Electrode holding method

Abstract

An electrode assembly is disclosed that includes an electrode configured to be placed on a surface of a subject's body to record internal body electrical signals, an electrode receptacle configured to receive the electrode, and a coupling mechanism configured to couple the electrode with the electrode receptacle and having a locked configuration in which the electrode is coupled to the electrode receptacle and an unlocked configuration in which the electrode is disengaged from the electrode receptacle. The disclosure also relates to an electrode, an electrode receptacle, and a system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Technical Field The present disclosure generally relates to an electrode assembly including an electrode and an electrode receptacle, and also to an electrode, an electrode receptacle, and a system. [Background technology]

[0002] background Bioelectrical measurements, such as electroencephalograms (EEGs) or electrocardiograms (ECGs), rely on electrodes placed on the body of a subject (e.g., an animal or human) to record electrical signals. For example, EEG caps equipped with multiple so-called wet electrodes are known in the art. Such electrodes are typically permanently affixed to the EEG cap and are capable of detecting EEG signals when in contact with the body via a conductive gel.

[0003] Depending on the measurement situation (e.g., depending on the subject, the measurement environment, etc.), different types of electrodes (e.g., larger electrodes, electrodes with different shapes, etc.) may provide more accurate measurements. This means that, for electrodes permanently fixed to known EEG caps, different EEG caps are required for each different type of electrode.

[0004] When one or more of the electrodes of an EEG cap fails, restoring the functionality of the EEG cap can be complicated. For example, it can be difficult or even impossible to replace a permanently fixed failed electrode without damaging the EEG cap. In many cases, replacing an electrode requires soldering a new electrode onto the existing wiring of the EEG cap. Not only is such soldering difficult, it can also result in poor electrical connections or unpredictable electrical properties of the solder connections, potentially adversely affecting EEG measurements.

[0005] Furthermore, cleaning permanently fixed electrodes can be difficult. EEG caps containing multiple electrodes may require periodic cleaning, for example, after each use. If cleaning of the entire device is necessary, this can be cumbersome, especially if the cap itself contains a soft material that absorbs the solvent used for cleaning. Such a cap that absorbs the solvent can be inconvenient for the user. Similar problems appear to persist in existing ECG measurement devices equipped with multiple ECG electrodes. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] overview A need exists for an approach that solves one or more of the above-mentioned problems or other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to a first aspect, there is provided an electrode assembly comprising: an electrode configured to be positioned on a surface of a subject's body to record intrabody electrical signals, an electrode receptacle configured to receive the electrode, and a coupling mechanism configured to couple the electrode to the electrode receptacle, the coupling mechanism having a locked configuration in which the electrode is coupled to the electrode receptacle and an unlocked configuration in which the electrode is disengaged from the electrode receptacle.

[0008] The internal electrical signal may be a bioelectrical signal, such as an electroencephalogram (EEG) signal or an electrocardiogram (ECG) signal. The electrode receptacle may be configured to receive the electrode by at least partially surrounding the electrode. The electrode receptacle may be or form a housing for at least a portion of the electrode. The electrode receptacle may be generally pan-shaped. The coupling mechanism may be configured to couple the electrode to the electrode receptacle by holding the electrode in a fixed spatial relationship relative to the electrode receptacle. The coupling mechanism may be configured to couple the electrode to the electrode receptacle by removably attaching the electrode to the electrode receptacle.

[0009] The coupling mechanism may comprise at least one of a bayonet mount assembly, a bayonet connector assembly, a rotation lock assembly, a screw assembly, a snap fit assembly, a friction assembly, and a magnetic assembly.

[0010] The coupling mechanism may be configured to transition between the unlocked and locked configurations manually (e.g., from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration and / or from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration). The coupling mechanism may be configured to transition between the unlocked and locked configurations by (e.g., simply and / or manually) reorienting or rotating the electrode relative to the electrode receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, the coupling mechanism may be configured to transition between the unlocked and locked configurations by (e.g., simply and / or manually) moving the electrode translationally (e.g., axially) relative to the electrode receptacle.

[0011] The coupling mechanism may comprise male and female coupling features. The electrode receptacle may comprise male coupling features and the electrode may comprise female coupling features. Alternatively, the electrode may comprise male coupling features and the electrode receptacle may comprise female coupling features. The male coupling features may comprise or be protrusions, pins, or edges. The female coupling features may comprise or be recesses, holes, cavities, or notches.

[0012] The coupling mechanism may include at least one protrusion (e.g., as a male coupling feature), and at least one of the electrode and the electrode receptacle may include a base portion having a side surface (e.g., outer and / or inner). The at least one protrusion may extend (e.g., radially and / or essentially perpendicularly) from the side surface. The coupling mechanism may include at least one recess (e.g., as a female coupling feature) in the other of the electrode or the electrode receptacle, the at least one recess configured to engage with the at least one protrusion.

[0013] The at least one protrusion may be a pin or edge. The at least one protrusion may be a radial pin of a bayonet mount. The base may be rotationally symmetrical about a first axis. The first axis may be the central axis, rotation axis, or longitudinal axis of the base. The base may have, for example, a conical or cylindrical shape. For example, the base may be shaped essentially like a (e.g., right) cone or a (e.g., right) cylinder. The at least one protrusion may extend radially inward from a (e.g., outer) side surface or radially outward from a (e.g., inner) side surface. The at least one protrusion may extend essentially perpendicular to the side surface and / or the first axis.

[0014] In a first variation of the first aspect, the electrode may include a base having a side surface from which at least one protrusion extends (e.g., radially outward or radially inward). The at least one protrusion may extend at least partially (e.g., only partially) around the circumference of the side surface. In this variation, the at least one recess may be formed in the electrode receptacle. For example, the at least one recess may be formed in or by the electrode receptacle.

