Electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device

Abstract

The present invention provides an electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement device that can stably bring EEG electrodes into contact with the scalp. [Solution] The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 includes a support body 110 that is attached to the head, a first through-hole (support body through-hole 114) provided in the support body 110, an elastic member 130 embedded in the first through-hole (support body through-hole 114) and having a first recess (elastic member recess 131, elastic member through-hole 135) extending from the surface to the bottom, and an electrode unit (electron wave electrode member 120) held by the elastic member 130.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electroencephalogram measurement device.

Background Art

[0002] In electroencephalogram measurement, electrodes are brought into contact with the head to perform electrical measurement.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes that an electroencephalogram is measured by bringing the tip of an electrode pin supported by an elastic member into contact with the scalp.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, hair may be interposed between the electroencephalogram electrode and the scalp. Therefore, in order to ensure good contact between the electroencephalogram electrode and the scalp, it was necessary to part the hair. In the structure described in Patent Document 1, the electroencephalogram electrode cannot be moved freely. For this reason, the hair could not be parted properly.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an electroencephalogram measurement device that can stably bring an electroencephalogram electrode into contact with the scalp.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to the present invention, the following techniques are provided. 1. A support body to be mounted on a head, a first through-hole provided in the support body, an elastic member embedded in the first through-hole and having a first recessed portion directed from a surface toward a bottom surface, an electrode unit held by the elastic member, An electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device. 2. The electroencephalogram measuring device according to 1, wherein the hardness of the elastic member, as measured by the method described below, is 10 N or more and 200 N or less. (method) The hardness (N) of the test specimen of the elastic member is measured in accordance with Method A as specified in JIS K 6400-2:2012. 3. The electroencephalogram measuring device according to 1. or 2., wherein the electrode unit is provided on the bottom side of the elastic member. 4. The elastic member further has a holding portion located on the bottom surface and holding the electrode unit, At least a portion of the bottom surface of the first recess has a second through-hole that penetrates the elastic member, The electroencephalogram measuring device according to 3., wherein the holding portion has a second recess in a region of the surface facing the elastic member that overlaps with the second through hole. 5. The electroencephalogram measuring device according to 4, wherein the holding portion holds the electrode unit on the side opposite to the elastic member. 6. The electrode unit has a third through hole, The electroencephalogram measuring device according to 5., wherein the second recess has a fourth through-hole at its bottom that communicates with the third through-hole. 7. The electroencephalogram measuring device according to 4, wherein the cross-section of the second recess decreases as it approaches the electrode unit from the elastic member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device that can stably contact EEG electrodes with the scalp. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure illustrates a partial cross-section of an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view illustrating an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure illustrates a support according to the embodiment being attached to a person's head. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the state of the inner side of the support according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the electroencephalogram electrode member in a state where the electroencephalogram measurement device according to the embodiment is mounted on the head. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating a partial cross-section of the electroencephalogram measurement device in a state where the holding member and the electroencephalogram electrode member according to the embodiment are removed from the support. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing a state where liquid is supplied to the scalp through a tube in a state where the electroencephalogram measurement device according to the embodiment is mounted on the head. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing a state when the electroencephalogram measurement device according to the embodiment is mounted on the head to perform electroencephalogram measurement. [Figure 9] This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the side of the electroencephalogram electrode member according to the embodiment that faces the head. [Figure 10] This is a side view of the electroencephalogram electrode member according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] This is an A-A cross-sectional view of FIG. 9 according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the protruding portion of the electrode body and the tube according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the signal processing unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram showing a computer that implements the signal processing unit in the embodiment. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that in all the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. Note that in this specification, the electrode unit is also referred to as an electroencephalogram electrode member.

[0011] The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 of this embodiment includes a support body that is attached to the head, a first through-hole (support body through-hole 114) provided in the support body 110, an elastic member 130 embedded in the first through-hole (support body through-hole 114) and having a first recess (elastic member recess 131, elastic member through-hole 135) extending from the surface to the bottom, and an electrode unit (electroencephalogram electrode member 120) held by the elastic member 130. With the above configuration, the electroencephalogram electrodes can be stably brought into contact with the scalp.

[0012] <Overview> Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a partial cross-section of the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 according to an embodiment. Figures 2 to 4 are diagrams showing the overall view of the EEG measuring device 10. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the EEG measuring device 10 from above. Figure 3 is a front view of the EEG measuring device 10 when it is attached to the head. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the inside of the support 110 (the side into which the head 20 is inserted) of the EEG measuring device 10.

[0013] The electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 comprises a support body 110, an elastic member 130, a holding part 180, and an EEG electrode member 120. Electroencephalograms are measured by bringing the EEG electrode member 120 of the EEG measuring device 10 into contact with the head 20 (scalp 22). The EEG electrode member 120 is attached to the elastic member 130 via the holding part 180 and held by the support body 110. Since the EEG electrode member 120 needs to be in contact with the subject's scalp 22, it is preferably located on the bottom side of the elastic member 130. Here, the bottom side of the elastic member 130 refers to the side of the elastic member 130 closest to the subject's scalp 22.

[0014] As will be described in more detail later, the support body 110 is, for example, a helmet-type body worn on the head 20, and has a support body through-hole 114 that penetrates from the inside to the outside, and an elastic member 130 embedded in the support body through-hole 114. The electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is held on the bottom surface 132 of the elastic member 130 via a holding part 180.

