Head Or Eye Patents (Class 600/383)
  • Patent number: 8639313
    Abstract: Systems and methods for assessment of sleep quality in adults and children are provided. These techniques include an apparatus worn above the forehead containing the circuitry for collecting and storing physiological signals. The apparatus integrates with a sensor strip and a nasal mask to obtain the physiological signals for the user. The form factor of this apparatus is comfortable, easy to self-apply, and results in less data artifacts than conventional techniques for capturing physiological data for analyzing sleep quality. Neuro-respiratory signals are analyzed using means to extract more accurate definitions of the frequency and severity of sleep discontinuity, sleep disordered breathing and patterns of sleep architecture. Biological biomarkers and questionnaire responses can also be compared to a database of healthy and chronically diseased patients to provide a more accurate differential diagnosis and to help determine the appropriate disease management recommendations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Brain Monitoring, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip R. Westbrook, Daniel J. Levendowski, Timothy Zavora, Gene Davis, Djordje Popovic, Chris Berka, Mirko Mitrovic, Bratislav Veljkovic
  • Publication number: 20140024912
    Abstract: Preferably, an embodiment of a sensor assembly includes at least a sensor probe assembly providing a plurality of conductive pins, a compressible electrically conductive member in electrical communication with the sensor probe assembly, and a signal processing circuit in electrical communication with the compressible electrically conductive member. Preferably, the sensor assembly of the preferred embodiment further includes at least a housing confining said sensor probe assembly, compressible electrically conductive member, and signal processing circuit to form said sensor assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: NEUROTOPIA, INC.
    Inventor: Dale Dalke
  • Publication number: 20140024913
    Abstract: Preferably, an embodiment of an apparatus includes at least a plurality of sensor assemblies, wherein each sensor assembly provides at least one electrically responsive surface, and an oscillation device communicating with the sensor assembly. Preferably, the sensor assembly includes at least a signal processing circuit in electrical communication with the oscillation device to selectively agitate the at least one electrically responsive surface. The preferred apparatus further included a brainwave processing system communicating with each of the plurality of sensor assemblies, and a ground reference interacting with the brainwave processing system, wherein a selected one of the plurality of sensor assemblies provides a reference signal for each of the remaining sensor assemblies, and in which each electrically responsive surface is in pressing contact with a cranium of a subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: NEUROTOPIA, INC.
    Inventors: Bryan D. Hixson, Dale Dalke
  • Publication number: 20140024914
    Abstract: A dyslexia screening test system suitable for clinical use includes an integrated headset that efficiently and conveniently performs an auditory evoked response (AER) test by positioning electrodes about the ears of the subject. An integral control module automatically performs the test, providing simplified controls and indications to the clinician. A number of screening tests that are stored in the headset are periodically uploaded for billing, remote analysis and result reporting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: Neuronetrix Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Kalford C. Fadem
  • Patent number: 8634923
    Abstract: An apparatus includes: an input configured to receive information indicative of sensed light locations; memory coupled to the input and storing indicia of receptive fields forming a mosaic, each of the receptive fields corresponding to an electrode, the mosaic including first and receptive fields having first and second shapes that are different, the memory further storing instructions; a processor coupled to the input and the memory and configured to read and execute the instructions to: analyze the information indicative of sensed light locations; determine, for each of respective ones of the sensed light locations, one or more receptive fields that include the corresponding sensed light location; and produce excitation indicia; the apparatus further including an output coupled to the processor and configured to be coupled to a retinal implant and to convey the excitation indicia toward the retinal implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Salk Institute for Biological Studies
    Inventors: Tatyana O. Sharpee, Charles F. Stevens
  • Patent number: 8634892
    Abstract: An electrode set is disclosed that has two separable parts including an assembled base with printed circuit board basement, biasing member and top cover and an electrode. The basement and top cover may be made by metal or conductive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: NeuroSky, Inc.