[0015] In a second variation of the first aspect, the electrode receptacle may include a base having a side surface from which at least one protrusion extends (e.g., radially outward or radially inward). The at least one protrusion may extend at least partially (e.g., only partially) around the periphery of the side surface. In this variation, at least one recess may be formed in the electrode.

[0016] The electrode receptacle may include an opening for receiving the electrode, the opening having an inner surface (e.g., an inner side surface). The electrode receptacle may include at least one second protrusion extending radially inward from the inner surface. The at least one recess may be bounded (e.g., at least axially or only axially) by the at least one second protrusion.

[0017] The opening may be rotationally symmetric about a second axis. The second axis may be a central axis, a rotational axis, or a longitudinal axis of the electrode receptacle or electrode (e.g., when the coupling mechanism is in a locked configuration). The term "axial direction" as used herein may refer to the first axis and / or the second axis. The opening may have, for example, a conical or cylindrical shape. For example, the opening may be formed essentially as a (e.g., right) cone or a (e.g., right) cylinder. The at least one recess may be axially limited by at least a second protrusion with respect to at least one of the first axis and the second axis. The at least one second protrusion may limit or delimit the at least one recess, for example, at least in the axial direction.

[0018] The at least one recess may be formed or defined by the at least one second protrusion and an inner wall of the electrode receptacle. The at least one recess may be limited (e.g., axially and optionally radially) by the at least one second protrusion and the inner wall. For example, when the coupling mechanism is in the locked configuration, the contour of the opening and the at least one second protrusion at least partially overlap with the contour of the base of the electrode and the at least one protrusion. The inner surface of the electrode receptacle may be radially spaced from the outermost surface of the electrode (e.g., the outer surface of the at least one protrusion). The radially outer surface of the at least one protrusion may be radially spaced (e.g., outward) from the radially inner surface of the at least one second protrusion. In other words, the radially outer surface of the at least one second protrusion may be closer to the first axis and / or the second axis than the radially outer surface of the at least one protrusion (e.g., when the coupling mechanism is in the locked configuration).

[0019] The base portion of the electrode or electrode receptacle may have an axial surface (e.g., an end surface) facing the other surface of the electrode or electrode receptacle, respectively, the axial surface having at least one groove, the at least one groove having a depth that varies along its length, and the at least one groove configured to couple with at least one pin located on (e.g., located on, attached to, and / or extending from) the other surface of the electrode or electrode receptacle, respectively.

[0020] The at least one pin can be arranged to extend into the at least one groove when the coupling mechanism transitions between the locked and unlocked configurations (e.g., from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration and / or from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration). The at least one pin and the at least one groove can be arranged such that the at least one pin moves (e.g., within and along) the at least one groove when the coupling mechanism transitions between the locked and unlocked configurations. The at least one groove can be configured as a guide for the at least one pin.

[0021] The base portion of the electrode or electrode receptacle may have an axial surface (e.g., an end surface) facing the other surface of each of the electrodes or electrode receptacles, and this axial surface may have at least one blocking cavity configured to couple with at least one pin (e.g., as described above) located on (e.g., located on, attached to, and / or extending from) the other surface of each of the electrodes or electrode receptacles.

[0022] The axial surface may be a base surface, an axial end surface, or a proximal surface of the base portion. The other surface of each of the electrodes or electrode receptacles may be a base surface, an axial end surface, or a proximal surface of the other (e.g., base) surface of each of the electrodes or electrode receptacles. The at least one pin may extend essentially perpendicular or axially to the other (e.g., base) surface of each of the electrodes or electrode receptacles. The at least one groove may extend parallel to a side surface of the base portion of the electrode or electrode receptacle. The at least one groove may extend along a circular arc. The at least one groove may have a depth that varies linearly along the length of the groove. The at least one groove may gradually deepen along the length of the groove. The at least one groove may have a ramp-shaped (e.g., axial) bottom surface. The at least one blocking cavity may be formed at a position away from the center of rotation of the radial center and / or the axial end surface.

[0023] The at least one pin and the at least one blocking cavity may be arranged such that the at least one pin extends into the at least one blocking cavity when the coupling mechanism is in the locked configuration and does not extend into the at least one blocking cavity when the coupling mechanism is in the unlocked configuration.

[0024] The at least one blocking cavity may be disposed at a longitudinal end of the at least one groove, and the at least one pin, the at least one groove, and the at least one blocking cavity are arranged such that when the coupling mechanism transitions from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration, the at least one pin moves (e.g., within and along) the at least one groove, and when the coupling mechanism reaches the locked configuration, the at least one pin extends into (e.g., and thereby couples with or blocks) the at least one blocking cavity.

[0025] In one embodiment, the electrode receptacle may include an upper housing and a lower housing configured to couple together to form a housing (e.g., as described above) for receiving an electrode, and at least one male coupling feature (e.g., as described above) or female coupling feature (e.g., as described above) is formed by the coupled upper and lower housings. The upper and lower housings may be coupled together via a snap-fit ​​or click-on coupling. The upper and lower housings may be permanently coupled (e.g., attached) to each other. A base portion of the electrode receptacle may form the lower housing and / or the upper housing. The coupling mechanism may be configured to transition between the unlocked and locked configurations by (e.g., simply) assembling or disassembling (e.g., connecting or separating) the upper and lower housings.

[0026] Optionally, the upper and lower housings can be configured to hold the electrodes in place (e.g., in a fixed spatial relationship with respect to the electrode receptacle) when assembled (e.g., in the assembled state) and to release the electrodes when disassembled (e.g., in the disassembled state). For example, in this configuration, the electrodes can be held exclusively within the electrode assembly by at least one protrusion on the lower housing that covers the electrodes. In this configuration, the electrodes are released only when the lower housing is disassembled from the upper housing.

