Electrooculogram signal sensor

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model discloses an electro-oculogram signal sensor which comprises a first lead part, and the first lead part comprises a first flexible substrate and an electrode located on the surface of the first flexible substrate; the electrode comprises a first lead electrode and a second lead electrode; the first lead electrode comprises a first external electrode, a first connecting electrode and a first acting electrode; the second lead electrode comprises a second external electrode, a second connecting electrode and a second acting electrode; the first external electrode and the second external electrode are opposite in the first direction, and the first acting electrode and the second acting electrode are opposite in the first direction. In the first direction, the distance between the first external electrode and the second external electrode is smaller than the distance between the first acting electrode and the second acting electrode. The electro-oculogram signal sensor is simple in structure and easy to prepare in batches, has the advantages of being light, thin, soft and simple, and facilitates long-term and non-sensitive measurement of electro-oculogram signals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of biosensor technology, and in particular relates to an electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing number of motor vehicles, the traffic accident rate caused by fatigued driving is also rising year by year, accounting for more than 20% of all traffic accidents and more than 40% of major traffic accidents. In traffic accidents caused by fatigued driving, nearly 90% are caused by the driver's failure to react in time when fatigued. Studies have shown that by analyzing the driver's eye movement patterns, such as eye closure frequency, instantaneous closure time, eye movement, and pupillary response, fatigue levels can be effectively assessed. Therefore, there is a need for a wearable device that can monitor driver fatigue in real time. The human eye can provide physiological information about the body to the outside world, so fatigue can be quickly detected through eye movements and blinking. Electrooculogram (EOG) sensing is increasingly being used in fatigue monitoring systems due to its non-invasiveness, wearability, and real-time monitoring capabilities.

[0003] Electrooculography (EOG) signals originate from the potential difference between the retina and the cornea. It is a convenient and quick method for measuring eye movements and can reflect reading status, sleep patterns, brain condition, drowsiness, and eye fatigue. It can be used in scenarios such as fatigue warning, human-computer interaction, and disease diagnosis (e.g., ADHD, stroke, autism, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease).

[0004] Traditional electrooculogram (EOG) sensors typically use metal electrodes to collect EOG signals, such as silver / silver chloride (Ag / AgCl) gel electrodes. Most practical EOG measurements currently use commercially available dry or wet silver / silver chloride electrodes. While these are relatively simple to manufacture and inexpensive, they are too thick, bulky, rigid, and uncomfortable, making them unsuitable for the delicate skin around the eyes and quite noticeable on the face, affecting overall aesthetics. Furthermore, wet electrodes require pre-treatment of the face to remove oil and dead skin cells before wearing; the gel can irritate the skin, and the electrodes dry out over time, leading to a decrease in signal quality. Dry electrodes, due to their non-conformal contact with the skin, have high electrode-skin contact impedance and are susceptible to motion artifacts. For example, Searle A and Kirkup L designed an ultrathin, stretchable, tattoo-style EOG sensor based on a polymer-based filamentous serpentine gold strip, which is highly effective when applied to prominent areas such as the face. In other studies, EOG sensors, along with other sensors and circuitry, have been integrated onto a patch several millimeters thick. This type of patch is not only noticeable but also rigid, obstructing facial expressions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop flexible epidermal sensors for non-invasive electrooculography (EOG) testing. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides an electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor, which includes a first lead component, the first lead component including a first flexible substrate and electrodes located on the surface of the first flexible substrate;

[0006] The electrodes include a first lead electrode and a second lead electrode;

[0007] The first lead electrode includes a first external electrode, a first connecting electrode, and a first functional electrode. The first external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The first functional electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculogram (EOG) signals. The first connecting electrode is rectangular, and is used to connect the first external electrode and the first functional electrode.

[0008] The second lead electrode includes a second external electrode, a second connecting electrode, and a second active electrode. The second external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The second active electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The second connecting electrode is rectangular and is used to connect the second external electrode and the second active electrode.

[0009] The first external electrode and the second external electrode are opposite each other along a first direction, and the first active electrode and the second active electrode are opposite each other along the first direction; in the first direction, the distance between the first external electrode and the second external electrode is less than the distance between the first active electrode and the second active electrode.

