Neurofeedback System Using General-Purpose Computer for EEG Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low energy neurofeedback systems require specialized microprocessors and hardware to power EEG leads, increasing the complexity and cost of the equipment.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising EEG leads, an EEG amplifier, and a general-purpose computer that calculates a prospective treatment frequency by summing the dominant frequency and a predetermined offset frequency, eliminating the need for the microprocessor to deliver feedback to the EEG leads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized microprocessors and hardware are used to power EEG leads in low energy neurofeedback systems, then therapeutic effectiveness is maintained, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the microprocessor from the EEG amplifier, separating the computational function (calculating prospective treatment frequency) from the amplification function. The microprocessor runs on a general-purpose computer instead of being embedded in the amplifier hardware, eliminating the need for specialized feedback delivery hardware while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness through software-based frequency calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by using a general-purpose computer to perform the specialized function of calculating treatment frequencies. Instead of requiring a dedicated microprocessor for neurofeedback processing, the system uses a multi-functional computer that can run various applications, thereby reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining the required therapeutic functionality.
2Reliability
If specialized microprocessors and hardware are used to power EEG leads, then feedback delivery is ensured, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the expensive specialized microprocessor hardware from the amplifier system and relocates the computational task to a general-purpose computer. This extraction eliminates the need for costly specialized components while ensuring feedback delivery through software-based frequency calculation and standard EEG amplifier hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, specialized microprocessor hardware with a more economical solution using general-purpose computer software. The computational function is implemented through software rather than hardware, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the required feedback delivery functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and process for low energy neurofeedback includes computer and display means on a general purpose computer to calculate and display dominant brain wave frequencies as measured by an electroencephalogram. The general purpose computer is also operative to compute and display a new frequency that is offset from the dominant frequency by 5 to 20 Hz. A therapeutically beneficial low power RF field is generated in the EEG leads merely by the computation and display of the new frequency without the need to deliberately power the EEG leads.