[0015] The elastic member 130 is provided with an elastic member recess 131 that is recessed from the surface to the bottom. The elastic member recess 131 communicates with the support through hole 114. A finger or the like is inserted into the elastic member recess 131 through the support through hole 114. Then, the elastic member 130 is operated, or the holding part 180 (holding part recess 188) attached to the elastic member 130 is operated. This allows for adjustment of the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, etc. The holding part 180 is provided with a vibrating part 190. The vibrating part 190 vibrates to separate the hair with the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, and to adjust and change the contact state and contact position between the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22, etc.

[0016] The electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is provided with an electrode through-hole 121 (third through-hole) that penetrates from the support 110 toward the head 20. The support through-hole 114, the elastic member recess 131, and the electrode through-hole 121 (third through-hole) are in communication. A tube 151 is inserted into the electrode through-hole 121 (third through-hole), and a liquid 30 (see Figures 7, 8, etc.) that improves electrical contact between the scalp 22 and the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is supplied.

[0017] In the examples shown in Figures 2 to 4, the support 110 is helmet-shaped. When the support 110 is helmet-shaped, it has a recess into which the head 20 is inserted. When the support 110 is helmet-shaped, the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 is configured such that one or more EEG electrode members 120 are in contact with the head 20 (scalp 22) when the support 110 is attached to the head 20. The EEG measuring device 10 may also include a belt 170 for fixing the support 110 to the head 20, as shown in Figure 4.

[0018] Hereinafter, the side of the support 110 that faces the head 20 (scalp 22) will be referred to as the inside of the support 110, and the side opposite the inside will be referred to as the outside of the support 110. In Figure 1, the direction from the inside to the outside of the support 110 is defined as the z direction. The x, y, and z directions are orthogonal to each other. The z direction is approximately the normal direction to the scalp 22. Note that the x, y, and z directions may be defined as different directions for each electroencephalogram electrode member 120 in the electroencephalogram measurement device 10.

[0019] In the examples shown in Figures 2 to 4, the support 110 holds a plurality of electroencephalogram (EEG) electrode members 120. With the support 110 attached to the head 20, each EEG electrode member 120 can be brought into contact with a predetermined position on the head 20. Then, electroencephalograms are measured by the plurality of EEG electrode members 120. For example, the support 110 can hold seven EEG electrode members 120. The positions of the seven EEG electrode members 120 may correspond to the positions of F3, F4, C3, C4, P3, Pz, and P4 in the International 10-20 electrode placement scheme. The number and positions of the EEG electrode members 120 provided on the support 110 are not particularly limited and can be set according to the application, etc. The electroencephalograms measured by each EEG electrode member 120 are transmitted to the signal processing unit 160.

[0020] In the example shown in Figure 1, the electroencephalogram (EEG) electrode member 120 is provided with an electrode through-hole 121. The electrode through-hole 121 is a hole for supplying liquid 30 to the head 20. The electrode through-hole 121 communicates with the holding part through-hole 189 (also called the fourth through-hole) of the holding part 180 and the elastic member recess 131 of the elastic member 130. The provision of the electrode through-hole 121 in the EEG electrode member 120 allows for easy injection of liquid 30 into the scalp 22 from outside the support 110. For example, supplying an electrolyte-containing auxiliary fluid (liquid 30) to the head 20 prior to EEG measurement can improve electrical contact between the scalp and the EEG electrode member 120. The EEG electrode member 120 and the EEG measurement method will be described in detail later.

[0021] In the example shown in Figure 1, the electroencephalogram measuring device 10 further comprises an elastic member 130 and a holding part 180. The elastic member 130 is elastically deformable. The elastic member 130 has a recess (hereinafter referred to as "elastic member recess 131") that is indented from the outside inward. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the elastic member recess 131 has a second through-hole (hereinafter also referred to as "elastic material through-hole 135") that penetrates the elastic member 130. In this embodiment, a configuration in which substantially the entire bottom surface of the elastic member recess 131 is the elastic material through-hole 135 is illustrated. Hereafter, unless otherwise specified, the elastic member recess 131 and the elastic material through-hole 135 will be described as the same thing.

[0022] The shape of the support 110 is determined, for example, based on the average head shape. However, head shapes vary greatly from person to person, and an element is needed to absorb these differences. In the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10, in which the EEG electrode member 120 is held to the support 110 via an elastic member 130, the elastic member 130 elastically deforms when the support 110 is attached to the head 20. In this way, even if there are individual differences in head shape (unevenness and surface angles), the EEG electrode member 120 can be stably brought into contact with the scalp and EEG measurements can be performed.

[0023] Furthermore, as described above, a finger 99 or the like is inserted into the support 110 through a support through-hole 114 provided in the covering member 112 of the support 110 to operate the elastic member 130 (elastic member recess 131) and the holding part 180 (holding part recess 188). Since there is no need for a structure protruding from the inside to the outside of the support 110 to adjust the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, the center of gravity can be stabilized when it is attached to the head 20. In addition, the person being measured can lie down while wearing the support 110, and noise caused by body movement can be reduced. Furthermore, electroencephalogram measurements may be performed while the person being measured is moving around.

