JP7085082B2 - Brain activity measuring device and brain activity measuring system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a brain activity measuring device and a brain activity measuring system used for measuring brain activity.

Measurement and utilization of brain activity has become popular with the development of non-invasive brain activity imaging technology. Examples of non-invasive electroencephalographic imaging measurement methods include functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), magnetoencephalograph (MEG), and functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). , Electroencephalogram (EEG), etc. are typical (general) methods at present.
Although fMRI and MEG are large-scale devices and have high analytical power, they require a special laboratory environment such as a magnetic shield room, and the device price and device maintenance price are also high. Since it is a large device, the subject's head is generally statically fixed inside the large device for measurement, so that the subject is required not to move the head at all during measurement. At the time of measurement, a positioning marker may be attached to the subject, but in general, such a device can measure without directly attaching a detection element to the subject's head.
fNIRS and EEG are medium-sized to small-sized devices, and although they cannot be analyzed as much as the above-mentioned large-sized devices, there are also devices that can be measured and carried in normal environments, not in special laboratory environments, and are mass-produced. There are great industrial expectations because it is expected to be smaller, smaller, and easier. It also has the characteristic that it can be measured even if the subject moves to some extent. These devices do not statically fix the subject's head inside the device as in a large device, but directly attach an element for detecting brain activity to the subject's head. When the element for detecting brain activity is directly attached to the head of the subject, it is generally attached by a head cap or a headset.
In recent years, research and development on miniaturization and simplification of large-sized devices such as fMRI and MEG have been promoted, and when it becomes a medium-sized to small-sized device, the subject's head may be statically fixed inside the device. However, a technique for directly attaching the detection element to the subject is also required.
When the element for detecting brain activity is directly attached to the head of the subject, it is necessary to bring the detection element (for example, an electrode, a light receiving part, a light emitting part) directly into contact with the scalp. For example, when the detection element is brought into contact with the scalp by EEG or fNIRS, the subject will feel pain if the contact with the scalp is too strong, and noise will increase during measurement if the contact is too weak. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the contact condition so that the detection element comes into contact with the scalp at just the right pressure. The shape of the head differs greatly depending on age (for example, child or adult), gender (male, female), race (for example, Japanese or Westerner), height, body shape, etc., and also the same age, gender, race. However, there are large individual differences, and it is necessary to consider differences such as the shape of the back of the head being a cliff or the shape of an egg.
In brain science experiments in academic research, head caps and the like are used to adjust the contact condition of each detection element according to the subject and wear it, which is a great effort. Therefore, there is a demand for a head-mounted device for detecting brain activity, which has a structure that is as simple as possible and easy to handle, especially in industrial applications or in academic research.

JP-A-2015-22144

For example, there is a head-mounted device for detecting brain activity as shown in Patent Document 1. The technique of Patent Document 1 has a substantially semicircular outer shell, a band-shaped body having electrodes, and a plurality of first elastic bodies, and one end of each of the plurality of first elastic bodies is outside the outer shell. By connecting to both ends of the shell, it fits the shape of the heads of various people. In this configuration, it is realized that the outer shell and the band-shaped body having electrodes are combined to fit the shape of various human heads, but both ends of the band-shaped body are connected to the outer shell. Therefore, there is a problem that the band-shaped body hangs down when the device is attached, and it is necessary to lift it by hand to fix it, which makes it difficult to use. Further, since the electrode cord is exposed from the back surface of the strip-shaped body, there are problems in durability and waterproofness. In addition, since the structure is such that both ends of the band-shaped body are connected to the outer shell, if the length of the band-shaped body cannot be secured longer than a certain level, it cannot follow the head shapes of various people. Further, since the force is directly transmitted to the outer frame at the time of mounting, it is assumed that the outer frame needs to be strengthened in order to suppress the deformation of the outer frame, and there is a problem that the degree of freedom in device design is low. That is, there are problems in practicality as a device, ease of handling, and a degree of freedom in device design. Further, there is a problem in the prior art in that the head-mounted device for detecting brain activity realizes both a simple structure and a structure that is easy to handle.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, in the first means, in the brain activity measuring device, the frame member mounted on the head and the frame member are arranged inside the frame member, and the brain activity measuring device is self-supporting from the frame member side and inwardly. It had an elastic support that stood up toward it and one or more electrodes for contacting the head located at the top of the support.
As a result, the support that stands up independently and rises inward is held without dripping due to gravity, and because it has elasticity, it deforms according to the shape of the head when the brain activity measuring device is attached, and the support The electrodes placed on the top will come into contact with each other with just the right amount of contact. Therefore, such a brain activity measuring device can accurately abut the electrodes on the scalp without being influenced by the skill of the wearing work and the difference in the shape of the head, and as a result, the wearing work becomes easy. ..

Here, "brain activity" generally refers to the magnetic field generated by the flow of current from the outside, the potential difference (voltage difference) at different positions, oxygenated hemoglobin, and the difference in the amount of near-infrared light due to the absorption of globin for deoxidization. It is a biological activity that can be measured.
The "frame member" is a base to be attached to a human head, and the material and shape are not limited. Since the frame member is attached to the head, it is preferable to have a shape and a function so that the frame member does not easily fall off from the head. For example, it is good to be able to pinch the head or cover the head. The material may be, for example, plastic, rubber, wood, or metal.
The "support" is arranged inside the frame member, but it may be directly fixed to the frame member or fixed via another member as long as the arrangement state is inside. The material and shape of the support are not limited as long as the support can stand on its own and stand inward, has elasticity, and the electrodes can be placed on the top. The support has a role as a scalp shape follower that follows the head shape. "Inward" is the direction of the head when the brain activity measuring device is attached. Further, it is preferable that there is a cavity inside for wiring the electrodes, but it is not necessary. As the material, a material capable of being self-supporting and having elasticity, for example, a synthetic resin material such as silicone, elastomer, polyurethane, polyethylene, and foamable sponge is preferable. "Self-supporting" means that the support does not deform due to gravity or the amount of deformation is very small when the device is floated in the air by holding it by hand. As a result, when the device is attached to the subject, it is not necessary for the wearer (including the subject himself / herself) to hold the support, or to lift the support from hanging due to gravity. "Having elasticity" means that it deforms while having repulsion when an external force is applied, and after the deformation, it has a property of returning to its original shape. The elastic support will be deformed according to the shape of the head when the brain activity measuring device is attached, but after attaching it to the head, the degree of contact with the scalp is automatically adjusted. If the contact of the electrode is strong, the force is transmitted to the brain activity measuring device in the direction away from the scalp, and if the contact of the electrode is weak, the force is transmitted in the direction of bringing the electrode closer to the scalp. As a result, the electrodes arranged on the top of the support come into contact with each other with just the right contact condition.
The "electrode" is, for example, an electrode for measuring an electroencephalogram that measures a change in current (change in potential difference) associated with nerve activity in the brain, or a magnetoencephalogram (magnetoencephalogram) that measures a change in current associated with brain activity as a change in magnetic field. Electrodes (elements) for measurement and probes for near-infrared spectroscopic measurement that measure changes in brain blood flow (oxygen cahemoglobin, deoxidized hemoglobin amount, etc.) associated with brain activity as changes in the amount of near-infrared light received. (Light receiving probe and light emitting probe). In particular, in the case of recording brain activity as a potential difference (voltage difference) (electroencephalogram measurement), for example, a dry electrode is preferable because it can reduce the measurement burden on the subject. Further, it is preferable to arrange, for example, a preamplifier in the vicinity of the dry electrode because the measurement noise can be reduced. As the dry electrode, a metal electrode whose surface is plated or coated with gold, silver, or silver / silver chloride, a carbon-containing conductive resin, a resin electrode using a conductive organic material, or the like may be used. The shape is not limited. The electrode should have a shape with a certain height and area in order to avoid the influence of hair when it is attached.
The "brain activity measuring device" is a "head-mounted device" for detecting brain activity. The head-mounted device may or may not have a built-in circuit such as a differential amplifier.