[0027] In another embodiment, the electrode receptacle may be formed as a single (e.g., rigid or integral) structure, and all of the elements for the upper and lower housings described herein are provided by this single structure, in which case it is contemplated that the upper housing may be permanently secured to or integrally formed with the lower housing.

[0028] The lower housing may have at least one second protrusion. The upper housing may be configured to at least partially cover (e.g., axially) the (e.g., axial) opening of the lower housing. The upper housing may form a generally pan-shaped base surface of the electrode receptacle. The at least one recess may be formed (e.g., axially and / or radially limited, defined, or confined) by the at least one second protrusion and an inner wall (e.g., the generally pan-shaped base surface) of the upper housing. For example, the distance between the at least one second protrusion and the inner wall of the upper housing may match the axial height of the at least one protrusion.

[0029] The electrode or the base of the electrode may have an axial surface (e.g., the above) facing the surface (e.g., the above) of the electrode receptacle, and the axial surface may include at least one trench configured to receive electronic wiring or electrode receptacle contacts. Alternatively or additionally, the axial surface may include an electrode contact region configured to contact the electrode receptacle contacts.

[0030] The electrode assembly may further include an electrical pressure contact element disposed in a fixed orientation relative to (e.g., attached to) the electrode receptacle and configured to contact the electrode when the coupling mechanism is in the locked configuration. Optionally, the electrode assembly may further include an electronic circuit board disposed (e.g., attached) to the electrode receptacle, with the electrical pressure contact element disposed (e.g., attached and / or soldered) to the electronic circuit board. The electrode receptacle contact may be the electrical pressure contact element.

[0031] The electrical pressure contact element may be configured to apply pressure or contact force on the electrode when the coupling mechanism is in the locked configuration. The electrical pressure contact element may include a spring contact. The electrical pressure contact element and / or the electronic circuit board may be disposed on an inner wall of the upper housing and / or within a space enclosed by the upper and lower housings. The electrical pressure contact element and / or the electronic circuit board may be disposed between the upper housing and the electrode when the coupling mechanism is in the locked configuration. The electronic circuit board may be a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0032] The electrode assembly may further include wiring electrically connected to the electrical pressure contact element and / or the electronic circuit board. The upper housing may include at least one through-hole, and at least one of the electrical pressure contact element, the electronic circuit board, and the wiring passes through the through-hole.

[0033] The electrode may include a plurality of electrode pins or electrode fingers configured to be positioned on (e.g., on) the subject's body. The electrode pins or electrode fingers may be deformable, elastic, or flexible (e.g., having a Shore hardness between A35 and A100 according to ASTM D2240-00 test standard). The electrode may be a dry electrode or a wet electrode. Dry electrodes are preferred. The electrode may be a molded element, e.g., an injection molded element. The electrode may be made of a homogeneous material. The electrode may be formed from a conductive (e.g., thermo)plastic material, e.g., a polymer (e.g., loaded with silver or silver chloride). The electrode, or a portion of the electrode, such as the pins or fingers, may be elastic, deformable, or flexible.

[0034] According to a second aspect, there is provided an electrode for recording internal body electrical signals. The electrode comprises a base portion, a plurality of electrode pins attached to the base portion and configured to be positioned on a surface of a subject's body to record internal body electrical signals, and at least one male or female coupling feature for coupling with an electrode receptacle, wherein the at least one male or female coupling feature extends radially (e.g., radially outward) relative to the base portion, and the at least one male or female coupling feature extends around at least a portion of the circumference of the base portion (e.g., around only a portion of the circumference of the base portion). The electrode of the second aspect may be part of an electrode assembly according to the first aspect. The electrode of the second aspect may additionally comprise one or more of the features described for the electrode of the electrode assembly according to the first aspect.

[0035] According to a third aspect, there is provided an electrode receptacle for an electrode for recording internal body electrical signals. The electrode receptacle includes an opening for receiving an electrode configured to be positioned on a surface of a subject's body to record internal body electrical signals, at least one male or female coupling feature extending radially (e.g., radially inward) relative to the opening and extending around at least a portion (e.g., only a portion) of the circumference of the opening for coupling with the electrode, and an electrical pressure contact element disposed in a fixed position relative to the electrode receptacle and configured to contact the electrode when the electrode is held in the fixed position relative to the receptacle by the at least one male or female coupling feature. The electrode receptacle of the third aspect may be part of the electrode assembly according to the first aspect. The electrode receptacle of the third aspect may additionally include one or more of the features described for the electrode receptacle of the electrode assembly according to the first aspect.

[0036] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a system comprising an assembly according to the first aspect or an electrode receptacle according to the third aspect, and a holder configured to hold the receptacle in a fixed position relative to a body surface of a subject (e.g. as described above).

[0037] The holder may be a cap, a headband, or a headset. The holder may be configured to hold the receptacle in a fixed position relative to the human head, for example, in either a 10-10 or 10-20 EEG electrode placement scheme.

[0038] The system may further include a first circuit board disposed on an element of the holder located behind the user's head. The system may further include wiring electrically connecting the first circuit board to the electrical pressure contact element described herein. The wiring may include one or more (e.g., shielded) wires.

[0039] The system may further include a second circuit board (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)) including circuitry for collecting electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement signals from the first circuit board. The second circuit board may be disposed in an element of the holder located behind the user's head. The second circuit board may be removably coupled to the first circuit board. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Further details, advantages and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a first exploded view of a first embodiment of an electrode assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a second exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] Detailed Description In the following description, exemplary embodiments of electrode assemblies, electrodes, electrode receptacles and systems are described with reference to the figures, in which the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or similar structural features.

[0042] A first embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown in Figures 1 and 2. As can be seen, an electrode assembly 1 is provided that includes an electrode 10 and an electrode receptacle 20 configured to receive the electrode 10.

