EEG Head-Mounted Device

Abstract

The EEG head-mounted device (100) includes a base member (1) configured to be positioned over at least a portion of the parietal and / or occipital bones of a patient in use. The base member (1) has a patient side and a non-patient side. The head-mounted device (100) further includes a plurality of mounting members (2), wherein each mounting member (2) is rotatably connected to the base member (1) by a respective rotatable connection means (5), and each rotatable connection means (5) includes a biasing means to bias the mounting member (2) to rotate towards the patient side of the base member (1). The mounting members (5) are shaped and configured to hold the head-mounted device (100) on the patient's head in use, and at least one of the mounting members (5) includes electrode engagement means (6) for engaging an electrode (14) in use. Examples of EEG head-mounted devices are substantially waterproof.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a headset for performing electroencephalography on a user, and more particularly but not exclusively to an EEG headset useful for neurofeedback training. Background Art

[0002] In neurofeedback training, a user or patient learns to manage conditions such as chronic pain (e.g., pain that persists after a wound has healed) by receiving real-time feedback about their brain activity.

[0003] During neurofeedback training, brain activity can be monitored via electroencephalography. This process requires placing multiple electrodes in conductive contact with the patient's scalp. Typically, the electrodes will be placed according to a standardized positioning system known as the international 10-20 system. Electroencephalography generates an output known as an electroencephalogram (EEG).

[0004] Existing methods of obtaining an EEG can be time-consuming and may be intimidating and uncomfortable for the patient. Electrodes are typically directly attached to the patient's scalp and may remove dead skin cells after wear. If the electrodes are of the "wet" type, a conductive liquid or gel may be applied to the scalp.

[0005] In some cases, the electrodes can be attached to a net or frame to help position the electrodes in the correct location.

[0006] In addition to neurofeedback training, electroencephalograms may have many other uses, including diagnosing and / or evaluating neurological disorders such as concussions.

[0007] In some EEG methods of the prior art, it may be difficult and / or time-consuming to adequately prepare a set of electrodes (including any associated net or frame) that have been used by a first patient for use by a second patient.

[0008] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Shows a human skull in which a variety of bones have been identified, including the frontal bone, parietal bone, and temporal bone.

[0009] Object of the Invention

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved EEG headset that will overcome and / or ameliorate the problems of current such devices.

[0011] Alternatively, it is an object of the present invention to at least provide a useful option for the public. Summary of the Invention

[0012] One aspect of the present technology relates to an EEG head-mounted device that can be easily put on or taken off by a patient, for example, using one hand.

[0013] Another aspect of the technology relates to an EEG head-mounted device that is easy to prepare for use by different patients.

[0014] Another aspect of the technology relates to an EEG head-mounted device that is substantially waterproof.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an EEG head-mounted device comprising a base member configured to be located over at least a portion of the patient's parietal bone and / or occipital bone in use, the base member including a patient side and a non-patient side, the head-mounted device further comprising a plurality of mounting members, wherein each mounting member is rotatably connected to the base member by a respective rotatable connecting device, each rotatable connecting device including a biasing device to bias the mounting member to rotate towards the patient side of the base member, wherein the mounting members are shaped and configured to hold the head-mounted device on the patient's head in use, and wherein at least one of the mounting members includes electrode engaging means for engaging an electrode in use.

[0016] Preferably, each mounting member includes at least one electrode engaging means.

[0017] Preferably, the electrode engaging means is arranged such that the electrodes engaged with the electrode engaging means in use are arranged according to the international 10-20 system.

[0018] Preferably, the plurality of mounting members includes a pair of lower lateral mounting members.

[0019] Preferably, the plurality of mounting members includes a pair of upper lateral mounting members.

[0020] Preferably, the plurality of mounting members includes a central upper mounting member.

[0021] Preferably, none of the upper lateral mounting members is connected to any other mounting member.

[0022] Preferably, the central upper mounting member is not connected to any other mounting member.

[0023] Preferably, the central upper mounting member includes a plurality of central upper mounting member portions, wherein each central upper mounting member portion is rotatably connected to an adjacent central upper mounting member portion.

[0024] Preferably, each central upper mounting portion is biased to rotate towards the patient side of the base member.

[0025] Preferably, the central upper mounting member includes two central upper mounting member portions.

