WO2018211429A1 - Modular device for recording and processing of the electrophysiological activity - Google Patents
Modular device for recording and processing of the electrophysiological activity Download PDFInfo
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- A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
- A61B5/279—Bioelectric electrodes therefor specially adapted for particular uses
- A61B5/291—Bioelectric electrodes therefor specially adapted for particular uses for electroencephalography [EEG]
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Definitions
- the described invention in this document is in the field of neurotechnology, more specifically in the field of BCI products (Brain-Computer-Interfaces), specifically in the field of devices for measuring and recording cerebral electrophysiological activity and converting it into digital data .
- Electrophysiology consists of the study of electrical properties in cells and tissues. It involves measurements of electrical potential differences on a wide variety of scales, from simple ion channel proteins to whole organs, such as the brain.
- Brain-Computer-Interfaces (BCI) technologies belong to a range of products that enable experimental studies of the brain. These studies, in addition to contributing to a better understanding of the organization of the brain, have allowed the understanding of the repercussion that this functioning has on the behaviors, thoughts and emotions. Its basic operation consists in the periodic measurement of voltage differences between neurons. These captured signals are amplified and filtered, seeking to improve the resolution and clarity of the signal. The signal is then converted into digital values and transmitted to computers, which process these signals to perform a given task.
- the data acquisition methods typically used in BCI systems can be divided into two broad groups: invasive and non-invasive.
- the invasive methods are those that present signals with better quality and higher temporal and spatial resolution.
- placing the electrodes into the brain surface is done by means of surgery, which entails inherent risks for the user.
- Non ⁇ invasive methods in which the electrodes are placed on the surface of the scalp, are the most used because they do not represent any type of risk to the user's health.
- the electroencephalogram belongs to the non-invasive methods most used in the BCI systems for the measurement and recording of electrical activity of the brain.
- the records resulting from the activity captured by several electrodes constitutes the EEG and represents the electrical signal of the various areas of the brain.
- EEG electroencephalographic
- EP0541393 discloses an elastic device of variable size for placement on the scalp of the wearer and which integrates a set of disposable electrodes.
- the present invention relates to a semi-rigid modular device that allows varying the configuration of the device according to the desired level of recording.
- Another difference of the equipment of the present invention is that it allows the ad ustment/tuning of the individual position of the electrodes according to the sites standardized by the International 10-20 EEG System.
- the apparatus of the present invention includes in its constitution a processor for processing the electrophysiological data by not requiring connection to a computer.
- EP2155056 Bl discloses a semi-rigid device for placement on the scalp. In contrast to the equipment of the present invention, this device is not modular, does not allow ad ustment/tuning of the electrodes, nor does it allow coverage of points Pz, P7 and P8.
- US2016/0235324 Al discloses a semi-rigid device that only covers AFz, F3, F4.
- the device is not modular, nor does it allow adjustment of the position of the electrodes.
- US2014/0316230 Al discloses a method and a device for monitoring mental activity.
- the present invention provides a portable device of great simplicity, which allows flexibility of use and applications that no other device of the BCI range based on electroencephalography (EEG) has. Its characteristics allow it to be used either in clinical applications for the electrophysiological diagnosis and correction of dysfunctions, or in commercial applications, for example in entertainment applications and optimization of mental performance.
- EEG electroencephalography
- One of the main advantages is that it is a model, which allows the configuration of the device to be varied according to the desired level of electrophysiological recording, which gives the advantage that several types of measurements can be performed without interruption of the procedure.
- a cognitive improvement training one can choose to configure the device to initiate training in an anteroposterior protocol, and during training change the configuration of the device to perform the training in a parietal protocol.
- This modeling geometry enables speed and convenience in Neurofeedback training when it is only necessary to execute simpler protocols, and structure and resistance when it is necessary to perform more complex exams and protocols.
- the modularity of the device allows testing of the quality of the electrophysiological signals reception by module, which allows the placement of the device in stages, and thus optimize the positioning of the electrode-sensors, in order to allow an increase in the quality of capture of the signals emitted by the brain .
- Another feature of the device is its configuration, regardless of the variant, comply with criteria, guidelines and methods based on the International 10-20 EEC System, which ensures, with its correct placement on the scalp, a qualified capture of brain activity .