[0043] The electrode 10 has an essentially cylindrical base portion. 12 However, the electrode 10 may have different shapes (e.g., rectangular or oval) as long as its functionality is maintained and it is convenient for the user.

[0044] The electrode 10 may be a dry electrode comprising a plurality of flexible electrode pins 14 (or electrode fingers 14) extending from a base 13 and configured to rest on the subject's body. In this configuration, the electrode pins 14 or electrode fingers 14 may provide direct measurements without the need for an intervening contact gel. In another embodiment (not shown), the electrode may be a wet electrode, which may require the use of contact gel to provide measurements. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode is a dry electrode. Dry electrodes may have the advantage of not requiring the use of contact gel and requiring less cleaning after use of the electrode.

[0045] Electrode 10 may be an injection molded conductive element, as known to those skilled in the art. For example, electrode 10 may be formed from a polymer doped with or containing silver and / or silver chloride. However, electrode 10 may be manufactured by different manufacturing methods or formed from different materials or material mixtures without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Electrode 10 may be configured to obtain electroencephalogram (EEG) measurements.

[0046] The electrode receptacle 20 may include an upper housing 24 and a lower housing 26. The upper housing 24 and the lower housing 26 may be attached to one another by, for example, a snap-fit ​​or click-on connection. The lower housing 26 may include male snap features 27, and the upper housing 24 may include female snap features 28, which are configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the lower housing 26 may include a plurality of prongs 27 or hooks 27 configured to connect with respective holes 28 in the upper housing 24.

[0047] The upper housing 24 may also include a through-hole 33 for inserting electronic wiring (not shown). In this configuration, most of the wiring can be hidden within the cap containing the electrode assembly 1, and only a small portion of the wiring can be inserted into the through-hole 33 to contact the electrode, thereby exposing only minimal wiring (e.g., extending from a first circuit board, e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). This allows convenient contact between the electrode 10 and the first circuit board (not shown). This configuration also has the advantage of reducing the risk of intentional or unintended operation, since only a limited amount of wiring is exposed when the electrode is removed from the electrode receptacle 20. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1 and described further below, the wiring can also be fixed to an electronic circuit board 42 mounted on the upper housing 24. In this configuration, even when the electrode 10 is removed from the electrode receptacle 20, substantially no wiring is exposed.

[0048] In one embodiment, the upper housing 24 may include a plurality of spacers 31, and the lower housing may include a plurality of spacers 29. The spacers 29, 31 may be positioned facing each other on the upper housing 24 or the lower housing 26. The assembled upper and lower housings 24, 26 may form a housing for receiving and holding the electrode 10. Such spacers may enable or ensure the creation of a recess 35 between the upper and lower housings, as described further below.

[0049] It is noted that the electrode receptacle 20 may be provided as a unitary structure without two separate housing components. For example, the electrode receptacle 20 may be injection molded as one piece, including all of the features described for the upper housing 24 and the lower housing 26, albeit in a single structure. In this case, however, a snap-fit ​​connection may not be necessary.

[0050] The assembly 1 includes a coupling mechanism 30 configured to couple the electrode 10 to the electrode receptacle 20, the coupling mechanism 30 having a locked configuration in which the electrode 10 is coupled to the electrode receptacle 20 and an unlocked configuration in which the electrode 10 is disengaged from the electrode receptacle 20.

[0051] The coupling mechanism 30 may include a male coupling feature 32 and a female coupling feature 34. In the following, an embodiment is described in which the electrode 10 includes the male coupling feature 32 and the electrode receptacle 20 includes the female coupling feature 34. However, in other embodiments, the electrode receptacle 20 may include the male coupling feature 32 and the electrode 10 may include the female coupling feature 34 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in FIG. 1 , the electrode 10 may include at least one recess formed in the side surface 13 instead of the protrusion 32 a, and the electrode receptacle 20 may include at least one protrusion (e.g., a pin) extending radially outward from the inner surface 21. Each feature described herein can be combined with either of both alternative embodiments.

[0052] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the electrode 10 includes a male interlocking feature 32, and the electrode receptacle 20 includes a female interlocking feature 34. The electrode 10 may include an essentially cylindrical base 12 having a side surface 13. As noted above, the electrode 10 and its base 12 may have different shapes with respect to the side surface 13 (e.g., outer surfaces). The interlocking mechanism 30 may include at least one (e.g., three) protrusions 32 a that form the male interlocking feature 32. The at least one protrusion 32 a may extend radially outward from the side surface 13 and may extend only partially around the circumference of the side surface 13 of the base 12 of the electrode 10.

[0053] The electrode receptacle 20 may include an opening 23 for receiving the electrode 10, the opening 23 having an inner surface 21. The opening 23 may be an essentially circular opening 23 having a radially extending inner surface 21. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode 10 has an essentially cylindrical shape, and the opening 23 configured to receive the electrode 10 is an essentially circular opening 23 having a radially extending inner surface 21. It is noted, however, that the opening may be, for example, rectangular, so long as it remains possible to couple an essentially cylindrical electrode in the manner described herein. The inner surface 21 may be part of or formed by the lower housing 26. The electrode receptacle 20 may include at least one (e.g., three) second protrusions 34a extending radially inward from the inner surface 21 at the opening 23. The at least one second protrusion 34a may extend around only a portion of the circumference of the inner surface 21. The upper housing 24 may be configured to at least partially cover the opening 23, for example, with an inner wall 25.

[0054] At least one (e.g., three) recesses 35 may be axially limited by at least one second protrusion 34a. At least one recess 35 may be formed between the at least one second protrusion 34a and the inner wall 25 of the upper housing 24 of the electrode receptacle 20. Spacers 29 and 31 (already described above) may be used to ensure that the recess 35 has a predetermined axial height, i.e., to define a lower limit for the distance between the at least one second protrusion 34a and the inner wall 25. An upper limit for the distance between the at least one second protrusion 34a and the inner wall 25 may be defined by the male and female snap-fit ​​coupling features 27 and 28 described above. At least one recess 35 may be configured to engage with at least one protrusion 32a. It is again emphasized that all elements described herein may be present on a single electrode receptacle 20 consisting of a single housing formed as one piece.

