EEG Headset

Abstract

The EEG headset 100 includes a base member 1 configured to rest over at least a portion of a patient's parietal and / or occipital bones during use. The base member 1 has a patient side and a non-patient side. The headset 100 further includes a plurality of mounting members 2, each rotatably coupled to the base member 1 by a respective rotatable coupling means 5, each rotatable coupling means 5 including a biasing means for biasing the mounting member 2 to rotate toward the patient side of the base member 1. The mounting members 5 are shaped and configured to maintain the headset 100 on the patient's head during use, and at least one of the mounting members 5 includes an electrode engaging means 9 for engaging an electrode 14 during use. An exemplary EEG headset is substantially waterproof.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to a headset used when performing electroencephalography (EEG) measurement on a user, and more particularly, but not limited thereto, to an EEG headset useful for neurofeedback training. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Neurofeedback training involves a user or patient learning to cope with symptoms such as chronic pain (e.g., pain that persists after an injury has healed) by receiving real-time feedback regarding their brain activity. 【0003】 During neurofeedback training, brain activity can be monitored by EEG measurement. This process requires placing a plurality of electrodes in conductive contact with the patient's scalp. In many cases, the electrodes will be placed according to a standardized positioning system called the international 10 - 20 system. EEG measurement produces an output known as an electroencephalogram (EEG). 【0004】 Existing methods of acquiring EEG can be time-consuming, boring for the patient, and uncomfortable. The electrodes are often attached directly to the patient's scalp, sometimes after abrasion to remove dead skin cells. If the electrodes are of the "wet" type, a conductive liquid or gel may be applied to the scalp. 【0005】 In some cases, the electrodes may be connected to a net or frame to help position them correctly. 【0006】 In addition to neurofeedback training, EEG measurement may have a plurality of other uses, including the diagnosis and / or assessment of neurological conditions such as concussion. 【0007】 In some prior art EEG methods, it can be difficult and / or time-consuming to properly prepare a set of electrodes (including the associated net or frame) used for the first patient for use on a second patient. 【0008】 Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a human skull in which various bones, including the frontal, parietal, and temporal bones, have been identified. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve] 【0009】 The object of the present invention is to provide an improved EEG headset that overcomes and / or improves upon the problems of current such devices. 【0010】 Alternatively, an object of the present invention is to provide a useful option for at least the general public. [Means for solving the problem] 【0011】 One aspect of this technology relates to an EEG headset that can be easily attached and detached by a patient, for example, using one hand. 【0012】 Another aspect of this technology relates to an EEG headset that is easily prepared for use by different patients. 【0013】 Another aspect of this technology relates to a substantially waterproof EEG headset. 【0014】 According to one aspect of the present invention, an EEG headset is provided comprising a base member configured to be positioned over at least a portion of the parietal and / or occipital bones of a patient during use, wherein the base member comprises a patient-side and a non-patient-side, and the headset further comprises a plurality of attachment members, each attachment member being rotatably connected to the base member by its respective rotatable coupling means, each rotatable coupling means comprising a biasing means for biasing the attachment member to rotate toward the patient-side of the base member, the attachment members being shaped and configured to maintain the headset on the patient's head during use, and at least one of the attachment members comprising an electrode engagement means for engaging electrodes during use. 【0015】 Preferably, each mounting member is provided with at least one electrode engagement means. 【0016】 Preferably, the electrode engaging means is positioned such that, when in use, the electrode engaged with the electrode engaging means is positioned in accordance with the International 10-20 Method. 【0017】 Preferably, the multiple mounting members include a pair of lateral lower mounting members. 【0018】 Preferably, the multiple mounting members include a pair of upper lateral mounting members. 【0019】 Preferably, the multiple mounting members include a central upper mounting member. 【0020】 Preferably, none of the upper lateral mounting members are connected to any other mounting members. 【0021】 Preferably, the central upper mounting member is not connected to any other mounting members. 【0022】 Preferably, the central upper mounting member comprises a plurality of central upper mounting member portions, each central upper mounting member portion being rotatably connected to an adjacent central upper mounting member portion. 【0023】 Preferably, each upper central mounting portion is biased to rotate toward the patient side of the base member. 【0024】 Preferably, the upper central mounting member comprises two upper central mounting member portions. 