Leadless EEG Sensor with Integrated Circuitry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current EEG measurement methods are cumbersome and prone to signal distortion due to wire tangling and installation time constraints, making them inconvenient for emergency and mobile applications.
Innovation Solution
Development of small, self-contained EEG sensors with integrated electrodes, amplifiers, and wireless transmission capabilities that securely attach to the scalp without the need for extensive wiring, allowing for rapid and distortion-free data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple distinct electrodes are affixed to the scalp with wire connections, then EEG signal acquisition is achieved, but installation time increases and wire tangling causes signal distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electrodes (at least three EEG electrodes) and the amplifier into a single integrated sensor unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate wire connections between electrodes and the amplifier, reducing installation time while maintaining signal quality through integrated differential amplification that rejects common-mode noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an electrode array for signal acquisition, an amplifier for signal conditioning, and a wireless transmitter for data communication. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate components and connections, thereby reducing installation complexity and time.
2Productivity
If multiple distinct electrodes with wire connections are used, then EEG data can be collected, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to wiring requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the electrode assembly, amplifier, analog-to-digital converter, and wireless transmitter into a single portable sensor unit. This consolidation eliminates complex wiring requirements while maintaining full EEG data acquisition capability, making the system easier to operate in mobile and emergency settings.
3Reliability
If multiple distinct electrodes with wire connections are used, then EEG signals can be amplified, but device complexity increases due to separate components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the differential amplifier and analog-to-digital converter into a single integrated circuit within the sensor unit. This reduces the number of discrete components and interconnections while maintaining reliable signal amplification and digitization capabilities through monolithic integration.
Data Source
AI summary
Single-unit EEG sensors contain multiple closely spaced dry electrodes that can hook onto skin and associated electronic circuitry such as amplifiers, A/D convertors, wireless transmitters, and a power source such as a battery. The electrodes can be separated by about 20 mm or less, and the associated circuitry can be situated within a volume defined by the multiple electrodes. The single-unit sensors hook onto the skin using a tooth surface so that a rotation of the sensor secures and electrically connects the sensor to the skin.