Further, as a second means, a contact body having a surface to be brought into contact with the head side is disposed between the electrode and the support.
Further, as a third means, the support body is formed with a contact body having a surface to be brought into contact with the head side.
The electrodes at the top of the self-supporting support usually have a certain area and height (distance from the tip of the electrode to the support). When the wearer (including the subject himself / herself) wears the brain activity measuring device on the subject, the reaction force from the subject's head to the electrode is diagonal or lateral to the height direction of the electrode (the electrode collapses). If it is transmitted in the direction), the support may bend when the brain activity measuring device is attached, and the electrodes may fall down. With this configuration, when the brain activity measuring device is attached to the head, the "face" of the abutting body is formed by the scalp, hair, etc. on the head side as the electrodes are brought into contact with the scalp. By coming into contact with the "surface" to be formed, it is possible to prevent a large force from being applied in the direction in which the electrode falls, and it is possible to prevent the electrode from falling. In addition, the "contact body" comes into contact with the "surface" formed by the scalp and hair on the head side from various directions to disperse the reaction force, and for example, a part of the electrode is strongly strengthened during the mounting work. It is possible to prevent unnecessary deformation due to being pushed back to the scalp. The "contact body" has a role as an electrode fall prevention portion and appropriately adjusts the amount of deformation of the support.
Since it is unknown from what direction the wearer (worker) wears the brain activity measuring device on the head, the abutting body is not necessarily formed only at a position close to the electrodes. For example, an abutting body may be formed on the side surface of the support that is considerably away from the electrodes. There may be a plurality of abutting bodies. The interpretation of the abutting body is the same in the following description. "Having a surface to abut on the head side" means that not all of the abutting bodies must abut on the head side, but a surface having a function of preventing unnecessary deformation of the support. It means that the abutting body only needs to have.
The abutting body may be made of the same material as the support or may be made of a different material. Regardless of the material, the abutting body and the support may be integrally molded by two-color molding or the like. Alternatively, the abutting body may be formed into a sheet and sandwiched between the support and the electrode or between the support and the support. As the material of the abutting body, for example, a synthetic resin material such as silicone, elastomer, polyurethane, or polyethylene is preferable. By changing the molding conditions and shape, it can be made elastic or non-stretchable, and is not particularly limited by the material. Further, by increasing the area of the abutting body, it is possible to widen the area that receives the reaction force when pressed against the head.
Further, as a fourth means, the abutting body is made to project outward from the support.
By projecting to the outside of the support, when the brain activity measuring device is attached to the head, the chances of contacting the scalp, hair, etc. on the head side increase, so that the electrodes can be prevented from collapsing more efficiently.
Further, as a fifth means, the contact body is not in contact with the frame member.
This is because when the abutting body is in contact with the frame member, the movement of the abutting body is restricted, and it becomes difficult to bring the electrodes into contact with subjects having various head shapes. "Not in contact" means that the abutting body is not connected to the frame member. "Not in contact with the frame member" means not only not in direct contact with the frame member, but also in contact with the member or the like arranged on the frame member other than the support.

Further, as a sixth means, the contact body is made of a material that does not expand and contract.
As a result, when a force that comes into contact with the head side during mounting work and is pushed through, for example, the abutting body to deform the support is applied, the force is transmitted without escaping. The reaction force when it comes into contact with the head side from various directions can be dispersed to the other support side. As the material of the contact body, for example, a synthetic resin material such as polycarbonate, polyethylene, or polypropylene is preferable. The abutting body may be formed separately from the support or integrally.
Further, as a seventh means, a plurality of electrodes are arranged on the top of the support, so that the support is one.
That is, it is a confirmatory claim that even if there are a plurality of electrodes, they are collectively arranged on the top of one support. With such a configuration, it is not necessary to provide a support for each electrode, which is advantageous in terms of workability and cost. Further, since a plurality of electrodes are connected by a support, the electrodes are less likely to fall when the device is mounted.
Further, as an eighth means, the number of the supports is increased to a plurality.
That is, it is a confirmation claim that the number of supports may be only one or two or more. This is because it may be preferable to configure a plurality of supports depending on various conditions such as the material and shape of the support, the arrangement position, the shape and weight of the electrode to be mounted, and the like.

Further, as a ninth means, the electrodes are arranged inside the outer circumference of the support in a state of being arranged on the top of the support.
This creates a space at the top around the electrodes, which becomes the area that comes into contact with the head side when the brain activity measuring device is attached, and that area is applied to the scalp and hair on the head side from various directions. The reaction force is dispersed by contact with each other, and it is possible to prevent, for example, a part of the electrode from being strongly pushed back to the scalp and the support from being deformed more than necessary during the mounting work.

Further, as a tenth means, the electrodes were arranged one by one on the top of the support.
With such a configuration, the support can be individually deformed according to the contact state of each electrode with the head, and a delicate brain activity measuring device suitable for the shape of the head can be attached. It becomes. Further, when the shape of the frame member differs depending on the model, it is easy to change the position of the electrode for each model because the position and spacing of the electrodes can be changed individually. That is, if this means is used, headsets with various electrode arrangements and fixing methods can be designed without significantly changing the shapes of the support and the electrodes, and the design cost and the manufacturing cost can be suppressed.
Further, as an eleventh means, one support in which only one electrode is arranged forms an arrangement row in which the support is arranged in a row at intervals.
If the electrodes are arranged in a row to form a row, a wide range of brain activity can be measured, and when the electrodes are attached to subjects with different head shapes, the relatively same brain activity is reflected in each electrode. This is because it can be mounted at the measurement position to be measured.