[0010] The electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor of this application embodiment includes the aforementioned first lead component, which includes a first flexible substrate. This makes it not only thin and light but also highly malleable, allowing it to conform well to the human body and improving the comfort and flexibility of wearing the EOG signal sensor. Furthermore, the aforementioned first and second lead electrodes have specific shapes, simplifying the electrode structure. This reduces the visual impact of the EOG signal sensor and decreases the amount of electrode material used, resulting in a thinner and more flexible sensor. The EOG signal sensor of this application embodiment has a simple structure, is easy to mass-produce, and possesses the advantages of being thin, flexible, and simple, which is beneficial for achieving long-term, non-invasive measurement of EOG signals.

[0011] In one alternative embodiment, the thickness of the first flexible substrate is less than 10 μm, preferably 100 nm to 10 μm.

[0012] In one alternative implementation, the thickness of the first conductive electrode is 50 nm to 500 nm.

[0013] The thickness of the second lead electrode is 100nm~500nm.

[0014] In one alternative embodiment, the width of the first connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the width of the second connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm.

[0016] In one optional embodiment, the first working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0017] In one optional embodiment, the second working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0018] In one optional implementation, the first external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0019] In one optional implementation, the second external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0020] In one alternative embodiment, the first lead component further includes a first adhesive layer connected to the first flexible substrate;

[0021] At least a portion of the first connecting electrode and at least a portion of the second connecting electrode are located between the first flexible substrate and the first adhesive layer. The first adhesive layer includes a first cutout portion to expose the first external electrode, the second external electrode, the first functional electrode, and the second functional electrode in the first adhesive layer.

[0022] In one optional embodiment, the electrode further includes a third lead electrode, which includes a third external electrode, a third connecting electrode, and a third active electrode. The third external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The third active electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The third connecting electrode is rectangular and is used to connect the third external electrode and the third active electrode.

[0023] The electrooculogram signal sensor also includes a second lead component, which includes a second flexible substrate and a fourth lead electrode located on the surface of the second flexible substrate;

[0024] The fourth lead electrode includes a fourth external electrode, a fourth connecting electrode, and a fourth active electrode. The fourth external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to connect to the signal acquisition device. The fourth active electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The fourth connecting electrode is rectangular and is used to connect the fourth external electrode and the fourth active electrode.

[0025] The fourth lead electrode is positioned opposite the third lead electrode along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0026] In one optional embodiment, the thickness of the second flexible substrate is less than 10 μm, preferably 50 nm to 10 μm.

[0027] In one alternative implementation, the thickness of the third lead electrode is 100 nm to 500 nm.

[0028] In one alternative implementation, the thickness of the fourth lead electrode is 100 nm to 500 nm.

[0029] In one alternative embodiment, the width of the third connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm.

[0030] In one alternative embodiment, the width of the fourth connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm.

[0031] In one optional embodiment, the third working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0032] In one optional embodiment, the fourth working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0033] In one optional implementation, the third external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0034] In one optional implementation, the fourth external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0035] In one alternative embodiment, the second lead component further includes a second adhesive layer;

[0036] At least a portion of the fourth connecting electrode is located between the second flexible substrate and the second adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer including a second cutout portion to expose the fourth external electrode and the fourth active electrode. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first lead component in an electrooculogram signal sensor provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second lead component in an electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 4 This is an electrode layout of an electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 5 This is an optical microscope image of the edge position of the flexible substrate in the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 6 This is an optical microscope image of the center position of the flexible substrate in the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a metallographic microscope image of the flexible substrate in the electrooculography signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application at 5X magnification;

[0045] Figure 8This is a metallographic microscope image of the flexible substrate in the electrooculography signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application at 10X magnification;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a metallographic microscope image of the flexible substrate in the electrooculography signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application at 20X magnification;

[0047] Figure 10 This is a metallographic microscope image of the flexible substrate in the electrooculography signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application at 50X magnification;

[0048] Figure 11 This is a scanning electron microscope image of the flexible substrate in the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the attachment position of the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of an electrooculography sensor testing platform provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 14 This is a test result diagram of the EOG signal detected by the electrooculogram signal sensor of the eyeball vertical movement provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 15 This is a test result diagram of the EOG signal detected by the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 16 This is a test result diagram of the EOG signal detected by the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 17 This is a scatter plot of the eye movement slope characteristics detected by the electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 18 This is a test result diagram of blink signal detected by an electrooculogram signal sensor provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 19 This is a time-domain diagram of a single blink signal detected by an electrooculogram sensor under different blink states, provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0057] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The features and exemplary embodiments of various aspects of this application will be described in detail below. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only intended to explain this application and not to limit it. For those skilled in the art, this application can be implemented without some of these specific details. The following description of the embodiments is merely to provide a better understanding of this application by illustrating examples.