[0024] Furthermore, the electroencephalogram (EEG) electrode members 120 are detachable from the support 110. This allows for the replacement of the EEG electrode members 120 as needed, or the use of different types of EEG electrode members 120 for each measurement. Each component of the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 is described in detail below.

[0025] <Details of each component of the electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement device> Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the electroencephalogram (EEG) electrode member 120 when the EEG measuring device 10 is attached to the head, and corresponds to Figure 1. Figure 6 shows the state with the EEG electrode member 120 removed from Figure 1. Figure 7 shows the state in which liquid 30 is supplied to the scalp 22 through the tube 151 and injection member 152 when the EEG measuring device 10 is attached to the head. Figure 8 shows the state when the EEG measuring device 10 is attached to the head and EEG is being measured.

[0026] <Support> The support 110 has a shape that can cover at least a portion of the head 20. The support 110 only needs to be attachable to the head 20 and may be made of, for example, cloth or rubber. The support 110 may be, for example, helmet-shaped, hat-shaped, or band-shaped. In this embodiment, the support 110 comprises a base 111 and a covering member 112. The base 111 is located on the head 20 side when the support 110 is attached to the head 20. The covering member 112 is located on the opposite side from the head 20 when the support 110 is attached to the head 20.

[0027] The base 111 is constructed, for example, from expanded polystyrene. The base 111 is provided with a plurality (seven in this case) of holes 115 that penetrate vertically at positions corresponding to F3, F4, C3, C4, P3, Pz, and P4 in the International 10-20 electrode arrangement described above. The elastic member 130 is housed in the holes 115. The covering member 112 is constructed, for example, from resin. The covering member 112 is harder than the base 111 and can protect the head 20. However, the support 110 does not necessarily have to be equipped with the covering member 112.

[0028] <Elastic material> The elastic member 130 is housed in a hole 115 provided in the base 111 of the support 110. The external shape and size of the elastic member 130 substantially match the internal shape and size of the hole 115 provided in the support 110, and the elastic member 130 is fitted into the hole 115 of the support 110.

[0029] With the support body 110 not attached to the head 20, the elastic member 130 may fill the entire portion of the hole 115 provided in the support body 110, excluding the elastic member recess 131. The covering member 112 is provided with a support through-hole 114. The elastic member recess 131 provided in the elastic member 130 and the support through-hole 114 provided in the covering member 112 are in communication.

[0030] As shown in Figure 6, it is preferable that the diameter d2 of the support through-hole 114 is larger than the diameter d1 of the elastic member recess 131. By making the diameter d2 of the support through-hole 114 larger in this way, it becomes easier to manipulate the elastic member recess 131 and the holding part recess 188 (mortar-shaped recess). As a result, it becomes easier to adjust the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, etc.

[0031] The elastic member 130 is made of an elastic material. The elastic material consists of one or more selected from, for example, urethane sponge, polyethylene sponge, polypropylene sponge, and silicone rubber sponge. The elastic material may be a foam, and examples of foams include low-rebound sponge and low-rebound elastic foam.

[0032] The elastic member 130 can be configured without a spring. When a spring is used, the spring's repulsive force increases in proportion to the amount of spring deformation. Therefore, when the amount of deformation is large, excessive repulsive force is generated, and the person being measured is likely to feel pain. On the other hand, when using an elastic foam material, there is a displacement range in which the repulsive force does not increase much (is not proportional) to the increase in deformation. By configuring the elastic member 130 to be usable within such a displacement range, an appropriate repulsive force can be obtained even if the amount of deformation varies depending on the position of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120.

[0033] The hardness of the elastic member 130, as measured by the following method, is preferably 10N or more and 200N or less. From the viewpoint of further reducing the burden on the person being measured, the hardness of the elastic member 130 is more preferably 150N or less, and even more preferably 100N or less. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of stably pressing the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 against the scalp 22, the hardness of the elastic member 130 is more preferably 30N or more, and even more preferably 50N or more. Therefore, the hardness of the elastic member 130 is preferably 10N to 200N, more preferably 30N to 150N, and even more preferably 50N to 120N, from the viewpoint of further reducing the burden on the person being measured and from the viewpoint of pressing the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 more stably against the scalp 22. (method) The hardness (N) of the test specimen of the elastic member 130 of this embodiment is measured in accordance with Method A as specified in JIS K 6400-2:2012.

[0034] The thickness t of the elastic member 130 is, for example, 10 mm to 100 mm when the support 110 is not attached to the head 20. Here, the thickness t is the thickness of the elastic member 130 in the direction perpendicular to the bottom surface 132 that faces the head 20. The elastic member 130 is fixed to the support 110 at one end, and the thickness t of the elastic member 130 is variable according to the force it receives in the direction of its thickness. Specifically, the elastic member 130 is fixed to the support 110 on the surface opposite to the bottom surface 132 (top surface 133). The thickness t of the elastic member 130 is preferably 20 mm to 60 mm when the support 110 is not attached to the head 20. The lower limit of the thickness t is preferably 25 mm or more, more preferably 30 mm or more. The upper limit of the thickness t is preferably 55 mm or less, more preferably 50 mm or less. By setting the thickness t within the above range, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 can be appropriately compressed according to the shape of the head 20, thereby suppressing discomfort to the person being measured and allowing the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 to be properly pressed against the scalp 22.