[0055] In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism 30 may be a rotational locking assembly that functions similarly to a bayonet mount. The coupling mechanism 30 may be configured to transition between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration by manually reorienting or rotating the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20. In this configuration, the at least one protrusion 32a may be sandwiched between the at least one second protrusion 34a and the inner wall 25 when the coupling mechanism 30 is in the locked configuration. This may prevent axial movement of the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20 (e.g., along the central axis 17 or rotation axis 17 of the base portion 12 of the electrode 10). It is again emphasized that all male and female coupling features described herein may be reversed, i.e., the electrode 10 may have female coupling features and the electrode assembly 20 may have male coupling features.

[0056] The base portion 12 of the electrode 10 may have an axial upper end surface 15 facing the inner wall 25 of the electrode receptacle 20, and the axial surface 15 may include at least one (e.g., three) grooves 36. The at least one groove 36 may be formed as an arc parallel to the side surface 13 and surrounding the axis 17. The at least one groove 36 may have a depth that varies linearly over its length, thereby forming a ramp-like structure. The at least one groove 36 may be configured to couple with at least one pin 38 extending axially from the inner wall 25. The at least one pin 38 may be fixed to the inner wall 25 via a socket 39. In another configuration, the electrode 10 may include at least one pin 38 extending axially from the axial upper end surface 15, and the electrode receptacle 20 may include at least one groove 36 formed in the inner wall 25.

[0057] The at least one pin 38 and the at least one groove 36 may be arranged such that the at least one pin 38 slides along the at least one groove 36 to transition the coupling mechanism 30 between the locked and unlocked configurations as the electrode 10 is rotated relative to the electrode receptacle 20. The at least one pin 38 may be configured to extend into the at least one groove 36 and contact a bottom of the at least one groove 36. Because the bottom surface is elevated along the length of the at least one groove 36, the at least one pin 38, and therefore the electrode 10, may translate axially relative to the electrode receptacle 20 as the coupling mechanism 30 transitions between the unlocked and locked configurations. Thus, the coupling mechanism 30 may transition between the unlocked and locked configurations through both rotation and axial movement of the electrode 10 relative to the receptacle 20. Thus, the at least one pin 38 and the at least one groove 36 may be used as a “guide mechanism” to facilitate coupling between the electrode 10 and the receptacle 20.

[0058] It is noted that the at least one groove 36, the at least one pin 38, and the male and female interlocking features 32, 34 may be configured such that the interlocking mechanism 30 transitions between the unlocked and locked configurations solely through translational movement of the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20 (i.e., without rotating the electrode relative to the electrode receptacle 20). Such transition of the interlocking mechanism 30 may also be achieved without the at least one groove 36 and the at least one pin 38. In this case, for example, the electrode may be press-fit or snap-fit ​​into the electrode receptacle by axially inserting the electrode into the electrode receptacle, thereby transitioning the interlocking mechanism to the locked configuration.

[0059] Alternatively, the at least one 36, the at least one pin 38, and the male and female interlocking features 32 and 34 can be configured such that the interlocking mechanism 30 transitions between the unlocked and locked configurations without translating the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20. In this case, for example, the bottom surface of the at least one pin 38 and / or the at least one groove 36 may deform upon rotating the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20, or the at least one pin 38 may not contact the bottom surface of the at least one groove 36. As another example, the groove 36 may have a constant depth along its length, or neither the groove 36 nor the pin 38 may be present.

[0060] The axial surface 15 of the base portion 12 may include at least one blocking cavity 40 configured to couple with the at least one pin 38. As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the at least one blocking cavity 40 may be disposed at a longitudinal end of the at least one groove 36. Thus, when the coupling mechanism 30 transitions from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration, the pin 38 slides along the at least one groove 36. The at least one pin 38 and / or the bottom surface of the at least one groove 36 may deform as the electrode 10 rotates relative to the electrode receptacle 20, as described above. When the coupling mechanism reaches the locked configuration, the at least one pin 38 may fit into the at least one blocking cavity 40. This configuration may prevent the electrode 10 from unintentionally rotating or disengaging. That is, the combination of the at least one pin 38 and the at least one blocking cavity may provide a “retention mechanism” for retaining the relative (e.g., rotational) position between the electrode 10 and the receptacle 20. Thus, in the locked configuration, the pin may extend into the blocking cavity 40 to prevent rotation of the electrode 10 relative to the receptacle 20. A predetermined torque may be required to rotate the electrode 10 so that the mechanism 30 transitions from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. This predetermined torque may depend on the dimensions of the pin 38 and the blocking cavity 40, as well as the materials of the electrode 10 and pin 38. The assembly 1 may be configured so that the predetermined torque is approximately between 1 and 10 Nm, e.g., 1 to 1.2 Nm. One skilled in the art will know, based on the information provided herein and based on practicality for the user, how to provide a torque useful for locking or unlocking the coupling mechanism as described above.