- Electrodes-sensors are embedded in grooves so as to allow a position adjustment with respect to the inter-distances between the total number of electrode-sensors per arc and to the standard 10-20, which presupposes a placement with standardized distances of 10% -20% between the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal poles.
- It also has the advantage of processing locally, that is, the computation of power by each frequency band, by each electrode- sensor, the computation of the coherences between all the electrode-sensors and their phases, the computation of the ratios, the metrics and the standards between electrode-sensors and the extraction of user data, be performed in the Headset itself, and then the data can be sent to a server for archiving and further fine processing.
- This feature has the advantage of allowing that, in order for the Neuroheadset to be used, it is sufficient that it be coupled with equipment that allows the visualization of the data.
- Another advantage is to speed up processing by allowing, for example, some of the decisions regarding the operation of the Headset itself to be taken locally, thus avoiding the unnecessary transmission of the Headset data to and from the server.
- Figure 1 shows the location of the sites standardized by the International 10-20 EEG System.
- Figure 2 presents an axonometric perspective of the Neuroheadset .
- Figure 4 shows, in a frontal perspective, the electronic system, signal connections / mechanical connections / connection system between the modules.
- Figure 5 shows, in an axonometric perspective, the electronic system, signal connections / mechanical connections / connection system between the modules.
- Figure 6 shows, in an axonometric perspective, the system of placement of the electrode-sensors and their bases.
- Figure 7 shows a detail of the electrode/plate assembly that comprises an electrode-sensor attached to a base-plate, duly engaged in an electrode/plate groove.
- Wireless communication system means any wireless communication system capable of receiving and sending information, including, but not limited to: Bluetooth, GSM, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, 3G, 4G, RFID, Microwave .
- EEG electroencephalogram or electroencephalography
- Neurofeedback is a technique that allows the capture of brain activity in real time and its translation and return to the user in any format other than electromagnetic, and by any means.
- Neuroenhancement by Neurofeedback is a noninvasive brain training technique, which, based on the mental/brain state of an individual at a given time, performs an individualized brain training. Usually this training is carried out in a therapeutic setting in clinics or hospitals. Dimensions such as impulse control, anxiety control, potentiation of motivation for action, potentiation of concentration and regulation of mood are all possible with this technique.
- Brain-Computer Interface are the systems that allow establishing a channel of communication between the cerebral activity and a computer.
- Neuroheadset is meant the device that is placed on the scalp of the user to capture her brain activity.
- electronic unit is meant the set of elements represented in the figures by reference 20, which are electrical/ electronic components that perform the processing/routing/ transfer/transmission of the electrophysiological data.
- the present invention is related to a device that falls within the field of neurotechnology, namely in the range of non-invasive BCI equipment, more specifically within the range of portable Neurofeedback devices based on the captation of brain activity by electroencephalography (electrophysiological signal) and intended, but not exclusively, for Neuroenhancement by Neurofeedback training.
- the development and presentation of the device was based on specific criteria, guidelines and methods, not only relating to the conceptual orientation, but observing principles and rules centered on use, such as ergonomics, comfort, effectiveness and usability, among others, but also of industrial design rules, in particular, relating to metric compensation of the socket/coupling system depending on the raw materials in which it is produced (printed or injected) .
- the arrangement of the electrode-sensors (30.1) of the device complies with the International 10-20 EEG System, in order to ensure a qualified caption by these standard norms.
- the invention relates to a Neuroheadset that can be configured according to the complexity of capturing the intended brain activity. It features variable and modular geometry, attachable and adjustable electrode- sensors (30.1) . This solution guarantees not only the exact positioning of the electrode-sensors (30.1) in the desired positions, but also allows the coupling of more electrode- sensors (30.1) according to the level of electrophysiological capture desired, and/or for the execution of different electrophysiological metrics.
- the Neuroheadset has the following characteristics:
- the Neuroheadset consists of a set of modules (10) which comprises a base module (10.1) and zero, or at least one additional module (10.2), wherein the electrode-sensors (30.1) are housed.
