Pen-Shaped Sensor Apparatus for Objective Neurological Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic methods for Parkinson's disease are subjective and lack objectivity, leading to inaccurate diagnoses, especially in early stages, and are not efficient in distinguishing between Parkinson's disease and other conditions like essential tremor, resulting in delayed and often incorrect diagnoses.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising force and position sensors, cameras, and a processor to analyze handwriting and movement patterns, providing detailed data on finger synergies, tremor frequency, and motor function to objectively diagnose neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, by comparing patient data with healthy and diseased profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If subjective interpretation methods are used for diagnosis, then the diagnostic process is simple and quick, but the accuracy and reliability of diagnosis deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective clinical interpretation with automated sensor-based measurement systems. Force sensors, position sensors, and cameras objectively capture handwriting dynamics, replacing the mechanical subjectivity of clinician interpretation with precise instrumental measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational system that processes raw sensor data through parameterized models and statistical analysis. This intermediary layer transforms complex sensor signals into quantifiable features that enable objective diagnosis without requiring direct subjective interpretation.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive sensor arrays are used to capture all movement parameters, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional sensor system where a single integrated apparatus performs multiple measurement functions. The combination of force sensors, position sensors, and cameras within one system captures comprehensive handwriting dynamics without requiring separate specialized devices for each parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple sensor types and measurement functions into a unified diagnostic apparatus. By combining force sensing, position tracking, and visual recording in one integrated system, the patent achieves comprehensive measurement while reducing overall system complexity compared to using separate independent devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (2) for use in diagnosing and/or treating a neurological disorder is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sensor device (4) designed to resemble a pen to provide a first signal containing first data representing a force applied by at least one finger of the subject, an integrated writable surface (10) to (i) provide at least one second signal containing second data representing a position of the sensor device (4) relative to the writable surface (10) and/or (ii) provide at least one third signal containing third data representing an engaging force of the sensor device on the writable surface, and a camera (20) to provide at least one fourth signal containing fourth data representing a position of at least one part of an arm of the subject holding the sensor device (4).