EEG-fNIRS Sensor Module with Conductive Pins for Scalp Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-invasive biosignal activity measurement systems, particularly EEG and NIRS, are limited by the need for bulky equipment, long light fibers, costly lasers, and large power supplies, which hinder portability and comfort during long-term use, and struggle with hair interference and optical isolation.
Innovation Solution
A compact dual-modality EEG and fNIRS sensor module with flexible, conductive pins that integrate both light and electrical conductivity, featuring a conductive mesh and transparent silicone core, allowing simultaneous signal acquisition and wireless communication, reducing the need for extensive light fibers and power sources, and incorporating a holder arrangement for wearable applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional EEG and NIRS systems are used, then measurement capability is achieved, but device portability and user comfort deteriorate due to bulky equipment and long light fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines EEG electrodes and NIRS optical components into a single integrated sensor module, merging electrical and optical measurement functions into one compact unit. This integration eliminates the need for separate bulky equipment and long light fibers, directly improving portability while maintaining both measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module performs multiple functions simultaneously - it conducts both EEG electrical signal acquisition and NIRS optical measurement through the same integrated structure. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity and equipment size compared to using separate dedicated devices for each measurement type.
2Measurement precision
If conventional NIRS light sources and detectors are used, then optical measurement is achieved, but device cost and power consumption increase due to costly lasers and large power supplies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive laser light sources with cost-effective LED (light-emitting diode) sources for NIRS measurement. LEDs are significantly cheaper to manufacture and consume less power, making the device more affordable and suitable for portable applications while maintaining adequate measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If standard EEG electrodes are used, then electrical signal acquisition is achieved, but optical isolation and measurement quality deteriorate due to hair interference
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module uses multiple discrete pins protruding from the electrode base, each serving specific functions (electrical contact, optical guidance). This segmentation allows the pins to physically separate and push aside hair, creating clear pathways for both electrical contact and optical signal transmission, thereby eliminating hair interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent pins act as intermediaries that guide optical signals from the NIRS components to the scalp while simultaneously serving as electrical contacts for EEG measurement. These pins physically displace hair and provide a controlled interface that ensures both optical and electrical signal quality.
4Productivity
If integrated EEG-NIRS sensor is used, then simultaneous measurement from same brain region is achieved, but pin design complexity increases due to dual light and electrical conductivity requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The pins are constructed using composite materials or structures that possess both optical transparency (for light guidance) and electrical conductivity (for EEG signal acquisition). This composite design enables dual functionality within a single simple pin structure, achieving simultaneous measurement without excessive design complexity.
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
The solution enables lightweight, comfortable, and cost-effective simultaneous EEG and fNIRS signal acquisition, improving measurement quality by adapting to the scalp and providing optical isolation, while reducing power consumption and eliminating the need for bulky equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of pins comprises pins that can conduct both light and electricity
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of pins comprises an outer electrically conductive surface or layer with an inner waveguide core
Implementation Method 3
the inner core comprises a transparent silicone
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a sensor, a system, and a holder arrangement for biosignal activity measurement. One example embodiment includes a sensor module for brain activity measurement. The sensor module includes a main electrode base. The sensor module also includes a plurality of pins protruding from the main electrode base. The plurality of pins is arranged such that, when applied on a subject, the pins make contact with skin of the subject or are in close proximity with the skin of the subject. The main electrode base comprises electronic circuitry for near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) measurements and electronic circuitry for electroencephalography (EEG) measurements, both connected to the plurality of pins. The plurality of pins includes electrically conductive pins. The plurality of pins also includes at least one source waveguide pin configured for light emitting purposes or at least one detector waveguide pin configured for light detection purposes.