EEG headset

Abstract

An EEG headset (100) for obtaining brain activity data, comprising a frame (101), with: - a base (112); - a left frame section (102); - a right frame section (104); wherein the left frame section and the right frame section are hingedly connected to the base; and wherein each frame section comprises: at least one electrode site (114) for connecting an electrode (116) to and / or at least one electrode (116).

Description

[0001] P137154PC00

[0002] Title: EEG headset

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the field of EEG headsets for obtaining brain activity data.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Stroke is a major health concern, with 1 in 4 people over 25 at risk, and a third of all global healthcare costs are spent on stroke. Fast treatment is essential to improve the outcome of patients with an acute ischemic stroke. Currently, over 50% of the large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke patients are transported to a hospital without endovascular treatment, causing them to be transported again. This delays endovascular treatment of LVO stroke by 57 minutes.

[0007] It has been proposed to diagnose stroke in an ambulance, by the acquisition of electrical brain activity (EEG) data of the patient. To obtain the electrical brain activity data, a dry electrode EEG cap has been used, for example in van Stigt, Maritta N., et al. "Prehospital detection of large vessel occlusion stroke with EEG: results of the ELECTRA- STROKE study." Neurology 101.24 (2023): e2522-e2532. The EEG cap is formed by a flexible textile which is placed over the head of the patient, such that electrodes positioned between the flexible textile and the head are pressed on the head of the patient. The textile cap is washable, and thus reusable for multiple patients.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] Although the known EEG cap already allows for electrical brain activity of the patient to be obtained in an ambulance, it is an object to improve a device and / or method with which the electrical brain activity of the patient can be obtained - in particular in a driving ambulance. Improvements may be found in usability, comfort of the patient, cleanability, quality of the signals obtained, compatibility with patients who have a large amount of hair and / or in any other aspect.

[0010] A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an EEG headset. EEG, or Electroencephalography, is a technique used to record the electrical activity of the brain. In general, one or more electrodes are used to measure electrical impulses generated by neuronal activity, which electrical impulses can represent brain activity data. A headset generally refers to a wearable device designed to be placed on or over the head of a human patient. In the context of the present disclosure, it is preferred that the headset can be worn by a patient while lying, for example in a hospital or in an ambulance. An ambulance may be any moving vehicle for transporting a patient, such as a van, truck, helicopter, or fixed-wing aircraft.

[0011] According to the first aspect, the EEG headset comprises a frame, with a base, left frame section, a right frame section, and an optional front frame section, wherein the left frame section, right frame section, and optional front frame section are hingedly connected to the base and wherein each frame section comprises at least one electrode site for connecting an electrode to and / or at least one electrode.

[0012] The frame may generally refer to the basic structure of the headset, which provides dimensional stability of the headset. The frame may also allow further components to be attached thereto, such as one or more covers, connectors, electronics and / or electrodes, respectively electrode carriers, for example by clicking, clamping, snapping, glueing, or screwing. Any cover disclosed herein may be used for providing one or more markings and / or visual labels onto, and / or for protecting cables running from electrodes to the cable connector, and / or for providing rigidity to the frame.

[0013] Preferably, the frame sections have a stiffness against compression, such that a collapsing of the frame sections under their own weight may be prevented and the shape of the frame can be well-defined. It will be appreciated that a flexible textile intrinsically does not have any significant stiffness against compression. In other words, the stiffness against compression of the headset results in a non-zero hinging stiffness between the frame sections and the base.

[0014] In the context of the present disclosure, a hinging stiffness refers to a torque required to hinge two components relative to each other over a particular angle. For example, a high hinging stiffness between a frame section and the base results in a higher required torque to elastically hinge the frame section relative to the base. A hinging stiffness may be expressed in Nm / rad.

[0015] In use, the left frame section is associated with a left side of the head, the right frame section is associated with a right side of the head, and the front frame section is associated with a forehead. The frame sections span around a volume where in use at least part of a head of a patient can be positioned. This volume thus is typically shaped as part of an ovoid, egg, sphere, and / or any other rounded shape into which at least part of a human, preferably adult, head can be positioned.

[0016] Typically, considering that the human head is essentially symmetrical, the left frame section and right frame section may be essentially similar in shape, albeit mirrored. The front frame section may be positioned in the centre between the left frame section and the right frame section.

[0017] When the left frame section, right frame section, and front frame section are hingedly connected to each other at a common base, in use of the headset, the respective frame sections can be elastically hinged away from each other. By virtue of the elastic hinging, one or more electrodes per frame section can be pressed onto the head of the patient. The frame sections are thus preferably elastically hingedly connected to the base. Elastically hingedly connected implies that the hinging of a frame section relative to the base results in elastic deformation of the frame section and / or base. Any hinging connection between the base and a frame section may be formed as a living hinge or as a dedicated hinge.

[0018] In general, for any headset disclosed herein, two or three or all of the base, left frame section, right frame section, and front frame section may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the left frame section, right frame section, and front frame section may be separate bodies, which are connected to the base. Preferably, the left frame section, the right frame section, and the front frame are coupled to each other only via the base of the frame. As such, as a particular option, distal ends of one or two or all frame sections may be free ends, when proximal ends of the one or two or all frame sections are connected to the base.