[0059] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0060] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] As described in the background section, with the current technological development, there is an urgent need to develop flexible epidermal sensors for non-invasive electrooculography (EOG) testing.

[0062] The related technology involves a single-crystal III A skin-attached N-film sensor for eye movement monitoring converts various blink frequencies and skin deformation caused by eye movements into electrical signals. However, this sensor requires polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) encapsulation, which results in excessive sensor thickness and poor adhesion.

[0063] Related technologies also involve collecting EOG signals via graphene electronic tattoos (GET) for human-computer interaction to control the flight of quadcopters. A 350nm thick GET sensor exhibits 85% optical transparency and 50% stretchability in the visible light region. However, the fabrication process of GET requires complex steps (up to 27 steps), and the performance stability of GETs fabricated from monolayer graphene is difficult to control. Therefore, the production cost of GET sensors based on chemical vapor deposition growth is high. Furthermore, the interconnection and protection of ultrathin bare GETs remain significant challenges.

[0064] In summary, although many research teams have studied flexible epidermal electrooculography (EOG) sensors, they have not yet reached the clinical application stage. Many studies employ EOG sensors with multi-layered stacked metal electrodes encapsulated in polymer materials, but these still suffer from several problems: complex fabrication processes, poor stability, and the inability to be worn long-term due to their bulky materials and size. Currently, the electrodes (such as metal sheet electrodes and gel patch electrodes) and leads used for EOG measurements in laboratories or hospitals are too thick and rigid, resulting in low comfort and difficulty in long-term wear. Research on thin-film epidermal electronic devices for long-term, non-invasive EOG measurements remains scarce.

[0065] In view of this, this application provides an electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor. An embodiment of the EOG signal sensor in this application includes a first lead component 01.

[0066] Figure 1 This paper shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the first lead component 01 in an electrooculography signal sensor provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, the first conductive component 01 includes a first flexible substrate 10 and an electrode 20 located on the surface of the first flexible substrate 10. The electrode 20 includes a first conductive electrode 21 and a second conductive electrode 22.

[0068] The first lead electrode 21 includes a first external electrode 21a, a first connecting electrode 21b, and a first functional electrode 21c. The first external electrode 21a is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The first functional electrode 21c is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The first connecting electrode 21b is rectangular and is used to connect the first external electrode 21a and the first functional electrode 21c.

[0069] The second lead electrode 22 includes a second external electrode 22a, a second connecting electrode 22b, and a second active electrode 22c. The second external electrode 22a is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The second active electrode 22c is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The second connecting electrode 22b is rectangular and is used to connect the second external electrode 22a and the second active electrode 22c.

[0070] The first external electrode 21a and the second external electrode 22a are opposite each other along the first direction Z, and the first active electrode 21c and the second active electrode 22c are opposite each other along the first direction Z. In the first direction Z, the distance between the first external electrode 21a and the second external electrode 22a is less than the distance between the first active electrode 21c and the second active electrode 22c.

[0071] It is understood that the materials of the first flexible substrate 10 and the electrode 20 may include materials known in the art that can be used for flexible substrates and electrodes in sensors. For example, the first flexible substrate 10 may include a flexible substrate prepared by electrospinning from a polymer, and the electrode 20 may include a sputtered platinum (Pt) electrode.

[0072] It is understood that the connection between the first external electrode 21a and the second external electrode 22a and the signal acquisition device can be achieved by methods known in the art. For example, the first external electrode 21a and the second external electrode 22a can be connected to the signal acquisition device via a wired connection or a wireless connection. In one example, the first lead component 01 may further include leads for connecting the first external electrode 21a and the signal acquisition device, and the second external electrode 22a and the signal acquisition device, respectively.