【0025】 Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member comprises a plurality of upper lateral mounting member portions, and each upper lateral mounting member portion is rotatably connected to an adjacent upper lateral mounting member portion. 【0026】 Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member is biased to rotate toward the patient side of the base member. 【0027】 Preferably, each upper lateral mounting member comprises three upper lateral mounting member portions. 【0028】 Preferably, each of the mounting member portions is substantially highly rigid. 【0029】 Preferably, each rotatable connecting means comprises a flexible impermeable sleeve configured to prevent the ingress of fluid into the mounting member, the mounting member portion, and / or the base member with which the rotatable connecting means is engaged. 【0030】 Preferably, each rotatable connecting means allows rotation about only a single axis. 【0031】 Preferably, each mounting member has a chamfered longitudinal edge on the side that contacts the patient. 【0032】 Preferably, each mounting member has a chamfered distal edge on the side that contacts the patient. 【0033】 Preferably, each lower lateral mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the occipital bone and / or the temporal bone of the patient during use. 【0034】 Preferably, each lower lateral attachment member is configured to extend from the base to a position just behind the patient's ear when in use. 【0035】 Preferably, each upper lateral attachment member is configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's parietal bone and / or frontal bone when in use. 【0036】 Preferably, each upper lateral attachment member is configured so as not to overlap the patient's temporal bone during use. 【0037】 Preferably, the central upper attachment member is configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's parietal bone and / or frontal bone when in use. 【0038】 Preferably, each attachment portion has a patient side and a non-patient side, with the patient side defining a substantially concave curved portion. 【0039】 Preferably, the curved portion substantially conforms to the surface of the patient's head when in use. 【0040】 Preferably, each mounting member is provided with at least one electrode engagement means. 【0041】 Preferably, the electrode engaging means is positioned such that, when in use, the electrode engaged with the electrode engaging means is positioned in accordance with the International 10-20 Method. 【0042】 Preferably, the headset includes wireless communication means and / or wired communication means. 【0043】 According to one aspect of the present invention, an EEG headset is provided comprising a base member configured to be placed over the parietal and / or occipital bones of a patient during use, wherein the base member comprises a patient-side and a non-patient-side, and the headset further comprises a plurality of attachment members, each attachment member comprising an elastic flexible member rotatably connected to the base member by its respective hinge, each hinge configured to bias the attachment member to rotate toward the patient-side of the base member, the attachment members being shaped and configured to maintain the headset on the patient's head during use, and at least one of the attachment members comprising an electrode mount on which electrodes can be attached during use. 【0044】 According to another aspect of the present invention, an EEG headset is provided, comprising a base member and a plurality of attachment members configured to hold the headset in a desired position on the patient's head during use, wherein each attachment member comprises at least one electrode engagement means for removably engaging an electrode, and the electrode and / or electrode engagement means comprises a seal configured to restrict or prevent water from entering the interior of the attachment member through the electrode. 【0045】 Preferably, each electrode is provided with a seal, such as an O-ring seal, that engages with the inner wall of the electrode engaging means. 【0046】 Preferably, at least one of the mounting members comprises a plurality of mounting member portions, each mounting member portion being rotatably connected to an adjacent mounting member portion by a rotatable connecting member, and each rotatable connecting member comprising a flexible sealing component configured to seal and engage with each adjacent mounting member portion, thereby preventing or suppressing water from entering the interior of the mounting member portion. 【0047】 According to another aspect of the present invention, an EEG headset is provided, comprising a base member and a plurality of attachment members configured to hold the headset in a desired position on the patient's head during use, wherein each attachment member comprises at least one electrode mount on which electrodes can be attached during use, and the electrodes and / or electrode mounts are provided with seals configured to prevent or restrict water from entering the interior of the attachment member through the electrodes. 【0048】 Further aspects of the present invention, which should be considered in all novel embodiments of the present invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art by reading the following description, which provides at least one example of a practical application of the present invention. 【0049】 One or more embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the following drawings, for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be limiting. