Dry EEG Electrode with Vibration Element for Scalp Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conductive gel is cumbersome to apply for EEG signal detection, prompting the need for a dry electrode solution that ensures effective contact between the electrode and the scalp without gel.
Innovation Solution
A dry electrode with a brush-like sensor and an attaching device that uses a vibration element and adjustable straps to secure the electrode through scalp hair, eliminating the need for gel and allowing for secure, adjustable placement on different head sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conductive gel is applied between the scalp and the electrode, then reliable electrical contact is achieved, but the application process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the conductive gel from the system entirely, replacing it with a dry electrode that achieves electrical contact through mechanical pressure and direct skin contact. The electrode body is designed to press against the scalp through hair, eliminating the need for gel application while maintaining reliable electrical contact for EEG signal detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vibration element as an intermediary mechanism to enhance contact between the electrode and scalp. The vibration element generates mechanical vibrations that help the electrode penetrate through scalp hair and achieve stable contact with the skin surface, replacing the mediating function previously performed by conductive gel.
2Ease of operation
If a dry electrode is used to eliminate gel, then application convenience is improved, but ensuring reliable contact through scalp hair becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a vibration element that generates mechanical vibrations to assist the dry electrode in penetrating through scalp hair and achieving reliable contact with the skin. The vibrations help overcome the barrier of hair and sebum, enabling the electrode to establish stable electrical contact without requiring conductive gel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the electrode contact mechanism by applying dynamic mechanical pressure through vibration rather than static pressure. This parameter change enables the electrode to effectively penetrate through variable hair conditions and maintain reliable contact across different users and scalp conditions.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed electrode design is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different head sizes and shapes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable straps and flexible mounting mechanisms that allow the electrode position and pressure to be dynamically adjusted to fit different head sizes and shapes. The straps can be tightened or loosened to accommodate various head circumferences, while the flexible mounting allows adaptation to different head contours, maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and user adaptability.
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 reliable EEG signal detection without gel, providing secure electrode contact and easy adjustment for various head shapes, enhancing user convenience and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
the body (11) may include a vibration element (16) and a connector (17) which transfers a vibration of the vibration element (16) to the sensor (12)... By means of the vibration, the sensor (12), in particular the pins (15) of the sensor (12), is/are moved through hair of the scalp
Data Source
AI summary
An electrode for detecting EEG signals comprises a body comprising a fixture on a first end of the body, and a sensor detachably held by the fixture, wherein the body has an external thread in a portion of the body extending from the first end of the body towards a second end of the body, and the sensor has a brush-like shape with pins protruding off the body. The electrode may be held by an attaching device for holding electrodes for detecting EEG signals, the attaching device comprising a strap including a plurality of holes for accommodating electrodes and a rotary closure connecting a first end of the strap and a second end of the strap.