Brain imaging device

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of brain imaging, and in particular to a brain imaging detection device. A brain imaging detection device comprises a plurality of detection units and a plurality of light source units, wherein the plurality of detection units and the plurality of light source units are spaced apart and staggered from each other; the brain imaging detection device further comprises a plurality of flexible connectors, wherein the flexible connectors connect adjacent detection units and the light source units, and the detection units and the light source units are capable of contacting the scalp of a subject to be detected. The advantages of the present invention are: simple structure, simple operation, light weight, and the flexible connectors are easy to adjust to match the curvature of the head of the subject to be detected, easy to use and comfortable for the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of brain imaging, and in particular to a brain imaging detection device. Background Art

[0002] Brain imaging, as the most important technical means of cognitive neuroscience research, enables humans to directly observe the internal cognitive activities of the brain of the subject to be tested. It is like a "microscope" and "telescope" for studying brain function and locating brain areas affected by neurological diseases.

[0003] Existing brain imaging detection devices have a complex structure and many parts. During use, the large number of parts and the complicated operation cause inconvenience to the user. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a brain imaging detection device, the technical solution is as follows:

[0005] A brain imaging detection device includes multiple detection units and multiple light source units, wherein the multiple detection units and the multiple light source units are spaced apart from each other and arranged in an interlaced manner; the brain imaging detection device also includes multiple flexible connectors, which connect adjacent detection units and light source units, and the detection units and the light source units are capable of contacting the scalp of a subject to be detected.

[0006] Such a setting has a simple structure, simple operation, light weight, and the flexible connection piece is soft and easy to adjust to match the curvature of the head of the object to be detected. It is easy to use and gives the user a comfortable feeling.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible connector is made of polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

[0008] With such a configuration, the flexible connector has good softness and is non-stretchable, ensuring that the distance between the light source unit and the detection unit remains unchanged when the brain imaging detection device is in use.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the detection unit includes a photodetector and a first optical waveguide structure, wherein the first optical waveguide structure is arranged on the end surface of the photodetector away from the flexible connector, and the area of ​​the first optical waveguide structure at the end away from the flexible connector is smaller than the area of ​​the end close to the flexible connector.

[0010] With this arrangement, when the brain imaging detection device is placed on the head of the subject to be detected, the hair can be parted so that the photodetector fits more closely to the scalp; and the first optical waveguide structure can confine the propagation of light waves to a limited area to enhance the signal.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light source unit includes a near-infrared light source and a second optical waveguide structure, wherein the second optical waveguide structure is arranged on an end surface of the near-infrared light source away from the flexible connector, and an area of ​​the second optical waveguide structure at the end away from the flexible connector is smaller than an area of ​​the end close to the flexible connector.

[0012] With this arrangement, when the brain imaging detection device is placed on the head of the subject to be detected, the hair can be parted so that the near-infrared light source is in closer contact with the scalp; and the second optical waveguide structure can confine the propagation of light waves to a limited area to enhance the signal.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first optical waveguide structure and the second optical waveguide structure are conical or truncated cone-shaped.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the brain imaging detection device further includes a plurality of supporting structures, wherein the plurality of supporting structures respectively surround the outer peripheral side of the first optical waveguide structure and / or the second optical waveguide structure, and one end of the supporting structure respectively abuts against the photodetector and / or the near-infrared light source.

[0015] With this arrangement, since the area of ​​the first optical waveguide structure and the second optical waveguide structure at one end close to the scalp of the subject to be detected is relatively small, when the brain imaging detection device is in use, the support structure plays a supporting role for the first optical waveguide structure, the second optical waveguide structure, the detector, and the near-infrared light source.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the support structure is a flexible support structure.

[0017] This configuration protects the scalp of the subject to be tested and gives the user a comfortable feeling.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the support structure is an adhesive support structure.