[0073] The electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor of this embodiment includes the aforementioned first lead component 01, which includes a first flexible substrate 10. This makes it not only thin and light but also highly malleable, allowing it to conform well to the human body and improving the comfort and flexibility of wearing the EOG signal sensor. Furthermore, the aforementioned first lead electrode 21 and second lead electrode 22 have specific shapes, making the structure of the electrode 20 simpler. This reduces the visual impact of the EOG signal sensor and decreases the amount of material used in the electrode 20, resulting in a thinner and more flexible EOG signal sensor. The EOG signal sensor of this embodiment has a simple structure, is easy to mass-produce, and possesses the advantages of being thin, flexible, and simple, which is beneficial for achieving long-term, non-invasive measurement of EOG signals.

[0074] In some embodiments, the thickness of the first flexible substrate 10 can be less than 10 μm, preferably 50 nm to 10 μm.

[0075] The thickness of the first flexible substrate 10 is within the aforementioned range, allowing the thickness of the flexible substrate to approach the fiber diameter. In other words, the flexible substrate can be essentially woven from a single layer of fibers. This makes the first flexible substrate 10 extremely thin and easy to stretch, while also improving the breathability of the electrooculogram (EOG) sensor. This further enhances the flexibility and comfort of wearing the EOG sensor.

[0076] In some embodiments, the thickness of the first conductive electrode 21 can be 100 nm to 500 nm.

[0077] In some embodiments, the thickness of the second conductive electrode 22 can be 100 nm to 500 nm.

[0078] The thickness of the first lead electrode 21 and / or the second lead electrode 22 is within the aforementioned range, which not only improves the sensor's breathability but also reduces its Young's modulus, making it suitable for a wider range of applications. This facilitates conformal skin contact with the sensor, achieving the design goal of seamless wear and ensuring good service performance.

[0079] In some embodiments, the width d1 of the first connecting electrode 21b can be 2mm to 5mm.

[0080] In some embodiments, the width d2 of the second connecting electrode 22b can be 2mm to 5mm.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first working electrode 21c can be a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0082] In some embodiments, the second working electrode 22c can be a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first external electrode 21a can be a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0084] In some embodiments, the second external electrode 22a can be a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0085] When the width of the connecting electrode, the shape and diameter of the active electrode, and the shape and side length of the external electrode are within the aforementioned suitable ranges, the lead electrode can occupy a small area while ensuring good conductivity between the external electrode and the active electrode. This not only allows the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor to possess the advantages of simplicity, high integration, and low cost, but also ensures the accuracy of EOG signal measurements. Subsequent EOG signal measurement revealed that the EOG signal sensor using this electrode structure is no longer limited to the orbital position; even extending the lead electrodes to the forehead, the cheek near the tip of the nose, and the left and right temples can detect EOG signals with distinct characteristics, overcoming the limitations of previous electrode attachment positions and making it more flexible in use.

[0086] It is understood that the length of the connecting electrode in the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor of this application embodiment can be adjusted according to actual usage needs. For example, when attached near the eye socket, since the human eye socket is a quadrilateral pyramidal bone cavity, the average width between the upper and lower eye sockets in adults is about 4-5 cm, and there is a skeletal curvature at the outer corner of the eye, the EOG signal sensor can be a rectangle with a side length of less than or equal to 110 mm, and the length of the connecting electrode can be 20 mm to 60 mm. The width of the connecting electrode, the shape and diameter of the active electrode, and the shape and side length of the external electrode can all be within the range of the above-described embodiments.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first connecting component 01 may further include a first adhesive layer 50 connected to the first flexible substrate 10.

[0088] At least a portion of the first connecting electrode 21b and at least a portion of the second connecting electrode 22b are located between the first flexible substrate 10 and the first adhesive layer 50. The first adhesive layer 50 includes a first cutout portion 51 to expose the first external electrode 21a, the second external electrode 22a, the first active electrode 21c, and the second active electrode 22c in the first adhesive layer 50.

[0089] The first adhesive layer 50 may include any flexible material layer with adhesive properties, and the surface of the first adhesive layer 50 away from the first flexible substrate 10 has adhesive properties. The first adhesive layer 50 can be connected to the first flexible substrate 10 by adhesive bonding, or by other methods, such as hot pressing, sewing, etc.