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0050】 [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a skull with various bones, including the frontal and parietal bones, identified. [Figure 2] This is a lateral view of a skull in which various bones, including the frontal, parietal, and temporal bones, are identified. [Figure 3] This is a schematic representation of a patient, a side view of an EEG headset, one embodiment of this technology, positioned at a predetermined location on the patient. [Figure 4] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a patient, with the EEG headset positioned in the patient's designated location, viewed from the side and above. [Figure 5] This is a schematic representation of the patient, a rear view of the EEG headset shown in Figure 3, positioned in the patient's designated location. [Figure 6] This is a side and top perspective view of an EEG headset according to another embodiment of the present technology, where the connecting means and electrodes are not shown. [Figure 7] The connecting means and electrodes are not shown in Figure 6, which is a side view of the EEG headset. [Figure 8] Figure 6 is a front view of the EEG headset, where the connecting means and electrodes are not shown. [Figure 9] The connecting means and electrodes are not shown in Figure 6, which is a top view of the EEG headset. [Figure 10] Figure 6 is a bottom view of the EEG headset, showing only a single electrode as the connecting means (not shown). [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting member portion and electrode according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 12] Figure 11 is an exploded view of the mounting component and electrode. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of an electrode according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the electrode. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view of an electrode according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 16] Figure 15 is an exploded view of the electrodes. [Figure 17] This is a side view of an electrode in another form of this technology. [Figure 18] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the electrode as seen from one end. [Figure 19] This is an exploded view of a mounting component and one form of electrode. [Figure 20] This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting member and electrode shown in Figure 19, assembled as a single unit. [Figure 21] This is a side view and top view of a rotatable coupling means according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 22] This is a side and top perspective view of a rotatable connecting means equipped with a flexible sleeve according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 23] This is a side view and a top view of a rotatable coupling means according to another embodiment of the technology, in which the engaging portion rotates counterclockwise around a second axis of rotation. [Figure 24] Figure 15 is a side and top perspective view of the rotatable coupling means, with the engaging portion rotated clockwise around the second axis of rotation. [Figure 25]This is a side and top view of an EEG headset based on one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 26] Figure 25 is a view of the headset from below. [Figure 27] This is a view of the headset shown in Figure 25 from above. [Figure 28] Figure 25 is a front view of the headset. [Figure 29] This is a schematic representation of the patient, a side view of the headset shown in Figure 25, positioned at the patient's designated location. [Figure 30] This is a schematic representation of a patient, a lateral and overhead perspective view of an EEG headset, one embodiment of this technology, positioned at the patient's designated location. [Figure 31] This is a side view and top view of a rotatable coupling means according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 32] This is a side and top perspective view of the rotatable connecting means of Figure 31, which is equipped with a flexible sleeve according to one embodiment of this technology. [Figure 33] This is a side view and top perspective of a rotatable connecting means according to another embodiment of this technology. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0051】 Referring to Figures 3 to 5, the headset used to measure the user's electroencephalogram (hereinafter referred to as the "headset" or "EEG headset") is collectively referred to by arrow 100. In this specification, "patient" refers to any user of the EEG headset, regardless of whether such user is ill, unwell, or requires other medical treatment. 【0052】 The headset 100 comprises a base member 1 and a plurality of attachment members 2 rotatably attached to the base member 1. The base member 1 comprises a patient side 3 and a non-patient side 4. In some embodiments, the base member 1 is shaped as an isosceles trapezoid, with the shorter of the parallel sides being above the longer side when in use. At least some of the attachment members 2 may be elongated. 【0053】 The attachment member 2 is rotatably attached to the base member 1 by a rotatable connecting means 5, such as a hinge. The rotation of each attachment member may be such that the end of the attachment member distal to the axis of rotation moves substantially radially relative to the patient's skull. In some embodiments, the rotatable connecting portion between the base member 1 and the attachment member 2 may be located on or adjacent to a virtual circle or ellipse, and the axis of rotation may be substantially tangential to the circle or ellipse. 【0054】 The base member 1 and the attachment member 2 are configured to cooperate in maintaining the headset 100 on the patient's head during use. Furthermore, as will be described later, the attachment member 2 may have a patient-side portion having a curved portion complementary to the outer shape of the patient's skull. The attachment member may rotate relative to the base member 1 to grip the patient's skull. 