- the different combinations of the device are achieved through the different combinations of the modules (10.1), (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
- the different levels of electrophysiological recording are achieved through the variation of the number of electrode- sensors (30.1), achieved through the different combinations of the modules (10.1), (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
- the electrode-sensor (30.1) is a dry and/or capacitive electrode with amplification, which is embedded in the base-plate (30.2), which are housed in the electrode/plate groove (10.3) in the inner layer (10.4) .
- the electrode/plate assembly (30) also has the ability to vary the position in the direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the electrode-sensor (30.1) surface, through the positional adjustment of the modules (10) by elastic deformation achieved in response to the settling pressure and the withdrawal decompression of the Neuroheadset in the user, derived from the flexibility and memory of the rubber- foam layer of the modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
- the various modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) have the following common characteristics:
- Electrode-sensors (30.1) housed in electrode/plate grooves (10.3) in order to allow repositioning and position adjustment in relation to the inter-distances in correlation with the totality of the electrode-sensors (30.1) with respect to the 10-20 EEG standard, which presupposes a placement with standard distances of 10%-20% between the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal poles, parallel to the plane of the surface, but also perpendicular to the plane of the surface;
- the modules are identical to The modules.
- EEG component (20.2) i.e. amplification/analog-to-digital conversion plates and components, multiplexer- demultiplexer;
- power supply unit (20.5) namely but not exclusively, autonomous rechargeable battery, for example, batteries.
- Module 3 (10.2.2) : Supplementary Frame 2, central, medium
- the Neuroheadset After placing the Neuroheadset in the user' s head, by positioning the modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) necessary for the level of electrophysiological capture desired, which are connected to each other by the interlocking system between contiguous modules (10.5), the position of the electrode-sensors (30.1) is adjusted either parallel or perpendicular to the plane.
- the equipment duly powered by the power supply unit (20.5), is activated, the signals being picked up are routed to the base module (10.1) where the components of the electronic unit (20) are located, namely the EEG component (20.2), the control microcontroller board (20.3) and the processing and communication unit board (20.4) .
- This routing is effected by the signal wiring (20.8) which is housed in the signal wiring grooves (20.7), the signal path being between modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2. 3) effected by the signal connectors between contiguous modules (20.6) .
- the signal is then routed to the processing unit, the data of interest being immediately available for observation in the display unit, and sent to remote post-processing on server.
- One of the possible applications of the present invention is its application to a Neuroenhancement Neurofeedback training.
- data that are captured and processed by the Neuroheadset can, for example, be analyzed for the evaluation of biomarkers and electrophysiological phenotypes, as well as the percentage of learning and evolution of the user's electrophysiological profile and thus determine the rhythm and the difficulty of the training to follow.
- This data after processing, is sent to the display unit, not only for training to be possible and focused on user data, but also as an audiovisual feedback form. With this procedure it is possible not only to provide a solution for neuroenhancement training and performance optimization, but also to monitor the evolution of training .
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Abstract
The described invention in this document refers to a variable modular device for measuring and recording cerebral electrophysiological activity and converting it into digital data, consisting of a set of modules (10), which comprises a base module (10.1), which integrates two structures for mastoid sensors (10.1.1), and additional modules (10.2), namely the module 2 (10.2.1), the module 3 (10.2.2) and module 4 (10.2.3). In the inner layer (10.4) of the modules is the electrode/plate groove (10.3) where the electrode/plate assemblies (30) are housed. In order to ensure a qualified capture of brain activity, the arrangement of the sensors of the device complies with the International 10-20 EEG System.
Description
DESCRIPTION
MODULAR DEVICE FOR RECORDING AND PROCESSING OF THE ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY
Scope of the Invention
The described invention in this document is in the field of neurotechnology, more specifically in the field of BCI products (Brain-Computer-Interfaces), specifically in the field of devices for measuring and recording cerebral electrophysiological activity and converting it into digital data .
Framework of the Invention
Electrophysiology consists of the study of electrical properties in cells and tissues. It involves measurements of electrical potential differences on a wide variety of scales, from simple ion channel proteins to whole organs, such as the brain.
