EEG Headset EMI Shielding and Adjustable Electrodes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing EEG headsets face challenges in accuracy due to factors like electrode placement, contact integrity, and electrical interference, making them less reliable for effectively detecting brain signals.

Innovation Solution

The EEG headset apparatus features a conductive EMI shield, adjustable electrode assemblies, and a chin strap with a conductive contact element, providing electromagnetic shielding and customizable fit to reduce interference and improve signal accuracy, allowing for single-handed use and adaptability across various head shapes and sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional EEG headsets are used without EMI shielding, then the device structure remains simple, but electromagnetic interference reduces measurement accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEEG signal accuracyVSAvoidheadset structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements EMI shielding by nesting a conductive shield layer within the existing headset structure. The shield is positioned between the electrodes and the external environment, effectively blocking electromagnetic interference while maintaining the original headset form factor and not requiring complete structural redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The conductive EMI shield acts as an intermediary element between the brain signals and the external electromagnetic environment. It intercepts and redirects electromagnetic interference away from the sensitive electrode-skin interface, protecting the measurement process without directly altering the biological signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed electrode assemblies are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to different head shapes and sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefit for various head shapesVSAvoidelectrode assembly installation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs adjustable electrode assemblies that can be dynamically repositioned along the headset band to accommodate different head circumferences and shapes. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the same headset to fit multiple users with varying head dimensions without requiring custom manufacturing for each individual.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode assemblies are designed as separate, modular units that can be independently adjusted and repositioned. This segmentation allows flexible configuration of electrode positions to match different head geometries while maintaining standardized manufacturing processes for each modular component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the headset requires two hands for adjustment, then precise fitting is achieved, but ease of operation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesingle-handed useVSAvoidfitting accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The headset incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms that allow users to achieve proper fit with minimal manual intervention. The adjustable electrode assemblies and flexible band design enable the device to self-conform to the user's head shape, reducing the need for complex two-handed adjustment procedures while maintaining fitting accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 enhances EEG accuracy by minimizing electromagnetic interference and muscle movement-induced inaccuracies, making the headset user-friendly and suitable for home use, with improved adaptability and reduced need for clinical assistance.

Implementation Method 1

The conductive EMI shield is configured to operate as an EMI shield

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Implementation Method 2

a conductive wire electrically coupled to the conductive EMI shield and configured to conduct energy received from the conductive EMI shield to a region of the human that is distinct from sites recording the brain signal information

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

The conductive periphery is in electrical communication with the EMI shield, and in physical contact with the skin of the human

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction through contact: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentEP3151742B1Brain-computer interface headset
Publication Date: 2024.02.28 NEUROLUTIONS
  • EP3151742B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3151742B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3151742B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3C

AI summary

Users of brain-computer interface (BCI) systems wear an electroencephalography (EEG) headset that places multiple electrodes in contact with the scalp of the user. The EEG headsets provided herein provide user convenience and EEG accuracy. For example, the positioning of the EEG electrodes is readily adjustable to provide a customizable fit with various head shapes and sizes, and to conveniently provide repeatable electrode-to-scalp contact. Further, EEG accuracy is improved by integrating electromagnetic shielding into the EEG headset to reduce electromagnetic interference.