Motion Sensor Seizure Phase Detection Without Invasive Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing epilepsy detection systems require multiple sensors and detectors, often invasive, and lack objective methods for determining ictal phases, leading to inconsistent diagnoses and discomfort for patients.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing simple motion sensors, such as three-axis inertial sensors, connected via intermediate devices like smartphones, to interpret and mark seizure phases using pattern recognition and data interpretation software, enabling long-term, non-invasive monitoring and accurate seizure detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional EEG electrodes are used for seizure detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and patient discomfort increase due to invasive sensing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional electrical measurement system (EEG electrodes) with a mechanical motion sensing system using accelerometers and gyroscopes. This substitution allows seizure detection through biomechanical evaluation of movement patterns during seizures, eliminating the need for invasive electrical sensors while maintaining diagnostic capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces motion sensors as an intermediary between the patient's physiological state and the detection system. Instead of directly measuring brain electrical activity, the system uses motion sensors to capture indirect biomechanical evidence of seizures, providing a non-invasive detection pathway
2Reliability
If multiple sensors and detectors are used for comprehensive seizure monitoring, then reliability of detection is improved, but ease of operation and patient comfort deteriorate due to invasive sensing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrical sensing systems with simple mechanical motion sensors that can be worn comfortably. The accelerometers and gyroscopes capture seizure-related motion patterns without requiring skin penetration or specialized electrode placement, significantly improving patient comfort while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The motion sensing system serves multiple functions: detecting seizures, monitoring patient activity, and providing long-term continuous monitoring. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would traditionally require multiple specialized devices into a single wearable system
3Measurement precision
If invasive sensing devices are used for accurate seizure phase determination, then measurement precision is improved, but objectivity of diagnosis deteriorates due to lack of standardized ictal phase determination methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameters from electrical brain activity to mechanical motion characteristics. By focusing on objective biomechanical parameters such as acceleration, velocity, and movement patterns during seizures, the system provides standardized, quantifiable data for ictal phase determination that reduces diagnostic subjectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement of electrical measurement with mechanical motion analysis provides objectively measurable parameters for seizure phase determination. The motion sensors capture quantifiable biomechanical evidence that can be systematically analyzed, replacing subjective interpretation of electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detection of onset and ictal phases of an epileptic seizure comprises at least one motion sensor, at least one intermediate device and a sensing data interpretation device, embedded with an application program that, after execution, detects onset and ictal phases of an epileptic seizure, and configured to mark a feature or a reference on, or normalize sensing data of a motion sensing data file, wherein the reference comprises at least one of a phase of an epileptic seizure, a sensor position and a sensing time.