【0055】 The rotatable connecting means 5 includes a biasing means (not shown) that biases the mounting member 2 to rotate toward the patient side 3 of the base member 1. In one embodiment, the biasing means may include a torsion spring. The torsion spring may be connected, for example, to the base member and the mounting member. 【0056】 In this embodiment, the headset 100 comprises a pair of lower lateral mounting members 2a, a pair of upper lateral mounting members 2b, and a central upper mounting member 2c. The lower lateral mounting members 2a may be configured to extend from the base member 1 across the occipital and / or temporal bones to a position just behind the patient's ear when in use. 【0057】 The upper lateral attachment member 2b may be configured to overlap the patient's parietal and / or frontal bones when in use. In some embodiments, the upper lateral attachment member 2b may be configured not to overlap the patient's temporal bones. The upper lateral attachment member 2b may be curved when viewed from above and below such that the distance between the distal ends of the upper lateral attachment member 2b is less than the distance between the proximal ends of the upper lateral attachment member. The distance between the distal ends of the upper lateral attachment member may be between 1 / 2 and 1 / 4 of the nominal width of the patient's head in which the headset is to be used, for example, about 1 / 3. The distal end of the upper lateral attachment member may be at substantially the same height (i.e., in the same position vertically) as the proximal end when in use. The distal end may be substantially above the patient's orbit when in use, i.e., in substantially the same position as the orbit in the anterior-posterior direction. 【0058】 In practice, the central upper attachment member 2c may be configured to cover the patient's parietal and / or frontal bones when in use. The distal end of the central upper attachment member 2c is preferably located posterior to the distal end of the upper lateral attachment member 2b, for example, just slightly anterior to the intersection line between the parietal and frontal bones. 【0059】 In the example, at least some of the mounting members 2 have multiple mounting member portions 6, each of which is rotatably connected to an adjacent mounting member portion 6 by its respective rotatable connecting means 5. For example, the upper mounting members 2b and 2c may have multiple mounting member portions 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the central upper mounting member 2c has two mounting member portions 6, and the upper lateral mounting members 2b each have three mounting member portions 6. Each mounting member portion 6 may be substantially rigid. In the example of the present technology, the length of the mounting member portions decreases along the total length of each mounting member, with the longest being the mounting member portion adjacent to the base member. 【0060】 Each of the rotatable connecting means 5 is equipped with a biasing means (e.g., a torsion spring) that biases the mounting member portion 6 to rotate toward the patient side 3 of the base member 1. When the headset 100 is not attached to the patient's head during use, the mounting member 2 may rotate inward toward the patient side 3 of the base member 1. 【0061】 In the examples shown in Figures 3 to 10, the upper attachment members 2b and 2c are elongated, and neither of the upper attachment members 2b nor 2c is in contact with or connected to any other attachment member 2 (except insofar as the attachment members 2 are connected by the base 1). In the examples shown in Figures 3 to 10, each lower lateral attachment member 2a comprises a single member with a loop, for example, a substantially U-shaped loop, to which the attachment member is rotatably connected to the base member 1 at two separate locations. The lower lateral attachment member 2a may be configured to extend from the base member 1 across the occipital and / or temporal bones to a position just behind the patient's ear when in use. In one embodiment, the upper portion of each lower lateral attachment member may extend substantially horizontally when in use. 【0062】 Next, referring to Figures 6 to 10, in some embodiments, the longitudinal edge 7 of the attachment member 2, particularly the edge on the patient contact side, is chamfered or rounded, as best seen in Figure 8. This ensures that the attachment member does not have sharp edges and helps allow the attachment member to move easily through the patient's hair. The edges 8 at the end of each attachment member 2 may be chamfered, as best seen in Figure 6. 【0063】 Referring particularly to Figures 6 to 10, at least one of the mounting members 2 is provided with at least one electrode engagement means 9, such as an electrode mount. In examples, each mounting member 2 is provided with an electrode engagement means 9. In further examples, each mounting member 2 is provided with multiple electrode engagement means 9 or multiple mounting parts. In examples, the base member 1 is also provided with at least one electrode engagement means 9. In some embodiments, the electrode engagement means 9 is positioned such that electrodes connected to the electrode engagement means 9 are positioned according to the International 10-20 Method. In examples, electrodes may be positioned at one or more or all of positions Fp1, Fp2, F3, Fz, F4, C3, CZ, C4, and Pz. Positions A1 and A2 may also be used as reference and bias. In examples, each mounting member portion 6 is provided with an electrode engagement means 9 or mounting part. 