Patents by Inventor Thomas F. Collura

Thomas F. Collura has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 9706939
    Abstract: A method of whole-brain EEG neurofeedback training of a trainee using live Z-scores from 4 channels of EEG signals to acquire 248 Z-scores from 6 simultaneous interconnectivity paths. The feedback system is endowed with the ability to establish training targets and to use derived metrics to produce feedback of an auditory, visual, vibrotactile, or other sensory or direct nature. The feedback signals are determined by a multivariate analysis that takes into consideration how measured variables compare with predefined criteria, thus producing a statistical correlation in real-time, in conjunction with a reference or normative database, rule-set, algorithm, discriminate function, or classification system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: BrainMaster Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. Collura, William Mrklas, Theresia Collura
  • Publication number: 20150313528
    Abstract: This invention is a validation process for ipsative assessments. Respondents are connected to an Electroencephalograph (EEG) and some or all of the ipsative assessment questions are asked again while connected to the EEG. The EEG measuring frontal lobe responses in terms of gamma waves is compared with the assessment questions. Positive responses provide one frontal lobe response in terms of gamma waves, negative or false answers provide a different gamma response and neutral questions provide a neutral gamma response. Reading the responses then tells whether the respondent initially responded with integrity, if so the assessment is validated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Publication date: November 5, 2015
    Inventors: Bill J. Bonnstetter, Ronald J. Bonnstetter, Dustan Hebets, Thomas F. Collura
  • Patent number: 9060702
    Abstract: This invention is a validation process for ipsative assessments. Respondents are connected to an Electroencephalograph (EEG) and some or all of the ipsative assessment questions are asked again while connected to the EEG. The EEG measuring frontal lobe responses in terms of gamma waves is compared with the assessment questions. Positive responses provide one frontal lobe response in terms of gamma waves, negative or false answers provide a different gamma response and neutral questions provide a neutral gamma response. Reading the responses then tells whether the respondent initially responded with integrity, if so the assessment is validated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Target Training International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Bill J. Bonnstetter, Ronald J. Bonnstetter, Dustin Hebets, Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20130303933
    Abstract: This invention is a validation process for ipsative assessments. Respondents are connected to an Electroencephalograph (EEG) and some or all of the ipsative assessment questions are asked again while connected to the EEG. The EEG measuring frontal lobe responses in terms of gamma waves is compared with the assessment questions. Positive responses provide one frontal lobe response in terms of gamma waves, negative or false answers provide a different gamma response and neutral questions provide a neutral gamma response. Reading the responses then tells whether the respondent initially responded with integrity, if so the assessment is validated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: TARGET TRAINING INTERNATIONAL, LTD.
    Inventors: Bill J. Bonnstetter, Ronald J. Bonnstetter, Dustin Hebets, Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20130303934
    Abstract: The BrainAvatar of the present invention is a combination of hardware, software and data communications devices used to implement and integrate a full featured electroencephalogram (EEG) based neurofeedback training system. The BrainAvatar is a single platform for blending EEG, Live Z-score Training (LZT), MINI-Q, whole head QEEG, mapping and all types of neurofeedback. Patient evaluation, assessment and training can now be done in a single integrated system that supports industry standards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20100094156
    Abstract: A biofeedback system for administration of electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback training includes a plurality of electrodes sensors for placement on the head of a trainee and a switching head box comprising a plurality of contacts each of which connects to one electrode sensor and for specific biofeedback and neural connectivity training. The system also includes an interface device which includes at least two EEG signal amplifiers and connects to the switching head box, and a computer comprising software for generating user-control functions which corresponds in real-time to EEG signals received by the interface device and processed by the computer. The switching head box includes a switch with at least two conductors and connects the electrode sensors to the interface device for transmitting EEG signals from the trainee to the computer. Specific combinations of electrode sensors are used for specific types of biofeedback training.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20090118636
    Abstract: A method of whole-brain EEG neurofeedback training of a trainee using live Z-scores from 4 channels of EEG signals to acquire 248 Z-scores from 6 simultaneous interconnectivity paths. The feedback system is endowed with the ability to establish training targets and to use derived metrics to produce feedback of an auditory, visual, vibrotactile, or other sensory or direct nature. The feedback signals are determined by a multivariate analysis that takes into consideration how measured variables compare with predefined criteria, thus producing a statistical correlation in real-time, in conjunction with a reference or normative database, rule-set, algorithm, discriminate function, or classification system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20080082020
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a biofeedback system, programs and methods are provided. In one example embodiment, a biofeedback system for administration of electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback training includes a plurality of electrodes sensors for placement on the head of a trainee and a switching head box comprising a plurality of contacts each of which connects to one electrode sensor. The system also includes an interface device which includes at least two EEG signal amplifiers and connects to the switching head box, and a computer comprising software for generating user-control functions which corresponds in real-time to EEG signals received by the interface device and processed by the computer. The switching head box includes a switch with at least two conductors and connects the electrode sensors to the interface device for transmitting EEG signals from the trainee to the computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Patent number: 7269456