[0061] The axial surface 15 of the base portion 12 of the electrode 10 may include at least one trench 16 configured to receive electronic wiring or electrode receptacle contacts. The electronic wiring may extend from a first printed circuit board (already described above) and may be inserted through a through-hole 33 in the upper housing 24. The axial surface 15 may include an electrode contact area (e.g., within the trench 16) configured to contact the electrode receptacle contacts. The electrode assembly 1 may further include an electrical pressure contact element 41 and an electronic circuit board 42. The electronic circuit board 42 may be clip-mounted, glued, or attached to the upper housing 24, and the electrical pressure contact element 41 may be coupled to the electronic circuit board 42. That is, both the electronic circuit board 42 and the electrical pressure contact element 41 may be disposed between the upper housing 24 and the lower housing 26. In a single-housing configuration, both the electronic circuit board 42 and the electrical pressure contact element 41 may be disposed within the single housing. The electrode receptacle contacts may be electrical pressure contact elements 41. The electrical pressure contact elements 41 may be or may include spring contacts that apply contact pressure on the electrode contact areas of the electrode 10 when the electrode 10 is held by the receptacle 20. The spring contacts may be formed from or plated with a conductive material, such as gold. The conductive material may be selected to prevent corrosion of the electrode 10 and / or the spring contacts (e.g., when the electrode 10 is in contact with the spring contacts), and may be selected from inert metals such as gold, as described above. This may ensure electrical connection between the electrode 10 and the electronic circuit board 42 while using the electrode 10 without wiring or a wiring interface. This configuration may have the advantage that the electrode 10 can be easily coupled to and removed from the electrode receptacle 20 without having to consider wiring or electrical contacts. An additional benefit is that the assembly is less prone to manipulation and failure because there are fewer or no exposed wires.

[0062] The assembly 1 may further include wiring (not shown) electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 42. As explained above, the upper housing 24 may include through-holes 33 through which wiring can extend from the exterior of the electrode receptacle 20 to the electronic circuit board 42. The through-holes 33 further allow the electronic circuit board 42 to be electrically connected to the upper housing 24. 24 The wiring may connect the electronic circuit board 42 to a first circuit board described herein.

[0063] FIG. 3 illustrates a system 50 including a holder 52 or headset 52 configured to hold an electrode receptacle 20 in a fixed position relative to a subject's body surface. The holder 52 may include multiple bands or straps 54, 55, and 57. A middle band 57 may be configured to extend in the user's sagittal plane. A headband 54 may be configured to encircle the user's head 60. One or more side bands 55 may be connected to both the middle band 57 and the headband 54, e.g., via connectors 56. The system 50 may also include a receptacle 20 embedded in one of the bands 54, 55, and 57. In FIG. 3, a top surface 58 of the upper housing 24 is visible, while the lower housing 26 and electrodes 10 are covered by the side bands 55.

[0064] Spacers 29, 31 may act as teeth to secure electrode receptacles 20 onto band 54. That is, band 54 may have a through hole (not shown) in which recess 35 is located, and a portion of band 54 near the through hole is sandwiched between spacer 31 of upper housing 24 and spacer 29 of lower housing 26. In another configuration, the entire housing may be covered by band 54. In this configuration, band 54 may have an inner portion configured to be sandwiched between spacer 31 of upper housing 24 and spacer 29 of lower housing 26, and an outer portion configured to cover assembly 1. Holder 52 in the illustrated example is a headset or cap configured to hold receptacle 20 on a user's head 60 in either a standardized 10-10 or 10-20 EEG placement scheme.

[0065] Holder 52 may include the first circuit board, as described above and designated by the reference numeral 66 in Figure 3. First circuit board 66 may be located on an element or portion of holder 52 that is located behind user's head 60. Wiring, as described above, may electrically connect first circuit board 66 to electronic circuit board 42 and / or electrical pressure contact element 41.

[0066] The first circuit board 66 may be attached to the headset 52 (e.g., its headband) or disposed within a closable pocket 68 formed by the headset 52 (e.g., its headband). The closable pocket 68 may be configured to be disposed behind the user's head 60 when the user is wearing the headset 52. The pocket 68 may be closable by a fastener 64.

[0067] The aforementioned wiring may be attached (e.g., glued or sewn) or embedded in the headband 54, the middle band 57, and / or at least one side band 55 of the headset 52. The wiring may run in a zigzag or wave pattern. The wiring may comprise electrically shielded wire. The wiring may be covered by a protective (electrically shielding) cover.

[0068] The headset 52 may further include a second circuit board 70 having circuitry for collecting electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement signals from or through the first circuit board. The second circuit board 70 may be disposed in an element or portion of the headset located behind the user's (e.g., patient's or wearer's) head. The second circuit board 70 may be removably coupled to the first circuit board 66. The second circuit board 70 may be removably coupled to the first circuit board 66 via an electrical connector 72 (e.g., a push-fit type). The electrical connector 72 may be a board-to-board connector or a first circuit board (PCB) connector. The second circuit board 70 may be disposed within the closable pocket 68 together with the first circuit board 66. The first circuit board 66 and the second circuit board 70 may each be a printed circuit board, a flexible circuit board, an etched circuit board, or a circuit board with soldered wiring instead of printed conductive traces.

[0069] The coupling mechanism may be configured to transition between the unlocked and locked configurations by (e.g., only by) assembling or disassembling (e.g., connecting or disconnecting) the upper and lower housings 24, 26. In this case, the upper and lower housings 24, 26 may be configured to hold the electrode 10 in a proper position (e.g., in a fixed spatial relationship with respect to the electrode receptacle 20) when assembled (e.g., in the assembled state) and to release the electrode 10 when disassembled (e.g., in the disassembled state). For example, in this configuration, the electrode receptacle 20 may have an opening 23 and an inner surface 21 with at least one second protrusion 34 a. The at least one second protrusion 34 a may be configured to lock the electrode 10 in a proper position after the lower housing 26 is assembled with the upper housing 24. In this configuration, reorientation or rotation of the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20 and / or translation of the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20 may prevent removal of the electrode 10 from the electrode receptacle 20. Instead, the electrode 10 may be removable only when the lower housing 26 is detached from the upper housing 24. Thus, the electrode 10 may be exclusively retained within the electrode receptacle 20 by at least one protrusion (e.g., at least one second protrusion 34a) of the lower housing 26 that at least partially covers the electrode 10 (e.g., axially covers the protrusion 32). In this configuration, the electrode 10 may only be released when the lower housing 26 is disassembled from the upper housing 24. Alternatively, the electrode receptacle 20 may be configured such that the electrode 10 can be released from the receptacle 20 by reorienting or rotating the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20 and / or by translating the electrode 10 relative to the electrode receptacle 20.