[0026] Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member includes a plurality of upper lateral mounting member portions, wherein each upper lateral mounting member portion is rotatably connected to an adjacent upper lateral mounting member portion.

[0027] Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member is biased to rotate towards the patient side of the base member.

[0028] Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member includes three upper lateral mounting member portions.

[0029] Preferably, each of the mounting member portions is substantially rigid.

[0030] Preferably, each rotatable connection means includes a flexible impermeable sleeve configured to prevent fluid from entering the mounting member, the mounting member portion and / or the base member to which the rotatable connection means engages.

[0031] Preferably, each rotatable connection means allows rotation about only a single axis.

[0032] Preferably, each mounting member includes a chamfered longitudinal edge on its patient contact side.

[0033] Preferably, each mounting member includes a chamfered distal edge on its patient contact side.

[0034] Preferably, each lower transverse mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the occipital bone and / or the temporal bone of the patient in use.

[0035] Preferably, each lower transverse mounting member is configured to extend from the base to a position immediately behind the patient's ear in use.

[0036] Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the parietal bone and / or the frontal bone of the patient in use.

[0037] Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member is configured to avoid covering the temporal bone of the patient in use.

[0038] Preferably, the central upper mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the parietal bone and / or the frontal bone of the patient in use.

[0039] Preferably, each mounting member portion has a patient side and a non-patient side, wherein the patient side defines a substantially concave curve.

[0040] Preferably, the concave curve is substantially conformable to the surface of the patient's head in use.

[0041] Preferably, each mounting member includes at least one electrode engaging means.

[0042] Preferably, the electrode engaging means is arranged such that the electrodes engaged with the electrode engaging means in use are arranged according to the international 10 - 20 system.

[0043] Preferably, the head - mounted device includes a wireless communication device and / or a wired communication device.

[0044] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an EEG head - mounted device including a base member configured to be located over a patient's parietal bone and / or occipital bone in use, the base member including a patient - side and a non - patient - side, the head - mounted device further including a plurality of mounting members, wherein each mounting member is rotatably connected to the base member by a respective hinge, each hinge including an elastically flexible member configured to bias the mounting member to rotate towards the patient - side of the base member, wherein the mounting members are shaped and configured to hold the head - mounted device on the patient's head in use, and wherein at least one of the mounting members includes an electrode mounting seat on which an electrode can be mounted in use.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an EEG head - mounted device including a base member and a plurality of mounting members configured to hold the head - mounted device in a desired position on a patient's head in use, wherein each mounting member includes at least one electrode engaging means for releasably engaging an electrode, and wherein the electrode and / or the electrode engaging means includes a seal configured to inhibit or prevent water from passing through the electrode into the interior of the mounting member.

[0046] Preferably, each electrode includes a seal, such as an O - ring seal, that engages the inner wall of the electrode engaging means.

[0047] Preferably, at least one of the mounting members includes a plurality of mounting member portions, each mounting member portion being rotatably connected to an adjacent mounting member portion by a rotatable connecting member, wherein each rotatable connecting member includes a flexible sealing part configured to sealingly engage the respective adjacent mounting member portion, thereby preventing or inhibiting water from entering the interior of the mounting member portion.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an EEG head-mounted device comprising a base member and a plurality of mounting members configured to hold the head-mounted device in a desired position on a patient's head in use, wherein each mounting member comprises at least one electrode mount on which an electrode can be mounted in use, and wherein the electrode and / or the electrode mount comprises a seal configured to prevent or inhibit water from passing through the electrode and entering the interior of the mounting member.

[0049] After reading the following description which provides at least one example of the practical application of the present invention, other aspects of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and these aspects should be considered in all their novel aspects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The present invention will now be described, by way of example only and not by way of limitation, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a skull in which various bones are identified, including the frontal bone and the parietal bone;

[0052] Figure 2 is a side view of a skull in which various bones are identified, including the frontal bone, the parietal bone and the temporal bone;

[0053] Figure 3 is a side view of an EEG head-mounted device in accordance with one form of the present technology in position on a patient, where the patient is represented diagrammatically;

[0054] Figure 4 is from the side and above of an Figure 3 EEG head-mounted device in position on a patient, where the patient is represented diagrammatically;

[0055] Figure 5 is a rear view of an Figure 3 EEG head-mounted device in position on a patient, where the patient is represented diagrammatically;