[0019] In use, the base is preferably positioned over the frontal and / or parietal bones of the patients’ head. The base is the central part of the frame, which couples the frame sections. A centreline of the base typically lies in a symmetry plane of the headset, which symmetry plane for example is positioned between the left frame section and the right frame section.

[0020] For any headset disclosed herein, the base may be essentially rigid, or at least of a higher stiffness than one or more of the frame sections. The base typically is the most stable part compared to the frame sections, meaning that the base has the highest hinging stiffness of the frame.

[0021] The hinging connection, in particular elastically hinging connection, between any frame section and the base may be formed by a living hinge. A living hinge is formed by the respective frame section and optionally part of the base, and the living hinge elastically deforms when the headset is positioned onto a head of a patient. By virtue of living hinges formed by the respective frame sections and optionally the base, the shape of the frame may be adapted to the shape of the head. Alternatively, any hinging connection may be formed by a strut, strip, or any other structural part.

[0022] Alternatively to using a living hinge, for any frame section, a hinge with a defined axis of rotation may be used. With such a hinge, an elastically hinging connection may be obtained by including one or more resilient elements, for example one or more torsion springs, which elastically deform when the headset is placed on the head of the patient.

[0023] In general, elastic deformation of the frame is used to constitute a pressing force for pressing one or more electrodes onto the head of the patient. Depending for example on the size and shape of the patient’s head, the pressing forces may vary from electrode to electrode. By tuning a hinging stiffness of different parts of the frame, for example the frame sections and optional electrode carriers, a desired pressing force may be obtained, in particular within a desired range of pressing force, for any electrode of the headset.

[0024] The pressing force may be tuned by the choice of material or in case of a composite or an alloy, by the choice of the materials. Furthermore, the pressing force may be tuned by varying the geometry of different parts of the headset, for example by varying dimensions of the cross-section of any part of the headset. Alternatively or additionally, the pressing force may be tuned by placing additional biasing elements and / or hinging elements at predetermined positions of the headset.

[0025] The pressing force should not be too low, to ensure good contact between the electrode and the head, but it is also observed that a too high pressing force can result in discomfort for a patient. A sufficient pressing force is understood as a pressing force sufficiently enough for useful data acquisition.

[0026] When a frame section comprises a plurality of electrode carriers, which are hingedly connected to the respective frame section, and which electrode carriers each comprise at least one of the at least one electrode site for connecting an electrode to and / or at least one of the at least one electrode, the electrode carriers can also be used to press electrodes onto the head. Preferably, at least one frame section or even more preferably at least two frame sections comprise(s) at least one electrode. Any electrode carrier is preferably elastically hingedly connected to their respective frame section.

[0027] For any frame section, it is also conceived that the frame section comprises a single electrode carrier.

[0028] In particular, by tuning the hinging stiffness between an electrode carrier and the respective frame section to which the electrode carrier is hingedly connected, a pressing force with which an electrode associated with said electrode carrier is pressed against the head can be tuned. The hinging stiffness is for example determined by the material properties and shape of the electrode carrier. It will therefore be appreciated that the hinging stiffness of a frame section or an electrode carrier may be varied by shape and material properties. Alternatively, the electrode carrier may also be provided with spring elements for (predetermined) translational freedom, e.g. at the electrode site or between electrode carrier and electrode, in order to provide the required adaptability to fit the head of the patient and to exert the pressing force onto the head of the patient. The use of an electrode carrier may reduce the force with which an electrode is pressed against the head of the patient.

[0029] In view of a shape of any electrode carrier, the distal end of the electrode carrier may be distanced from the frame section in between a distance of 50 mm and 200 mm or even between 100 mm and 150 mm. Preferably, the electrode site or electrode is positioned at or near the distal end of the respective electrode carrier. Any electrode carrier may have a length between 30 mm and 300 mm or even between 50 mm and 200 mm or between 100 mm and 150 mm.

[0030] In use, the force with which an electrode is pressed onto the head, when the electrode is connected to a frame section via an electrode carrier, may thus be determined by the hinging stiffness between the electrode carrier and the frame section, and the hinging stiffness between the respective frame section and the base. Preferably, all three frame sections comprise a plurality of electrode carriers which are hingedly connected to the respective frame section, and which electrode carriers each comprise at least one of the at least one electrode site for connecting an electrode to and / or at least one of the at least one electrode. For any frame section, the plurality of electrode carriers may be at least two, at least three, or even four or five or more.

[0031] Any electrode carrier associated with any of frame section may be at least partially curved, in particular inwards into a volume spanned by the left frame section, right frame section and optionally the front frame section.

[0032] Any electrode disclosed herein may comprise an electrode base and a plurality of electrode pins extending from the base, in particular generally perpendicular relative to the base. Generally perpendicular may be defined at as generally normal to the base, or at least within an angle of 45 degrees relative to normal, in particular at least within an angle of 30 degrees or even 15 degrees relative to normal. An electrode with a plurality of pins may be referred to as a flower electrode. The ends of the pins may be generally aligned on a single plane.