[0035] The thickness t of the elastic member 130 may be greater than or less than the thickness of the base body 111. Making the thickness t of the elastic member 130 greater than the thickness of the base 111 increases the compressibility of the elastic member 130, thereby increasing the force that presses the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 against the scalp 22. Making the thickness t of the elastic member 130 thinner than the thickness of the base 111 allows the elastic member 130 to be completely housed in the hole 115, stabilizing its movement when compressed in the thickness direction.

[0036] The area of ​​the bottom surface 132 of the elastic member 130 that faces the head is, for example, 3 cm². 2 More than 25cm 2 The following applies. The lower limit is preferably 5 cm. 2 That is all, more preferably 7cm 2This concludes the explanation. This ensures an appropriate size for the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and enables a stable posture (orientation). The upper limit is preferably 20 cm. 2 The following, more preferably 15 cm 2 The following applies. This prevents the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 from moving too much, making adjustment difficult. The shape of the base is not particularly limited. Examples of base shapes include circular, square, egg-shaped, and elliptical. A circular shape is preferable from the viewpoint of making it easier to rotate the electroencephalogram electrode member 120. On the other hand, if it is not desirable to rotate the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, a shape other than circular is preferable.

[0037] <Holding part> The holding portion 180 is provided on the bottom surface 132 of the elastic member 130. The holding portion 180 also holds the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 on the side opposite to the elastic member 130 (bottom surface 183). In other words, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is attached to the elastic member 130 via the holding portion 180. The holding portion 180 may be detachable from the elastic member 130.

[0038] The retaining portion 180 integrally comprises a base portion 181 and a protruding portion 182. The retaining portion 180 is made of, for example, hard plastic.

[0039] The base 181 is a substantially disc-shaped (flange-shaped) structure of a predetermined thickness. The base 181 includes a conductive part 164, a circuit 162, and a vibrating part 190. Specifically, the bottom surface 183 of the base 181 has a first housing part 185 recessed to accommodate the conductive part 164, a second housing part 186 recessed to accommodate the circuit 162, and a third housing part 187 recessed to accommodate the vibrating part 190. The first housing part 185 is located at the center of the disc shape. The positions of the second housing part 186 and the third housing part 187 are not particularly limited, but are positioned so that the housed circuit 162 and vibrating part 190 function properly. The functions of the circuit 162 and vibrating part 190 will be described later.

[0040] The protrusion 182 is cylindrical and protrudes upward (in the z direction) from the center of the upper surface 184 of the base 181 (i.e., the center of the disc shape). The protrusion 182 is fitted into the elastic member recess 131 (elastic member through hole 135) of the elastic member 130 from the bottom side of the elastic member recess 131.

[0041] The upper surface of the protrusion 182 is provided with a retaining recess 188 that is recessed in the vertical direction. The bottom of the retaining recess 188 has a retaining through hole 189 that communicates with the electrode through hole 121.

[0042] The retaining recess 188 overlaps with the elastic member recess 131 (elastic member through-hole 135). As a result, the retaining recess 188 can be operated from outside the support 110 by a finger 99 or the like through the support through-hole 114 and the elastic member recess 131.

[0043] The retaining recess 188 preferably has a shape in which the cross-section becomes smaller as it approaches the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 from the elastic member 130 (a so-called mortar shape). This shape makes it easy to operate the retaining recess 188 with a finger 99. Also, when inserting the tube 151 into the retaining through-hole 189, the inclined surface of the retaining recess 188 guides the tube 151 into the retaining through-hole 189, making insertion easier. Note that the shape of the retaining recess 188 is not limited to a mortar shape; various shapes can be adopted as long as they are suitable for finger operation and guide the tube 151 into the retaining through-hole 189.

[0044] <Circuit> Circuit 162 includes, for example, a preamplifier that amplifies the electrical signal from the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, and is also called an active electrode. Circuit 162 is electrically connected to a conductive part 164 by wiring 163, and acquires electroencephalogram signals from the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 via the conductive part 164. Circuit 162 performs amplification processing according to predetermined settings and transmits the signal to the signal processing unit 160 (data processing unit 210) via wiring 165. The specific configuration of the signal processing unit 160 will be described later.

[0045] <Vibration section> The vibration unit 190 is, for example, an eccentric motor. It generates vibration by rotating an eccentric weight attached to the motor's rotating shaft. The vibration unit 190 is connected to the signal processing unit 160 (vibration control unit 220) via wiring 166. The vibration control unit 220 vibrates the vibration unit 190. The vibration unit 190 is not limited to an eccentric motor; various devices capable of generating vibration can be used. For example, a piezoelectric actuator that generates vibration using a piezoelectric element can be used.

[0046] The vibrations from the vibrating unit 190 are transmitted to the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 held by the holding unit 180. The vibrations can separate the hair on the scalp 22, improving the contact between the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22. Furthermore, when electroencephalogram measurements are taken for a long period of time, for example, itching may occur in the area where the protrusion 123 is in contact with the scalp, or blood flow may be restricted. However, the vibrations can change the contact area, alleviating itching and other discomforts, and a massage effect can be exerted to improve blood flow. The specific processing of the vibrating unit 190 will be described later.