[0019] With such a configuration, when in use, the support structure can at least partially adhere to the scalp of the subject to be tested to fix the photoelectric detector and / or the near-infrared light source, thereby preventing the photoelectric detector and / or the near-infrared light source from moving during the test and affecting the accuracy of the detection.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, the near-infrared light source includes a micro LED lamp, and the near-infrared light source is capable of emitting light of at least two different wavelengths.

[0021] This configuration can reduce the size of the near-infrared light source.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the flexible connector is straightened, the distance between the near-infrared light source and the photodetector is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0023] Such an arrangement can ensure that the photoelectric detector can detect the information of the target area and can obtain a stronger signal.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, the brain imaging detection device further includes a first wire, which is electrically connected to the detection unit and the light source unit respectively, and the first wire is arranged to fit the side of the flexible connector.

[0025] Such an arrangement can make the lines neat and improve the user's comfort.

[0026] Compared with the prior art, the brain imaging detection device provided by the present invention connects the detection unit and the light source unit via a flexible connector. When the brain imaging detection device is worn on the head of the subject to be detected, the flexible connector can match the curvature of the head, and the detection unit and the light source unit can directly fit the scalp to perform detection. The present invention has a simple structure, simple operation, light weight, and is comfortable to use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of the brain imaging detection device provided by the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of the brain imaging detection device provided by the present invention connecting the detection unit or light source unit with the flexible connector;

[0030] Figure 4 A bottom view of the brain imaging detection device provided by the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a rear view of the brain imaging detection device provided by the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 A schematic structural diagram of a detection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 7 A schematic structural diagram of a detection unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 A schematic structural diagram of a light source unit according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 9 A schematic structural diagram of a light source unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a schematic structural diagram of the brain imaging detection device provided by the present invention when in use.

[0037] The symbols in the figure mean the following:

[0038] 100. Brain imaging detection device; 10. Flexible connector; 20. Light source unit; 21. Near-infrared light source; 22. Second optical waveguide structure; 30. Detection unit; 31. Photodetector; 32. First optical waveguide structure; 321. First end; 322. Second end; 40. Support structure; 50. First conductor; 60. Second conductor; 70. Electrode; 80. Third conductor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0040] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "mounted on" another component, it may be directly on the other component or there may be a central component. When a component is considered to be "set on" another component, it may be directly set on the other component or there may be a central component. When a component is considered to be "fixed to" another component, it may be directly fixed to the other component or there may be a central component.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. The terms used herein in the specification of the present invention are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present invention. The term "or / and" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0042] See also Figures 1 to 10 The present invention provides a brain imaging device 100 capable of detecting changes in hemoglobin concentration in the cerebral cortex of a subject. Based on the test results, pathological analysis is performed, thereby enabling research and diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses and other diseases in the subject. The subject can be a human, an animal, a phantom, or the like. The present invention is not limited to the type of subject; any subject capable of detection is acceptable.

[0043] Specifically, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The brain imaging detection device 100 includes a flexible connector 10, multiple light source units 20 and multiple detection units 30. The detection units 30 and the light source units 20 are staggered, spaced and arranged in an array, that is, the detection unit 30 is adjacent to the light source unit 20, and the adjacent light source units 20 are electrically connected to the detection units 30.

[0044] It can be understood that when the brain imaging detection device 100 is mounted on the head of the subject to be detected, the flexible connector 10 can fit the scalp without damaging the scalp. It has a simple structure, is lightweight, and can be adjusted to fit the head of the subject to be detected. The light source unit 20 can simultaneously provide light sources to multiple adjacent detection units 30 for detecting information within the brain.

[0045] When the brain imaging detection device 100 is in use, the flexible connector 10 is in a bridge shape, and each detection unit 30 is connected to an adjacent light source unit 20 via the flexible connector 10 to form a plurality of island-bridge structures.

[0046] Preferably, the flexible connector 10 is made of flexible and non-stretchable materials such as polyimide (PI) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). When the brain imaging detection device 100 is used, it can ensure that the distance between the light source unit 20 and the detection unit 30 remains unchanged, thereby improving the accuracy of the detection results of the detection unit 30.