【0064】 Each attachment portion 6 may have a patient side 10 and a non-patient side 11. The patient side 10 of the attachment portion 6 may have a substantially concave curved surface 12, as shown in Figure 7. The curvature of the concave curved surface 12 may substantially follow the curvature of the patient's head. In this embodiment, the non-patient side 11 of the attachment portion 6 may have a similar convex curved portion 13 so that the attachment portion 6 has a substantially constant thickness. 【0065】 In preferred embodiments, each of the rotatable connectors mentioned above preferably allows rotation on only one axis, for example, a single axis that substantially moves the distal end of the attachment member in the radial direction, or, if rotation is possible around a second axis, the rotation is preferably very limited (e.g., about 10 degrees or less), and the second axis of rotation is preferably substantially in line with the longitudinal axis of the attachment member. In examples, the rotatable connector does not allow rotation around an axis normal to the surface of the patient's head. 【0066】 Because the rotatable connecting portion lacks lateral flexibility, combined with the rigidity of the mounting member portion 6, when the headset 100 is correctly positioned on the patient's head, the electrode 14 engaged with the electrode engagement means is positioned with sufficient precision without requiring additional adjustment. This may mean that the headset 100 can be installed on the patient's head much more quickly and much more easily than some prior art systems that require the electrodes to be positioned individually, or at least require adjustment of the electrode position before use. In a preferred embodiment, the headset 100 can be put on and taken off by the patient using only one hand. 【0067】 In the example, the headset 100 is configured to be easily disinfected and / or cleaned. In the example, the headset 100 may be adapted to be completely immersed in a liquid during cleaning and / or disinfection without the liquid penetrating into the interior of the headset 100. 【0068】 In this example, the electrode engagement means 9 is configured to engage detachably with the electrode 14, so that the electrode 14 can be easily removed and replaced after each use, especially after each use by a different patient. 【0069】 Next, referring to Figures 11 and 12, an example of the electrode 14 is shown attached to the electrode engagement means 9. 【0070】 The electrode 14 comprises a patient contact portion 15 and an electrical connection portion 16. The patient contact portion 15 comprises at least one, more preferably four, conductive protrusions 17 configured to engage with the patient's scalp during use. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusions 17 are substantially frustoconical. 【0071】 The electrical connection portion 16 of the electrode 14 is configured to form an electrical connection with the electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode engagement means 9. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connection portion 16 of the electrode 14 has an outer surface portion 19 which is a rotating surface, preferably a partially spherical cap. The outer surface portion 19 engages with a complementary conductive surface 20 of the electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode engagement means 9. In the embodiment, the electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode engagement means 9 may be biased outward (for example, toward the electrode 14) so ​​that the outer surface portion 19 and the conductive surface 20 are in secure and firm contact. 【0072】 The electrode connection portion 18 of the electrode engagement means 9 is electrically connected to the transmitting means and / or processing means of the EEG headset. Such transmitting means and / or processing means may be provided within the base member 1. Additionally or alternatively, the headset may be provided with one or more ports for receiving wired connections and / or integrated data cables. When in use, the headset can transmit EEG data to a computer (e.g., a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet, or smartphone). In an example, the computer may run an appropriate neurofeedback program or neurofeedback application. In an example, the data may be transmitted in real time. In other examples, some or all of the data may be stored by the headset. 【0073】 In this embodiment, the battery is also provided within the base member 1, preferably within a waterproof housing. 【0074】 In this example, the electrode 14 is provided with an O-ring seal 21 that engages with the cylindrical inner wall 22 of the electrode engagement means 9 during use, thereby preventing fluid from passing through the electrode (e.g., between the electrode and the adjacent surface of the electrode engagement means) and entering the interior of the mounting member. In the illustrated embodiment, the friction between the O-ring seal 21 and the inner wall of the electrode engagement means 9 is sufficient to hold the electrode 14 in place within the electrode engagement means 9. However, as will be further described below, other removable fastening means may be provided to secure the electrode 14 in place. For example, the electrode 14 may have a threaded portion that engages with a complementary threaded portion of the electrode engagement means 9, or the electrode 14 may engage with the electrode engagement means 9 in a snap-fit ​​engagement, as will be described later with reference to Figures 19 and 20. In both the screw engagement and snap-fit ​​engagement embodiments, it is preferable to provide an O-ring or other seal to ensure that fluid does not enter the mounting means during cleaning or disinfection. 