[0033] For any electrode, the electrode base is oriented at an angle relative to the respective frame section to which the electrode carrier is connected. When the frame section is shaped to approximately follow the shape of the head of the patient which the frame section faces in use, the electrode base can be oriented at an angle relative to the part of the head to which the electrode pins are to be pressed. In use, as the electrode pins are pressed onto the head, this allows for only a part of the pins to contact the head first, and the rest of the pins only contacting the head after the first pins contacted the head. The pins may as such be rolled onto the head. It has been observed that this may allow for a better contact between the pins and the head. Any electrode is preferably a dry electrode. The electrode pins may be oriented at an angle relative to each other, in particular fanning outwards. Any electrode may be releasably connected to the EEG headset, for example using a clamped connection, bayonet connection, threaded connection, magnetic connection, and / or any other connection.

[0034] For example to fixate the headset onto the head, any EEG headset may further comprise two chin strap connectors for coupling a chin strap at or near respective distal ends of the left frame section and the right frame section, and a chin strap connected to the chin strap connectors.

[0035] To allow for transfer of brain activity data gathered by the electrodes of the headset, a cable connector may be comprised by any headset of the present disclosure. A data cable can be releasably connected to the cable connector, which data cable allows transfer of brain activity data, or example to an electronic processing device. Preferably, the cable connector is provided on the base of the frame. This may allow the cable to be guided away from the head of the patient and / or away from the body of the patient.

[0036] A second aspect of the present disclosure provides a portable EEG system for use in an ambulance, comprising an EEG headset according to the first aspect, and an electronic processing device, connectable to the EEG headset to receive brain activity data from the EEG headset. The headset being portable allows the headset to be used in an ambulance.

[0037] The electronic processing device typically comprises an electronic processor such as a CPU, and a memory with instructions thereon which, when executed by the electronic processor, cause the electronic processor to process the brain activity data gathered by the electrodes of the headset. Preferably, processing is performed in real-time to detect a stroke. The electronic processing device thus preferably comprises an output for providing an output indicative of a stroke being detected to an operator of the device. The output may be arranged for providing a visual, auditive, and / or haptic signal indicative of a stroke being detected. A visual signal may be provided by an electronic display. Preferably, the electronic processing device is connected to the EEG headset via a data cable releasably connected to the cable connector. The releasable connection allows the data cable to be conveniently coupled to the headset after the headset has been positioned onto the head of the patient and / or allows the data cable to be decoupled from the headset before removing the headset from the patient.

[0038] A battery may be provided for powering the electronic processing device. It is even envisioned that the battery is the sole means for powering the electronic processing device, i.e. there is no connection possible or required with the power mains. The headset itself may thus be provided without an internal power source.

[0039] A third aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of positioning an EEG headset onto a patient. The method comprises a step of providing an EEG headset comprising at least one electrode, the electrode comprising a plurality of electrode pins. The EEG headset may be any headset of the present disclosure, in particular according to the first aspect. The method further comprises as a preferred option positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, such that a first outer electrode pin contacts the head prior to a second outer electrode pin contacting the head. It will be understood that the method is non-invasive to the patient.

[0040] In particular after positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, the method may comprise a step of connecting a data cable to a cable connector of the headset. The data cable may in turn be connected to an electronic processing device as described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may comprise a step of connecting a battery to the headset, in particular after positioning the headset onto the head of the patient. When the data cable and / or battery are connected to the headset after positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, it may be more easy to correctly position the headset onto the head since the data cable and / or battery cannot interfere with the positioning. In particular when the headset comprises replaceable electrodes, the method may further comprise connecting an electrode to at least one, preferably all, electrode sites of the headset. Connecting the electrode to the electrode site may make use of a magnetic, bayonet, snap, threaded, adhesive, and / or any other type of connection, in any combination thereof. The connection is preferably releasable, in particular without requiring a tool.

[0041] When positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, at least one electrode may be rolled onto the head of the patient. To be rolled onto the head implies that not all pins of the electrode contacts the head of the patient at the same time. Any electrode may require manual adjustment by an operator after the headset has been positioned onto the head of the patient, for example when the pins of the electrode have to pass through hair of the patient. Manual adjustment of any electrode may be possible through one or more passages through the frame and / or any cover.

[0042] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0043] In the figures,

[0044] Figs. 1A-2B show different views of an EEG headset;

[0045] Fig. 3 shows part of the EEG headset of Figs. 1A-2B;

[0046] Figs. 4A-4C respectively depict the base cover 160, the front cover 168, and the left frame cover 162 and right frame cover 164.