[0047] <Electroencephalogram electrode components> Figure 9 is a diagram (bottom view) illustrating the structure of the side of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 that faces the head 20. Figure 10 is a side view of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of AA in Figure 9. In this embodiment, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 further comprises an electrode body 125, a conductive member 124, wiring 127, and a cover 129. The electrode body 125 comprises a base portion 122 and one or more protrusions 123 provided on the base portion 122. An electrode through-hole 121 is provided in the base portion 122.

[0048] The conductive member 124 is, for example, a conductive metal and has a first portion 124a and a second portion 124b. The first portion 124a and the second portion 124b are integrally formed. As such a metal, for example, copper, aluminum, silver, and alloys thereof can be used.

[0049] The first portion 124a is tubular. As shown in Figure 11, the through hole 121a provided in the conductive member 124 and the through hole 122a provided in the base portion 122 are in communication with each other, and these through holes 121a and 122a constitute the electrode through hole 121. Screw grooves are provided on the outside of the first portion 124a.

[0050] The second part 124b is, for example, disc-shaped. In the example in Figure 11, the cover 129 covers part of the conductive member 124 and part of the base 122. The cover 129 is made of, for example, resin and is insulating. The base 122 is fixed to the main surface 124c of the second part 124b.

[0051] The protrusion 123 has a first portion 123a, a conductive portion 123b, and a second portion 123c. Multiple protrusions 123 are provided on the side of the base 122 opposite to the conductive member 124. The base 122 and the first portion 123a are integrally formed by a rubber-like elastic material. There may be 10 or more protrusions 123. The shape of the first portion 123a is, for example, a cone or a pyramidal pyramid. The conductive portion 123b is provided so as to cover the first portion 123a. The tip of the first portion 123a is covered by the second portion 123c. The second portion 123c is a spherical member made of a gel-like material (also called hydrogel) containing water inside, and is attached so as to pierce the tip of the first portion 123a.

[0052] When the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is pressed against the head 20 for electroencephalogram measurement, the second portion 123c comes into contact with the head 20. At this time, the electrolytic substances (generally salts) from the scalp 22 are absorbed into the second portion 123c. As a result, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22 become electrically conductive. The shape of the second portion 123c is not limited to a sphere. Furthermore, the gel-like material constituting the second portion 123c is not particularly limited as long as it can contain sufficient water and achieve sufficient strength and flexibility when pressed against the head 20, but for example, acrylic hydrogels or silicone hydrogels can be used.

[0053] The materials of the base 122 and the first part 123a will now be described. The base 122 and the first part 123a are composed of a rubber-like elastic body. Specifically, the rubber-like elastic body is rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (also simply called "elastomer (TPE)"). An example of rubber is silicone rubber. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers include styrene-based TPE (TPS), olefin-based TPE (TPO), vinyl chloride-based TPE (TPVC), urethane-based TPE (TPU), ester-based TPE (TPEE), and amide-based TPE (TPAE).

[0054] The conductive portion 123b is formed, for example, using a paste containing a highly conductive metal. The conductive portion 123b includes, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of copper, silver, gold, nickel, tin, lead, zinc, bismuth, antimony, or alloys thereof.

[0055] Inside the first part 123a, a wiring 127 is provided that connects to the conductive part 123b. The wiring 127 electrically connects the conductive part 123b and the conductive member 124. The wiring 127 may be made of, for example, conductive fibers. As conductive fibers, one or more selected from the group consisting of metal fibers, metal-coated fibers, carbon fibers, conductive polymer fibers, conductive polymer-coated fibers, and conductive paste-coated fibers can be used. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more types.

[0056] The electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is attached to the conductive part 164 of the holding part 180 by screwing the first portion 124a of the conductive member 124 into the conductive part 164. In this way, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is attached to the elastic member 130.

[0057] <Pipe 151, injection member 152> The injection member 152 is, for example, a syringe and has a liquid reservoir. The tube 151 is, for example, made of metal. With the tube 151 attached to the injection member 152, the tube 151 is inserted into the holding portion through hole 189 and the electrode through hole 121. The lower end of the injection member 152 or the outer circumference of the tube 151 is provided with a structure that limits the insertion amount of the tube 151. When fully inserted, the tube 151 penetrates the base portion 122, but the tip of the tube 151 is positioned above (+Z direction) the lower end of the protrusion 123. This prevents the tube 151 from coming into contact with the scalp 22. The liquid 30 pushed out from the injection member 152 is supplied to the scalp 22 through the tube 151.

[0058] Figure 12 illustrates the relationship between the protrusion 123 and the tube 151. When the tube 151 is inserted into the electrode through-hole 121 of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120, the protrusion height h1 of the tube 151 from the base 122 is smaller than the protrusion height h2 of the protrusion 123 from the base 122. This prevents the tip of the tube 151 from touching and injuring the scalp 22.

[0059] <Electrical connection relationships in electroencephalography (EEG) devices> The electrical connections in the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 are described below. The EEG measuring device 10 further includes wiring 163, 165, 166, circuit 162, signal processing unit 160, and reference potential measurement wiring 161 (see Figure 4). Of these, the conductive part 164, wiring 165, 166, and circuit 162 are provided for each EEG electrode member 120. Wiring 163 and circuit 162 are fixed to the holding unit 180 together with the conductive part 164.