Further, as a twelfth means, one support in which only one of the plurality of electrodes is arranged is connected by a connecting member.
When the brain activity measuring device is attached to the head, the support is pushed back and deformed by the reaction force as the electrode is brought into contact with the scalp, but the support is connected by the connecting member. Therefore, compared to the case where they stand on their own, they complement each other and can disperse the reaction force when they come into contact with the head side from various directions, causing the support to deform more than necessary and the mounting operation. It is possible to prevent problems such as hitting the head and deforming unnaturally. Further, by increasing the area of the connecting member, it is possible to widen the area that receives the reaction force when pressed against the head. The connecting member is a member that connects a plurality of supports and exerts the same function as the above-mentioned abutting body.
Further, as a thirteenth means, the connecting member is not in contact with the frame member.
This is because if the connecting member is in contact with the frame member, the movement is restricted, which defeats the purpose of adjusting the contact condition by deforming the original support. "Not in contact" means that the connecting member is connected to the frame member. "Not in contact with the frame member" means that it is not in direct contact with the frame member, and of course, it is not in contact with the member or the like arranged on the frame member except for the support.
Further, as a fourteenth means, the connecting member is sandwiched between the support and the electrode so as to have a surface to be brought into contact with the head side.
By arranging it between the support and the electrode, it can be fixed only by sandwiching the connecting member between them, and the mounting work of the connecting member is easy. Further, since the support is prevented from being unnecessarily deformed at a position close to the electrode, the tip direction of the electrode pushed toward the head side does not change significantly. "Having a surface to be brought into contact with the head side" does not mean that all the connecting members must be in contact with the head side, and a surface having a function of preventing unnecessary deformation of the support is connected. It means that the member only needs to have it.
Further, as a fifteenth means, the connecting member is arranged between the supports and has a surface to be brought into contact with the head side.
Since the connecting member is arranged at a free position of the support to prevent unnecessary deformation of the support, it is possible to prevent unnecessary deformation of the support at a suitable position according to the shape of the support. can. Further, since it can be integrally molded by using two-color molding or the like, the manufacturing / assembling cost can be suppressed.

Further, as the 16th means, the connecting member is made of a material that does not expand and contract.
As a result, when the support comes into contact with the head side during the mounting work and the support is pushed and deformed via the connecting member, the force is transmitted to the other support without escaping. The reaction force when contacting the portion side from various directions can be dispersed to the other support side. Further, since the positional relationship between the supports can be relatively maintained, it is possible to prevent only one support from collapsing. As the material of the connecting member, for example, a synthetic resin material such as polycarbonate, polyethylene, or polypropylene is preferable. As for the material, it is important that the material does not expand and contract, and the elasticity of the material can be controlled by the molding conditions and the shape, so that the material is not limited by the material.
Further, as a 17th means, the support is made hollow inside.
Since the inside is hollowed out, the wiring for the electrodes can be arranged in the cavity so as not to be seen from the outside, so that the wiring is less likely to be damaged. Further, when the brain activity measuring device is attached, the wearer (subject) does not carelessly come into contact with the wiring and cause a problem such as disconnection. Also, if the support is made of a waterproof material, it will be resistant to water. Further, such a shape makes it possible to achieve both strength and elasticity of the support, and the support can be made to stand on its own while having elasticity. At this time, it is preferable that the outside of the support is connected in order to achieve both elasticity and independence of the support.
Further, as an eighteenth means, the frame member has a horseshoe shape, and the left and right legs swing inward and outward.
When the brain activity measuring device is attached, the left and right legs are flexed outward on the frame member and placed on the head, and the legs are returned to the original position so that the head can be sandwiched and attached. Become. This means can be realized because it is not necessary to use a strong material for the frame member by releasing the reaction force at the time of mounting the device by the support.

Further, as a nineteenth means, the preceding plurality of electrodes are arranged to form an electrode arrangement row arranged in a row at intervals in the arrangement state.
If the electrodes are arranged to form a row of electrodes, it is possible to cover a wide range for measuring brain activity, and when the electrodes are attached to subjects with different head shapes, the electrodes are relatively the same brain. This is because it can be installed at the measurement position where the activity is reflected.
Further, as a twentieth means, the electrode arrangement rows are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame member.
With such a configuration, there are many cases where the electrodes can be arranged along the frame member, and the reaction force when the device is attached to the subject's head is dispersed from the support to the frame member as compared with the case of random arrangement. This is because it is easier to do. This is also because the frame member can be made compact.
Further, as a 21st means, the electrode arrangement row is set so that the portion near the end of the row rises at an angle and faces toward the center of the row.
This makes it easier to follow a variety of different head shapes. When following various head shapes, it is necessary to correspond mainly to two different directional head shapes, that is, a flat shape with a large head shape and a curved shape with a small head shape. This is because the other head shapes are shapes between these two head shapes. According to this means, for a flat shape with a large head shape, the electrodes at the end of the electrode arrangement row are lowered to the back so that the electrode positions are aligned in a straight line, and the head shape is large and flat. On the other hand, it is possible to make contact without difficulty. Further, for a shape in which the head shape is small and curved, the central portion of the electrode arrangement row is largely pushed back to form a curved shape, and the head shape can follow the small curved shape. From the above, it is possible to bring the electrodes into contact with any head shape with a small moving distance of the electrodes.

Further, as a 22nd means, the movable range when the support is deformed is 25 to 35 mm at the center of the electrode arrangement row and 5 to 15 mm at the end of the arrangement row.
With such a movable range, the amount of deformation of the support of the brain activity measuring device when worn on the head is appropriate, and the subject can be comfortably worn on subjects having various head shapes. In addition, the elasticity and independence of the support can be achieved at the ends and the center of the electrode arrangement row.
Further, as a 23rd means, an electric configuration is built in the frame member.
Specifically, the electrical configuration is, for example, a preamplifier, a differential amplifier, a battery, a communication circuit, or the like. These may be selectively included, and electrical members other than these may be included. By incorporating them inside the frame member, they cannot be easily accessed, so that problems caused by contact with them are unlikely to occur. In addition, it is simpler in appearance and superior in design to those exposed on the outside of the frame member. Further, in the configuration of the present application, an excessive force is not transmitted to the frame member by releasing the reaction force by the support when the device is mounted. Therefore, even if the electrical configuration is built in the frame member, the device mounting is the cause. It is possible to prevent defects in the electrical configuration. Here, it is preferable that the preamplifier is installed near each electrode.
Further, as a 24th means, the legs of the frame member are connected to the legs of the second frame member, and the inside of the second frame member has a sheet-like support having elasticity. Then, the electrode was held on the sheet-shaped support.
That is, the second frame member is not a "support that rises inward" but has a structure in which electrodes are arranged on a flat sheet-like support that does not stand up. Specifically, for example, a form such as the brain activity measuring device of the first embodiment corresponds to. When arranging the electrodes at two places where the heads are separated from each other, the second frame member side is brought into contact with the head later. In the "support that stands up inward" that was brought into contact with the head first, the reaction force due to the elasticity of the support is generated in the opposite direction to the mounting, but the support of the second frame member By forming the sheet into a sheet shape, the reaction force due to the "support that rises inward" can be offset, and the degree of contact of the electrode with the scalp can be softened.
Further, as a 25th means, a slit is provided around the electrode holding portion of the sheet-shaped support.
Since the sheet-like support itself has elasticity, it has flexibility against external force, but by having a slit around the electrodes, each electrode can further swing with respect to the sheet-like support. It will be tolerated, and the followability to the head shape will be improved. The slit may be formed as a through hole in the sheet-shaped support by a notch or the like, or the slit may be formed so as to have a bag portion bulging along the slit without forming a through hole.