[0090] In some examples, the first adhesive layer 50 may include a flexible substrate and an adhesive coated on the surface of the flexible substrate, and the thickness of the first adhesive layer 50 may be 50 nm to 10 μm.

[0091] According to the above embodiments, the first adhesive layer 50 can provide an adhesive effect, so that the first lead component 01 can be firmly attached to the human body surface for a long time, thereby enabling the electrooculogram signal sensor to meet the requirement of long-term wearability.

[0092] In some embodiments, electrode 20 may further include a third lead electrode 23. The third lead electrode 23 includes a third external electrode 23a, a third connecting electrode 23b, and a third active electrode 23c. The third external electrode 23a is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The third active electrode 23c is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The third connecting electrode 23b is rectangular, and is used to connect the third external electrode 23a and the third active electrode 23c.

[0093] The electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor may also include a second lead component 02. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the second conductive component 02 may include a second flexible substrate 30 and a fourth conductive electrode 40 located on the surface of the second flexible substrate 30.

[0094] The fourth lead electrode 40 includes a fourth external electrode 40a, a fourth connecting electrode 40b, and a fourth active electrode 40c. The fourth external electrode 40a is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The fourth active electrode 40c is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculography (EOG) signals. The fourth connecting electrode 40b is rectangular and is used to connect the fourth external electrode 40a and the fourth active electrode 40c.

[0095] The fourth lead electrode 40 is arranged opposite to the third lead electrode 23 along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction Z.

[0096] It is understood that the materials of the second flexible substrate 30, the third lead electrode 23, and the fourth lead electrode 40 may include flexible substrates and electrode materials known in the art that can be used in sensors. For example, the second flexible substrate 30 may be a flexible substrate prepared by electrospinning from a polymer, and the third lead electrode 23 and the fourth lead electrode 40 may be sputtered platinum (Pt) electrodes.

[0097] It is understood that the connection between the third external electrode 23a and the fourth external electrode 40a and the signal acquisition device can be achieved by methods known in the art. Exemplarily, the third external electrode 23a and the fourth external electrode 40a can be connected to the signal acquisition device via wired or wireless connection. In one example, the first lead component 01 may further include a lead wire for connecting the third external electrode 23a and the signal acquisition device. The second lead component 02 may further include a lead wire for connecting the fourth external electrode 40a and the signal acquisition device.

[0098] In the above embodiments, the first lead component 01 and the second lead component 02 can be two independent components. The first lead component 01 and the second lead component 02 are each connected to the signal acquisition device through external electrode connection wires.

[0099] In the application of the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor described above, the first lead electrode 21, the second lead electrode 22, the third lead electrode 23, and the fourth lead electrode 40 are configured using a bipolar lead method based on the standard electrode lead configuration. The first lead electrode 21 and the second lead electrode 22 can form a vertical lead for detecting eye movement signals in the vertical (up and down) direction. The third lead electrode 23 and the fourth lead electrode 40 can form a horizontal lead for detecting eye movement signals in the horizontal (left and right) direction. Furthermore, the vertical and horizontal leads work together to detect eye movement signals in the 45° diagonal (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left) direction. Thus, eye movement can be detected in eight directions: vertical (up and down), horizontal (left and right), and 45° diagonal (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left). Blinking signals were detected during periods of wakefulness, early drowsiness, and deep fatigue. The results showed that the sensor can perform electrooculography (EOG) detection with relatively clear distinguishing characteristics, and all results were reliably verified. Therefore, the EOG signal sensor according to the above embodiment can be used for EOG signal detection and resolution, which is beneficial for the monitoring and prevention of fatigued driving.

[0100] In some embodiments, the thickness of the second flexible substrate 30 can be less than 10 μm, preferably 50 nm to 10 μm.

[0101] The thickness of the second flexible substrate 30 is within the aforementioned range, allowing the thickness of the flexible substrate to approach the fiber diameter. In other words, the flexible substrate can be essentially woven from a single layer of fibers. This makes the second flexible substrate 30 extremely thin and easy to stretch, while also improving the breathability of the electrooculogram (EOG) sensor. This further enhances the flexibility and comfort of wearing the EOG sensor.

[0102] In some embodiments, the thickness of the third conductive electrode 23 can be 100 nm to 500 nm.