    Inventors: KooHyoung Lee, ByeongHyeop Choi
  • Patent number: 8626259
    Abstract: A biomedical sensor is disclosed that provides at least first and second electrical nodes for connection to medical equipment. The biomedical sensor includes a plurality of protruding electrodes that extend from a common base. At least one of the protruding electrodes is coupled to the first electrical node, and at least two of the protruding electrodes are coupled to the second electrical node. At least one of the plurality of protruding electrodes is adjustable in length such that each of the plurality of protruding electrodes is adapted to contact a non-planar surface of a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Board of Governors For Higher Education, State of Rhode Island And Providence Plantations
    Inventor: Walter G Besio
  • Publication number: 20140005514
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlled healing of ocular erosions is described. The apparatus comprising; an optical surface comprising an energizable controller capable of being programmed to transmit energy from an energy source onto/into an ocular surface, through the use of a current generator in electrical connection with energy emitting contacts capable of transmitting an electric field. The controller, current generator and energy emitting contacts are biocompatible or encapsulated by a conductive biocompatible layer to allow positioning of said apparatus in an ocular surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Randall Pugh, Annabelle Gallois-Bernos, Adam Toner, Andres Arrubla
  • Patent number: 8620401
    Abstract: A biological signal detection electrode includes an electrode element and a plurality of drought-resistant electrolytic solution soaking parts. The electrode element is made of a conductive material and has a surface. The plurality of drought-resistant electrolytic solution soaking parts are placed at predetermined intervals on the surface of the electrode element, are formed to have a thickness that allows contact with a scalp without hair being sandwiched between the electrode element and the scalp, and are soaked in a drought-resistant electrolytic solution including a drought-resistant liquid and a conductive liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Shiko Yamashita
  • Patent number: 8615283
    Abstract: A biomedical electrode is disclosed that includes at least first and second electrical nodes for connection to medical equipment. The biomedical electrode includes a first electrical node including a disc of conductive material having a diameter d1, and a second electrical node including a ring of conductive material. The ring is concentric with the disc and has a diameter d2 that is larger than d1 and having a ring thickness t2 such that (4?d1/t2?6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Board of Governors for Higher Education, State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
    Inventor: Walter G. Besio
  • Publication number: 20130324826
    Abstract: A biological signal measurement apparatus includes a supporter and a vital sensor. The supporter is made of a shape-memory material. The vital sensor is configured to acquire a biological signal of a user. The vital sensor is attached to the supporter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Nakamura, Takuro Yamamoto, Haruhiko Soma, Tatsumi Sakaguchi, Tomiji Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8594763
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a physiological recording electrode, and, more particularly, to an EEG (electroencephalography) recording electrode that can be used without the need for numerous steps in preparing the subject's skin and the electrode itself. The invention further relates to a surface feature or penetrator with a size and shape which that will not bend or break, which limits the depth of application, and/or anchors the electrode or other device during normal application; and a packaging system comprising a well and electrolytic fluid for maintaining a coating of said electrolytic fluid on the surface feature or penetrator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: NeuroWave Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Stéphane Bibian, Tatjana Zikov
  • Publication number: 20130310676
    Abstract: The present invention relates to hair band EEGs. More particularly, the present invention relates to hair bands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Melody Jung
  • Publication number: 20130303874
    Abstract: An electroencephalographic electrode and optode positioning device has the form of a cap suitable for placement on a subject's head. The cap has semirigid telescopic structures that stiffen it to provide accurate electrode and optode spacing, and stability during subject activity. The cap is intended for use in functional neuroimaging and, although its materials are compatible with fMRI, is usable without fMRI to permit study of physically as well as mentally active subjects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Solomon G. Diamond, Paolo Giacometti
  • Patent number: 8577440
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to sensor designs or shapes configured to facilitate placement of sensor electrodes and, thus, proper positioning of the sensors on patients. According to certain embodiments, a sensor may include a substrate that includes multiple electrodes, where a first electrode is configured to be placed on a patient's temple and a second electrode is configured to be placed on a patient's forehead directly above a patient's eyebrow. The sensor may include a particular shape and a fixed distance between the first and second electrodes to facilitate proper angling and positioning of the first and second electrodes as well as the other electrodes (e.g., third and fourth electrodes). Other embodiments may include a method for positioning the sensor on the patient, including a monitor with help screens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Elizabeth A. Afanasewicz, Robert P. Harhen, Adam J. Young, Rafael M. Cordero
  • Patent number: 8577439
    Abstract: A system for positioning electrodes on a patient body includes an image capturing system, a memory device, a processing system and an indicator system. The image capturing system generates an actual image of the patient body. The memory device stores a reference image, the reference image including a reference body and a reference position on the reference body. The processing system compares the actual image and the reference image and for determining an electrode position on the patient body by matching the reference position on the reference body. The indicator system indicates the electrode position on the patient body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Robert Pinter, Jens Muehlsteff, Guido Josef Muesch
  • Patent number: 8565852
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an auricle-installed device including, a reference electrode to be placed on the ear lobe, a detection electrode to be placed on a surface exposed to bones surrounding the auricle of the ear, and a support body for supporting the reference and detection electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Seija Wada, Takuro Yamamoto, Shiko Yamashita, Yusaku Nakashima