Further, as the 26th means, it is a brain activity measuring system for measuring brain activity, and measures brain activity based on a brain activity signal obtained by a brain activity measuring device of any of the first to 25th means. I tried to do it.
Further, as the 27th means, it is a brain activity measuring system for measuring brain activity, and measures brain activity based on a brain wave signal obtained by a brain activity measuring device of any of the first to 25th means. I did it.
By doing so, it is possible to reduce the time and effort required to attach the electrodes to the wearer (subject), and it is possible to provide a brain activity measurement system in which the measurement preparation time is shortened. The "brain activity measurement system" is, for example, a "head-mounted device", a circuit unit built in (or externally connected to) the head-mounted device, and a recording device that records brain activity data from the circuit unit via wireless or wired communication. (Computer, tablet, mobile phone, etc.), recording software that records brain activity data inside the device, and brain activity analysis software that analyzes brain activity data may be included. In addition, in order to obtain time synchronization between the external stimulus and the measurement data, for example, the trigger signal is transmitted from the outside, the circuit unit built in (or externally connected to) the head-mounted device, or the recording device receives the trigger signal. Should be included in the "brain activity measurement system". As the "brain activity", for example, electroencephalogram (EEG) and cerebral blood flow (fNIRS) are often measured, and in particular, the present invention can be applied to a brain activity measurement system using a dry electrode.
The inventions of the first to 27th means described above can be arbitrarily combined. In particular, it is preferable to include the configuration of the first means and to include at least one configuration and combination of each invention of the second to 27th means. Any component of each invention of the first to 27th means may be extracted and combined with other components.

In the above invention, the electrodes can be brought into contact with the scalp accurately, that is, with just the right amount of contact, regardless of the skill of the wearing work and the difference in the shape of the head. Further, in the head-mounted device for detecting brain activity, it is possible to provide both a simple structure and a structure that is easy to handle. As a result, a cost advantage can be obtained.

(A) of the headset of the first embodiment is a perspective view seen from the side of the second frame body, and (b) is the perspective view seen from the side of the first frame body. The explanatory view schematically explaining the internal structure of the 1st frame body side in 1st Embodiment. In the first embodiment, (a) is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state immediately before mounting the electrode on the second frame body side, and (b) and (c) after mounting the electrode. Explanatory drawing explaining the use state of the headset of 1st Embodiment. (A) is a plan view and (b) is a perspective view of the headband of the second embodiment. Explanatory drawing explaining the use state of the headband of the 2nd Embodiment. (A) is a plan view and (b) is a perspective view of the headband of the third embodiment. (A) is a plan view and (b) is a perspective view of the headband of the fourth embodiment.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(First Embodiment)
The first embodiment shows an electroencephalogram measurement system including an electrode 15 which is a dry electrode.
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the headset 1 as the brain activity measuring device of the first embodiment is a first frame having a hollow inside and curved so as to be convex outward as a whole. The outer shape is composed of two main frame bodies, a body 2 and a second frame body 3. The first frame body 2 and the second frame body 3 are made of a plastic material, specifically, here, as an example, a polyurethane material. Both the first frame body 2 and the second frame body 3 are hard and inelastic, but have some flexibility as a whole.
First, the configuration of the first frame body 2 side will be described.
The appearance of the first frame body 2 is configured to be horseshoe-shaped. In the cross-sectional shape of the first frame body 2 along the longitudinal direction, the outer circumference is convex and the inner circumference is concave inward.
In the first frame body 2, the horseshoe-shaped portion 2A near the center has a wide vertical width, and the portion 2B near both ends has a narrow vertical width with respect to the central portion 2A. As shown in FIG. 2, an opening 6 covered by a connector 5, which will be described later, is formed in the central portion 2A. The portions 2B near both ends have flexibility that allows them to swing in and out with the portion 2A near the center as a base. When the portion 2B near both ends is expanded outward, an urging force is generated as internal energy, and the portion 2B near both ends whose restraint is released by the urging force automatically returns to the original position.