[0060] When the scalp 22 comes into contact with the second part 123c, electrical signals from the scalp 22 are transmitted to the conductive member 124 via the second part 123c, the conductive part 123b, and the wiring 127. In this way, the electrical signals obtained by each electroencephalogram electrode member 120 are sent from the conductive member 124 of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 to the signal processing unit 160 via the conductive part 164, the wiring 163, the circuit 162, and the wiring 165.

[0061] <Signal Processing Unit> Figure 13 is a block diagram focusing on the functions of the signal processing unit 160. The signal processing unit 160 comprises a main control unit 201, an operation processing unit 202, a communication unit 203, a data processing unit 210, and a vibration control unit 220. The main control unit 201 comprehensively controls each component of the signal processing unit 160. The operation processing unit 202 is an interface that accepts user input, such as a switch or a touch panel. The communication unit 203 connects to external devices via communication lines, wireless communication, etc. The connection to external devices may be direct or via a network such as the Internet.

[0062] The data processing unit 210 is connected to the circuit 162 of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 (holding unit 180) and acquires data measured by the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 via the circuit 162. The data processing unit 210 performs processing such as amplification of the electroencephalogram electrical signal, analog-to-digital conversion, and frequency filtering. The data processing unit 210 can also record the electroencephalogram signal data obtained through these processes into a recording unit provided in the signal processing unit 160. Furthermore, the data processing unit 210 can transmit the electroencephalogram signal data to an external device via wired or wireless communication through the communication unit 203.

[0063] The vibration control unit 220 is connected to the vibration unit 190 of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 (holding unit 180) and drives the vibration unit 190 to generate vibrations. The vibration control unit 220 controls the drive so that the vibration unit 190 vibrates according to a set vibration pattern. The vibration pattern to be generated may be determined by the user's operation of the operation processing unit 202, or it may be specified by an external device via the communication unit 203. During vibration, the contact state with the scalp 22 (skin) and the contact resistance fluctuate significantly. As a result, noise may increase in the electroencephalogram, potentially making it impossible to measure the electroencephalogram normally. Therefore, the fact that the vibration unit 190 is vibrating may be reflected in the analysis and recording of the electroencephalogram signal data in the data processing unit 210. That is, in the analysis of the electroencephalogram signal data, data from when the vibration unit 190 is vibrating can be excluded from the electroencephalogram analysis. This can improve the accuracy of the electroencephalogram analysis.

[0064] Vibration patterns include vibration timing (start and end timing), vibration duration, vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and combinations thereof.

[0065] For example, the vibration control unit 220 vibrates the vibration unit 190 repeatedly. Specifically, during electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement, the vibration unit 190 is vibrated for a predetermined time at regular intervals. "Regular intervals" can be, for example, 30 minutes to 120 minutes after the start of EEG measurement or after the end of vibration at a certain point. This interval is set appropriately according to the user's attributes (e.g., age, gender, condition of the scalp 22, etc.) and the user's wishes. It can also vary from interval to interval. For example, the interval at one point can be set to 30 minutes, and the interval at the next point to be 45 minutes. The lower limit of vibration is preferably 45 minutes or more, and more preferably 60 minutes or more. By setting the lower limit in this way, continuous long-term EEG measurement can be achieved. The upper limit is preferably 105 minutes or less, and more preferably 90 minutes or less. By setting the upper limit in this way, it is possible to prevent the EEG electrode member 120 from continuously contacting the same position on the scalp 22, which could adversely affect the scalp 22 or cause itching.

[0066] For example, the vibration control unit 220 controls the duration of each vibration by the vibration unit 190 so that it is a predetermined duration. The duration of a single vibration can be, for example, 2 seconds or more and 30 seconds or less. The lower limit of the duration of a single vibration is preferably 5 seconds or more, more preferably 10 seconds or more. The upper limit is preferably 25 seconds or less, more preferably 20 seconds or less. If the duration of a single vibration is too short, the hair-parting effect due to the vibration may not be sufficiently obtained. If the duration of a single vibration is too long, the exclusion period for EEG analysis during the vibration becomes longer, and the accuracy of the EEG analysis may not be sufficiently obtained. The duration of a single vibration may always be the same for any vibration period, or it may differ from vibration period to vibration period. For example, the vibration period may be 5 seconds at one vibration timing and 10 seconds at the timing of the next vibration.

[0067] For example, the vibration control unit 220 controls the amplitude of vibration of the vibrating unit 190. That is, the vibration control unit 220 controls the magnitude of vibration by the vibrating unit 190, causing the vibrating unit 190 to vibrate strongly or weakly. The amplitude may be different for each vibration duration, or a combination of different amplitudes may be used during a single vibration duration.

[0068] For example, the vibration control unit 220 controls the frequency of vibration of the vibrating unit 190. That is, the vibration control unit 220 controls the frequency of vibration by the vibrating unit 190, causing the vibrating unit 190 to vibrate rapidly or slowly. The vibration may be performed at a different frequency for each vibration duration, or a combination of periods with different frequencies may be used within a single vibration duration. The vibration frequency is, for example, between 1 Hz and 100 Hz. The lower limit of the frequency is preferably 5 Hz or higher, more preferably 10 Hz or higher. The upper limit of the frequency is preferably 75 Hz or lower, more preferably 50 Hz or lower. These values ​​are set considering factors such as the ability to separate hair and not causing discomfort to the person being measured.