  • Publication number: 20130274583
    Abstract: An electrode that functions alone, in clusters or arrays can be used to measure and/or deliver voltages through skin covered with hair by achieving reliable skin contact. In one form, a composite metal electrode has several raised points capable of passing through hair to contact the skin directly between hairs. Electrode points are distributed evenly over a flat circular or curved base to create a composite electrode or cluster in which all electrode points electrically couple to one another and to an output device. In another form of the invention, each electrode point is connected by a separate conductor wire to a selector that evaluates the signal during use and determines which of the electrode points are to be coupled to an output device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Sandy L. Heck
  • Patent number: 8548554
    Abstract: An electro-encephalography electrode cap for contacting the scalp of a head with a number of pin-shaped electrodes for contacting the scalp, and an electrode holding device. The electrodes are mounted on the electrode-holding device through at least one elastic joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventors: Florin Popescu, Siamac Fazli, Yakob Badower, Klaus R. Mueller
  • Patent number: 8548555
    Abstract: An active dry sensor module for measurement of bioelectricity is disclosed. The active dry sensor module of the present invention excludes the use of a conductive gel, thereby not supplying unpleasantness and discomfort to a reagent and preventing the interference of the signal due to a noise component. Further, the active dry sensor module of the present invention amplifies the biomedical signal to a desired level, thereby precisely and easily measuring the biomedical signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: NeuroSky, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyung-Soo Jin, Jong-Jin Lim, Jong-Gil Byeon, Eun-Tae Kim, Jin-Ho Park
  • Publication number: 20130253300
    Abstract: An electrode system comprises a flexible circuit substrate, a plurality of electrode modules, and a plurality of sensors. The flexible circuit substrate comprises a flexible material and traces supported by the flexible material. The flexible circuit substrate extends through at least two of the electrode modules such that the electrode modules encompass portions of the flexible circuit substrate. Each electrode module comprises at least one rigid circuit member configured to process ERPs of a test subject. The rigid circuit members are layered against the flexible circuit substrate such that the rigid circuit members and the flexible circuit substrate together form a rigid-flex circuit. The sensors may be removably coupled with at least one of the plurality of electrode modules and may sense ERPs from the test subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: NEURONETRIX SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Kalford C. Fadem
  • Patent number: 8538502
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to methods and systems for monitoring bioelectric potentials. In some instances, an electrode is applied to a patient's skin. The electrode may be at least partly inserted into the patient's skin, such as by inserting at least part of one or more teeth underneath the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Persyst Development Corporation
    Inventors: Scott B. Wilson, Mark L. Scheuer, Dale Johnson, Scott Clear
  • Publication number: 20130237793
    Abstract: Devices and systems provide methods for detecting cardiac signals from head or facial biopotential sensors. In one embodiment, a facial biopotential signal is measured by a set of sensors. A processor derives a cardiac signal from the facial biopotential signal. Optionally, heart rate is detected from the cardiac signal. Heart rate variability may be determined and evaluated by the processor to generate warnings or messages from the evaluation. One or more head or facial biopotential electrodes for measuring the facial biopotential signal may be integrated in or at a contact surface of head support structures such as a headgear support or respiratory treatment mask. In some such embodiments a controller of a respiratory treatment apparatus may serve as a cardiac signal detector by processing the facial biopotential signal from the sensors and may make control adjustments or generate warnings based on an evaluation of detected signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: RESMED LIMITED
    Inventors: Steven Paul Farrugia, Darius George Chapman
  • Publication number: 20130231545
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to methods and systems for monitoring bioelectric potentials. In some instances, an electrode is applied to a patient's skin. The electrode may be at least partly inserted into the patient's skin, such as by inserting at least part of one or more teeth underneath the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Persyst Development Corporation
    Inventors: Scott B. Wilson, Mark L. Scheuer, Dale Johnson, Scott Clear
  • Patent number: 8515522
    Abstract: Electrodes for use in electroencephalographic recording, including consciousness and seizure monitoring applications, have novel features that speed, facilitate or enforce proper placement of the electrodes, including aligning tabs and arrowed aligning juts, color coding, and an insulating bridge between reference and ground electrodes which ensures a safe application distance between the conductive regions of the two electrodes in the event of cardiac defibrillation. A method of using a set of four such electrodes is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: NeuroWave Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Stéphane Bibian, Tatjana Zikov
  • Publication number: 20130211224
    Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically identifying segments of EEG signals or other brain electrical activity signals that contain artifacts, and/or editing the signals to remove segments that include artifacts
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicants: NEW YORK UNIVERSITY, BRAINSCOPE COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Brainscope Company, Inc., New York University
  • Patent number: 8500282
    Abstract: An apparatus consistent with the present invention comprises a sensor for receiving a signal representing eye tremor and a processor for monitoring eye tremor while receiving the signal. A method consistent with the present invention includes receiving a signal representing eye tremor, comparing the received signal representing eye tremor to at least one reference value, and classifying a patient's brain stem function using the comparison of the received signal representing eye tremor to at least one reference value. An embodiment consistent with the present invention includes an ocular micro tremor (OMT) sensor and associated signal processing hardware and software for clinical analyses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Boston Brainstem, Inc.