【0075】 In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the electrode engagement means 9 may include a seal, such as an O-ring, that engages with a suitable surface of the electrode 14 (e.g., the cylindrical outer surface). 【0076】 Next, referring to Figures 13 and 14, in one example, the electrode 14 may include a base portion 30 made of a highly conductive thermoplastic material. The base portion 31 of the conductive projection 17 may also be made of a thermoplastic material. In this example, the base portion 30 and the base portion 31 may be formed integrally, for example, by molding them together. 【0077】 Each conductive projection 17 may have a tip 32 made of a silver-silicone composite. The silver-silicone tip is connected to the base portion 31 of the conductive portion 17, for example, by overmolding. In some examples, the tip 32 has a rounded end 33. 【0078】 In this example, each conductive projection 17 has a diameter of 4 mm and a length of 10 mm. In the illustrated example, each electrode 14 may have five conductive projections 17. Such electrodes can be particularly suitable for penetrating through dense hair. 【0079】 In one form, silver silicon is • Conductive filler (e.g., containing Ag flakes of approximately 10 μm), • Silicone rubber (e.g., Ecoflex 00-30®, mixed in a 1:1 ratio), • Solvent (e.g., 4-methyl-2-pentanone) Includes. 【0080】 In one form, thermoplastic materials include graphene polylactic acid (PLA). 【0081】 In some forms of this technology, a silver-silicone synthetic product is not required, and the entire electrode 14 may be made from graphene PLA. 【0082】 In the examples illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, each electrode 14 is provided with five conductive protrusions 17, four of which are arranged in two rows of two protrusions each, with equal spacing between conductive protrusions in each row and between rows, and a fifth conductive protrusion 17 is provided in the center. The base portion 30 may be substantially cylindrical or disc-shaped. 【0083】 Next, referring to Figures 15 and 16, in another embodiment of this technology, each conductive projection 17 includes a tip portion 32 that is slidably (e.g., extendable) attached to a base portion 31. The conductive projection 17 may be equipped with a biasing means (not shown), such as a spring, that biases the tip portion 32 away from the base portion 31, for example, in a direction that increases the overall length of the conductive projection 17. 【0084】 In practice, the tip 32 and base 31 of the conductive projection 17 may be made of a copper alloy plated with a gold film (e.g., 0.51 μm thick). A nickel undercoat (e.g., 2.54 μm thick) may be used between the copper and the gold. 【0085】 In one embodiment of this technology, the tip 32 has a diameter of substantially 1.1 mm and a length of substantially 5 mm. In an example, the maximum relative movement (e.g., "stroke") between the tip 32 of the conductive projection 17 and the base 31 is substantially 3 mm. 【0086】 The conductive projection 17 may be connected to the base portion 30. In an example, the base portion 30 may be made of a conductive thermoplastic material such as those described above. The base portion 30 may be overmolded around the base 31 of the conductive projection 17. 【0087】 In the example, each electrode 14 is provided with 16 conductive protrusions 17. The tips 32 of a group 34 of conductive protrusions 17 may be connected together by, for example, a connecting member 35, which may also be made of a thermoplastic material so that all the tips 32 of a given group 34 move together. In the example shown in Figures 15 and 16, the tips 32 are grouped into four groups 34, each group 34 having four conductive protrusions 17, and each group 34 of tips 32 is arranged in two rows of two, with equal spacing between conductive parts in each row and between rows. By grouping the tips 32 in this way, the tips 32 become less susceptible to damage and the possibility of the tips 32 becoming clogged with the base portion 31 can be reduced. Grouping also allows for comfortable pressure distribution on the scalp. The four groups 34 of the conductive portion 1 may themselves be arranged in two rows, with two groups in each row. 【0088】 Next, referring to Figures 17 to 20, in one embodiment of this technology, the base portion 30 and the conductive protrusion 17 are made of carbon nanotube silicon. In an example, the tip 32 of the conductive protrusion 17 is painted or otherwise coated with a conductive coating, such as silver / silver chloride (Ag / AgCl). The Ag / AgCl coating promotes conductivity between the skin and the electrode by converting the ionic current of the scalp into an electrode current, thereby achieving a high signal-to-noise ratio. 【0089】 In this example, the electrode 14 may have 16 conductive protrusions 17. The conductive protrusions 17 may be arranged to form an outer ring with 10 conductive protrusions 17 and a concentric inner ring with 5 conductive protrusions, with additional conductive protrusions at the center of the two rings. The conductive protrusions forming each ring may be equally spaced. 【0090】 Referring particularly to Figures 19 and 20, in one example, the electrode 14 may have an engaging portion 36, or an example boss, configured to engage with the connecting portion 18 of the electrode engaging means 9 in a snap-fit ​​connection. Such snap-fit ​​electrode engaging means are commercially available and known to those skilled in the art. The connecting portion 18 is electrically connected to the transmitting and / or processing means of the EEG headset as described above. 