Movable Electrode Array for Scalp Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrode configurations for neurological condition assessment, such as stroke or seizure detection, face challenges in achieving precise and reliable electrode placement on the scalp, leading to inconsistent data quality and accuracy due to hair interference and variable scalp contact.
Innovation Solution
A headgear system with a frame and electrode hubs that allow for movable electrode members, telescoping designs, and conductive fluid emission to ensure consistent scalp contact, combined with a measurement device for selecting optimal electrode data transmission and comparison between left and right sides of the head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrodes are placed in fixed positions on the head, then electrode placement is simplified, but data quality and accuracy deteriorate due to hair interference and variable scalp contact
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode members are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to adjust their position dynamically. Each electrode member can move independently within its hub to achieve optimal contact with the scalp, resolving the contradiction between ease of placement and measurement precision by adapting to individual scalp contours and hair conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array is divided into multiple independent electrode members, each capable of individual adjustment. This segmentation allows each electrode to be optimized for its specific location on the scalp, improving overall data quality while maintaining systematic organization for ease of use.
2Measurement precision
If electrode members are made movable to improve scalp contact, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode members are nested within individual hubs that provide structural support and guidance. This nesting arrangement allows the electrode members to move independently while being contained within organized compartments, reducing overall device complexity compared to a fully open structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The hubs serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, guide electrode movement, contain conductive fluid, and facilitate electrical connection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving precise scalp contact.
3Measurement precision
If conductive fluid is emitted to improve electrode-scalp contact, then measurement precision improves, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode members are designed to emit conductive fluid automatically when they make contact with the scalp, eliminating the need for manual application. The fluid is dispensed on-demand as the electrode is positioned, reducing overall fluid consumption while ensuring adequate contact quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive fluid is applied in controlled amounts only where and when needed at the electrode-scalp interface, rather than applying fluid broadly to the entire scalp. This partial action approach minimizes fluid loss while achieving the necessary contact quality for accurate measurements.
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 enables precise and reliable electrode placement, improving data quality and accuracy in detecting neurological conditions by ensuring consistent scalp contact and selecting the best electrode data for analysis.
Implementation Method 1
Each electrode member includes at least one channel defined therein that is in communication with at least one discharge hole defined in the electrode member and is also in fluid communication with a cavity of the housing such that conductive fluid material is passable from the cavity of the housing to emit the conductive fluid material out of the at least one discharge hole along a flow path via the at least one channel
Implementation Method 2
The outer member or the conductive member is an upper wall of a chamber in which the electrode members are moveable... Each of the electrode members can be moveable independent of the other electrode members... conductively connect the scalp to the hub
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for measuring patient data includes a frame having a plurality of electrode hubs. Each hub can include one or more electrode members. The frame can be configured to receive a head of a patient. Each of the electrode hubs can have a single electrode member or a plurality of electrode members that extend from or are connected to an outer member for contacting a scalp of the head of the patient. The outer member can have at least one circuit configured to transmit data received by at least one of the electrode members to a measurement device via a wireless communication connection (e.g. Bluetooth, near field communication, etc.) or a wired communication connection.