Brain-Computer-Interfaces (BCI) technologies belong to a range of products that enable experimental studies of the brain. These studies, in addition to contributing to a better understanding of the organization of the brain, have allowed the understanding of the repercussion that this functioning has on the behaviors, thoughts and emotions. Its basic operation consists in the periodic measurement of voltage differences between neurons. These captured signals are amplified and filtered, seeking to improve the resolution and clarity of the signal. The signal is then converted into digital values and transmitted to computers, which process these signals to perform a given task.
The data acquisition methods typically used in BCI systems can
be divided into two broad groups: invasive and non-invasive. The invasive methods are those that present signals with better quality and higher temporal and spatial resolution. However, placing the electrodes into the brain surface is done by means of surgery, which entails inherent risks for the user. Non¬ invasive methods, in which the electrodes are placed on the surface of the scalp, are the most used because they do not represent any type of risk to the user's health.
The electroencephalogram (EEG) belongs to the non-invasive methods most used in the BCI systems for the measurement and recording of electrical activity of the brain. The records resulting from the activity captured by several electrodes constitutes the EEG and represents the electrical signal of the various areas of the brain.
For the correct recording of the electrical activity of the brain produced by the neurons, the placement of the electrodes on the scalp obeys to specific norms. These standards are established in the International System designated by 10-20 and which is based on the relationship between the location of an electrode and the area of the underlying cerebral cortex. In this system (Figure 1), two reference points are used to determine positions: the nasal located at the top of the nose between the eyebrows, and the outer protuberance of the occipital bone at the base of the skull at the back of the head. The distance from these two points being measured, the sites on the median line of the skull, Fpz and Oz, are marked with 10% of the distance between the nasion and the inion, and the sites Fz, Cz and Pz are marked with 20% from this distance. Points Fz, Cz, Pz, Fpz and Oz are well-known points in the field of electroencephalography and will not be explained in this document.
Before the electroencephalograms were used only in laboratory,
clinical, medical and research environments. However, technological development allowed the evolution of non-invasive, portable and rechargeable devices, which record the brain activity using electrodes applied to the scalp. Using computational algorithms, the communication between the brain and a computer is enable. Nowadays, devices that allow the development of interfaces based on the brain-computer paradigm are already commercially available and, fundamentally, open new avenues to the investigation and development of new techniques and approaches of interaction. This type of equipment records the electrical currents of the brain and enables the association of mental patterns with a set of predetermined commands on a computer .
Although electroencephalographic (EEG) -based BCIs stand out in medical applications, the increased performance of this type of technology and the reduction of costs have allowed it to be used in entertaining and cognitive training applications. In this context, thanks to the BCI, it is possible to obtain a series of parameters about the user experience and use that information to improve them. Through BCI, for example, it is possible to verify when a user is in a state of relaxation, activation, emotional engagement or motor imagery and use this information to dynamically adapt the application or game, according to the idiosyncrasies presented by the user.
Background of the Invention
Documents that refer to non-invasive devices for capturing electrophysiological activity were detected in the state of the technique. However, none of these documents provides or points to a solution identical to that presented in the invention described herein.
EP0541393 discloses an elastic device of variable size for placement on the scalp of the wearer and which integrates a set of disposable electrodes.
This invention presents significant differences with respect to the invention described herein, since the present invention relates to a semi-rigid modular device that allows varying the configuration of the device according to the desired level of recording. Another difference of the equipment of the present invention is that it allows the ad ustment/tuning of the individual position of the electrodes according to the sites standardized by the International 10-20 EEG System. In addition, the apparatus of the present invention includes in its constitution a processor for processing the electrophysiological data by not requiring connection to a computer.
EP2155056 Bl discloses a semi-rigid device for placement on the scalp. In contrast to the equipment of the present invention, this device is not modular, does not allow ad ustment/tuning of the electrodes, nor does it allow coverage of points Pz, P7 and P8.
US2016/0235324 Al discloses a semi-rigid device that only covers AFz, F3, F4. The device is not modular, nor does it allow adjustment of the position of the electrodes.
US2014/0316230 Al discloses a method and a device for monitoring mental activity.