【0091】 Next, referring to Figures 21 and 22, an example of the rotatable coupling means 5 is shown. The rotatable coupling means 5 includes a first engaging portion 23 connected to a second engaging portion 24 by a hinge forming portion 25. When in use, each engaging portion 23, 24 engages with the mounting members 2a-2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1. In the illustrated embodiment, each engaging portion 23, 24 is provided with a rib 26 that snap-fits into a complementary recess 27 or projection of the mounting member, the mounting member portion 6, or the base. Examples of such recesses 27 can be seen in Figures 11 and 12. In the illustrated embodiment, each snap-fit ​​coupling is removable. 【0092】 In this example, the rotatable coupling means 5 includes a flexible sleeve 28 that surrounds the hinge forming portion 25 and at least a portion of the engaging portions 23, 24. The flexible sleeve 28 may be made of a substantially impermeable flexible material such as silicone or rubber. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve is transparent. When the rotatable coupling means 5 is installed, the inner surface of the mounting member, mounting member portion, or base member with which it engages engages with the outside of the flexible sleeve 28, preferably in a crimp-type or clamping-type fit. In this way, the sleeve 28 prevents, or at least suppresses, water from entering the mounting members 2a-2c, mounting member portion 6, or base member 1 (for example, during cleaning), and also prevents patient hair from becoming entangled in the hinge forming portion. 【0093】 Referring next to Figures 23 and 24, in some examples the rotatable coupling means 5 may be configured to allow limited rotation, for example, about 10°, around a second axis LS. The second axis of rotation is preferably tangential to the patient's skull. In some examples the second axis may be substantially orthogonal to the first axis of rotation LP. 【0094】 The second axis of rotation may be substantially in line with the longitudinal axis of the mounting member. The ability to rotate around the second axis allows for better contact between the electrode and the patient's skull. 【0095】 Next, referring to Figures 25 to 30, another example of the headset 100 of this technology is shown. In the examples shown in these figures, the upper lateral mounting member 2b is configured such that the distance between the distal ends of the upper lateral mounting member is approximately equal to the distance between the proximal ends of the upper lateral mounting member. 【0096】 Furthermore, each lower lateral attachment member 2a is not a U-shaped member connected at multiple points as shown in the examples in Figures 3 to 10, but rather an elongated member connected to the base member 1 at a single point. The lower lateral attachment member 2a may be configured to tilt downward from the base member 1 to a position behind the patient's ear, for example, below the mastoid process, when in use, as is best seen in Figure 29. 【0097】 Next, referring to Figures 31 and 32, another example of a rotatable connecting means 5 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The rotatable connecting means 5 connects to the mounting members 2a-2c, mounting member portion 6, or base member 1 by having recesses in the mounting members 2a-2c, mounting member portion 6, or base member 1 into which a protruding portion 38 engages. An example of such a protruding portion 38 is shown in Figures 19 and 20. The protruding portion 38 protrudes away from the inner wall 39 of the mounting members 2a-2c, mounting member portion 6, or base member 1, but does not protrude to the outside of the mounting member. 【0098】 During use, at least the tip 40 of the protruding portion 38 snap-fits into the recess 37 to engage the rotatable connecting means 5 with the mounting members 2a-2c, the mounting member portion 6, or the base member 1. In the illustrated example, the recess 37 is provided on the base of the channel forming portion 41 of the rotatable connecting means. In the example, the recess 37 is provided at both ends of the rotatable connecting means 5. 【0099】 As described above, the rotatable connecting means may be provided with a flexible sleeve 28. As shown in Figure 33, in one embodiment, the rotatable connecting means 5 may be configured to rotate about the second axis LS, similar to the examples shown in Figures 23 and 24 (however, such rotation may be limited to about 10 degrees). 【0100】 Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “comprise” and “comprising” throughout this description and claims should be interpreted in a comprehensive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, “includes but not restrictive.” 【0101】 All applications, patents, and published documents described above and below are incorporated herein by reference, if any. 【0102】 References to prior art in this specification do not constitute, and should not be interpreted as, an acknowledgment or suggestion that such prior art forms part of common technical knowledge in any field of focus in any country worldwide. 【0103】 Furthermore, the present invention can be broadly said to be composed of the parts, elements, and features mentioned or shown in this application, individually or collectively, in any combination of two or more of these parts, elements, or features. 【0104】 Whereever a complete body or component having known equivalents is referred to in the preceding description, those complete bodies are incorporated herein as if they were described separately. 【0105】 It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the currently preferred embodiments described herein will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without impairing the incidental advantages. Accordingly, such changes and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