A connector 5 is arranged on the inner surface of the central portion 2A of the first frame body 2. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2, the connector 5 has a crescent-shaped appearance having a convex outer surface corresponding to the concave inner surface shape of the central portion 2A of the first frame body 2. It is a sub-frame body attached to the frame body 2. The connector 5 is made of the same material as the first frame body 2 and is a hard body. The connector 5 is formed with an opening 7 corresponding to the opening 6 of the first frame body 2. A plurality of locking claws 8 are formed on the peripheral edge of the opening 7. As shown in FIG. 2, the locking claw 8 of the connector 5 that has advanced into the opening 6 of the first frame body 2 is engaged with the edge of the opening 6, and this action causes the connector 5 to become the first. It is fixed to the inner surface of the frame body 2. The connector 5 can be attached to and detached from the first frame body 2 by engaging and disengaging the locking claws 8. A differential amplifier 10, a communication circuit 11, and a storage battery 12 are housed in the connector 5. Details of these electrical configurations will be described later.
One cushion body 13 as a support is fixed to the inner surface (front surface) of the connector 5 by an adhesive. The means for fixing the cushion body 13 does not necessarily have to rely on an adhesive, and for example, the cushion body 13 may be fixed by a connecting structure similar to that of the opening 7 of the connector portion 5 and the locking claw 8, or may be fixed by a screw. You may do so. The cushion body 13 is arranged on the inner surface of the headset 1 via the connector 5. The cushion body 13 is a bag-shaped hollow body made of silicone. The cushion body 13 is an elastic body in which a bag-shaped hollow body is fixed on the opening side along the curved surface of the inner surface of the connector 5 to stand on its own. The cushion body 13 has a horizontally long wall-like appearance having a certain width as a whole. The cushion body 13 has a bottom portion 13a having a long circuit-shaped outer shell having a straight portion in contact with the opposite curved surface along the curved surface of the inner surface of the connector 5, a wall portion 13b rising from the entire circumference of the bottom portion 13a, and an upper portion of the wall portion 13b. It is composed of a top 13c that closes the top. The top portion 13c is a first surface 13A configured to extend flat in the lateral direction in the chord direction with respect to the first frame body 2 having a curved central region, and the second surfaces 13B on both the left and right sides are It is configured to be inclined with respect to the surface 13A so that the surface faces the inside. As shown in FIG. 2, the preamplifier 14 is arranged at the back surface position of the top 13c in the cushion body 13. The preamplifier 14 has a donut-shaped flat body outer shape, and a female screw 14a is formed on the inner circumference of the central through hole. Details of the electrical configuration of the preamplifier 14 will be described later.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, a plurality of electrodes 15 are arranged on the top 13c of the cushion body 13 via one connecting sheet 16. More specifically, in the first embodiment, the five electrodes 15 are linearly arranged on the connecting sheet 16 on the top 13c in the cushion body 13 along the longitudinal direction of the top 13c.
The connecting sheet 16 as the abutting body is made of a non-stretchable and flexible plastic material, specifically, here, as an example, a polycarbonate material. The connecting sheet 16 is formed to be bent along the shapes of the first surface 13A and the surface 13B of the top 13c of the cushion body 13, and is long enough to completely cover the top 13c along the longitudinal direction of the top 13c. It is a sheet body of. The connecting sheet 16 is in close contact with the first surface 13A and the surface 13B of the top 13c. The connecting sheet 16 has a shape similar to the outer peripheral shape of the cushion body 13 so as to slightly protrude from the top 13c of the cushion body 13 (that is, a shape having a circuit-shaped outer shell with a long straight portion), and is arranged around the first. It does not touch the frame body 2 or other parts of 1. In the present embodiment, the width of the connecting sheet 16 is 170 mm. Further, in the arranged state, the peripheral edge of the connecting sheet 16 protrudes 7 mm from the edge of the top 13c (that is, the surface of the wall portion 13b). Here, if the amount of protrusion of the peripheral edge of the connecting sheet 16 is too small, the function as a contact body will be reduced, and if it is too large, it will be difficult to handle. Therefore, about 5 to 15 mm is appropriate. ..
The electrode 15 is composed of a disk-shaped main body 17, a plurality of protrusions 18 (12 in the first embodiment) as grounding portions, and a support shaft 19 having a circular cross section protruding downward from the center of the main body 17. Has been done. The protrusions 18 are erected at equal intervals near the outer periphery of the front surface of the main body 17. A male screw 19a is formed on the outer periphery of the support shaft 19. The diameter of the main body 17 of the electrode 15 is 13 mm, and the width of the connecting sheet 16 is wider. Therefore, the sheet surface of the connecting sheet 16 is exposed around the main body 17 of the electrode 15 up to the peripheral edge of the connecting sheet 16, and the head A region that can accommodate hair and the like when the set 1 is attached is also formed around the electrode 15.
The three central electrodes 15 are arranged on the first surface 13A via the connecting sheet 16, and the two left and right electrodes 15 are arranged on the second surface 13B via the connecting sheet 16. Therefore, as shown in the figure, the two left and right electrodes 15 are arranged so as to face inward depending on the inclination angle of the second surface 13B with respect to the three central electrodes 15, and the protrusions 18 of the three central electrodes 15 are arranged. The extension lines of the protrusions 18 of the two left and right electrodes 15 intersect with each other. As a result, the headset 1 can be comfortably attached to a subject having a so-called cliff shape with a large head shape and a flat occipital region, and a subject having a small head shape and an oval-shaped occipital region. 15 can be in contact with the subject's scalp.
The electrode 15 is fixed to the cushion body 13 in cooperation with the preamplifier 14. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the support shaft 19 of the electrode 15 is inserted into the cushion body 13 through the through hole 20 formed in the top 13c of the cushion body 13, and the male screw 19a of the support shaft 19 and the transparent hole 14 of the preamplifier 14 are transparent. It is fixed to the top 13c in the cushion body 13 by being screwed with the female screw 14a on the inner circumference of the hole. On the other hand, the preamplifier 14 is also suspended from the back surface of the top 13c by the electrodes 15 in this way.
A through hole 21 corresponding to the position of the support shaft 19 of the electrode 15 is formed in the connecting sheet 16. The position of the through hole 21 coincides with the through hole 20 formed in the cushion body 13. The support shaft 19 of the electrode 15 is inserted through the through holes 20 and 21, and is fixed by being sandwiched between the electrode 15 and the cushion body 13 together with the fixing of the electrode 15 as described above.

Next, the configuration of the second frame body 3 side will be described.
The second frame body 3 has an arch-shaped outer shape having a shorter overall length than the first frame body 2. The second frame body 3 is made of the same polyurethane material as the first frame body 2, and is configured to have the same width in the longitudinal direction. The vertical cross section of the second frame body 3 along the longitudinal direction has a convex outer circumference and a concave inner circumference. The second frame body 3 is connected to the first frame body 2 near the tips thereof. Specifically, both ends of the second frame body 3 are rotatably attached around the axis to the mounting plate 25 formed at the tip of the portion 2B near both ends of the first frame body 2. Since the second frame body 3 has a shorter overall length than the first frame body 2, it has a slightly weaker flexibility than the first frame body 2.
As shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, an opening 27 is formed in the front surface of the second frame body 3, and an elastic plate 28 as a sheet-like support is fixed so as to close the opening 27. Has been done. The elastic plate 28 is a thin plate body made of synthetic rubber and having elasticity and flexibility. The elastic plate 28 is fixed by fitting the long side end into the inside of the second frame body 2, and the short side end is not fixed and is open. Since the end portion on the short side is not fixed, the flexibility of the movement of the elastic plate 28 is improved, and the wiring can be pulled out from the open position to the first frame body 2 side.
The plurality of electrodes 15 are fixed to the elastic plate 28. More specifically, the three electrodes 15 are arranged in a straight line along the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate 28. Since the elastic plate 28 is similarly curved in a concave shape along the concave inner surface of the second frame body 3, the electrodes 15 at the left and right positions face inward, and the protrusions 18 of the three electrodes 15 are oriented inward. The extension lines of are in a positional relationship so as to intersect at one point inside the headset 1. The electrode 15 is fixed to the elastic plate 28 by cooperating with the preamplifier 14 as described above.
The elastic plate 28 is formed with slits 29 that serve as through holes in the vicinity of each electrode 15. A plurality of slits 29 are formed at positions surrounding the electrode 15. In the present embodiment, the electrodes 15 are formed at two locations so as to sandwich the electrodes 15.

Next, an outline of the electrical configuration of the headset 1 configured in this way will be described.
Each electrode 15 is electrically conducted by being screwed into the preamplifier 14. The conductors 31 from the preamplifier 14 of the first frame body 2 and the preamplifier 14 of the second frame body 3 are connected to the differential amplifier 10 in the connector 5, respectively. The differential amplifier 10, the communication circuit 11, and the preamplifier 14 are supplied with electric power from the storage battery 12. A ground electrode and a reference electrode (not shown) are provided outside the headset 1 from the differential amplifier 10. When the device is attached, the ground electrode and the reference electrode (reference electrode) are clipped to the wearer's body, for example, the right earlobe. Each electrode 15 is connected to the differential amplifier 10 via the preamplifier 14 and the lead wire 31, and the differential amplifier 10 is connected to the communication circuit 11. The preamplifier 14 is attached to each electrode 15 and amplifies the acquired electroencephalogram voltage at that position. The differential amplifier 10 includes a differential amplifier circuit, and calculates and amplifies an electroencephalogram voltage and a potential difference obtained from a reference electrode (not shown). The potential data amplified by the differential amplifier 10 is wirelessly transmitted to the outside by the communication circuit 11. The potential data received by a receiving device (not shown) is output to a computer as detection target data and analyzed.
When the headset 1 configured in this way is attached to the head, first, the portions 2B near both ends of the headset 1 on the first frame body 2 side are expanded. When the portions 2B near both ends are expanded, the second frame body 3 is also expanded accordingly. The headband 1 expanded in this way is arranged on the temporal region by the portions 2B near both ends on the side of the first frame body 2, and the electrodes 15 of the first frame body 2 are arranged along the horizontal direction of the back of the head. The electrode 15 of the frame body 3 is attached so as to be arranged along the lateral direction of the frontal region. The subject to be attached may be a wearer or a non-wearer. In the headset 1, the portions 2B near both ends on the side of the first frame body 2 return inward by their own urging force to sandwich the head, and the first frame body 2 and the second frame body 3 pass through the electrodes 15. The headband 1 is fixed to the head by being brought into contact with the head. FIG. 4 is an example in which the headset 1 is attached.