Advantages of the Invention
The present invention provides a portable device of great simplicity, which allows flexibility of use and applications that no other device of the BCI range based on
electroencephalography (EEG) has. Its characteristics allow it to be used either in clinical applications for the electrophysiological diagnosis and correction of dysfunctions, or in commercial applications, for example in entertainment applications and optimization of mental performance.
One of the main advantages is that it is a model, which allows the configuration of the device to be varied according to the desired level of electrophysiological recording, which gives the advantage that several types of measurements can be performed without interruption of the procedure. For example, in a cognitive improvement training, one can choose to configure the device to initiate training in an anteroposterior protocol, and during training change the configuration of the device to perform the training in a parietal protocol.
This modeling geometry enables speed and convenience in Neurofeedback training when it is only necessary to execute simpler protocols, and structure and resistance when it is necessary to perform more complex exams and protocols.
Its modeling geometry also allows the use of this device in other applications, such as robotic, prosthetic and domotic actuators. For simpler measures such as activation/non-activation, only the base module is used; for more complex measures such as engagement (approach/withdrawal to the stimulus), the base module and module 2 are used; and for even more complex measures such as motor measurements, base modules, 2 and 3 are used and for electrophysiological diagnoses with complete EEG the base modules together with the modules 2, 3 and 4 are used.
The modularity of the device allows testing of the quality of the electrophysiological signals reception by module, which allows the placement of the device in stages, and thus optimize
the positioning of the electrode-sensors, in order to allow an increase in the quality of capture of the signals emitted by the brain .
Another feature of the device is its configuration, regardless of the variant, comply with criteria, guidelines and methods based on the International 10-20 EEC System, which ensures, with its correct placement on the scalp, a qualified capture of brain activity .
Another of the advantages that the equipment presents is the fact that its geometry is variable, that is to say, unlike the existing equipment in which the measures are rigid not allowing the adjustment to the dimensions of the head of the user, the geometry and the systems of fit/connection between modules allows the equipment to fit perfectly to the user's head.
Another important advantage is that the electrode-sensors are embedded in grooves so as to allow a position adjustment with respect to the inter-distances between the total number of electrode-sensors per arc and to the standard 10-20, which presupposes a placement with standardized distances of 10% -20% between the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal poles.
It also has the advantage of processing locally, that is, the computation of power by each frequency band, by each electrode- sensor, the computation of the coherences between all the electrode-sensors and their phases, the computation of the ratios, the metrics and the standards between electrode-sensors and the extraction of user data, be performed in the Headset itself, and then the data can be sent to a server for archiving and further fine processing. This feature has the advantage of allowing that, in order for the Neuroheadset to be used, it is sufficient that it be coupled with equipment that allows the
visualization of the data. Another advantage is to speed up processing by allowing, for example, some of the decisions regarding the operation of the Headset itself to be taken locally, thus avoiding the unnecessary transmission of the Headset data to and from the server.
These features enable the equipment of the present invention to be totally innovative in relation to the state of the technique in that it allows:
- add and remove modules according to the desired capture level;
- be used in a wide range of applications;
- regardless of the number of modules placed, the distances standardized by the International 10-20 EEG System are always respected;
- adjustment of the modules to the user's head measurement;
- improving the quality of the electrophysiological signal by the individual adjustment of the electrode-sensors;
- no additional equipment is required for the Neuroheadset to operate (except for equipment to view the data collected) .
Brief description of drawings
These and other features can be readily understood by the accompanying drawings, which should be considered as examples and not as restrictive in any way of the scope of the invention. In the drawings, for illustrative purposes, the measurements of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn to scale. The absolute dimensions and the relative dimensions do not correspond to the real relationships for carrying out the invention .
Figure 1 shows the location of the sites standardized by the International 10-20 EEG System.
Figure 2 presents an axonometric perspective of the Neuroheadset .
In figure 3 it is possible to observe a detail of the electrode- sensor properly fitted in the electrode/plate groove.
Figure 4 shows, in a frontal perspective, the electronic system, signal connections / mechanical connections / connection system between the modules.
Figure 5 shows, in an axonometric perspective, the electronic system, signal connections / mechanical connections / connection system between the modules.
Figure 6 shows, in an axonometric perspective, the system of placement of the electrode-sensors and their bases.