[0047] Fig. 5 schematically shows a head of a patient carrying an EEG headset;

[0048] Figs. 6A-6D schematically show an electrode engaging the head of the patient;

[0049] Fig. 7 A shows a part of a variation of the EEG headset of Figs. 1A- 4C, the part shown in Fig. 7A corresponding to the part shown in Fig. 3;

[0050] Fig. 7B shows further parts of the variation of the EEG headset of

[0051] Fig. 7 A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0052] Figs. 1A-2B show a first embodiment of an EEG headset 100 for obtaining brain activity data, respectively in a side view, front view, top view, and perspective view. The headset 100 is depicted in an essentially unstressed state, whereas in typically use with the headset 100 positioned onto a head, the headset 100 will be in a stressed state. Fig. 1A shows the headset 100 in a left side view and Fig. IB shows the headset 100 in a front view.

[0053] The headset 100 comprises a base 112, a left frame section 102, a right frame section 104, and a front frame section 106 which is an optional feature for any of the headsets 100 of the present disclosure. With respect to the unstressed state, in the stressed state of the headset, the left frame section 102, right frame section 104, front frame section 106 will be generally deformed outwards away from each other.

[0054] The headset 100 comprises a plurality of electrode carriers 110, with associated electrode site 114 and electrode 116 with pins 117. As the electrode carriers 110, electrode sites 114 and electrode 116 are shaped very similar in Figs. 1A-2B, not all are provided with a separate reference sign for legibility of the figures. Similarly, not all electrode carriers 110 and electrode sites 114 are provided with separate reference signs in Fig. 3. In Figs. 1A-3, the headset 100 comprises thirteen electrode carriers 110, of which five are associated with the left frame section 102, five are associated with the right frame section 104, and three are associated with the front frame section 106. In Figs. 1A-3, each electrode carrier 110 is associated with a single electrode site 114 to which a single electrode 116 is or can be connected. Since the electrodes 116 are preferably releasably connected to their electrode site, the headset 100 according to the present disclosure is also envisioned with less or without any electrodes connected thereto.

[0055] For the left frame section 102 and the right frame section 104, as a particular option indicated in Fig. 3, a set of three electrode carriers 110 may protrude away from a single point Pl. The three electrode carriers 110 are generally spaced at intervals of 90 degrees relative to each other, wherein one electrode carrier 110 is generally oriented towards the base. Another set of two electrode carriers generally protrude away from a point P2 on the respective left or right frame section, in generally opposite directions.

[0056] For the front frame section 106, a set of three electrode carriers 110 may protrude away from a point on the front frame section 106. A central electrode carrier in the set is generally oriented towards the base 112 .The left and right electrode carriers in the set are oriented at an approximate 120 degree angle relative to the central electrode carrier, or at least an angle between 90 and 140 degrees.

[0057] A typical distance between the radial outmost parts of the left frame section and the section right section may be between 90 and 150 mm, in particular between 110 and 120 mm, including or excluding the optional covers. This distance may be referred to as the width of the headset.

[0058] A typical distance between the radial outermost part of the front frame section and the base is between 60 and 100 mm, in particular between 70 and 90 mm, or even between 75 and 85 mm.

[0059] As visible in Fig. 1A, to be able to wear the headset while lying down, preferably, any headset 100 disclosed herein does not cover the back of the head of the patient wearing the headset 100. Thus, a volume spanned by the left frame section, the right frame section, and the optional front frame section (excluding the option neck strap connectors 180) is not spherical or ovoid. This shape rather resembles a truncated sphere or truncated ovoid shape, or even a quarter sphere or quarter ovoid. When the frame 101 comprises the front frame section 106, at an opposite side of the frame 101 to where the front frame section 106 is positioned, the frame 101 is essentially free of further frame sections protruding from the base 112. Regardless of whether the frame 101 comprises the front frame section 106, the frame 101 may be essentially free of frame sections protruding from a rear side of the frame, wherein the rear side may be defined as being between the left frame section and the right frame section. In other words, when regarded in a top view, as in Fig. 2A, and the left frame section protrudes from the base at an angle of essentially 180 degrees relative to the right frame section, preferably no frame section protrudes from the section of the base between the left frame section and the right frame section, and opposite from the front frame section.

[0060] In Figs. 1A-2B, the headset 100 is shown comprising an optional left frame cover 162 covering at least part of the left frame section 102. In Figs. 1A-2B, the headset 100 is shown comprising an optional right frame cover 164 covering at least part of the left frame section 102. In Figs. 1A-2B, the headset 100 is shown comprising an optional base cover 160 covering at least part of the base 112. In Figs. 1A-2B, the headset 100 is shown further comprising an optional front cover 168 covering part of the front frame section 106. Fig. 3 shows the headset 100 without the left frame cover 162, without the right frame cover 164, without the front cover 168 and without the base cover 160. Although not depicted in the drawings, cables may run between each electrode and the cable connector 118. These cables may at least in part run between a frame section to which the electrode is connected and the respective cover of said frame section. For the front frame section, the cables may run over an inner surface of the front frame section 106 - i.e. the surface generally facing towards the left and right frame sections.

[0061] Figs. 4A-4C respectively depict the base cover 160, the front cover 168, and the left frame cover 162 and right frame cover 164. In Fig. 4C, an example of an inward facing protrusion 169 is indicated which can be used to couple a cover to the frame 101, in particular to a cover connectors 166. The protrusion 169 can for example be inserted into the cover connector 166. Any of the covers may comprise any number of the protrusions 169. Any cover may be slid onto the frame via the protrusions.