[0069] For example, the vibration control unit 220 may vibrate the vibration unit 190 using a vibration pattern that combines the interval between repeated vibrations of the vibration unit 190, the duration of each vibration, the amplitude of the vibration, the vibration frequency, etc. For example, a vibration pattern set in advance as an initial value may be selected, or a user may set a desired vibration pattern by operating the operation processing unit 202, or a vibration pattern may be selected from those pre-recorded in the operation processing unit 202. Furthermore, the vibration pattern may differ depending on the electrode position of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120.

[0070] It is preferable that the signal processing unit 160 has a built-in battery. This eliminates the need to connect a power line to the signal processing unit 160 for power supply. Therefore, the person being measured can move and act with a certain degree of freedom during the measurement. In addition, it is possible to prevent noise that depends on the frequency of the power supply. The reference potential measurement wiring 161 connects the signal processing unit 160 and the reference electrode (not shown) to each other. The reference electrode is an electrode used to acquire a reference potential that serves as a standard in the measurement of electroencephalogram signals. The reference electrode is attached to the earlobe or the upper part of the outer ear with a clip, or attached to the bone on the back of the outer ear, to acquire the reference potential.

[0071] Figure 14 illustrates the hardware configuration of computer 1000 for implementing the signal processing unit 160. Computer 1000 can be various types of computers. For example, computer 1000 may be a personal computer (PC), a server machine, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or a terminal device. Computer 1000 may be a dedicated computer designed to implement the signal processing unit 160, or it may be a general-purpose computer.

[0072] Computer 1000 includes a bus 1010, a processor 1020, memory 1030, a storage device 1040, an input / output interface 1050, and a network interface 1060. The bus 1010 is a data transmission path for the processor 1020, memory 1030, storage device 1040, input / output interface 1050, and network interface 1060 to send and receive data from each other. The processor 1020 is a processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Memory 1030 is a main memory device composed of RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Storage device 1040 is an auxiliary storage device composed of a hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), memory card, or ROM (Read Only Memory), etc. However, storage device 1040 may be configured using RAM, etc. The input / output interface 1050 is an interface for connecting computer 1000 and the input / output device. For example, input devices such as keyboards and mice, and output devices such as display devices are connected to the input / output interface 1050. The network interface 1060 is an interface for connecting to communication networks such as WANs (Wide Area Networks) and LANs (Local Area Networks). The storage device 1040 stores program modules that realize each function of the signal processing unit 160. The processor 1020 reads each of these program modules into the memory 1030 and executes them to realize the functions corresponding to those program modules.

[0073] <How to use an electroencephalogram (EEG) device> The method of using the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 with the above configuration will be described below. First, as shown in Figure 3, the support body 110 with the EEG electrode members 120 attached is placed on the head 20. The EEG electrode members 120 are provided on the bottom surface 132 side of the elastic member 130 via a holding portion 180.

[0074] At this time, as shown in Figure 5, for example, the elastic member 130 shrinks in the thickness direction according to the state of the head 20, and the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is pressed against the scalp 22. In other words, the elastic member 130 deforms according to the position and angle of the scalp 22 relative to the support 110. Also, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is pressed against the scalp 22 with a force corresponding to the elasticity of the elastic member 130. That is, as the elastic member 130 contracts, the position and angle of the tip of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 relative to the support 110 changes to conform to the shape of the head 20.

[0075] If there is any discomfort in the contact between the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22, insert a finger 99 or the like through the support through hole 114 and operate the elastic material through hole 135 of the elastic member 130 or the recess 188 of the holding part 180 to adjust the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120. By doing so, the hair on the scalp 22 can be parted, improving the contact between the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22. At this time, the vibrating part 190 may also be vibrated. By vibrating the vibrating part 190, the hair can be parted and the contact between the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22 can be improved.

[0076] Next, as shown in Figure 7, the operator attaches the tube 151 to the electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10. Specifically, the tube 151 is passed through the electrode through-hole 121 of the EEG electrode member 120 through the support through-hole 114, the elastic member recess 131, and the holding part through-hole 189. The operator operates the injection member 152. Then, the liquid 30 (in this case, an auxiliary fluid as an example) filled inside the injection member 152 is supplied to the scalp 22 from the tip of the tube 151, wetting the scalp 22. The auxiliary fluid is not particularly limited as long as it can reduce the electrical resistance between the EEG electrode member 120 and the scalp 22, but for example, it may contain electrolytes. However, it is also possible to perform EEG measurement using the EEG measuring device 10 without supplying an auxiliary fluid. Next, the operator removes the tube 151 and starts the electroencephalogram measurement. During the electroencephalogram measurement, the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 may also be vibrated by generating vibrations in the vibration unit 190 at pre-set timings.

[0077] According to this embodiment, the electroencephalogram measuring device 10 includes an electroencephalogram electrode member 120 having an electrode through-hole 121. By passing a tube 151 through the electrode through-hole 121, auxiliary fluid can be efficiently supplied to the area where the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22 come into contact.