Figure 7 shows a detail of the electrode/plate assembly that comprises an electrode-sensor attached to a base-plate, duly engaged in an electrode/plate groove.
In the figures are visible their various components and accessories :
10. modules
10.1. base module
10.1.1. structure for mastoid sensors
10.2. additional modules
10.2.1. module 2
10.2.2. module 3
10.2.3. module 4
10.3. electrode/plate groove
10.4. inner layer
10.5. interlocking system between contiguous modules
20. electronic unit
20.2. EEG component
20.3. microcontroller board
20.4. processing and communication unit board
20.5. power supply unit
20.6. signal connectors between contiguous modules
20.7. signal wiring grooves
20.8. signal wiring
30. electrode/plate assembly
30.1. electrode-sensor
30.2. base-plate
Detailed description of the invention
Wireless communication system means any wireless communication system capable of receiving and sending information, including, but not limited to: Bluetooth, GSM, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, 3G, 4G, RFID, Microwave .
By electroencephalogram or electroencephalography, abbreviated as EEG, means the recording of brain electrical activity by the placement of electrodes on the scalp that receive and amplify the potentials generated in each brain region.
Neurofeedback is a technique that allows the capture of brain activity in real time and its translation and return to the user in any format other than electromagnetic, and by any means.
Neuroenhancement by Neurofeedback is a noninvasive brain training technique, which, based on the mental/brain state of an individual at a given time, performs an individualized brain training. Usually this training is carried out in a therapeutic setting in clinics or hospitals. Dimensions such as impulse control, anxiety control, potentiation of motivation for action,
potentiation of concentration and regulation of mood are all possible with this technique.
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) are the systems that allow establishing a channel of communication between the cerebral activity and a computer.
By Neuroheadset is meant the device that is placed on the scalp of the user to capture her brain activity.
By electronic unit is meant the set of elements represented in the figures by reference 20, which are electrical/ electronic components that perform the processing/routing/ transfer/transmission of the electrophysiological data.
The present invention is related to a device that falls within the field of neurotechnology, namely in the range of non-invasive BCI equipment, more specifically within the range of portable Neurofeedback devices based on the captation of brain activity by electroencephalography (electrophysiological signal) and intended, but not exclusively, for Neuroenhancement by Neurofeedback training.
It is a device that is placed on the scalp for the measurement and recording of the user's electrophysiological activity and the real-time translation of the electrophysiological data into digital data, and its transmission to a data exploration server (data exploration) through a Communication Protocol.
The development and presentation of the device was based on specific criteria, guidelines and methods, not only relating to the conceptual orientation, but observing principles and rules centered on use, such as ergonomics, comfort, effectiveness and usability, among others, but also of industrial design rules, in
particular, relating to metric compensation of the socket/coupling system depending on the raw materials in which it is produced (printed or injected) .
The arrangement of the electrode-sensors (30.1) of the device complies with the International 10-20 EEG System, in order to ensure a qualified caption by these standard norms.
With reference to the figures, the invention relates to a Neuroheadset that can be configured according to the complexity of capturing the intended brain activity. It features variable and modular geometry, attachable and adjustable electrode- sensors (30.1) . This solution guarantees not only the exact positioning of the electrode-sensors (30.1) in the desired positions, but also allows the coupling of more electrode- sensors (30.1) according to the level of electrophysiological capture desired, and/or for the execution of different electrophysiological metrics.
For these objectives to be achieved, the Neuroheadset has the following characteristics:
- variable and modular geometry;
- semi-rigid composition;
- electrode-sensors (30.1) in positions according to the International 10-20 EEG System;
- adjustable electrode-sensors (30.1);
- local processing;
- remote post processing in processing unit.
These features are seen in the embodiment of the equipment or Neuroheadset described below.