[0056] Figure 6 is a perspective view from one side and above of an EEG head-mounted device in accordance with another form of the present technology, where the connecting means and the electrodes are not shown;

[0057] Figure 7 is an Figure 6 EEG head-mounted device side view, where the connecting means and the electrodes are not shown;

[0058] Figure 8 is an Figure 6 EEG head-mounted device front view, where the connecting means and the electrodes are not shown;

[0059] Figure 9 Is Figure 6 A top view of the EEG headset device, where the connecting device and electrodes are not shown;

[0060] Figure 10 Is Figure 6 A bottom view of the EEG headset device, where the connecting device is not shown and only a single electrode is shown;

[0061] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the mounting member portion and the electrode according to one form of the present technology;

[0062] Figure 12 Is Figure 11 An exploded view of the mounting member portion and the electrode;

[0063] Figure 13 A perspective view of the electrode according to one form of the present technology;

[0064] Figure 14 Is Figure 13 An exploded view of the electrode;

[0065] Figure 15 A perspective view of the electrode according to one form of the present technology;

[0066] Figure 16 Is Figure 15 An exploded view of the electrode;

[0067] Figure 17 A side view of the electrode according to another form of the present technology;

[0068] Figure 18 Is seen from one end Figure 17 A perspective view of the electrode;

[0069] Figure 19 An exploded view of the mounting member and one form of the electrode;

[0070] Figure 20 Is assembled together Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the mounting member and the electrode;

[0071] Figure 21 A perspective view from one side and above of the rotatable connecting device according to one form of the present technology;

[0072] Figure 22 A perspective view from one side and above of the rotatable connecting device with a flexible sleeve according to one technical form of the present technology;

[0073] Figure 23is a perspective view from the side and above of another form of rotatable connection device according to the present technology, wherein the engaging portion rotates counterclockwise about a secondary axis of rotation;

[0074] Figure 24 is from Figure 15 a perspective view from the side and above of a rotatable connection device, wherein the engaging portion rotates clockwise about a secondary axis of rotation;

[0075] Figure 25 is a perspective view from the side and above of an EEG headset device in one form according to the present technology;

[0076] Figure 26 is from Figure 25 a view from below of the headset device;

[0077] Figure 27 is from Figure 25 a view from above of the headset device;

[0078] Figure 28 is from Figure 25 a front view of the headset device;

[0079] Figure 29 is a side view of the Figure 25 headset device in place on a patient, wherein the patient is represented diagrammatically;

[0080] Figure 30 is a perspective view from the side and above of an EEG headset device in one form according to the present technology in place on a patient, wherein the patient is represented diagrammatically;

[0081] Figure 31 is a perspective view from the side and above of a rotatable connection device in one form according to the present technology;

[0082] Figure 32 is a perspective view from the side and above of a Figure 31 rotatable connection device provided with a flexible sleeve in another form according to the present technology; and

[0083] Figure 33 is a perspective view from the side and above of another form of rotatable connection device according to the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0084] First, referring to Figures 3 to 5 , a headset device (hereinafter referred to as the "headset device" or "EEG headset device") for performing electroencephalography on a user is generally indicated by arrow 100.

[0085] As used herein, "patient" refers to any user of an EEG head-mounted device, whether or not the user has a disease, disorder, or otherwise requires treatment.

[0086] The head-mounted device 100 includes a base member 1 and a plurality of mounting members 2 rotatably attached to the base member 1. The base member 1 includes a patient side 3 and a non-patient side 4. In some embodiments, the base member 1 is shaped as an isosceles trapezoid, and in use, the shorter of the parallel sides is superior to the longer of the parallel sides. At least some of the mounting members 2 may be elongate.

[0087] The mounting members 2 are rotatably attached to the base member 1 by a rotatable connection device 5 (such as a hinge). The rotation of each mounting member can cause the end of the mounting member remote from the axis of rotation to move substantially radially with respect to the patient's skull. In some embodiments, the rotatable connection between the base member 1 and the mounting members 2 can be located on or adjacent to a hypothetical circle or ellipse, and the axis of rotation can be substantially tangent to the circle or ellipse.

[0088] The base member 1 and the mounting members 2 are configured to cooperate in use to hold the head-mounted device 100 on the patient's head. As further described below, the mounting members 2 can have a patient side with a curve complementary to the exterior of the patient's skull. The mounting members can be rotated relative to the base member 1 to clamp the patient's skull.