[0070] It should be noted that the individual components, elements, embodiments, and examples described above may be used in any combination. For example, the coupling mechanisms 30 described herein may be combined with one another. In other words, the coupling mechanism 30 of the electrode assembly 1 may be configured to transition between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration upon rotation of the electrode 10 relative to the receptacle 20, translation of the electrode 10 relative to the receptacle 20, and / or assembly or disassembly of the upper and lower housings 24 and 26. The coupling mechanism 30 may be used in combination with an electrode receptacle comprised of an upper and lower housing. If the coupling mechanism 30 is not configured to transition between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration upon assembly or disassembly of the upper and lower housings 24 and 26, the coupling mechanism 30 may be used with an electrode receptacle formed of a single structure. Additionally, coupling mechanism 30 may be combined with at least one of a guide mechanism (e.g., as described above), a retention mechanism (e.g., as described above), electrical pressure contact element 41 and / or electronic circuit board 42, trench 16, through-hole 33, etc. For example, coupling mechanism 30 may be used in combination with a retention mechanism without a guide mechanism. Alternatively, coupling mechanism 30 may be used in combination with a guide mechanism without a retention mechanism. In some embodiments, electronic circuit board 42 may be located external to assembly 1 and therefore not part of assembly 1 itself. The advantages of each feature and combination will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure.

[0071] As is apparent from the above, the present disclosure provides an advantageous approach for retaining an electrode. That is, the electrode 10 may be removably retained or coupled to the electrode receptacle 20. This may allow for easy replacement of the electrode 10. The groove 36 may aid in aligning the electrode 10 with the receptacle 20 during transition of the coupling mechanism 30 from the unlocked to the locked configuration, while the blocking cavity 40 may ensure that the electrode 10 is not unintentionally separated from the receptacle 20. The electrical pressure contact element 41, electronic circuit board 42, and axial surfaces of the electrode 10 may provide a reliable electrical connection with little assembly effort.

[0072] The electrode assemblies described herein may facilitate electrode replacement or exchange. The described techniques may facilitate electrode exchange when a different type or size of electrode is required for a particular measurement. Furthermore, the described techniques may facilitate electrode exchange when a particular electrode fails. In conventional systems, if one individual electrode is not functioning properly, the cap may no longer be usable, thus necessitating cumbersome electrode replacement or disposal of the entire cap. Furthermore, the described techniques may facilitate cleaning of the electrodes without the need to clean the entire system, including the cap. In this regard, it is noted that the cap may include a flexible material (such as polyurethane) for increased user convenience and comfort, and such a flexible material may absorb cleaning solutions used to clean the electrodes. The described techniques allow individual electrodes to be removed and cleaned individually, eliminating the need for cumbersome cleaning of the entire cap.

[0073] Alternative and / or additional advantages may be obtained from the subject matter disclosed herein.

Claims

1. an electrode (10) configured to be positioned on a surface of a subject's body to record internal electrical signals; an electrode receptacle (20) configured to receive the electrode (10); a coupling mechanism (30) configured to couple the electrode (10) to the electrode receptacle (20), the coupling mechanism (30) having a locked configuration in which the electrode (10) couples with the electrode receptacle (20) and an unlocked configuration in which the electrode (10) disengages from the electrode receptacle (20); Equipped with The coupling mechanism (30) comprises at least one protrusion (32a) that is a male coupling feature; At least one of the electrode (10) and the electrode receptacle (20) has a base portion (12, 22) having a side surface (13); the at least one protrusion (32a) extends radially from the side surface (13); the coupling mechanism (30) comprises at least one recess (35) in the mating electrode (10) or electrode receptacle (20), the at least one recess (35) being a female coupling feature (34) configured to engage with the at least one protrusion (32 a); The base portion (12, 22) of the electrode (10) or the electrode receptacle (20) has an axial surface (15) facing a surface of the mating electrode (10) or electrode receptacle (20), said axial surface (15) comprising at least one groove (36); the at least one groove (36) has a depth that varies over its length; The at least one groove (36) is configured to couple with at least one pin (38) disposed on the surface of the mating electrode (10) or electrode receptacle (20). Electrode assembly (1).

2. the coupling mechanism (30) is configured to transition between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration by orienting or rotating the electrode (10) relative to the electrode receptacle (20); and / or The coupling mechanism (30) is configured to transition between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration by translating the electrode (10) relative to the electrode receptacle (20). Electrode assembly (1) according to claim 1.

3. the coupling mechanism (30) comprises the male coupling feature (32) and the female coupling feature (34); the electrode receptacle (20) comprises the male interlocking features and the electrode (10) comprises the female interlocking features, or alternatively, the electrode (10) comprises the male interlocking features and the electrode receptacle (20) comprises the female interlocking features; Electrode assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the electrode (10) comprises the base portion (12) having the side surface (13) from which the at least one protrusion (32a) extends radially outward; the at least one protrusion (32a) extends around at least a portion of the periphery of the side surface (13); The at least one recess (35) is formed in the electrode receptacle (20). Electrode assembly (1) according to claim 1.

5. The electrode receptacle (20) includes an opening (23) for receiving the electrode (10), the opening (23) having an inner surface (21); the electrode receptacle (20) includes at least one second protrusion (34a) extending radially inward from the inner surface (21); the at least one recess (35) is axially limited by the at least one second protrusion (34a); Electrode assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. 6. The electrode assembly (1) according to claim 5, wherein the recess (35) is formed by the at least one second protrusion (34a) and an inner wall (25) of the electrode receptacle (20).

