Head-Mountable OPM Magnetometer for Brain Response Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetoencephalography (MEG) devices for measuring magnetic brain responses are limited by their bulky, rigid helmet-like configurations, which restrict their use across different head sizes and can cause anxiety in test subjects, and require cryogenic cooling, limiting mobility and precision.
Innovation Solution
A head-mountable apparatus with separate cases positioned on the auditory cortices, utilizing optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) that operate at room temperature, allowing for precise measurement of magnetic brain responses to auditory stimuli without enclosing the head, and accommodating various head sizes through adjustable and flexible designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rigid helmet-like construction is used for MEG measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability to different head sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid helmet-like construction is divided into multiple separate sensor units that can be independently positioned on the head. Each sensor unit contains one or more magnetometers and can be placed at specific locations, allowing the system to adapt to different head sizes and shapes while maintaining measurement precision through distributed sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static rigid helmet structure to a dynamic configuration where sensor units can be adjusted and repositioned. The sensor units are designed to be movable and adaptable, allowing real-time adjustment to fit different head geometries and sizes, thereby maintaining both precision and versatility.
2Measurement precision
If a rigid helmet-like construction is used for MEG measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to head engulfment
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosing helmet structure is segmented into discrete sensor units that are distributed around the head rather than forming a continuous enclosure. This segmentation eliminates the feeling of being engulfed while maintaining the spatial distribution needed for precise magnetic field measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses flexible, lightweight sensor units that can conform to the head surface without creating a rigid enclosure. These flexible components provide necessary contact and positioning while allowing natural head movement and breathing, significantly improving user comfort.
3Measurement precision
If SQUID magnetometers with cryogenic cooling are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces SQUID magnetometers requiring cryogenic cooling with optically pumped magnetometer (OPM) sensors that operate at room temperature. This substitution eliminates the complex cryogenic cooling infrastructure while maintaining high measurement precision through optical detection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating temperature parameter of the magnetometers from cryogenic temperatures (SQUID) to room temperature (OPM). This parameter change fundamentally simplifies the system by removing the need for liquid helium cooling systems and associated complexity, while achieving comparable or superior measurement performance.
4Measurement precision
If the head is enclosed in a measurement helmet, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability to head movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed helmet enclosure is replaced with multiple independent sensor units that can be distributed across the head surface. These segmented sensors can move with different parts of the head independently, maintaining spatial relationships and measurement precision even during head movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static enclosed helmet to a dynamic array of sensor units that can adjust their positions relative to each other and to the head. This dynamic configuration allows the sensors to maintain optimal spacing and orientation during head movement, preserving measurement accuracy.
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
Enables precise measurement of magnetic brain responses to auditory stimuli without the need for cryogenic cooling, allowing for use across different head sizes and improving user comfort by allowing the apparatus to follow head movement, thus enhancing measurement accuracy and reducing anxiety.
Implementation Method 1
each comprising a set of two or more optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs)
Implementation Method 2
utilizing optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) that operate at room temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
Head-mountable apparatus for measuring magnetic brain response to auditory stimuli is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a first case adapted to be mounted on the head on the right auditory cortex, wherein the first case houses a first set of optically pumped magnetometers for measuring magnetic brain response to auditory stimuli. The apparatus also comprises a second case adapted to be mounted on the head on the left auditory cortex, wherein the second case houses a second set of optically pumped magnetometers for measuring magnetic brain response to auditory stimuli. Finally, the apparatus comprises at least one output interface for transmitting measurement data from the apparatus.