The headset 1 of the first embodiment configured as described above produces the following effects.
(1) The electrode 15 comes close to the head during the mounting work when the headset 1 is mounted as shown in FIG. 4, but at that time, even if the head shape differs depending on the wearer, the cushion is appropriately cushioned. Since the body 13 and the elastic plate 28 are bent and deformed, the headset 1 can be attached to the wearer's head even if the head shape is different. In particular, since the cushion body 13 projects forward (that is, toward the head), it can correspond to various head shapes, and since it has elasticity, it not only bends but also has a repulsive force on the head due to its elasticity. Therefore, the electrodes 15 come into contact with the scalp in an appropriate manner, and the electroencephalogram voltage can be obtained without exception. Further, the pain when wearing the device is not caused by the deformation of the cushion body 13 and the elastic plate 28, and the headset 1 does not shift even if the wearer walks or shakes his head, for example.
(2) When the electrode 15 on the side of the first frame body 2 is brought into contact with the scalp, the connecting sheet 16 having a large area spreads around the electrode 15, so that the electrode 15 is attached to the head during the mounting work. When they are brought close to each other, the scalp and hair come into contact with the connecting sheet 16 at the same time. Therefore, not only the electrode 15 receives the pressing force from the head side, but the external force is also dispersed in the connecting sheet 16. Therefore, only the electrode 15 is strongly pressed, and for example, the cushion body 13 that supports the electrode 15 is unlikely to have a large dent. Since the connecting sheet 16 is not connected to the first frame body 2 in a state of being arranged in front of the cushion body 13, the degree of freedom of deformation is high, and the external pressure on the cushion body 13 is easily dispersed. Further, since the connecting sheet 16 is a "face", it comes into contact with the scalp surface including the wearer's hair when the headset 1 is worn, and the electrode 15 can be prevented from collapsing during the wearing work.
(3) As for the electrodes 15 on the side of the first frame body 2, the three electrodes 15 in the center are arranged in a flat first surface 13A plane, while the two electrodes 15 on both the left and right sides are inside with respect to them. It is arranged so that it faces. Therefore, it is easy to follow the difference in the shape of the head.
(4) The connecting sheet 16 has a structure sandwiched between electrodes 15 in front of the cushion body 13. Therefore, since it is constructed as a strong structure together with the cushion body 13 and the electrodes 15, it is possible to generate a sufficient reaction force against the pressing force from the head side.
Further, since the connecting sheet 16 is non-stretchable, when a force that is pushed through the connecting sheet 16 and deforms the support is applied, the force is transmitted without escaping, so that the connecting sheet 16 is arranged as a row. The cushion body 13 can be made into an appropriate amount of deformation while maintaining the positional relationship of the electrodes 15. When the connecting sheet 16 is elastic, the positional relationship between the plurality of electrodes 15 is broken because only some of the electrodes are stretched when the device is worn, and the positional relationship between the plurality of electrodes 15 is broken. The electrode will come into contact with the position.
(5) In the mounting work of the headset 1, for example, the elasticity of the elastic plate 28 can be utilized by pressing the electrode 15 of the second frame body 3 against the frontal region side, and the elasticity of the elastic plate 28 can be utilized. Since the electrode 15 does not strongly abut on the scalp, the amount of deformation of the cushion body 13 becomes small.
(6) When the electrode 15 of the second frame body 3 is pressed against the frontal region side, the elastic plate 28 has a slit 29 formed at a position surrounding the electrode 15, so that the elasticity of the elastic plate 28 itself is not enough. The electrode 15 itself arranged on the elastic plate 28 has a deflection due to the presence of the slit 29, and the followability when mounted on the head is improved.
(7) The differential amplifier 10, the communication circuit 11, and the storage battery 12 are built in the connector 5 of the headset 1, and the preamplifier 14 and the conducting wire 31 are built in the hollow cushion body 13, so that they are electrically connected. The durability of the device is high because the device wearer does not touch the configuration.

(Second embodiment)
The headband 41 as the brain activity measuring device of the second embodiment uses the electrode 15 having the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, and the electric potential is basically the same as that of the first embodiment. It is for acquiring data. Therefore, the description of the electrical configuration of the headband 41 is omitted, and the difference in appearance from the headband 1 of the first embodiment will be mainly described. Further, the same members as those in the first embodiment are assigned the same numbers, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.
As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the headband 41 of the second embodiment has an outer shape formed by a frame body 42 curved so as to be convex outward as a whole. The frame body 42 is made of a plastic material, specifically, here, a polycarbonate material as an example. The frame body 42 is hard and inelastic, but has some flexibility as a whole.
The frame body 42 has a horseshoe-shaped appearance and a hollow interior. In the cross-sectional shape along the longitudinal direction of the frame body 42, the outer circumference is convex and the inner circumference is concave inward.
The frame body 42 is configured such that the vertical width is made equal from the horseshoe-shaped center portion 42A to the both end side portions 42B, and the thickness is gradually reduced from the center side portion 42A to the both end side portions 42B. The portions 42B near both ends have flexibility that allows them to swing in and out with the portion 42A near the center as a base. When the portion 42B near both ends is expanded outward, an urging force is generated as internal energy, and the portion 42B near both ends whose restraint is released by the urging force automatically returns to the original position.

A plurality of cushion bodies 43 (three in the present embodiment) as supports are fixed to the inner surface (front surface) of the central portion 42A of the frame body 42 at intervals. The cushion body 43 is a bag-shaped hollow body made of silicone. The cushion body 43 is an elastic body in which a cylindrical bag-shaped hollow body is fixed on the opening side along the curved surface of the inner surface of the frame body 42 to stand on its own. The cushion body 43 is fixed with an adhesive in the recess 44 formed on the inner surface of the frame body 42. The cushion body 43 has a recess 44 side open so that it can communicate with the inside of the frame body 42. The cushion body 43 is composed of a bottom portion 43a forming a circular outer shell, a wall portion 43b rising from the entire circumference of the bottom portion 43a, and a top portion 43c forming a circular flat surface that closes the upper portion of the wall portion 13b. The tips of the three cushion bodies 43, that is, the positions of the top portions 43c are arranged on the same straight line in the chord direction of the central portion 42A of the frame body 42.
One electrode 15 is arranged on the top 43c of each cushion body 43 via one connecting sheet 45. Similar to the first embodiment, the electrode 15 is fixed to the cushion body 43 in cooperation with the preamplifier 14. Three through holes (not shown) are formed in the connecting sheet 45, and the connecting sheet 45 is inserted through the support shaft 19 of each electrode 15 at these through holes and sandwiched between the electrode 15 and the cushion body 43. .. The outer peripheral position of the main body 17 of the electrode 15 coincides with the outer peripheral position of the wall portion 43b. That is, the electrode 15 does not protrude from the cushion body 43.
The connecting sheet 45 as a connecting member is made of a non-stretchable and flexible plastic material, specifically, here, as an example, a polycarbonate material. The connecting sheet 45 is a long sheet body having a semicircular shape at both ends. The outer portion of the connecting sheet 45 is slightly bent forward (inward). The connecting sheet 45 does not come into contact with the surrounding frame body 42 or other parts in the arranged state. In the present embodiment, the width of the connecting sheet 45 is 240 m. Since the connecting sheet 45 is wider than the diameter of the main body 17 of the electrode 15, the sheet surface is exposed from the main body 17 of the electrode 15 to the peripheral edge of the connecting sheet 45, and there is an area that can accommodate hair and the like when the headband 1 is attached. It will also be formed around the electrode 15.