[0047] In this embodiment, when the flexible connector 10 is straightened, the cross section of the flexible connector 10 is rectangular, that is, the flexible connector 10 is strip-shaped, which facilitates the arrangement of the first wire 50 described below and ensures the user's comfort during use.

[0048] The light source unit 20 includes a near-infrared light source 21, which can emit at least two different wavelengths of light, and the wavelengths of the at least two different lights are in the range of 650nm-900nm. The at least two lights can flash alternately under the control of a control unit (not shown). Light with wavelengths outside the range of 650nm-900nm is easily absorbed by other components in the body to be tested, such as water, and interferes with the test results. By utilizing the fact that the main components in the blood have a good scattering effect on the near-infrared light of 650nm-900nm, the intensity change of the scattered light is detected by the detection unit 30, and non-invasive, real-time, dynamic monitoring of the changes in oxygenated hemoglobin and deoxygenated hemoglobin during brain activity is achieved, thereby obtaining the neural mechanism of brain cognition.

[0049] The near-infrared light source 21 includes a micro-LED lamp, which is small and easy to arrange. By packaging different numbers of micro-LED lamps, the near-infrared light source 21 can emit light of at least two different wavelengths. For example, if the near-infrared light source 21 requires light of three different wavelengths, at least three micro-LED lamps need to be packaged.

[0050] The cross section of the micro LED lamp is circular, with a diameter less than or equal to 1.5 mm, which can ensure that the near-infrared light source 21 can pass through the gaps between the hair and contact the scalp, and the circular micro LED lamp has a larger area.

[0051] The detection unit 30 includes a photodetector 31, which detects near-infrared light scattered in the cerebral cortex, converts the optical signal into an electrical signal, and then transmits the electrical signal to the control unit for processing.

[0052] When the flexible connector 10 is straightened, the distance between the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm, which can ensure the accuracy of detection. It is understood that if the distance between the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 is too large, when the near-infrared light source 21 emits near-infrared light, the near-infrared light detected by the photodetector 31 will be attenuated too much, and the signal detected by the photodetector 31 will be too weak; if the distance between the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 is too small, when the emission angle of the near-infrared light source 21 is the same, the photodetector 31 will only receive near-infrared light scattered from the shallower part of the cerebral cortex and will not be able to detect information from the cerebral cortex in the target area.

[0053] See Figure 6 and Figure 7 The detection unit 30 also includes a first optical waveguide structure 32, which is arranged on the end surface of the photodetector 31 away from the flexible connector 10. The area of ​​the first optical waveguide structure 32 away from the flexible connector 10 is smaller than the area of ​​the end close to the flexible connector 10.

[0054] See Figure 8 and Figure 9 The light source unit 20 also includes a second optical waveguide structure 22, which is arranged on the end surface of the near-infrared light source 21 away from the flexible connector 10. The area of ​​the second optical waveguide structure 22 away from the flexible connector 10 is smaller than the area of ​​the end close to the flexible connector 10.

[0055] The total reflection performance of electromagnetic waves in the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 can confine the light waves to propagate within a limited area within the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 and their surroundings. The first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 can be optical fibers, thin film waveguides, etc.

[0056] Specifically, the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 each have a first end 321 and a second end 322 that are arranged opposite to each other. The first end 321 of the first optical waveguide structure 32 is connected to the photodetector 31, and the first end 321 of the second optical waveguide structure 22 is connected to the near-infrared light source 21. The second end 322 is arranged close to the scalp of the subject to be detected. The area of ​​the second end 322 is smaller than that of the first end 321, so that the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 can part the hair and fit the scalp.

[0057] Furthermore, the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 are in a truncated cone or conical shape, which can separate the hair and fit the scalp. In other embodiments, the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 can also be in a prism shape or other shapes, as long as the area of ​​the second end 322 is smaller than the area of ​​the first end 321.

