Portable EEG Platform for Visual Field Defect Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing visual field defects, such as standard automated perimetry, are subjective, limited by test-retest variability, and not suitable for widespread or remote use, particularly in underserved populations, and existing EEG-based techniques have low signal-to-noise ratios, making them ineffective for early detection and monitoring of conditions like glaucoma.
Innovation Solution
The development of EEG-based systems and methods using high-density, wireless, and portable platforms that integrate multifocal steady-state visual-evoked potentials (mfSSVEP) to assess visual field defects through a head-mounted display with optical flickering stimuli, providing a non-invasive and objective assessment of visual field integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standard automated perimetry is used for visual field assessment, then visual field defects can be assessed, but the method is subjective and limited by test-retest variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the subjective mechanical perimetry system with an objective neurophysiological measurement system using EEG to record visual evoked potentials. This substitution eliminates subjective response variability while maintaining visual field assessment capability through objective neural response measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from behavioral response (subjective) to neural electrical potential (objective). By measuring VEP amplitudes and latencies instead of subjective patient responses, the system achieves both improved precision and reduced test-retest variability.
2Reliability
If EEG-based techniques are used to assess visual field defects, then objective measurement is achieved, but the signal-to-noise ratio is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the visual field into multiple discrete locations that can be stimulated independently. By presenting flickering stimuli at specific visual field locations and recording location-specific VEP responses, the system isolates neural signals from individual visual field regions, improving signal-to-noise ratio through spatial segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic flickering visual stimuli at defined frequencies to evoke steady-state visual evoked potentials. This periodic stimulation enhances the signal-to-noise ratio by creating rhythmic, predictable neural responses that can be easily distinguished from background EEG noise through frequency analysis.
3Adaptability or versatility
If high-density wireless portable EEG platform is used, then portability and accessibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single portable platform: visual stimulus presentation through head-mounted display, EEG signal acquisition through wireless sensors, and data processing through integrated computing. This multi-functional integration enables portable operation while managing complexity through system consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a head-mounted display as an intermediary device to present visual stimuli directly to the patient's visual field locations. This intermediary approach enables precise spatial control of stimulation while maintaining portability, as the display is worn on the patient's head rather than requiring external equipment.
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
This approach enhances diagnostic accuracy, reduces the need for frequent clinic visits, allows for earlier detection of disease progression, and facilitates screening in remote settings by providing a more reliable and objective assessment of visual field defects with improved signal-to-noise ratios.
Implementation Method 1
the presented visual stimuli includes an optical flickering effect at a selected frequency mapped to each sector of the visual field, the visual stimuli configured to evoke multifocal steady-state visual-evoked potentials (mfSSVEP) in the EEG signals exhibited by the user
Implementation Method 2
sensor unit to acquire electroencephalogram (EEG) signals including one or more electrodes attached to a casing wearable on the head of a user
Implementation Method 3
a data processing unit in communication with the sensor unit and the visual display unit to analyze the acquired EEG signals and produce an assessment of the user's visual field
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1E
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for monitoring electrical signals of the brain. In one aspect, a system for monitoring electrical brain activity associated with visual field of a user includes a sensor unit to acquire electroencephalogram (EEG) signals including a plurality of EEG sensors attached to a casing attachable to the head of a user, a visual display unit attachable to the head of the user over the user's eyes to present visual stimuli, in which the visual stimuli is configured to evoke multifocal steady-state visual- evoked potentials (mfSSVEP) in the EEG signals exhibited by the user acquired by the sensor unit, and a data processing unit in communication with the sensor unit and the visual display unit to analyze the acquired EEG signals and produce an assessment of the user's visual field, in which the assessment indicates if there is a presence of visual field defects in the user's visual field.