The Neuroheadset consists of a set of modules (10) which comprises a base module (10.1) and zero, or at least one
additional module (10.2), wherein the electrode-sensors (30.1) are housed. The different combinations of the device are achieved through the different combinations of the modules (10.1), (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
The different levels of electrophysiological recording are achieved through the variation of the number of electrode- sensors (30.1), achieved through the different combinations of the modules (10.1), (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
The electrode-sensor (30.1) is a dry and/or capacitive electrode with amplification, which is embedded in the base-plate (30.2), which are housed in the electrode/plate groove (10.3) in the inner layer (10.4) . This housing of the electrode-sensors (30.1) and of the base-plates (30.2) in grooves, gives the electrode/plate assembly (30) the ability to move parallel to the plane of the surface of the electrode-sensors (30.1) by displacing the electrode/plate assembly (30) in the electrode/plate groove (10.3), as can be seen in detail shown in Figure 7. The electrode/plate assembly (30) also has the ability to vary the position in the direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the electrode-sensor (30.1) surface, through the positional adjustment of the modules (10) by elastic deformation achieved in response to the settling pressure and the withdrawal decompression of the Neuroheadset in the user, derived from the flexibility and memory of the rubber- foam layer of the modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
The various modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) have the following common characteristics:
- Host frame of electrode-sensors (30.1);
- Frame of a single section but allowing the adjustment of the dimensions of the diameter/circumference by means of mechanical tension based on the physical memory of the
material ;
- Electrode-sensors (30.1) housed in electrode/plate grooves (10.3) in order to allow repositioning and position adjustment in relation to the inter-distances in correlation with the totality of the electrode-sensors (30.1) with respect to the 10-20 EEG standard, which presupposes a placement with standard distances of 10%-20% between the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal poles, parallel to the plane of the surface, but also perpendicular to the plane of the surface;
- Inner layer (10.4) padded, non-conductive, memory layer, with electrode/plate grooves (10.3) in the electrode-sensor (30.1) areas ;
- Interlocking system between contiguous modules (10.5) comprising, but not limited to, a male component for engaging the female component of the adjacent module;
- Signal connectors between contiguous modules (20.6) allowing the passage of the signals captured by the electrode-sensors (30.1) and carried by the signal wiring (20.8) properly housed in the signal wiring groove (20.7) .
The modules
Base module (10.1) :
• Coverage of sites Fpz, Fpl, Fp2, F7, F8, T7, T8, P7, P8, 01,
02 and Oz;
• Structure for mastoid sensors (10.1.1), also corresponding to points Al and A2 ;
• A container frame for the electronic unit (20) :
1) EEG component (20.2), i.e. amplification/analog-to-digital conversion plates and components, multiplexer- demultiplexer;
2) microcontroller board (20.3) of the amplification, conversion and logical translation components for processing unit;
3) processing and communication unit board (20.4) consisting of: processing unit, artificial intelligence unit, display unit, communication components;
4) power supply unit (20.5), namely but not exclusively, autonomous rechargeable battery, for example, batteries.
Additional modules (10.2) :
Module 2 (10.2.1) : Supplementary Frame 1, front
• Coverage of sites Fz, F3, F4
Module 3 (10.2.2) : Supplementary Frame 2, central, medium
• Coverage of sites Cz, C3, C4
Module 4 (10.2.3) : Supplementary Frame 3, parietal
• Coverage of sites Pz, P3, P4
After placing the Neuroheadset in the user' s head, by positioning the modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) necessary for the level of electrophysiological capture desired, which are connected to each other by the interlocking system between contiguous modules (10.5), the position of the electrode-sensors (30.1) is adjusted either parallel or perpendicular to the plane. The equipment, duly powered by the power supply unit (20.5), is activated, the signals being picked up are routed to the base module (10.1) where the components of the electronic unit (20) are located, namely the EEG component (20.2), the control microcontroller board (20.3) and the processing and communication unit board (20.4) . This routing is effected by the signal wiring (20.8) which is housed in the signal wiring grooves (20.7), the signal path being between modules (10.1) (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2. 3) effected by the signal connectors between contiguous modules (20.6) . The signal is then routed to the processing unit, the data of interest being immediately
available for observation in the display unit, and sent to remote post-processing on server.