When the headband 1 configured in this way is attached to the head, first, the portions 42B near both ends of the headband 41 on the frame body 42 side are expanded. The headband 1 expanded in this way is attached so that the portions 2B near both ends are arranged on the temporal region and the electrodes 15 of the frame body 42 are arranged along the lateral direction of the frontal region. The subject to be attached may be a wearer or a non-wearer. In the headband 41, the portions 42B near both ends of the frame body 42 return inward by their own urging force to sandwich the head, the electrodes 15 are brought into contact with the head, and the headband 41 is fixed to the head. FIG. 6 is an example in which the headband 41 is attached.

The headband 41 of the second embodiment configured as described above has the same effect as the headband 1 of the first embodiment described above, but has the following unique characteristics. The effect is also played.
(1) Since the cushion body 43 is deformed in response to an external force (pushing pressure) due to individual contact with the head when the electrode 15 comes into contact with the head, a delicate headband well adapted to the shape of the head. 41 can be installed. Further, when the shape of the frame body 42 differs depending on the model, the position of the electrode 15 can be changed for each model, because the position and spacing of the electrodes 15 and the shape of the cushion body 43 can be changed individually. It will be easier to do.
(2) Since the connecting sheet 45 having a large area spreads around the electrode 15, the scalp and hair come into contact with the connecting sheet 45 at the same time when the electrode 15 is brought close to the head in the mounting work. Therefore, not only the electrode 15 receives the pressing force from the head side, but the reaction force is also dispersed in the connecting sheet 45. Therefore, only the electrode 15 is strongly pressed, and for example, the cushion body 43 that supports the electrode 15 is unlikely to be greatly dented. Since the connecting sheet 45 is not connected to the first frame body 42 in a state of being arranged in front of the cushion body 43, the degree of freedom of deformation is high and the external pressure on the cushion body 43 is easily dispersed.
In particular, since the cushion body 43 is individually deformed, excessive deformation of the cushion body 43, which is easily deformed as compared with the first embodiment, is prevented.

(Third embodiment)
The headband 51 as the brain activity measuring device of the third embodiment is a variation of the second embodiment. Therefore, the detailed description of the configuration common to the second embodiment will be omitted, and the points different from the headband 41 of the second embodiment will be mainly described. Further, the same members as those in the first and second embodiments are assigned the same numbers, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.
As shown in FIG. 7, the headband 51 of the third embodiment has an outer shape formed by a frame body 52 having the same shape as the headband 41 of the second embodiment. The center-sided portion 52A and the both-end-sided portion 52B have the same configuration as the center-sided portion 42A and the both-end-sided portion 42B of the headband 41 of the second embodiment. The same three cushion bodies 43 as the headband 41 of the second embodiment are arranged in the central portion 52A of the headband 51. Unlike the headband 41 of the second embodiment, the cushion body 43 has a connecting sheet 53 arranged at an intermediate position of the cushion body 43. The connecting sheet 53 as a connecting member is made of the same material as the connecting sheet 45. The connecting sheet 53 of the present embodiment is simultaneously molded with the cushion body 43 by two-color molding, and the wall portion 43b of the cushion body 43 and the connecting sheet 53 are integrated.
In such a headband 51, the connecting sheet 53 is connected at a position closer to the base of the cushion body 43, the movement of the cushion body 43 can be restrained more, and the cushion body 43 is not to be bent as much as possible. Suitable for various cases. Further, since the movement of the cushion body 43 can be restrained, the electrode can be prevented from falling even if the size of the connecting sheet 53 is relatively small.

(Fourth Embodiment)
The headband 61 as the brain activity measuring device of the fourth embodiment is a variation of the first embodiment. Therefore, the detailed description of the configuration common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and the points different from the headband 1 of the first embodiment will be mainly described. Further, the same members as those in the first embodiment are assigned the same numbers, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.
As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the headband 61 of the fourth embodiment has an outer shape formed by a frame body 62 curved so as to be convex outward as a whole. The frame body 62 is made of a plastic material, specifically, here, a polycarbonate material as an example. The frame body 62 is hard and inelastic, but has some flexibility as a whole.
The frame body 62 has a horseshoe-shaped appearance and a hollow interior. In the cross-sectional shape along the longitudinal direction of the frame body 62, the outer circumference is convex and the inner circumference is concave inward. The frame body 62 is configured such that a horseshoe-shaped central portion 62A is formed with a large trapezoidal bulging portion 65 on one side, and the thickness gradually decreases from the central portion 62A to the both end portions 62B. There is.
One cushion body 63 as a support is fixed to the inner surface (front surface) of the center-side portion 62A of the frame body 62 by an adhesive. The cushion body 63 is a bag-shaped hollow body made of silicone. The cushion body 63 is an elastic body in which a bag-shaped hollow body is fixed on the opening side along the curved surface of the inner surface of the frame body 62 to stand on its own.
The cushion body 63 has a wall-like appearance in which the central portion protrudes, corresponding to the shape of the bulging portion 65 of the central portion 62A of the frame body 62. The cushion body 63 is provided with electrodes 15 in two upper and lower stages. In the present embodiment, one electrode 15 is arranged in the upper stage and five electrodes 15 are arranged in the lower stage. A connecting sheet 64 as a contact body is arranged between the lower five electrodes 15 and the cushion body 63 as in the case of the connecting sheet 16 of the first embodiment. The connecting sheet 64 is not arranged on one electrode 15 in the upper stage. The outer periphery of the connecting sheet 64 slightly protrudes from the outer periphery of the cushion body 63. The connecting sheet 64 does not come into contact with the frame body 62. Since the width of the connecting sheet 64 is wider than the diameter of the main body 17 of the electrode 15, the seat surface of the connecting sheet 64 is exposed around the main body 17 of the electrode 15 up to the peripheral edge of the connecting sheet 64, and the headband 61 is attached. Occasionally, a region where the hair or the like can come into contact with the electrode 15 is also formed around the electrode 15.
Even with such a headband 61, the same effect as that of the headset 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, it is an example showing that the present invention can be applied by arranging the electrodes 15 in two rows of upper and lower two stages instead of one row. The electrode arrangement shown in Example 4 is PO7, O1, Oz, O2, PO8, Pz in the international 10-20 electrode arrangement, and the brain activity from the visual cortex can be measured not only in the ventral route but also in the dorsal route. .. As described above, the application of the present invention to other than one row of electrode arrangement rows can be arbitrarily applied depending on the measurement purpose.