[Claim 1] An EEG headset comprising a base member configured to be positioned over at least a portion of the area identified by the parietal and occipital bones of a patient during use, wherein the base member comprises a patient-side and a non-patient-side, and the headset further comprises a plurality of attachment members, the plurality of attachment members being A pair of lower lateral mounting members, A pair of upper lateral attachment members, each upper lateral attachment member comprising a plurality of upper lateral attachment member portions, each upper lateral attachment member portion being rotatably connected to an adjacent upper lateral attachment member portion, each upper lateral attachment member having the form of a single arm formed by the connection of the upper lateral attachment member portions, each upper lateral attachment member portion being biased to rotate toward the patient side of the base member, each upper lateral attachment member being configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's frontal bone when in use, and the end of each upper lateral attachment member terminating above the patient's orbit when in use, a pair of upper lateral attachment members, A central upper mounting member, the central upper mounting member comprising a plurality of central upper mounting member portions, each central upper mounting member portion being rotatably connected to an adjacent central upper mounting member portion, each central upper mounting member having the form of a single arm formed by the connection of the central upper mounting member portions, and each central upper mounting member portion being biased to rotate toward the patient side of the base member, and the central upper mounting member and Equipped with, EEG headset, wherein each mounting member is rotatably connected to the base member by its respective rotatable connecting means, each rotatable connecting means comprising a biasing means for biasing the mounting member to rotate toward the patient side of the base member, the mounting members are shaped and configured to maintain the headset on the patient's head during use, and each mounting member comprises at least one electrode engaging means for engaging electrodes during use. [Claim 2] The EEG headset according to claim 1, wherein the electrode engaging means is arranged such that, when in use, the electrode engaged with the electrode is positioned in accordance with the International 10-20 Method. [Claim 3] The EEG headset according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each lower lateral attachment member is configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's occipital bone and / or temporal bone when in use. [Claim 4] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each lower lateral attachment member is configured to extend from the base member to a position just behind the patient's ear when in use. [Claim 5] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each upper lateral mounting member comprises three upper lateral mounting member portions. [Claim 6] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each upper lateral attachment member is configured not to overlap the patient's temporal bone during use. [Claim 7] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein none of the upper lateral mounting members are connected to any other mounting members. [Claim 8] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the central upper mounting member is not connected to any other mounting member. [Claim 9] The EEG headset according to claim 8, wherein the central upper mounting member comprises two central upper mounting member portions. [Claim 10] The EEG headset according to claim 9, wherein the central upper mounting member is configured to cover at least a portion of the patient's parietal bone and / or frontal bone when in use. [Claim 11] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the aforementioned mounting member portions is substantially rigid. [Claim 12] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each rotatable coupling means comprises a flexible, impermeable sleeve configured to prevent or restrict fluid from entering the mounting member, the portion of the mounting member, and / or the base member with which the rotatable coupling means is engaged. [Claim 13] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each rotatable coupling means enables rotation about only a single axis. [Claim 14] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each attachment member has a patient side and a non-patient side, and the patient side defines a substantially concave curved portion. [Claim 15] The EEG headset according to claim 14, wherein the concave curved portion substantially conforms to the surface of the patient's head when in use. [Claim 16] The EEG headset according to claim 14 or 15, wherein each attachment member has a chamfered longitudinal edge on the patient side thereof. [Claim 17] The EEG headset according to claim 16, wherein each attachment member has a chamfered distal edge on the patient side thereof. [Claim 18] The EEG headset according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the headset comprises wireless communication means and / or wired communication means.

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