[0058] The brain imaging detection device 100 also includes a support structure 40. The support structure 40 surrounds the outer periphery of the first optical waveguide structure 32 and / or the second optical waveguide structure 22 and is in contact with the outer sidewalls of the first optical waveguide structure 32 and / or the second optical waveguide structure 22. One end of the support structure 40 abuts the photodetector 31 and / or the near-infrared light source 21. The support structure 40 is capable of supporting the first optical waveguide structure 32 and / or the second optical waveguide structure 22, the photodetector 31 and / or the near-infrared light source 21. The support structure 40 is fixed to the photodetector 31 and / or the near-infrared light source 21, and the first optical waveguide structure 32 and / or the second optical waveguide structure 22 by bonding or snapping.

[0059] In this embodiment, a support structure 40 is provided on the outer periphery of each first optical waveguide structure 32 and each second optical waveguide structure 22. One end of the support structure 40 provided on the outer periphery of the first optical waveguide structure 32 abuts the photodetector 31, and one end of the support structure 40 provided on the outer periphery of the second optical waveguide structure 22 abuts the near-infrared light source 21. In other embodiments, the support structure 40 may be provided only on the outer periphery of the first optical waveguide structure 32, or only on the outer periphery of the second optical waveguide structure 22.

[0060] Furthermore, the support structure 40 is a flexible support structure to protect the scalp of the subject to be detected from being damaged.

[0061] Preferably, the support structure 40 is a viscous support structure. When the brain imaging detection device 100 is in use, the viscous support structure 40 adheres to the scalp, thereby securing and supporting the first optical waveguide structure 32, the second optical waveguide structure 22, the photodetector 31, and the near-infrared light source 21. The support structure 40 can be made of a flexible and viscous material such as latex or silicone.

[0062] The end of the outer support structure 40 of the first optical waveguide structure 32 away from the photodetector 31 is arranged flush with the second end 322 of the first optical waveguide structure 32, and the end of the outer support structure 40 of the second optical waveguide structure 22 away from the near-infrared light source 21 is arranged flush with the second end 322 of the second optical waveguide structure 22. In addition, the two sides of the outer support structure 40 of the first optical waveguide structure 32 are respectively arranged flush with the two sides of the photodetector 31, and the two sides of the outer support structure 40 of the second optical waveguide structure 22 are respectively arranged flush with the two sides of the near-infrared light source 21, so that the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second optical waveguide structure 22 can fit the scalp and ensure the integrity of the product.

[0063] See Figure 3 The brain imaging detection device 100 also includes multiple first wires 50, which are respectively attached to the side surfaces of the flexible connector 10. That is, when the brain imaging detection device 100 is mounted on the head of the subject, the first wires 50 are arranged on the side of the flexible connector 10 away from the subject's scalp or on the side close to the subject's scalp, and connect the adjacent near-infrared light source 21 and photodetector 31 to electrically connect the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31. This arrangement ensures that the first wires 50 are neatly arranged, making it convenient to wear and use, and preventing cluttered wiring.

[0064] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 The brain imaging detection device 100 also includes an electrode 70 and a plurality of second wires 60. The second wires 60 are electrically connected to the first wires 50 and the electrodes 70 respectively. The electrodes 70 are electrically connected to an external control unit. The control unit can control the near-infrared light source 21 to emit near-infrared light, and at the same time can receive and process the detection signal of the photodetector 31.

[0065] Preferably, the second wire 60 is curved so as to be flexible and deformable when worn, making it easier for the user to wear the device. Of course, in other embodiments, the second wire 60 can also be straight or in other shapes, as long as it can be connected to the first wire 50 and the electrode 70 respectively.

[0066] The brain imaging detection device 100 further includes a third wire 80 . The third wire 80 is disposed on the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 . The third wire 80 is electrically connected to the first wire 50 .

[0067] In this embodiment, the wavelengths of the two different wavelengths of light of the near-infrared light source 21 are 660 mm and 850 mm respectively, the area of ​​the near-infrared light source 21 is 1.2 mm × 1.2 mm, and when the flexible connector 10 is straightened, the distance between the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 is 25 mm. The flexible connector 10 is made of polyimide.