[0103] In some embodiments, the thickness of the fourth lead electrode 40 can be 100 nm to 500 nm.

[0104] In some embodiments, the width d3 of the third connecting electrode 23b can be 2mm to 5mm.

[0105] In some embodiments, the width d4 of the fourth connecting electrode 40b can be 2mm to 5mm.

[0106] In some embodiments, the third working electrode 23c can be a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0107] In some embodiments, the fourth working electrode 40c can be a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0108] In some embodiments, the third external electrode 23a can be a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0109] In some embodiments, the fourth external electrode 40a can be a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

[0110] When the width of the connecting electrode, the shape and diameter of the active electrode, and the shape and side length of the external electrode are within the aforementioned suitable ranges, the lead electrode can occupy a small area while ensuring good conductivity between the external electrode and the active electrode. This not only allows the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor to possess the advantages of simplicity, high integration, and low cost, but also ensures the accuracy of EOG signal measurements. Subsequent EOG signal measurement revealed that the EOG signal sensor using this electrode structure is no longer limited to the orbital position; even extending the lead electrodes to the forehead, the cheek near the tip of the nose, and the left and right temples can detect EOG signals with distinct characteristics, overcoming the limitations of previous electrode attachment positions and making it more flexible in use.

[0111] In some embodiments, the second lead component 02 may further include a second adhesive layer 60.

[0112] At least a portion of the fourth connecting electrode 40b is located between the second flexible substrate 30 and the second adhesive layer 60, the second adhesive layer 60 including a second cutout portion 61 to expose the fourth external electrode 40a and the fourth active electrode 40c in the second adhesive layer 60.

[0113] The second adhesive layer 60 may include any flexible material layer with adhesive properties, and the surface of the second adhesive layer 60 away from the second flexible substrate 30 has adhesive properties. The second adhesive layer 60 can be connected to the second flexible substrate 30 by adhesive bonding, or by other methods, such as hot pressing, sewing, etc.

[0114] In some examples, the second adhesive layer 60 may include a flexible substrate and an adhesive coated on the surface of the flexible substrate, and the thickness of the second adhesive layer 60 may be 50 nm to 10 μm.

[0115] According to the above embodiments, the second adhesive layer 60 can provide an adhesive effect, enabling the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor to be firmly attached to the human body surface for a long time, thereby enabling the EOG signal sensor to meet the requirement of long-term wearability.

[0116] As an example, such as Figure 3As shown, the first connecting component 01 may include a first adhesive layer 50, and the first connecting electrode 21b, the second connecting electrode 22b, and the third connecting electrode 23b may be located between the first flexible substrate 10 and the first adhesive layer 50. The first adhesive layer 50 includes a first cutout portion 51 to expose the first external electrode 21a, the second external electrode 22a, the third external electrode 23a, the first active electrode 21c, the second active electrode 22c, and the third active electrode 23c. The second connecting component 02 may include a second adhesive layer 60, and the fourth connecting electrode 40b may be located between the second flexible substrate 30 and the second adhesive layer 60. The second adhesive layer 60 includes a second cutout portion 61 to expose the fourth external electrode 40a and the fourth active electrode 40c.

[0117] In some examples, the first lead component 01 may also include a support frame 70, and the second lead component 02 may also include a support frame 70.

[0118] To facilitate understanding, a specific example of the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor of this application embodiment is provided below based on the above embodiments. It is understood that the following example is only used to explain the embodiments of this application and does not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0119] A flexible substrate for the sensor was fabricated by electrospinning using polyurethane (PU) as the raw material, with a substrate thickness of 10 μm. Metallic Pt was sputtered onto the substrate surface as the electrode portion, with an electrode thickness of 200 nm. Figure 3 An adhesive layer was set on the surface of a flexible substrate to prepare a rectangular electrooculogram (EOG) sensor with dimensions of 110mm*110mm for both the first and second lead components. The human eye socket is a quadrilateral pyramidal bone cavity. The average width between the upper and lower eye sockets in adults is about 4-5cm. There is a skeletal curvature at the outer corner of the eye. Therefore, each Pt electrode (i.e., the first to fourth lead electrodes) consists of three parts: (1) a disc-shaped electrode with a diameter of 8mm, which serves as the active electrode to capture EOG signals; (2) a square external electrode with a side length of 5mm, which is used to connect the lead wire to the signal acquisition board; and (3) a connecting electrode for connecting the active electrode and the external electrode, wherein the length of the vertical lead part is 60mm, the length of the horizontal lead part is 26mm, and the line width is 3mm. The electrode layout of the EOG sensor is shown in the figure. Figure 4 As shown.

