Closed-Loop Neurostimulation with EEG and fNIRS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neurostimulation techniques lack real-time feedback and simultaneous recording capabilities, leading to potential misalignment and inefficiencies in targeting specific brain regions for stimulation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a combination of EEG and fNIRS electrodes for real-time monitoring and adjustment of neurostimulation, allowing for simultaneous stimulation and recording, with a targeted arrangement of electrodes to focus effects on specific neural regions while providing feedback on temporal and region-specific neural changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current neurostimulation techniques are used, then stimulation can be applied to brain regions, but real-time feedback and simultaneous recording capabilities are lacking, leading to potential misalignment and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing modalities (EEG for temporal information, fNIRS for spatial information) and neurostimulation (tDCS) into a single integrated system. This merging allows simultaneous recording and stimulation through a unified device platform, enabling real-time feedback control while maintaining coordinated operation of multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The neural device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a stimulation device (tDCS electrodes) and a recording device (EEG and fNIRS sensors). This universal design allows the same device to perform multiple functions - delivering electrical stimulation, recording electrical activity, and recording hemodynamic changes - thereby enabling closed-loop control without requiring separate specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If brain imaging and planning occurs after stimulation, then post-stimulation analysis can be performed, but simultaneous stimulation and recording is not allowed, limiting real-time adjustment capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by establishing the complete sensing and stimulation platform before stimulation begins. EEG electrodes and fNIRS sensors are positioned and calibrated in advance, allowing immediate simultaneous recording and stimulation from the start of the protocol, eliminating post-hoc analysis delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring neural activity through EEG and fNIRS during stimulation, then using this real-time information to adjust stimulation parameters. The closed-loop system processes feedback signals and modifies stimulation delivery based on observed neural responses, enabling dynamic adaptation throughout the stimulation session.
3Manufacturing precision
If a targeted arrangement of electrodes is used, then stimulation effects can be focused on specific neural regions, but the device complexity and electrode placement requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a targeted arrangement of electrodes specifically positioned to focus stimulation on the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex and motor cortex. The EEG and fNIRS sensors are strategically placed over these specific brain regions to maximize recording sensitivity where it is most needed, rather than uniform distribution across the entire scalp.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds spatial dimensionality by combining fNIRS sensors that provide spatially-resolved information about hemodynamic changes in specific brain regions. This spatial dimension complements the temporal resolution of EEG, creating a multi-dimensional sensing capability that enhances precision in targeting and monitoring specific neural regions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and adaptive neurostimulation by adjusting parameters in real-time based on recorded neural activity, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of neural changes, and allowing for individualized and optimized stimulation settings.
Implementation Method 1
provides feedback of both temporal neural changes and region specific neural changes via electroencephalogram (EEG) electrodes
Implementation Method 2
provides feedback of both temporal neural changes and region specific neural changes via functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) electrodes
Implementation Method 3
current techniques use a combination of electroencephalogram (EEG)/transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS)
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a system for automatic adjustment of neurostimulation. The system controls stimulation of specific neural regions through a neural device positioned on a human subject, while simultaneously performing recordings from the neural device using a targeted arrangement of stimulating electrodes and distinct types of recording electrodes of the neural device. Stimulation of the specific neural regions is adjusted in real-time based on the recordings from the neural device.