[0062] In Fig. 3, a number of cover connectors 166 are indicated. It will be appreciated that legibility of the figure, not all cover connectors are provided with a separate reference sign. In general, a cover connector 166 is use to connect a cover, such as the left frame cover 162, the right frame cover 164, or the base cover 160, to the frame 101. The connection may be a interference fit connection, a snap-fit connection, a clamped connection, a threaded connection for example using one or more bolts or screws and / or any other preferably releasable connection. As such, a cover may be readily disconnected from the frame 101, for example for replacement of cleaning. The cover connectors 166 generally protrude from the frame 101, away from the respective frame section from which the cover connector 166 protrudes and away from a centre of the headset 100 - i.e. generally radially outward. Any cover connector 166 may comprise a pocket into which a protrusion 169 of a cover can be received. Any cover connector 166 may comprise one or more slits therein allowing radial expansion of the cover connector when a protrusion is inserted therein.

[0063] As an optional feature for any headset 100, and depicted for example in Fig. 1A, the headset 100 comprises two neck strap connectors 180. One neck strap connector 180 is connected to the left frame section 102, in particular at or near a distal end of the left frame section 102. The other neck strap connector 180 is connected to the right frame section 104, in particular at or near a distal end of the right frame section 104. A neck strap (not shown) may in use be connected between the neck strap connectors 180. The neck strap can be wrapped behind the neck and / or head of the user wearing the headset 100, to further fixate the headset 100 on the head. The neck strap connectors 180 may be provided as separate parts, separate from the frame 101. The neck strap connectors 180 are thus not depicted in Fig. 3.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively to the neck strap connector, thus as a further option for any headset 100, and depicted for example in Fig. 3, the headset 100 comprises two chin strap connectors 122. One chin strap connector 122 is connected to the left frame section 102, or comprised by the left frame section 102. This chin strap connector 122 is typically positioned at or near the distal end of the left frame section 102. The other chin strap connector 122 is connected to the right frame section 104, or comprised by the right frame section 104. This chin strap connector 122 is typically positioned at or near the distal end of the right frame section 104. In use, a chin strap (not shown) can be connected between the chin strap connectors 122. The chin strap can be wrapped under the chin of the patient wearing the headset 100. As shown in Fig. 7A as illustrative example, chin strap connectors 122 may be formed as longitudinal openings having a respective wider section adjacent a narrower section, wherein the wider section can facilitate removal and subsequent reassembly of the chin strap, in particular to facilitate cleaning.

[0065] In general, the neck strap and / or chin strap can be connected respectively to the neck strap connectors or the chin strap connectors using a clamped connection, by wrapping the strap around one or both of the respective connectors, using a hook-and-loop fastener, by any releasable connection, or any combination thereof. The neck strap and / or chin strap may be formed by webbing and / or may be adjustable in size. The neck strap and chin strap may have a different size and / or general appearance to allow a user to convenient distinguish between the neck strap and the chin strap.

[0066] Since the headset 100 is arranged for obtaining brain activity data, in particular electronic signals indicative of the brain activity data, it is an object to transfer the brain activity data to an electronic processing device. Fig. IB schematically shows the headset 100 together with an electronic processing device 302, which together form a portable EEG system 300 for example for use in an ambulance or in a hospital. The electronic processing device 302 is connected to the headset 100 to receive brain activity data via a data cable 304. The data cable 304 is preferably releasably connected to a cable connector 118 of the headset 100 - which is indicated in Fig. 3. The cable 304 may be connected to the cable connector 118 with a connector 128.

[0067] Optionally, for example to increase the portability of the system 300, a battery 306 is provided for powering the electronic processing device 302. With the battery 306, preferably no further power source is required for obtaining the brain activity data using the headset 100.

[0068] Fig. 5 shows a very schematic overview of a head 200 of a patient, on which head 200 an EEG headset 100 according to the present disclosure is worn. The EEG headset 100 is schematically depicted in Fig. 5, schematically indicating different features of the headset 100 and their mutual interactions and connections. Fig. 5 is divided into two halves via separation line 201. Left from the separation line 201, a second embodiment of the headset 100 is depicted in conjunction with the right frame section 104, and right from the separation line 201, a third embodiment of the headset 100 is depicted in conjunction with the left frame section 102. It will be understood that features disclosed in conjunction with the first, second, and third embodiments may be readily combined and interchanged to form further embodiments. Although not depicted, the second and third embodiment of the headset 100 may further any front frame section as disclosed herein.

[0069] Typically, an EEG headset 100 is essentially symmetrical over the line 201. The second embodiment may be formed by mirroring the left side of the headset 100 to the right side over the line 201. The third embodiment may be formed by mirroring the right side of the headset 100 to the left side over the line 201. Since Fig. 5 is a front view of the head 200, for the patient, the left hand side corresponds to the right hand side in Fig. 5.