[0120] The edge and center positions of the flexible substrate were characterized using an optical microscope, and the resulting optical microscope images are shown below. Figures 5-6As shown in the figure. Using a metallurgical microscope, the flexible substrate was characterized at different magnifications (5X, scale bar 100 μm; 10X, scale bar 50 μm; 20X, scale bar 20 μm; 50X, scale bar 10 μm), and the obtained metallurgical microscope images are shown in the figure. Figures 7-10 As shown, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the flexible substrate were captured, and the SEM images at different magnifications (500x and 1000x) are shown below. Figure 11 As shown in (a) and (b) in the figure. The SEM images at 1000x magnification were processed to measure the diameter of the fibers in the flexible substrate. The test results are as follows. Figure 11 As shown in (c) in the figure.

[0121] External electrodes are used to lead out wires (copper fiber filaments), which are then fixed with silver paste. Finally, PDMS is coated onto the silver paste to complete the device encapsulation. Figure 12 As shown, an electrooculogram (EOG) sensor is attached to the subject's face. Testing is conducted using an Open BCI testing platform, which demonstrates that the EOG sensor testing platform can... Figure 13 As shown. Eye movements were detected in eight directions: vertical (up and down), horizontal (left and right), and 45° diagonal (upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left). The eye movement test results can be found in [reference needed]. Figures 14-17 Blinking patterns were measured in subjects during periods of wakefulness, early drowsiness, and deep fatigue. The test results can be found in [reference needed]. Figures 18-19 .

[0122] Figure 14 The image shows the EOG signal of vertical eye movement detected by the electrooculogram sensor, wherein... Figure 14 In the diagram, (a) represents the EOG signal during an upward scan. Figure 14 (b) in the diagram represents the EOG signal during a downward scan. Figure 15 The image shows the EOG signal of horizontal eye movement detected by the electrooculogram sensor, wherein... Figure 15 In the diagram, (a) represents the EOG signal when scanning to the right. Figure 15 (b) in the diagram represents the EOG signal when scanning to the left. Figure 16 The image shows the EOG signal of the diagonal eye movement detected by the electrooculogram sensor, wherein... Figure 16 (a) in the image represents the EOG signal scanned to the upper right. Figure 16 (b) in the image represents the EOG signal scanned to the upper left. Figure 16 (c) in the image represents the EOG signal scanned downwards and to the right. Figure 16 (d) in the diagram represents the EOG signal scanned downwards to the left.

[0123] Twenty sets of data were collected for each eye movement direction, and the slope characteristics of each were calculated to obtain the following results: Figure 17 The scatter plot shows the eye movement slope characteristics. The horizontal axis is M. H The slope characteristics of the horizontal eye movement signal are represented by the vertical axis M. V This represents the slope characteristics of the vertical eye movement signal. Based on... Figure 17 It can be seen that the slope characteristics of the eight eye movements can be clearly distinguished based on the signals detected by the electrooculogram signal sensor, with no degree of overlap.

[0124] Figure 18 The image shows the blink signal detected by the electrooculogram (EOG) sensor. Figure 18 (a) in the text represents an unconscious blinking signal. Figure 18 (b) in the text indicates a conscious signal. Figure 18 (c) in the diagram represents a half-blink signal. Figure 19 The time-domain plots of a single blink signal are shown in unconscious, conscious, and half-blink states. Figure 19 It can be seen that the peak signal value of involuntary blinking is between 100 and 150 μV, while the peak values ​​of conscious blinking and half-blinking are both between 300 and 350 μV. At the same time, after entering the period of severe fatigue, the duration of a single blink increases significantly.

[0125] Based on the above test results, it can be found that the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor of this application embodiment can realize the electrooculogram detection function and has obvious resolution characteristics, and the results obtained have been reliably verified. Therefore, this electrospun EOG signal sensor can be used for electrooculogram signal detection and resolution, which is beneficial for the monitoring and prevention of fatigue driving.

