Modular fNIRS Head Probe with Integrated Position Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) systems face challenges such as bulkiness, limited portability, and the need for expensive external 3D tracking systems, which hinder their use outside laboratory settings, and they lack continuous non-invasive monitoring and high spatiotemporal resolution for in-vivo brain dynamics.
Innovation Solution
A modular, wearable, and wireless fNIRS head probe system with flexible modules that integrate position sensors and light sources/detectors, allowing for 3D position tracking and motion data collection, enabling accurate tomographic reconstructions and high image accuracy, and can be easily reconfigured to cover various brain regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fNIRS systems use bulky fiber-based connections and cart-sized optical instruments, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but portability and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fNIRS measurement function into separate wireless modules (light sources and detectors) that can be independently positioned on the head, eliminating the need for bulky fiber-based connections while maintaining measurement accuracy through wireless optical communication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical fiber-optic connection system with wireless optical communication between modular components, eliminating physical constraints and improving portability while preserving the ability to perform accurate brain activity measurements
2Measurement precision
If external 3D tracking systems (e.g., Polhemus scanner) are used to obtain accurate 3D source/detector positions, then tomographic reconstruction accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the 3D position tracking functionality directly into the fNIRS head probe modules, merging previously separate functions (position tracking and optical measurement) into integrated wireless modules that automatically provide both position data and hemodynamic measurements without requiring external tracking systems
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless modular components serve multiple functions simultaneously: they emit/detect light for fNIRS measurements, track their own 3D positions, and communicate wirelessly with the control unit, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices
3Measurement precision
If traditional fNIRS systems require lengthy positioning and setup procedures, then measurement accuracy is ensured, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless modular components come pre-configured with embedded position sensors and communication capabilities, allowing them to automatically establish their 3D positions and begin measurements immediately upon placement on the head, eliminating lengthy manual positioning and setup procedures
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 system provides continuous, non-invasive monitoring of brain activity with high spatiotemporal resolution, reduces setup time, and increases portability, enabling accurate tomographic reconstructions and improved brain activity measurement accuracy in natural environments.
Implementation Method 1
functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive technique that utilizes non-ionizing near-infrared (NIR) light to determine the physiological data of a user's head and brain
Implementation Method 2
a first photodetector, on the surface of the base facing the user's head surface, that detects light from the first light source after the light traverses the user's head tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible head probe and modular head probe system that includes an optical functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) system and integrated position sensor. The head probe and modular head probe system determines physiological data based upon the optical information gathered by the fNIRS system and gathers motion and position data from the position sensor. The physiological data and motion and position data are combined to permit topographical and tomographic analyses of a user's brain tissue.