[0089] The rotatable connection device 5 includes a biasing device (not shown) that biases the mounting members 2 to rotate towards the patient side 3 of the base member 1. In one embodiment, the biasing device can include a torsion spring. For example, the torsion spring can be connected to the base member and the mounting member.

[0090] In an embodiment, the head-mounted device 100 includes a pair of lower lateral mounting members 2a, a pair of upper lateral mounting members 2b, and a central upper mounting member 2c. In use, the lower lateral mounting members 2a can be configured to extend from the base member 1 above the occipital bone and / or temporal bone to a position immediately behind the patient's ears.

[0091] The upper lateral mounting members 2b can be configured to cover, in use, the parietal bone and / or the frontal bone of the patient. In an embodiment, the upper lateral mounting members 2b can be configured such that they do not cover the temporal bone of the patient. The upper lateral mounting members 2b can be curved when viewed from above downwards such that the distance between the distal ends of the upper lateral mounting members 2b is less than the distance between the proximal ends of the upper lateral mounting members. The distance between the distal ends of the upper lateral mounting members can be between 1 / 2 and 1 / 4 of the nominal width of the patient's head for which the head-mounted device is intended for use, for example, approximately 1 / 3. In use, the distal ends of the upper lateral mounting members can be at substantially the same height as the proximal ends (i.e., at the same position in the up-down direction). In use, the distal ends can be substantially superior to the patient's eye sockets, i.e., at substantially the same position as the eye sockets in the front-back direction.

[0092] In an example, the central upper mounting member 2c can be configured to cover, in use, the parietal bone and / or the frontal bone of the patient. The distal ends of the central upper mounting member 2c are preferably behind the distal ends of the upper lateral mounting members 2b, for example, only slightly in front of the intersection between the parietal bone and the frontal bone.

[0093] In an example, at least some of the mounting members 2 in the mounting members include a plurality of mounting member portions 6, and each of the plurality of mounting member portions is rotatably connected to an adjacent mounting member portion 6 by a respective rotatable connection means 5. For example, the upper mounting members 2b, 2c can include a plurality of mounting member portions 6. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the central upper mounting member 2c includes two mounting member portions 6, and each of the upper lateral mounting members 2b includes three mounting member portions 6. Each mounting member portion 6 can be substantially rigid. In an example of the present technology, the length of the mounting member portion decreases along the length of each mounting member, and the mounting member portion adjacent to the base member is the longest.

[0094] Each of the rotatable connection means 5 in the rotatable connection means includes a biasing means (such as a torsion spring), and the biasing means biases the mounting member portion 6 to rotate towards the patient side 3 of the base member 1. In use, when the head-mounted device 100 is not mounted on the patient's head, the mounting member 2 can rotate inwards towards the patient side 3 of the base member 1.

[0095] In Figures 3 - 10 the example shown, the upper mounting members 2b, 2c are elongated, and none of the upper mounting members 2b, 2c contacts or connects to any other mounting member 2 (except due to the mounting members 2 being connected by the base 1). In Figures 3 - 10In the example shown, each lower lateral mounting member 2a includes a single member that includes a loop, such as a substantially "U" - shaped loop, such that the mounting member is rotatably connected to the base member 1 at two separate points. In use, the lower lateral mounting member 2a can be configured to extend from the base member 1 above the occipital bone and / or temporal bone to a position immediately behind the patient's ear. In one embodiment, the upper portion of each lower lateral mounting member can extend substantially horizontally in use.

[0096] Next referring to Figures 6 - 10 , in some embodiments, the longitudinal edges 7 of the mounting member 2, particularly the edges on the patient - contact side, are chamfered or rounded, as Figure 8 best shown. This can ensure that the mounting member has no sharp edges and can help to allow the mounting member to move easily through the patient's hair. The edges 8 at the ends of each mounting member 2 can also be chamfered, as Figure 6 best shown.

[0097] Specifically returning to the reference Figures 6 - 10 , at least one of the mounting members 2 includes at least one electrode - engaging device 9, such as an electrode mount. In the example, each mounting member 2 includes an electrode - engaging device 9. In other examples, each mounting member 2 includes a plurality of electrode - engaging devices 9 or mounts. In the example, the base member 1 also includes at least one electrode - engaging device 9. In some embodiments, the electrode - engaging devices 9 are arranged such that the electrodes connected to the electrode - engaging devices 9 are arranged according to the international 10 - 20 system. In the example, the electrodes can be located at one or more or all of the positions Fp1, Fp2, F3, Fz, F4, C3, Cz, C4, and Pz. Additionally, the positions A1 and A2 can be used for reference and bias. In the example, each mounting member portion 6 includes an electrode - engaging device 9 or mount.

