Integrated Forehead Sensor for EEG and Brain Oximetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cerebral oximetry technologies are costly and limited by the small space on a patient's forehead, making it difficult to place multiple sensors for accurate depth of consciousness monitoring, and there is a need for a more cost-effective and ergonomic solution that integrates brain oxygenation and EEG monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A combination forehead sensor with EEG and brain oximetry components, including a reusable portion with circuitry and a disposable portion with electrodes, that can be positioned ergonomically above the eyebrows, transforming a conventional pulse oximeter into a brain oximetry unit with software for data processing and display, and utilizing low-cost optical benches with self-contained detectors and light integrators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are placed on the forehead for accurate depth of consciousness monitoring, then measurement precision is improved, but the limited space on the forehead makes it difficult to place multiple sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines EEG electrodes and cerebral oximetry sensors into a single integrated forehead sensor assembly. This merging allows multiple monitoring functions to be achieved within the limited forehead space, resolving the contradiction between needing multiple sensors for accurate monitoring and the limited available space on the forehead.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor serves multiple functions simultaneously - it performs both EEG monitoring and cerebral oximetry measurements. This multi-functionality allows the single sensor assembly to provide comprehensive depth of consciousness monitoring without requiring separate sensors, thus accommodating the limited forehead space while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If conventional cerebral oximetry technologies are used, then brain oxygenation monitoring is achieved, but the cost is prohibitively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable EEG electrodes and utilizes existing pulse oximeter hardware that can be repurposed for cerebral oximetry. By using disposable components and existing equipment rather than expensive dedicated cerebral oximetry systems, the cost of brain oxygenation monitoring is significantly reduced while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repurposes existing pulse oximeter hardware to perform cerebral oximetry functions. This multi-functionality allows the same equipment to serve both peripheral oxygen saturation monitoring and brain oxygenation monitoring, eliminating the need for expensive dedicated cerebral oximetry equipment and thereby reducing costs.
3Device complexity
If EEG and brain oximetry are integrated into a single sensor, then device complexity is reduced and ergonomics are improved, but the integration of multiple components into the limited forehead space becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges EEG electrodes and cerebral oximetry sensors into a single integrated assembly that can be positioned on the forehead. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components that need to be managed and connected, simplifying the overall system while fitting within the limited forehead space.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor assembly is designed to be positioned in the temporal region above the eyebrows, utilizing the three-dimensional space available on the forehead rather than attempting to spread components across the surface. This dimensional approach allows multiple sensor components to be housed in a compact configuration that fits within the limited forehead area.
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
This solution provides accurate and cost-effective monitoring of brain oxygenation and depth of consciousness by integrating EEG and brain oximetry, allowing for seamless integration with existing pulse oximeters and reducing hardware costs while enhancing patient comfort and safety.
Implementation Method 1
sensors on the body, in this case on the forehead, that emit radiation and detect the radiation after attenuation by body tissue
Implementation Method 2
the detectors output signals representing the detected attenuated radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sensor for monitoring the depth of consciousness of a patient. The sensor includes a plurality of light sources, light detectors, and in some embodiments, electrodes. In an embodiment, the sensor includes reusable and disposable portions.