Neuroenhancement by Neurofeedback training
One of the possible applications of the present invention is its application to a Neuroenhancement Neurofeedback training. During neurofeedback training, data that are captured and processed by the Neuroheadset can, for example, be analyzed for the evaluation of biomarkers and electrophysiological phenotypes, as well as the percentage of learning and evolution of the user's electrophysiological profile and thus determine the rhythm and the difficulty of the training to follow. This data, after processing, is sent to the display unit, not only for training to be possible and focused on user data, but also as an audiovisual feedback form. With this procedure it is possible not only to provide a solution for neuroenhancement training and performance optimization, but also to monitor the evolution of training .
Claims
1. Modular device for recording and processing of the electrophysiological activity for placement on the scalp according to the International System 10-20 EEG comprising:
- an electrode-sensors (30.1),
- an electronic unit (20),
characterized in that it comprises:
- modules (10) integrating:
- a base module (10.1),
- zero, or at least one additional module (10.2),
housing an electrode/plate assembly (30) consisting of
- electrode-sensors (30.1),
- a base-plate (30.2),
having :
- an inner layer (10.4) housing an electrode/plate groove (10.3) and an interlocking system between contiguous modules (10.5) ,
and by
- the electrode-sensors (30.1) being embedded in the base¬ plate (30.2),
- the electrode/plate assembly (30) being housed in the electrode/plate groove (10.3),
- the individual adjustment of the parallel position relative to the plane of the electrode-sensor (30.1) surface being carried out by changing the position of the electrode/plate assembly (30) in the electrode/plate groove (10.3) ,
- the individual adjustment of the position perpendicular to the plane of the surface of the electrode-sensor (30.1) being obtained by elastic deformation of the device, and
- the level of electrophysiological recording being achieved with different combinations of the modules (10.1), 10.2.1)
(10.2.2) (10.2.3),
- integrating a processing unit for electrophysiological data processing.
2. Modular device according to the preceding claim wherein the electronic unit (20) comprises:
- an EEG component (20.2), i.e., amplification/analog-to- digital conversion boards and components, multiplexer- demultiplexer of the electrophysiological signal,
- a microcontroller board (20.3) for controlling amplification, conversion and logical translation components to the processing unit,
- a processing and communication unit board (20.4) consisting of: processing unit, artificial intelligence unit, display unit, communication components,
- a power supply unit (20.5),
- a signal connectors between contiguous modules (20.6),
- a signal wiring grooves (20.7),
- a signal wiring (20.8) .
3. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the electronic unit (20) being housed in the base module (10.1) .
4. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the structure for the mastoid sensors (10.1.1) being integrated in the base module (10.1) .
5. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the different combinations of the device are achieved by coupling the modules (10.1), (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) together .
6. A modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the engagement between contiguous modules being achieved by the interlocking system between contiguous modules (10.5) .
7. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the transition of the signals received by the electrode-sensors (30.1) located in contiguous modules, being done by the signal connectors between contiguous modules (20.6) and carried out by the signal wiring (20.8) housed in the signal wiring grooves (20.7) .
8. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the different levels of electrophysiological data collection being reached by the variation of the number of electrode- sensors (30.1) .
9. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the variation of the number of electrode-sensors (30.1), which are placed on the scalp, occurs through the different combinations of the modules (10.1), (10.2.1) (10.2.2) (10.2.3) .
10. Modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the modular device being made of a semi-rigid material.
11. A modular device according to the preceding claims wherein the processed electrophysiological information being sent to a display device for observing the data.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PT110079 | 2017-05-17 | ||
| PT11007917A PT110079A (en) | 2017-05-17 | 2017-05-17 | MODULAR DEVICE FOR RECORDING AND PROCESSING ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY |
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| WO2018211429A1 true WO2018211429A1 (en) | 2018-11-22 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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| PCT/IB2018/053421 WO2018211429A1 (en) | 2017-05-17 | 2018-05-16 | Modular device for recording and processing of the electrophysiological activity |
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| PT (1) | PT110079A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2018211429A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2021178319A1 (en) * | 2020-03-02 | 2021-09-10 | Censyn, Inc. | Mobile electroencephalogram system and methods |
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| EP0541393A1 (en) | 1991-11-08 | 1993-05-12 | Physiometrix, Inc. | EEG headpiece with disposable electrodes and apparatus and system and method for use therewith |
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| PT110079A (en) | 2018-11-19 |
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