[0098] Each mounting member portion 6 can include a patient side 10 and a non - patient side 11. As Figure 7 shown, the patient side 10 of the mounting member portion 6 can include a substantially concave curved surface 12. The curve of the concave curved surface 12 can be substantially conformable to the curve of the patient's head. In an embodiment, the non - patient side 11 of the mounting member portion 6 can have a similar convex curve 13 such that the mounting member portion 6 has a substantially constant thickness.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, each of the rotatable connections in the above-described rotatable connection only allows rotation about a single axis. For example, the axis that causes the distal end of the mounting member to move substantially radially, or, if rotation about a secondary axis is allowed, the rotation is preferably very limited (e.g., limited to about 10 degrees or less) and the secondary rotation axis is preferably substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mounting member. In an example, the rotatable connection does not allow rotation about an axis perpendicular to the surface of the patient's head.

[0100] The lack of lateral flexibility in such rotatable connections, together with the rigidity of the mounting member portion 6, results in the electrodes 14 engaged with the electrode engaging device being positioned with sufficient accuracy when the head-mounted device 100 is correctly positioned on the patient's head without the need for additional adjustment. This may mean that the head-mounted device 100 can be mounted on the patient's head faster and more easily than some prior art systems that require separate electrode positioning or may at least require adjustment of the electrode positions before use. In a preferred embodiment, the head-mounted device 100 can be put on and taken off by the patient with only one hand.

[0101] In an example, the head-mounted device 100 is configured to be easily disinfected and / or cleaned. In an example, the head-mounted device 100 can be adapted to be able to be completely immersed in a liquid during cleaning and / or disinfection without the liquid seeping into the interior of the head-mounted device 100.

[0102] In an example, the electrode engaging device 9 is configured to engage the electrode 14 in a releasable manner, so that the electrode 14 can be easily removed and replaced between uses, particularly between uses on different patients.

[0103] Next, referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , an example of the electrode 14 is shown mounted to the electrode engaging device 9.

[0104] The electrode 14 includes a patient contact portion 15 and an electrical connection portion 16. The patient contact portion 15 includes at least one, and more preferably four, conductive protrusions 17 that are configured to engage the patient's scalp during use. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusions 17 are substantially frustoconical.

[0105] The electrical connection portion 16 of the electrode 14 is configured to form an electrical connection with the electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode bonding device 9. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connection portion 16 of the electrode 14 has an outer surface portion 19, which is a rotary surface, preferably a partial spherical cap. The outer surface portion 19 engages with the complementary conductive surface 20 of the electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode bonding device 9. In an embodiment, the electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode bonding device 9 can be biased outward (e.g., toward the electrode 14) to ensure a firm contact is formed between the outer surface portion 19 and the conductive surface 20.

[0106] The electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode bonding device 9 is electrically connected to the transmission device and / or processing device of the EEG headset device. Such a transmission and / or processing device can be provided within the base member 1. Additionally or alternatively, the headset device can be provided with one or more ports to receive a wired connection and / or an integrated data cable. In use, the headset device can transmit EEG data to a computer (e.g., a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or a smartphone). In an example, the computer can run a suitable neurofeedback program or application. In an example, the data can be transmitted in real time. In other examples, some or all of the data can be stored by the headset device.

[0107] In an embodiment, a battery is also provided within the base member 1, preferably within a waterproof housing.

[0108] In an example, the electrode 14 is provided with an O-ring seal 21, which engages the cylindrical inner wall 22 of the electrode bonding device 9 during use, thereby preventing fluid from entering through the electrode (e.g., between the electrode and the adjacent surface of the electrode bonding device) into the interior of the mounting member. In the illustrated embodiment, the friction between the O-ring seal 21 and the inner wall of the electrode bonding device 9 is sufficient to hold the electrode 14 in place within the electrode bonding device 9. However, other releasable fastening means can be provided to fix the electrode 14 in place, as described further below. For example, the electrode 14 can include a threaded portion that engages a complementary threaded portion of the electrode bonding device 9, or the electrode 14 can engage the electrode bonding device 9 in a snap-fit manner, as described below with reference to Figure 19 and Figure 20 described. In the threaded engagement embodiment and the snap-fit engagement embodiment, an O-ring seal or other seal is preferably provided to ensure that no fluid enters the mounting device during cleaning or disinfection.