[0070] The headset 100 comprises a frame 101 with a base 112, a left frame section 102, and a right frame section 104. The left frame section 102 is hingedly connected to the base 112 via a first hinging connection 103. The right frame section 104 is hingedly connected to the base via a second hinging connection 105. The first hinging connection 103 and second hinging connection 105 are preferably elastic hinging connections.

[0071] As with any hinging connection of the present disclosure, the first hinging connection 103 and the second hinging connection 105 express a particular hinging stiffness. As a particular preference also depicted in conjunction with Fig. 4, the left frame section 102 and the right frame section 104 are coupled only via the base 112 of the frame 101.

[0072] As indicated in Fig. 5, a first electrode carrier 110’ is hingedly connected to the left frame section 102 via a third hinging connection 107. A second electrode carrier 110” is hingedly connected to the right frame section 104 via a fourth hinging connection 109. In general, it is preferred that a hinging stiffness with which an electrode carrier is hingedly connected to its respective frame section is lower than the hinging stiffness with which the respective frame section is hingedly connected to the base. However, it is also conceivable that, for any electrode carrier, a hinging stiffness with which the electrode carrier is hingedly connected to its respective frame section is higher than the hinging stiffness with which the respective frame section is hingedly connected to the base. More in general, for any electrode carrier, a hinging stiffness with which the electrode carrier is hingedly connected to its respective frame section is different than the hinging stiffness with which the respective frame section is hingedly connected to the base. The hinging connection with the higher hinging stiffness may be used to secure the headset onto the head of the patient, while the hinging connection with the lower hinging stiffness may be used to increase comfort for the patient wearing the headset.

[0073] As depicted in Fig. 5, the electrode carriers 110 typically each comprise an electrode site 114 for connecting an electrode 116 to. However, it is readily envisioned that a single electrode carriers 110 has two, three, or more electrode sites 114 each for connecting one or more electrodes to.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 5, as a particular option for any electrode carrier 110 of any headset 100, reference is made to the first electrode carrier 110’ which is hingedly connected to the left frame section 102 as its respective frame section. The third hinging connection 107 is generally oriented towards the base 112. This is an alternative to for example the second electrode carrier 110”, of which the fourth hinging connection 109 generally faces away from the base 112. A similar first electrode carrier 110’ is also indicated in Fig. 1A. A similar second electrode carrier 110” is also indicated in Fig. 1A. The third hinging connection 107 may be connected to the left frame section 102 at or near the distal end 132 of the left frame section 102.

[0075] In use, the first electrode carrier 110’ will typically be hinged generally towards the left frame section 102. On the contrary, the second electrode carrier 110” will typically be hinged generally away from the right frame section 104.

[0076] In general, instead of or in addition to the hinging connection between an electrode carrier and its respective frame section, a compressive connection may be provided between any electrode carrier and its respective frame section. Such a compressive connection may be elastically compressed in use, and may have a stiffness expressed in N / mm. A compressive connection may be formed by any type of spring or elastic material. In use, the compressive connection may allow the force to be tuned with which an electrode associated with the electrode carrier is forced against the head of the patient wearing the headset.

[0077] Figs. 6A and 6B very schematically show a first example of an electrode 116 engaging the head 200 of a patient. Figs. 6C and 6D very schematically show a second example of an electrode 116 engaging the head 200 of a patient. In both examples, the electrode 116 is connected to an electrode carrier 110. The electrode carrier 110 is hingedly connected to any frame section of any headset of the present disclosure. The section of the head 200 depicted may thus be any part of the head of the patient, including but not limited to a side or front of the head. Typically, the section of the head 200 will be curved. In both examples, the electrode 116 comprises a plurality of pins 117, of which two outer pins 117’, 117” are provided with a reference sign. Between the situations of Fig. 6A and 6B, and between the situations of Fig. 6C and 6D, the electrode is first only partially engaged with the head 200, and next fully engaged with the head 200. When partially engaged, not all pins 117 of the electrode 116 contact the head 200. When fully engaged, preferably all pins 117 of the electrode 116 contact the head 200.

[0078] The inventor has found that when only a part of the pins 117 to contact the head 200 first, and the rest of the pins only contact the head 200 after the first pins contacted the head, better contact between the pins 117 and the head 200 can be obtained and / or a better EEG signal can be obtained. This applies in particular when the pins have to pass through hair of the patient, in particular dense hair. The pins may thus be rolled onto the head.

[0079] In the first example of Fig. 6A and 6B, a tilting and / or rotating of the electrode 116 relative to the electrode carrier 110 allows for the first outer pin 117’ to engaged the head 200 before the second outer pin 117” engages the head 200.

[0080] In the second example of Fig. 6C and 6D, a tilting and / or rotating of the electrode carrier 110 relative to the frame section to which it is connected (not depicted) allows for the first outer pin 117’ to engaged the head 200 before the second outer pin 117” engages the head 200.

[0081] In other words, referring to the movement of the electrode 116 between the situations of Fig. 6A and 6B, and between the situations of Fig. 6C and 6D, the electrode 116 can be regarded as moving over a path which is at an angle relative to the normal of the face 200.