7. the at least one pin (38) is positioned to extend into the at least one groove (36) when the coupling mechanism (30) transitions between the locked and unlocked configurations; the at least one pin (38) and the at least one groove (36) are positioned such that the at least one pin (38) moves along the at least one groove (36) when the coupling mechanism (30) transitions between the locked and unlocked configurations. Electrode assembly (1) according to claim 1.

8. the base portion (12, 22) of the electrode (10) or the electrode receptacle (20) has an axial surface (15) facing the other surface of the electrode (10) or the electrode receptacle (20), respectively; said axial surface (15) comprising at least one blocking cavity (40); The at least one blocking cavity (40) is configured to couple with at least one pin (38) disposed on the other surface of each of the electrode (10) or the electrode receptacle (20). Electrode assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 4 to 7.

9. the at least one pin (38) and the at least one blocking cavity (40) are arranged such that when the coupling mechanism (30) is in the locked configuration, the at least one pin (38) extends into the at least one blocking cavity (40), and when the coupling mechanism (30) is in the unlocked configuration, the at least one pin (38) does not extend into the at least one blocking cavity (40). Electrode assembly (1) according to claim 8.

10. the at least one blocking cavity (40) is located at a longitudinal end of the at least one groove (36); the at least one pin (38), the at least one groove (36), and the at least one blocking cavity (40) are arranged such that the at least one pin (38) moves along the at least one groove (36) when the coupling mechanism (30) transitions from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration, and the at least one pin (38) extends into the at least one blocking cavity (40) when the coupling mechanism reaches the locked configuration. Electrode assembly (1) according to claim 9 when dependent on claims 1 and 8.

11. the electrode receptacle (20) comprises an upper housing (24) and a lower housing (26), the upper housing (24) and the lower housing (26) being configured to be coupled to each other to form a housing for receiving the electrode (10); the male interlocking feature (32) or the female interlocking feature (34) is formed by the upper housing (24) and the lower housing (26) being joined together; Electrode assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. the lower housing (26) includes the at least one second protrusion (34a), and the upper housing (24) is configured to at least partially cover the opening; 12. An electrode assembly according to claim 11 when dependent on claim 5.

13. 13. The electrode assembly of claim 12, wherein the recess (35) is formed by the at least one second protrusion (34a) and an inner wall (25) of the upper housing (24).

14. and an electrical pressure contact element (41) disposed in a fixed orientation relative to the electrode receptacle (20) and configured to contact the electrode (10) when the coupling mechanism (30) is in the locked configuration. Electrode assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. 15. The electrode assembly of claim 14, further comprising an electronic circuit board (42) disposed on the electrode receptacle (20), and the electrical pressure contact element (41) is disposed on the electronic circuit board (42).

16. 16. The electrode assembly of claim 15, wherein the electrode receptacle contact is the electrical pressure contact element (41).

17. An electrode (10) for recording internal electrical signals, a base portion (12); a plurality of electrode pins (14) attached to the base (12) and configured to be positioned on a surface of a subject's body to record internal electrical signals; at least one male interlocking feature (32) for interlocking with a female interlocking feature (34) of the electrode receptacle (20); Equipped with the at least one male interlocking feature (32) extends radially relative to the base portion (12), the at least one male interlocking feature (32) extends around at least a portion of the circumference of the base portion (12); The male interlocking feature (32) comprises a protrusion (32a); The electrode (10) comprises a base portion (12) having a side surface (13); The protrusion (32a) extends radially from the side surface (13), the protrusion (32a) is configured to engage with at least one recess (35) in the electrode receptacle (20) of a coupling mechanism (30) configured to couple the electrode (10) to the electrode receptacle (20), the at least one recess (35) being the female coupling feature (34); The base portion (12) of the electrode (10) has an axial surface (15) facing a surface of the electrode receptacle (20); said axial surface (15) comprising at least one groove (36); the at least one groove (36) has a depth that varies over its length; The at least one groove (36) is configured to couple with at least one pin (38) disposed on the surface of the electrode receptacle (20). Electrodes (10) for recording electrical signals within the body.

18. An electrode receptacle (20) for an electrode for recording internal electrical signals, an opening (23) for receiving the electrode (10) configured to be positioned on the surface of a subject's body to record internal electrical signals; at least one female interlocking feature (34) for interlocking with a male interlocking feature (32) of the electrode (10), the female interlocking feature (34) extending radially relative to the opening (23) and extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the opening (23); an electrical pressure contact element (41) disposed in a fixed position relative to the electrode receptacle (20) and configured to contact the electrode (10) when the electrode (10) is held in a fixed position relative to the receptacle (20) by the at least one female coupling feature (34); Equipped with The male interlocking feature (32) comprises a protrusion (32a); The electrode (10) comprises a base portion (12) having a side surface (13); The protrusion (32a) extends radially from the side surface (13), The electrode receptacle (20) comprises at least one recess (35); the protrusion (32a) is configured to engage with the at least one recess (35) of a coupling mechanism (30) configured to couple the electrode (10) to the electrode receptacle (20), the at least one recess (35) being the at least one female coupling feature (34); The base portion (12) of the electrode (10) has an axial surface (15) facing a surface of the electrode receptacle (20); said axial surface (15) comprising at least one groove (36); the at least one groove (36) has a depth that varies over its length; the electrode receptacle (20) includes at least one pin (38) disposed on the surface of the electrode receptacle (20), the at least one pin (38) configured to couple with the at least one groove (36); Electrode receptacle (20).

19. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16 or the electrode receptacle (20) according to claim 18; a holder (52) configured to hold the electrode receptacle (20) in a fixed position relative to the surface of the subject's body; A system (50) comprising:

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