[0109] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the electrode bonding device 9 can include a seal (e.g., an O-ring) that engages a suitable surface (e.g., a cylindrical outer surface) of the electrode 14.

[0110] Next, referring toFigure 13 and Figure 14 ,In one example, electrode 14 may include a base portion 30 formed of a highly conductive thermoplastic. The base portion 31 of the conductive protrusion 17 may also be formed of a thermoplastic. In the example, the base portion 30 and the base portion 31 may be integrally formed, such as molded together.

[0111] Each conductive protrusion 17 may include a tip 32 made of a silver-silicon compound. The silver-silicon resin tip is connected to the base portion 31 of the conductive portion 17, such as by overmolding. In the example, the tip 32 has a rounded end 33.

[0112] In the example, each conductive protrusion 17 has a diameter of 4 mm and a length of 10 mm. In the illustrated example, each electrode 14 may include five conductive protrusions 17. Such electrodes may be particularly suitable for penetrating thick hair.

[0113] In one form, the silver-silicon includes:

[0114] · Conductive filler (such as including about 10 μm Ag flakes);

[0115] · Silicone rubber (such as Ecoflex 00-30 (TM) 1:1 mixing ratio); and

[0116] · Solvent (such as 4-methyl-2-pentanone).

[0117] In one form, the thermoplastic includes graphene polylactic acid (PLA).

[0118] In some forms of the present technology, the silver-silicon resin compound may not be necessary, and the entire electrode 14 may be made of graphene PLA.

[0119] In Figure 13 and Figure 14 the illustrated example, each electrode 14 includes five conductive protrusions 17, where four protrusions 17 are arranged in two rows, two protrusions in each row, and the spacing between the conductive protrusions in each row and between the rows is equal, and the fifth conductive protrusion 17 is disposed at the center. The base portion 30 may be generally cylindrical or disc-shaped.

[0120] Next, referring to Figure 15 and Figure 16 ,In another form of the present technology, each conductive protrusion 17 includes a tip portion 32 slidably (such as telescopically) mounted to the base portion 31. The conductive protrusion 17 may include a biasing device (not shown) such as a spring, which biases the tip portion 32 away from the base portion 31, such as in a direction to increase the total length of the conductive protrusion 17.

[0121] In an example, the tip 32 and the base 31 of the conductive protrusion 17 can be made of a copper alloy plated with a gold coating (e.g., 0.51 μm thick). A nickel-based coating (e.g., 2.54 μm thick) can be used between the copper and the gold.

[0122] In one form of the present technology, the diameter of the tip 32 is approximately 1.1 mm and the length is approximately 5 mm. In an example, the maximum relative movement (e.g., “stroke”) between the tip 32 and the base 31 of the conductive protrusion 17 is approximately 3 mm.

[0123] The conductive protrusion 17 can be connected to the base portion 30. In an example, the base portion 30 can be made of a conductive thermoplastic, such as the kind described above. The base portion 30 can be overmolded around the base 31 of the conductive protrusion 17.

[0124] In an example, each electrode 14 includes 16 conductive protrusions 17. The tips 32 of the group 34 of conductive protrusions 17 can be connected together, for example, by a connecting member 35 that can also be made of a thermoplastic, such that all the tips 32 in a given group 34 move together. In Figure 15 and Figure 16 the example shown, the tips 32 are grouped into four groups 34 of four conductive protrusions 17. Each group 34 of tips 32 is arranged in two rows, with two tips in each row, and the spacing between the conductive parts within each row and between the rows is equal. Grouping the tips 32 in this way makes them less likely to be damaged and can reduce the chance of the tips 32 getting stuck relative to the base portion 31. This grouping also allows for a comfortable pressure distribution on the scalp. The four groups 34 of conductive parts 1 themselves can be arranged in two rows, with two groups in each row.