[0078] Furthermore, after the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is brought into contact with the scalp 22, the auxiliary liquid can be supplied immediately before measurement. Therefore, it is possible to use a low-viscosity liquid as an auxiliary agent. For example, if the auxiliary agent is applied before the electroencephalogram electrode member is placed on the head, there is a concern that the auxiliary agent may run off or evaporate before measurement begins, requiring the use of a paste-like or gel-like auxiliary agent. When using a paste-like auxiliary agent, its high viscosity necessitates manually parting the hair to apply it, which is time-consuming. When using a gel-like auxiliary agent, it is difficult to reach the scalp due to the hair, and if too much is applied, it can drip and cause a short circuit between the electrodes. On the other hand, if the auxiliary liquid can be supplied immediately before measurement, these concerns are eliminated. According to the electroencephalogram measuring device 10 of this embodiment, the elastic member 130 and the holding part 180 can be operated in advance to part the hair, and a small amount of auxiliary liquid can be injected very close to the scalp. Furthermore, by using an auxiliary solution with low viscosity equivalent to water, the effect of hair becomes even less pronounced, and contact resistance can be significantly reduced with a smaller amount of liquid.

[0079] The features of this embodiment can be briefly summarized as follows: 1. A support body 110 attached to the head 20, The first through-hole (support through-hole 114) provided in the support 110, An elastic member 130 is embedded in the first through hole (support through hole 114) and has a first recess (elastic member recess 131, elastic material through hole 135) extending from the surface to the bottom surface, The electrode unit (EEG electrode member 120) held by the elastic member 130, An electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 10 having the following features. This allows the user to insert a finger or the like through the support through-hole 114 to manipulate the elastic member 130, adjust the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 attached to the elastic member 130, and improve the contact between the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 and the scalp 22. 2. The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 as described in 1, wherein the hardness of the elastic member 130, as measured by the method described below, is 10 N or more and 200 N or less. (method) The hardness (N) of the test specimen of the elastic member 130 is measured in accordance with Method A as specified in JIS K 6400-2:2012. By setting the hardness of the elastic member 130 within the above range, the burden on the subject when the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is pressed against the head can be reduced, and an appropriate pressing force can be obtained, enabling stable electroencephalogram measurement. 3. The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 according to 1. or 2., wherein the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 is provided on the bottom side of the elastic member 130. 4. The elastic member 130 further has a holding portion 180 located on its bottom surface for holding the electrode unit (EEG electrode member 120), At least a portion of the bottom surface of the first recess (elastic member recess 131) has a second through hole (elastic member through hole 135) that penetrates the elastic member 130, The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 as described in 3, wherein the holding portion 180 has a second recess (holding portion recess 188) in the region of the surface (upper surface 184) facing the elastic member 130 that overlaps with the second through hole (elastic material through hole 135). By inserting a finger 99 through the support through-hole 114 and manipulating the second recess (holding recess 188), the orientation of the electroencephalogram electrode member 120 attached to the holding part 180 can be adjusted. As a result, stable electroencephalogram measurement can be achieved. 5. The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 as described in 4, wherein the holding portion 180 holds the electrode unit (EEG electrode member 120) on the side opposite to the elastic member 130 (bottom surface 183). 6. The electrode unit (EEG electrode member 120) has a third through-hole (electrode through-hole 121), The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 as described in 5, wherein the retaining recess 188 has a fourth through-hole (retaining through-hole 189) at its bottom that communicates with the third through-hole (electrode through-hole 121). This allows the tube 151 to pass through the support through-hole 114 and through the electrode through-hole 121. As a result, the liquid 30 can be supplied to and wet the scalp 22 using the tube 151. This enables stable electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement. 7. The electroencephalogram measuring device 10 as described in 4, wherein the cross-section of the second recess (holding recess 188) decreases as it approaches the electrode unit (electroencephalogram electrode member 120) from the elastic member 130. This structure makes it easy to operate the holding part 180. Also, when passing the pipe 151 through the holding part through hole 189, the holding part recess 188 can guide the pipe 151 into the holding part through hole 189.

[0080] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-118434, filed on 24 July 2024, and incorporates all of its disclosures herein. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0081] 10. Electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 20 heads 22 Scalp 110 Support 111 Base 112 Covering member 114 Support through hole 115 holes 120 Electroencephalogram (EEG) electrode components (electrode units) 121 Electrode through hole 121a Through hole 122 Base 122a Through hole 123 Convex part 123a Part 1 123b Conductive part 123c Part 2 124 Conductive material 124a Part 1 124b Part 2 124c main surface 125 Electrode body 127 Wiring 129 Cover 130 Elastic member 131 Elastic member recess 132 Base 133 Top surface 135 Elastic material through hole 151 tube 152 Injection member 160 Signal Processing Unit 161 Wiring for measuring reference potential 162 circuits (active electrodes) 163,165 Wiring 164 Conductive part 170 belt 180 Holding part 181 Base 182 Convex part 183 Base 184 Top surface 185 First Detention Unit 186 Second Detention Unit 187 Third Detention Unit 188 Retaining part recess 189 Holding part through hole 190 Vibration section (motor) 201 Main Control Unit 202 Operation Processing Unit 203 Communications Department 210 Data Processing Unit 220 Vibration Control Unit 1000 calculator 1010 Bus 1020 Processor 1030 memory 1040 Storage Devices 1050 Input / Output Interface 1060 Network Interfaces

Claims

[Claim 1] A support that is attached to the head, The first through-hole provided in the support, An elastic member embedded in the first through hole and having a first recess extending from the surface to the bottom surface, The electrode unit held by the elastic member, An electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device.

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