[0068] In another embodiment, the wavelengths of the two different wavelengths of light of the near-infrared light source 21 are 690 mm and 870 mm respectively, the area of ​​the near-infrared light source 21 is 1.5 mm × 1.5 mm, and when the flexible connector 10 is straightened, the distance between the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 is 30 mm. The flexible connector 10 is made of polyethylene terephthalate.

[0069] In other embodiments, the wavelengths of the two different wavelengths of light of the near-infrared light source 21 are 670 mm and 890 mm or other values, respectively, the area of ​​the near-infrared light source 21 is 1 mm × 1 mm or other areas, and when the flexible connector 10 is straightened, the distance between the near-infrared light source 21 and the photodetector 31 is 20 mm, 22 mm, 27 mm or other distances.

[0070] See Figure 10 During use, the brain imaging detection device 100 is placed on the head of the subject to be detected, the first optical waveguide structure 32 and the second end 322 of the second optical waveguide structure 22 are attached to the scalp, the near-infrared light emitted by the near-infrared light source 21 penetrates into the cerebral cortex, the photodetector 31 receives the scattered light from the cerebral cortex, converts the optical signal into an electrical signal, and transmits it to the external control unit to image the internal structure of the cerebral cortex.

[0071] The technical features of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above-mentioned embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0072] The above-described embodiments merely illustrate several implementations of the present invention, and while their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent. It should be noted that a person skilled in the art would be able to make numerous variations and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present invention, all of which fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the patent for this invention shall be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A brain imaging detection device, comprising a plurality of detection units (30) and a plurality of light source units (20), wherein the plurality of detection units (30) and the plurality of light source units (20) are spaced apart from each other and arranged in an interlaced manner; It is characterized by: The brain imaging detection device further comprises a plurality of flexible connectors (10), wherein the flexible connectors (10) connect adjacent detection units (30) and the light source units (20), and the detection units (30) and the light source units (20) are capable of contacting the scalp of the subject to be detected; The detection unit (30) comprises a photodetector (31) and a first optical waveguide structure (32), wherein the first optical waveguide structure (32) is provided on an end surface of the photodetector (31) away from the flexible connector (10), and an area of ​​the end of the first optical waveguide structure (32) away from the flexible connector (10) is smaller than an area of ​​the end close to the flexible connector (10); The light source unit (20) comprises a near-infrared light source (21) and a second optical waveguide structure (22); the second optical waveguide structure (22) is provided on an end surface of the near-infrared light source (21) away from the flexible connector (10); and the area of ​​the second optical waveguide structure (22) at the end away from the flexible connector (10) is smaller than the area of ​​the end close to the flexible connector (10).

2. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flexible connecting piece (10) is made of polyimide or polyethylene terephthalate.

3. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first optical waveguide structure (32) and the second optical waveguide structure (22) are conical or truncated cone-shaped.

4. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The brain imaging detection device further includes a plurality of support structures (40), wherein the plurality of support structures (40) respectively surround the outer peripheral side of the first optical waveguide structure (32) and / or the second optical waveguide structure (22), and one end of the support structure (40) respectively abuts against the photodetector (31) and / or the near-infrared light source (21).

5. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The support structure (40) is a flexible support structure.

6. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The support structure (40) is a sticky support structure.

7. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The near-infrared light source (21) comprises a micro LED lamp, and the near-infrared light source (21) is capable of emitting light of at least two different wavelengths.

8. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the flexible connector (10) is straightened, the distance between the near-infrared light source (21) and the photodetector (31) ranges from 20 mm to 30 mm.

9. The brain imaging detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The brain imaging detection device further comprises a first wire (50), wherein the first wire (50) is electrically connected to the detection unit (30) and the light source unit (20), respectively, and the first wire (50) is arranged in contact with the side surface of the flexible connector (10).

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