[0125] Next, referring to Figures 17 to 20 , in one form of the present technology, the base portion 30 and the conductive protrusion 17 are made of carbon nanotube silicon. In an example, the tip 32 of the conductive protrusion 17 is coated or otherwise covered with a conductive coating, such as silver / silver chloride (Ag / AgCl). The Ag / AgCl coating can help skin electrode conductivity by converting the ionic current in the scalp into a current in the electrode, thus providing a high signal-to-noise ratio.

[0126] In an example, the electrode 14 can include 16 conductive protrusions 17. The conductive protrusions 17 can be arranged to form an outer ring including 10 conductive protrusions 17, a concentric inner ring including five conductive protrusions, with an additional conductive protrusion at the center of the two rings. The conductive protrusions forming each ring can be evenly spaced.

[0127] Next, referring specifically to Figure 19 and Figure 20, in one example, electrode 14 may include a mating portion 36 such as a boss, which is configured to mate with a connection portion 18 of the electrode mating device 9 by a snap - fit connection. Such snap - fit electrode mating devices are commercially available and known to those skilled in the art. As described above, the connection portion 18 may be electrically connected to the transmission device and / or processing device of the EEG headset.

[0128] Next, referring to Figure 21 and Figure 22 , an example of the rotatable connection device 5 is shown. The rotatable connection device 5 includes a first mating portion 23, which is connected to a second mating portion 24 by a hinge structure 25. In use, each mating portion 23, 24 mates with the mounting members 2a - 2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1. In the illustrated embodiment, each mating portion 23, 24 includes ribs 26 that mate with complementary recesses 27 or protrusions in the mounting member, the mounting member portion 6, or the base in a snap - fit manner. Examples of such recesses 27 are visible in Figure 11 and Figure 12 . In the illustrated embodiment, each snap - fit connection is releasable.

[0129] In an example, the rotatable connection device 5 includes a flexible sleeve 28 that surrounds at least a portion of the hinge structure 25 and the mating portions 23, 24. The flexible sleeve 28 may be made of a substantially impermeable flexible material such as silicone or rubber. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve is transparent. When the rotatable connection device 5 is installed, the inner surface of the mounting member, the mounting member portion, or the base member with which the rotatable connection device mates engages the exterior of the flexible sleeve 28, preferably in an interference or clamping - type fit. In this way, the sleeve 28 prevents or at least inhibits water from entering the mounting members 2a - 2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1 (e.g., during cleaning), and also prevents the patient's hair from becoming entangled in the hinge structure.

[0130] Next, referring to Figure 23 and Figure 24 , in some examples, the rotatable connection device 5 may be configured to allow limited rotation about a second - stage axis LS, e.g., approximately 10°. The second - stage axis of rotation is preferably tangent to the patient's skull. In an example, the second - stage axis may be substantially orthogonal to the first - stage axis of rotation LP.

[0131] The second - stage axis of rotation may be substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mounting member. Allowing rotation about the second - stage axis can improve the contact between the electrode and the patient's skull.

[0132] Next, referring to Figures 25 - 30, showing another example of the head-mounted device 100 of the present technology. In the examples shown in these figures, the upper lateral mounting member 2b is configured such that the distance between the distal ends of the upper lateral mounting member is approximately equal to the distance between the proximal ends of the upper lateral mounting member.

[0133] In addition, each lower lateral mounting member 2a includes an elongated member connected to the base member 1 at a single point, rather than a U-shaped member connected at multiple points as shown in the example of Figures 3 - 10 . In use, the lower lateral mounting member 2a can be configured to slope downward from the base member 1 to a position behind the patient's ear, such as below the mastoid, as best shown in Figure 29 .

[0134] Next, referring to Figure 31 and Figure 32 , another example of a rotatable connection device 5 according to one form of the present invention is shown. The rotatable connection device 5 includes a recess that is engaged by a mounting member 2a - 2c, a mounting member portion 6, or a protruding portion 38 of the base member 1 to connect the rotatable connection device 5 to the mounting member 2a - 2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1. Figure 19 and Figure 20 show an example of such a protruding portion 38. The protruding portion 38 protrudes away from the inner wall 39 of the mounting member 2a - 2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1, but does not protrude outside the mounting member.

[0135] In use, at least the tip 40 of the protruding portion 38 engages the recess 37 in a snap-fit manner to engage the rotatable connection device 5 with the mounting member 2a - 2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1. In the example shown, the recess 37 is provided at the base of a channel structure 41 in the rotatable connection device. In the example, the recesses 37 are provided at both ends of the rotatable connection device 5.

