun sensors to your Arduino to expand its functionality. For example, a pressure sensor can help you feel the force on an object if you have hand problems. When using the shield, keep in mind that it requires an Arduino R3 - compatible device. Also, be gentle when handling the electrodes on the Flexible Electrode Array. To maintain the shield, keep it clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture. If you're not using it for a long time, store it in a safe place.