[0126] Furthermore, the research on the electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor in this application represents an interdisciplinary approach involving microelectronics, biomedicine, and materials physics. The novel EOG signal sensor developed can monitor in real time and efficiently, not only detecting abnormalities in the early stages of drowsiness but also providing a more natural and convenient new hardware design approach for fatigue driving recognition based on electrooculograms. The EOG signal sensor according to this application possesses good biocompatibility, flexibility, and stability, providing reliable technical support for non-invasive EOG signal detection. It also injects new vitality into EOG technology in fields such as microelectronic devices, medical diagnostics, and health monitoring, demonstrating its potential for diversified applications.

[0127] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of this application. As long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electrooculogram (EOG) signal sensor, characterized in that, It includes a first conductive component, the first conductive component including a first flexible substrate and an electrode located on the surface of the first flexible substrate; The electrode includes a first lead electrode and a second lead electrode; The first lead electrode includes a first external electrode, a first connecting electrode, and a first functional electrode. The first external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The first functional electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculogram (EOG) signals. The first connecting electrode is rectangular, and is used to connect the first external electrode and the first functional electrode. The second lead electrode includes a second external electrode, a second connecting electrode, and a second active electrode. The second external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The second active electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculogram (EOG) signals. The second connecting electrode is rectangular, and is used to connect the second external electrode and the second active electrode. The first external electrode and the second external electrode are opposite each other along a first direction, and the first functional electrode and the second functional electrode are opposite each other along the first direction; in the first direction, the distance between the first external electrode and the second external electrode is less than the distance between the first functional electrode and the second functional electrode.

2. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the first flexible substrate is less than 10 μm.

3. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The thickness of the first flexible substrate is 50 nm to 10 μm.

4. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the first conductive electrode is 100nm~500nm; and / or The thickness of the second conductive electrode is 100nm~500nm.

5. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The width of the first connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm; and / or The width of the second connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm.

6. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5 mm to 10 mm; and / or The second working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5mm to 10mm.

7. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm; and / or The second external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

8. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connecting component further includes a first adhesive layer connected to the first flexible substrate; At least a portion of the first connecting electrode and at least a portion of the second connecting electrode are located between the first flexible substrate and the first adhesive layer. The first adhesive layer includes a first cutout portion to expose the first external electrode, the second external electrode, the first functional electrode, and the second functional electrode in the first adhesive layer.

9. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The electrode further includes a third lead electrode, which includes a third external electrode, a third connecting electrode, and a third active electrode. The third external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The third active electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular and is used to acquire electrooculogram (EOG) signals. The third connecting electrode is rectangular and is used to connect the third external electrode and the third active electrode. The electrooculogram signal sensor further includes a second lead component, which includes a second flexible substrate and a fourth lead electrode located on the surface of the second flexible substrate; The fourth lead electrode includes a fourth external electrode, a fourth connecting electrode, and a fourth functional electrode. The fourth external electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to connect to a signal acquisition device. The fourth functional electrode is rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, or circular, and is used to acquire electrooculogram (EOG) signals. The fourth connecting electrode is rectangular, and is used to connect the fourth external electrode and the fourth functional electrode. The fourth lead electrode is configured to be positioned opposite the third lead electrode along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

10. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 9, characterized in that, The thickness of the second flexible substrate is less than 10 μm; and / or The thickness of the third conductive electrode is 100nm~500nm; and / or The thickness of the fourth conductive electrode is 100nm~500nm; and / or The width of the third connecting electrode is 2mm~5mm; and / or The width of the fourth connecting electrode is 2mm to 5mm; and / or The third working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5mm to 10mm; and / or The fourth working electrode is a circular electrode with a diameter of 5mm to 10mm; and / or The third external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm; and / or The fourth external electrode is a rectangular electrode with a side length of 3mm to 8mm.

11. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 10, characterized in that, The thickness of the second flexible substrate is 50 nm to 10 μm.

12. The electrooculogram signal sensor according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second lead component also includes a second adhesive layer; At least a portion of the fourth connecting electrode is located between the second flexible substrate and the second adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer including a second cutout portion to expose the fourth external electrode and the fourth functional electrode in the second adhesive layer.

Images