[0136] The rotatable connection device may be provided with a flexible sleeve 28 as described above. As shown in Figure 33 , in one embodiment, the rotatable connection device 5 can be configured to rotate about a secondary axis LS (although such rotation may be limited to approximately 10 degrees), as in the examples shown in Figure 23 and Figure 24 .

[0137] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprise", "include", etc. shall be construed in an inclusive sense rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to".

[0138] The entire disclosures of all applications, patents, and publications (if any) cited above and below are hereby incorporated by reference into this application.

[0139] Any reference in this specification to any prior art is not and should not be taken as an admission or any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor in any country in the world.

[0140] The invention may also be said broadly to comprise the parts, elements, and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or jointly, and any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements, or features.

[0141] Reference has been made in the foregoing description to integers or components having their known equivalents, and these integers are hereby incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0142] It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. Accordingly, it is intended that such changes and modifications be included within the invention.

Claims

1. An EEG head-mounted device, the EEG head-mounted device comprising a base member configured to be positioned over at least a portion of a patient's parietal and occipital bones in use, the base member having a patient side and a non-patient side, the EEG head-mounted device further comprising a plurality of mounting members, the plurality of mounting members comprising: a pair of lower lateral mounting members; a pair of upper lateral mounting members, each upper lateral mounting member comprising a plurality of upper lateral mounting member portions, wherein each upper lateral mounting member portion is rotatably connected to an adjacent upper lateral mounting member portion, each upper lateral mounting member portion is biased to rotate towards the patient side of the base member, each upper lateral mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's frontal bone in use, and the ends of the upper lateral mounting members terminate above the patient's eye sockets in use; and a central upper mounting member, the central upper mounting member comprising a plurality of central upper mounting member portions, wherein each central upper mounting member portion is rotatably connected to an adjacent central upper mounting member portion, and each central upper mounting member portion is biased to rotate towards the patient side of the base member, wherein each mounting member is rotatably connected to the base member by a respective rotatable connecting device, each rotatable connecting device comprising a biasing device to bias the mounting member to rotate towards the patient side of the base member, wherein the mounting members are shaped and configured to hold the EEG head-mounted device on the patient's head in use, and wherein each of the mounting members comprises at least one electrode engaging device for engaging an electrode in use.

2. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, the electrode engaging device is arranged such that the electrodes engaged with the electrode engaging device in use are arranged according to the international 10-20 system.

3. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, each lower lateral mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's occipital and / or temporal bones in use.

4. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, each lower lateral mounting member is configured to extend from the base member to a position immediately behind the patient's ear in use.

5. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, each upper lateral mounting member comprises three upper lateral mounting member portions.

6. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, each upper lateral mounting member is configured to avoid covering the patient's temporal bone in use.

7. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, none of the upper lateral mounting members are connected to any other mounting member.

8. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 7, wherein, the central upper mounting member is not connected to any other mounting member.

9. The EEG head-mounted device according to claim 1, wherein, The central upper mounting member includes two central upper mounting member portions.

10. The EEG headset device according to claim 9, wherein, the central upper mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the parietal bone and / or frontal bone of the patient in use.

11. The EEG headset device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, each of the upper lateral mounting member portion and the central upper mounting member portion is rigid.

12. The EEG headset device according to claim 11, wherein, each rotatable connecting device includes a flexible impermeable sleeve configured to inhibit or prevent fluid from entering the mounting member, the upper lateral mounting member portion, the central upper mounting member portion, and / or the base member to which the rotatable connecting device is engaged.

13. The EEG headset device according to claim 11, wherein, each rotatable connecting device allows rotation about only a single axis.

14. The EEG headset device according to claim 11, wherein, each mounting member has a patient side and a non-patient side, wherein the patient side of the mounting member defines a concave curve.

15. The EEG headset device according to claim 14, wherein, the concave curve conforms to the surface of the patient's head in use.

16. The EEG headset device according to claim 11, wherein, each mounting member includes a chamfered longitudinal edge on the patient side of each mounting member.

17. The EEG headset device according to claim 11, wherein, each mounting member includes a chamfered distal edge on the patient side of each mounting member.

18. The EEG headset device according to claim 1, wherein, the EEG headset device includes a wireless communication device and / or a wired communication device.

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