    Abstract: An EEG neurofeedback and total evoked brain activity measurement methods utilize minimum ambient EEG activity as stimulant frequencies. A method of using repetitive stimulation in conjunction with EEG neurofeedback protocols is described. Electrodes, attached to a subject's scalp, transmit electroencephalographic (EEG) signals from the subject. These signals are in response to the visual and/or auditory stimuli being displayed to the subject. The resultant EEG signals are then filtered at pre-defined frequencies or frequency bands. The output from the filtered EEG signals is then analyzed and monitored for short-term state changes. The invention also uses flicker stimulation, real-time signal filtration and feedback, feedback during audio and visual stimulation derived from filtered outputs, and fundamental and integral harmonics in combination with total evoked response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20070197292
    Abstract: A biofeedback training system and method which utilizes biological signals from a trainee to influence actions and events in an activity or game displayed to the trainee. A level of intelligence in a displayed activity or game is used a biofeedback variable. Decision-making rules or other abilities within an embedded game player are introduced and controlled as additional types of biofeedback variable, and represent awards in a training process. The methods and systems can be applied to any activity or game that includes goal-seeking behavior and that can be configured for automatic play by goal-oriented rules. The action and content of game-like biofeedback displays may be influenced or dictated by biological signals from a trainee viewing the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas F. Collura, Terri M. Collura, William Mrklas
  • Patent number: 7150715
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling a biofeedback session. The system utilizes distributed processing that includes localized processing capability allowing a user to initiate a self-controlled biofeedback session and additionally includes remote processing capabilities enabling simultaneous remote analysis and monitoring of the session.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventors: Thomas F. Collura, Theresia Mrklas
  • Patent number: 6931275
    Abstract: A method of reducing undesirable brain wave pattern using selective photic stimulation. Electrodes, attached to a subject's scalp, transmit electroencephalographic (EEG) signals from the subject. These signals are in response to the photic stimulation being displayed to the subject. The resultant EEG signals are then filtered, while control logic monitors a predetermined EEG frequency band and feeds back the filtered EEG signal to the subject via the photic stimulation. The photic stimulator is then turned on and off rapidly, in response to the amount of energy in a predetermined band of the subject's EEG, with the intent of reducing an undesirable brain rhythm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20030229291
    Abstract: A method of reducing undesirable brain wave pattern using selective photic stimulation. Electrodes, attached to a subject's scalp, transmit electroencephalographic (EEG) signals from the subject. These signals are in response to the photic stimulation being displayed to the subject. The resultant EEG signals are then filtered, while control logic monitors a predetermined EEG frequency band and feeds back the filtered EEG signal to the subject via the photic stimulation. The photic stimulator is then turned on and off rapidly, in response to the amount of energy in a predetermined band of the subject's EEG, with the intent of reducing an undesirable brain rhythm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Publication number: 20030225340
    Abstract: An EEG neurofeedback and total evoked brain activity measurement methods utilize minimum ambient EEG activity as stimulant frequencies. A method of using repetitive stimulation in conjunction with EEG neurofeedback protocols is described. Electrodes, attached to a subject's scalp, transmit electroencephalographic (EEG) signals from the subject. These signals are in response to the visual and/or auditory stimuli being displayed to the subject. The resultant EEG signals are then filtered at pre-defined frequencies or frequency bands. The output from the filtered EEG signals is then analyzed and monitored for short-term state changes. The invention also uses flicker stimulation, real-time signal filtration and feedback, feedback during audio and visual stimulation derived from filtered outputs, and fundamental and integral harmonics in combination with total evoked response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura
  • Patent number: 6574513
    Abstract: An EEG electrode system for establishing positive electrical contact with the scalp, uses absorptive electrode wrap material in contact with metallic electrodes, with saturated electrode wrap material placed in contact with the scalp. Saturation of the electrode warp material with a conductive solution such as saline provides mechanically and electrically stable contact at multiple scalp electrode sites. An electrode wrap holder assembly holds the electrode wrap and an exposed portion of the electrode wrap in contact with the scalp, while providing access to the electrode wrap for re-wetting with the conductive solution if required. The electrode wrap holders are mounted in straps, hard caps or other headgear. Adjustment of the electrode wrap holders within the mounts further compresses the flexible, absorptive electrode wrap, causing flow of the conductive solution therein and enhancement of the electrical contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Brainmaster Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. Collura, Joan Gambrill, John Collura
  • Publication number: 20020107454
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling a biofeedback session. The system utilizes distributed processing that includes localized processing capability allowing a user to initiate a self-controlled biofeedback session and additionally includes remote processing capabilities enabling simultaneous remote analysis and monitoring of the session.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas F. Collura, Theresia Mrklas
  • Patent number: 5899867
    Abstract: A system for self-administered monitoring, displaying, analyzing and recording electrical activity of the brain provides indications of brain activity and a corresponding mental state of a user. A plurality of visual, auditory and tactile feedback mechanisms are integrated with the presentation of control and notification indications, to facilitate neurofeedback training of the user, The operational interface and sequencing is provided in such a manner as to provide the ability to the user to record, manage and control brain activity for different purposes including self-improvement, treatment, peak performance and recreation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas F. Collura