[0082] As a general feature of the present disclosure, depicted in Figs. 6A- 6D, any electrode 116 may be oriented at an angle relative to the respective electrode carrier 110 to which the electrode is connected. Similarly, as for example visible in Fig. IB, any electrode base may be oriented at an angle relative to the respective frame section to which the electrode carrier is connected. It will be understood that for any electrode of the present disclosure, a combination of the electrode tilting and / or rotating relative to the electrode carrier and the electrode carrier tilting and / or rotating relative to the frame section.

[0083] Figs. 6A-6D will be understood as depicting a method in which an EEG headset is positioned onto the head 200 of a patient. The method comprises a step of providing an EEG headset comprising at least one electrode, the electrode comprising a plurality of electrode pins. The EEG headset may be any headset of the present disclosure. The method further comprises a step of positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, such that a first outer electrode pin 117’ contacts the head 200 prior to a second outer electrode pin 117” contacting the head. The electrode pins 117 may be regarded as being subsequently rolled onto the head 200. Prior to the first electrode pin 117’ contacting the head 200, the electrode carrier 110 with which the first electrode pin 117’ is connected to its respective frame section is preferably essentially unstressed.

[0084] It shall be appreciated that electrode carriers can be shaped to provide desired mechanical properties, in particular stiffness and strength, in relevant directions. For example, as illustration, in the variation of Fig. 7 A, the electrode carriers 110 are shaped with a substantially uniform cross- sectional shape, in particular width, along their length so as to provide additional stiffness and strength compared to e.g. the shape of the electrode carriers as seen in Fig. 3, where the cross section and width varies along the length, in particular with a relatively narrow central width. Additionally or alternatively, stiffness and strength can be influenced e.g. by choice of material and / or reinforcements.

[0085] It has been observed that manual repositioning of an electrode may be required, after positioning the headset onto the head of the patient. Manual repositioning may in particular id in correctly passing one or more pins of an electrode through hair of the patient - in particular in cases of thick hair. A pin which is only moved generally normal to the head onto the head may be accidentally placed onto the hair, without actually contacting the skin of the head.

[0086] To aid an operator in correctly positioning electrodes, in particular the pins, onto the head of the patients, for any electrode, it is preferred that the electrode is accessible for the operator when the headset is already positioned onto the head of the patient. To facilitate the access, the frame of the headset may comprising one or more frame passages through the frame. A frame passage is typically aligned with an electrode side and / or electrode.

[0087] As a particular example of a frame passage, reference is made to Fig. 3. As a first option, in Fig. 3, the front frame section 106 comprises a front frame passage 192. The front frame passage 192 is aligned with a particular electrode site 114” such that the electrode site 114” can be reached through the front frame passage 192. For example, as for any frame passage, one or more fingers of an operator can pass through the frame passage.

[0088] As another particular example of a frame passage, a left frame passage 190 is indicated in Fig. 3. The left frame passage 190 is formed through the left frame section 102. The left frame passage 190 is aligned with another particular electrode site 114”’, such that the electrode site 114”’ can be reached through the left frame passage 190. An yet another example, indicated in Fig. 3, a right frame passage 194 is indicated in Fig. 3.

[0089] Any frame passage may be formed as a through -hole through a respective frame section, or as a cut-out or carve-out, of any shape, into the respective frame section.

[0090] Additionally, or alternatively, to facilitate access to an electrode when the headset is already positioned onto the head of the patient, any cover of the headset may comprises one or more cover passages through said cover. As a first example, as for example indicate in Fig. 4C, a first cover passage 191 allows passage through the left frame cover 191. As a second example, a second cover passage 195 allows passage through the right frame cover 164. As indicated for example in Fig. 2B, the first cover passage 191 is aligned with the left frame passage 190 and the second cover passage 195 is aligned with the right frame passage 194. As such, an operator can simultaneously reach through the first cover passage 191 and the left frame passage 190 or the second cover passage 195 and the right frame passage 194.

[0091] Any cover passage may be formed as a through-hole through a respective cover, or as a cut-out or carve-out, of any shape, into the respective cover. As shown in Fig. 7B as illustrative example, cover passages, e.g. optional further cover passages 196 and / or aforementioned cover passages, may be shaped according to part or all of a teardrop shape. Such a shape can facilitate outward movement of a connecting portion of an electrode carrier 110 so as to provide additional outward freedom of movement for the respective electrode. In particular, the optional teardrop shape is thereto directed in accordance with a direction in which the connecting portion of the electrode carrier 110 extends from the electrode.

[0092] For any electrode and / or electrode site which extend beyond the frame, it may not be required to provide any passage through the frame. These electrodes and / or electrode sites can be reached by reaching around the frame.

[0093] For the sake of clarity of the drawing, some reference signs have been omitted from Figs. 7 A and 7B, showing parts of a variation of the EEG headset of Figs. 1A to 4C, in particular where the presence of shown corresponding elements is readily apparent from Figs. 1A to 4C and associated explanations herein.