The above-described embodiment is merely described as a specific embodiment for exemplifying the principle of the present invention and its concept. That is, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The present invention can also be embodied in a modified manner as follows, for example.
-The above is an example of the shapes of the headset 1, the headbands 41, 51, and 61 in each of the above embodiments.
The shape of the electrode 15 in each of the above embodiments is an example, and may be another shape. For example, the shape and number of the protrusions 18 may be other than the above, or the electrode has the protrusions 18 as described above. It doesn't have to be. Further, the material may be made of non-metal.
Since the number and position of the electrodes 15 vary depending on the shape of the frame bodies 2, 3, 42, 52, 62 of the brain activity measuring device in each of the above embodiments and the measurement position aimed at by the brain activity measuring device. Not limited to the above.
The above is an example of the shapes and materials of the connecting sheets 16, 45, 53, 64 as the contact body. The amount of protrusion of the connecting sheets 16, 45, 53, 64 to the outside of the cushion bodies 13, 43, 63 as a support is preferably, for example, 5 to 30 mm. When the cushion body is integrated or the connecting sheet is between the supports, the amount of deformation of the cushion body is suppressed, so that the amount of protrusion of the connecting sheet to the outside may be about 5 to 10 mm.
The shapes of the cushion bodies 13, 43, and 63 are examples of the above-described embodiment. Further, the number of cushion bodies arranged in one frame body is not limited to the above. Further, the number and positions of the electrodes 15 arranged on each cushion body are naturally not limited to the above because they are naturally implemented in modes other than the above depending on the situation.
-For example, a plurality of contact bodies (or connecting members) may be separated from each other and used by stacking a plurality of sheets.
In the headband 51 of the third embodiment, the connecting sheet 53 is integrally molded with the cushion body 43, but the connecting sheet 53 may be formed of a separate member and attached so as to be fitted into the cushion body 43. .. Further, the position of the connecting sheet 53 with respect to the cushion body 43 may be shifted to another position.
The number of electrodes when the electrodes 15 are arranged in the upper and lower two stages of the headband 61 of the fourth embodiment is also an example of the above configuration, and the upper stage is also composed of two or more electrodes 15. You are free to do. Further, the area around the electrode 15 may be expanded by disposing a connecting sheet on the upper stage side.
-In the above embodiment, the brain activity measuring device in the electroencephalogram measuring system is described, but the present invention is not limited to the electroencephalogram (EEG), and can be applied to fNIRS, MEG, fMRI, etc. Not limited. The present invention may also be applied as a device fixing method when stimulating the brain from the outside such as a magnetic stimulator (TMS) and a direct current stimulator (tDCS).
The invention of the present application is not limited to the configuration described in the above-described embodiment. The components of each of the above-described embodiments and modifications may be arbitrarily selected and combined. Further, any component of each embodiment or modification, and any component described in the means for solving the invention or any component described in the means for solving the invention are embodied. It may be configured in any combination with. We also intend to acquire the rights to these in the amendment or divisional application of the present application.

1 ... Headset as a brain activity measuring device, 41, 51, 61 ... Headband as a brain activity measuring device, 2, 3, 42, 52, 62 ... Frame body as a frame member, 13, 43, 63 ... Support Cushion body as a body, 15 ... Electrodes.

Claims (24)

The frame member attached to the head and
A support that is disposed inside the frame member and has elasticity that stands up from the frame member side and rises inward.
With one or more electrodes for contacting the head located on the top of the support,
A brain activity measuring device comprising a contact body having a surface to be brought into contact with the head side between the electrode and the support . The frame member attached to the head and
A support that is disposed inside the frame member and has elasticity that stands up from the frame member side and rises inward.
With one or more electrodes for contacting the head located on the top of the support,
The brain activity measuring device is characterized in that a contact body having a surface to be brought into contact with the head side is formed on the support . The frame member attached to the head and
A support that is disposed inside the frame member and has elasticity that stands up from the frame member side and rises inward.
With one or more electrodes for contacting the head located on the top of the support,
An abutting body having a surface to abut on the head side,
A brain activity measuring device, characterized in that the abutting body projects outward from the support . The frame member attached to the head and
A support that is disposed inside the frame member and has elasticity that stands up from the frame member side and rises inward.
With one or more electrodes for contacting the head located on the top of the support,
An abutting body having a surface to abut on the head side,
A brain activity measuring device, characterized in that the abutting body is not in contact with the frame member . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the abutting body is made of a material that does not expand and contract . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein a plurality of electrodes are arranged on the top of the support, and the support is one . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the support is a plurality of. The brain activity measuring apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the electrodes are arranged inside the outer circumference of the support in a state of being arranged on the top of the support . The frame member attached to the head and
A support that is disposed inside the frame member and has elasticity that stands up from the frame member side and rises inward.
With one or more electrodes for contacting the head located on the top of the support,
Have,
A brain activity measuring device , wherein the electrodes are arranged one by one on the top of one of the supports, and one of the supports is connected to another of the supports by a connecting member . The brain activity measuring apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein one support in which only one electrode is arranged forms an arrangement row in which only one electrode is arranged. The brain activity measuring device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the connecting member is not in contact with the frame member . The brain activity measuring device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the connecting member has a surface sandwiched between the support and the electrodes and brought into contact with the head side . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the connecting member has a surface arranged between the supports and brought into contact with the head side . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 19 to 12, wherein the connecting member is made of a non-stretchable material . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the support has a hollow inside . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the frame member has a horseshoe shape, and the left and right legs swing inward and outward . The frame member attached to the head and
A support that is disposed inside the frame member and has elasticity that stands up from the frame member side and rises inward.
A plurality of electrodes for contacting the head located on the top of the support, and
Have,
The plurality of electrodes form an electrode arrangement row arranged in a row at intervals in the arrangement state.
A brain activity measuring device characterized in that the movable range when the support is deformed is 25 to 35 mm at the center of the electrode arrangement row and 5 to 15 mm at the end of the arrangement row . The brain activity measuring apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the electrode arrangement row is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame member . The brain activity measuring apparatus according to claim 17 or 18 , wherein the electrode arrangement row has a portion near the end of the row tilted and stands up and faces toward the center of the row . The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein an electrical configuration is built in the frame member . The leg portion of the frame member is connected to the leg portion of the second frame member, and the inside of the second frame member has a sheet-like support having elasticity, and the sheet-like support has an elasticity. The brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the electrodes are held . The brain activity measuring device according to claim 21, wherein a slit is provided around the electrode holding portion of the sheet-shaped support . A brain activity measuring system that measures brain activity based on a brain activity signal obtained by the brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 22 . A brain activity measuring system that measures brain activity based on an electroencephalogram signal obtained by the brain activity measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 22 .

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