Claims

Claims1. An EEG headset (100) for obtaining brain activity data, comprising a frame (101), with: a base (112); a left frame section (102); a right frame section (104); wherein the left frame section and the right frame section are hingedly connected to the base; and wherein each frame section comprises: at least one electrode site (114) for connecting an electrode (116) to and / or at least one electrode (116).

2. The EEG headset according to claim 1, further comprising a front frame section (106), which front frame section is hingedly connected to the base and comprises at least one electrode site (114) for connecting an electrode (116) to and / or at least one electrode.

3. The EEG headset (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the frame sections (102, 104, 106) are elastically hingedly connected to the base.

4. The EEG headset (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the left frame section (102), the right frame section (104), and the front frame (106) are coupled only via the base (112) of the frame (101).

5. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the frame sections comprises a plurality of electrode carriers (110) which are hingedly connected to the respective frame section, and which electrode carriers (110) each comprise at least one of the at least one electrode site (114) and / or at least one of the at least one electrode (116).

6. The EEG headset (100) according to any of claims 1-4, wherein at least two frame sections comprise a plurahty of electrode carriers (110) which are hingedly connected to the respective frame section, and which electrode carriers (110) each comprise at least one of the at least one electrode site (114) and / or at least one of the at least one electrode (116).

7. The EEG headset (100) according to claim 2, wherein all three frame sections (102, 104, 106) comprise a plurality of electrode carriers (110) which are hingedly connected to the respective frame section, and which electrode carriers each comprise at least one of the at least one electrode site (114) and / or at least one of the at least one electrode (116).

8. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a hinging stiffness with which at least one electrode carrier (110) is hingedly connected to the respective frame section is lower than the hinging stiffness with which the respective frame section is hingedly connected to the base.

9. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the claims 5-8, wherein the at least one of the at least one electrode site (114) and / or the at least one of the at least one electrode (116) of at least one electrode carrier in the plurality of electrode carriers is positioned at or near a distal end of the respective electrode carrier.

10. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the claims 5-9, wherein at least one electrode carrier in the plurality of electrode carriers is curved inwards into a volume spanned by the left frame section and right frame section.

11. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the claims 5-10, wherein at least one electrode carrier in the plurality of electrode carriers comprises an electrode with an electrode base and a plurality of electrode pins extending from the base, wherein the electrode base is oriented at an angle relative to the respective frame section to which the electrode carrier is connected.

12. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising two chin strap connectors (122) for coupling a chin strap at or near respective distal ends of the left frame section and the right frame section.

13. The EEG headset (100) according to claim 12, further comprising a chin strap connected to the chin strap connectors.

14. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a cable connector (118) on the base.

15. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one electrode which is removably connected to an electrode site.

16. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a base cover (160) connected to the base and covering at least part of the base.

17. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the claims 2-16, to the extent dependent on claim 2, further comprising a front cover (168) connected to the front frame section and covering at least part of the front frame section.

18. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a left frame cover (162) connected to the left frame section and covering at least part of the left frame section and / or a right frame cover (164) connected to the right frame section and covering at least part of the right frame section.

19. The EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a left frame passage (190) through the left frame section, which left frame passage is aligned with an electrode site, and / or a right frame passage (194) through the right frame section, which right frame passage is aligned with another electrode site.

20. The EEG headset (100) according to claim 18, further comprising a first cover passage (191) through the left frame cover (162) and / or a second cover passage (195) through the right frame cover (164).

21. The EEG headset (100) according to claim 20, to the extent dependent on claim 19, wherein the left frame passage (190) is aligned with the first cover passage (191) and / or the right frame passage (194) is aligned with the second cover passage (195).

22. A portable EEG system (300) for use in an ambulance, comprising: an EEG headset (100) according to any of the preceding claims; and an electronic processing device (302), connectable to the EEG headset to receive brain activity data from the EEG headset.

23. The portable EEG system according to claim 22, to the extent dependent on claim 14, wherein the electronic processing device is connected to the EEG headset via a data cable (304) releasably connected to the cable connector (118).

24. The portable EEG system according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising a battery (306) for powering the electronic processing device.

25. Method of positioning an EEG headset onto a patient, the method comprising: providing an EEG headset comprising at least one electrode, the electrode comprising a plurality of electrode pins; and positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, such that a first outer electrode pin (117’) contacts the head prior to a second outer electrode pin (117”) contacting the head.

26. Method according to claim 25, wherein the EEG headset is an EEG headset (100) according to any of the claims 1-21.

27. Method according to claim 25 or 26, further comprising connecting a data cable to a cable connector of the headset after positioning the headset onto the head of the patient.

28. Method according to any of the claims 25-27, further comprising, prior to positioning the headset onto the head of the patient, connecting an electrode to at least one, preferably all, electrode sites of the headset.

29. Method according to any of the claims 25-28, wherein at least one electrode is rolled onto the head of the patient.

30. Method according to any of the claims 25-29, further comprising adjusting the at least one electrode after positioning the headset onto the head of the patient by reaching through a frame passage of the headset.

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