    Inventors: Ciaran Bolger, Steven W. Arms, Christopher P. Townsend, Kurt R. Smith
  • Publication number: 20130197339
    Abstract: A method of monitoring depth of anesthesia comprises generating differential EEG signals from EEG signals acquired by electrode pairs during an anesthesia protocol, processing the differential EEG signals to determine at least one signal feature and monitoring changes in the at least one signal feature to determine depth of anesthesia. The at least one signal feature comprises at least one of normalized power of the differential EEG signals acquired from at least one of the electrode pairs, and wavelet bicoherence between the differential EEG signals acquired from at least two of the electrode pairs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: NEUROCHIP CORPORATION
    Inventor: NEUROCHIP CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8494610
    Abstract: Central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, and effector data is measured and analyzed to determine the effectiveness of marketing and entertainment stimuli. A data collection mechanism including multiple modalities such as Magnetoencephalography (MEG), Electrooculography (EOG), Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), etc., collects response data from subjects exposed to marketing and entertainment stimuli. A data cleanser mechanism filters the response data. The response data is enhanced using intra-modality response synthesis and/or a cross-modality response synthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: The Nielsen Company (US), LLC
    Inventors: Anantha Pradeep, Robert T. Knight, Ramachandran Gurumoorthy
  • Patent number: 8489206
    Abstract: A device for neuronal therapies comprising a high frequency and/or very high frequency generator (1) functioning by means of coils (11), and associated with two main electrodes (2), which are respectively configured by a core (21) of insulating material with the front end (22) in point form and surrounded by a flexible insulating tubular body (23) extended on the point end (22) of the electrode for separate and safe positioning thereof with respect to the eyes of the patient on which said electrodes (2) are placed in a use operation, in order to cause stimulation of the nervous system and improvement of neuronal transmission by means of the circulation of high frequency currents. Both electrodes (2) are associated with at least one element for support (3) and positioning over the eyes of the patient, based on an element for fastening (4) to the head or a cabin (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Francisco José Arriaza Muñoz
  • Publication number: 20130172722
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a textile electrode (1) for measuring an electrical signal from a body part, said electrode comprising, successively from the side to be applied on the body part to the outside: a conductive textile contact (3) to be applied to said body part; a textile support (2) for supporting said textile contact (3); a vapour barrier sheet material (7) able to reduce, in use, evaporation of liquid from said textile electrode (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventors: Christian Ninane, Benjamin Deliege
  • Publication number: 20130172721
    Abstract: A device 10 for performing electroencephalography on a patient, the device comprising a sagittal portion 14 comprising: a forehead anchor 44 comprising two forehead anchor arms, a first forehead anchor arm 46 and an opposing second forehead anchor arm 48; a neck anchor 54 comprising two neck anchor arms, a first neck anchor arm 56 and an opposing second neck anchor arm 58; a midsection 52 between the forehead anchor and the neck anchor; and a plurality of imbedded electrodes 20 within the forehead anchor, and the midsection. The device further comprises: a coronal portion 12 comprising a plurality of imbedded electrodes; and electrical connectors 22 for electrically connecting the imbedded electrodes in the sagittal portion and the coronal portion to an electroencephalograph.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: HYDRODOT, INC.
    Inventor: HYDRODOT, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130172718
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method for improving imaging resolution of electrical impedance tomography (EIT). More specifically, the present disclosure forms virtual electrode(s) using an electric current steering technique, which is used to improve imaging resolution of an EIT system without physically increasing a number of conducting electrodes. The EIT system of the present disclosure may includes a plurality of conducting electrodes, at least one signal generator, at least one signal receiver and at least one electric current steering device. In other words, the present disclosure applies both the electric current steering technique and the virtual electrode technique to EIT. Consequently, imaging resolution of EIT can be improved without physically increasing the number of conducting electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: NATIONAL CHIAO TUNG UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: National Chiao Tung University
  • Patent number: 8473024
    Abstract: A headset for detecting brain electrical activity is disclosed. The headset may have a flexible band having a first end and a second end. The flexible band may have at least one expansible region permitting a distance between the first end and the second end to selectably vary. The headset may also have flexible circuitry in the flexible band. The flexible circuitry may be operatively connected to at least one sensor configured to sense brain electrical activity. The headset may further have a stimulus emitter coupled to the flexible band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Brainscope Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Elvir Causevic, Richard Comrie Watt, Craig Anderson, Martin Rathgeber
  • Patent number: 8463354
    Abstract: An electrode system comprises a flexible circuit substrate and a plurality of electrode modules. The flexible circuit substrate comprises a flexible material and traces supported by the flexible material. The flexible circuit substrate extends through at least two of the electrode modules such that the electrode modules encompass portions of the flexible circuit substrate. Each electrode module comprises at least one rigid circuit member configured to process ERPs of a test subject. The rigid circuit members are layered against the flexible circuit substrate such that the rigid circuit members and the flexible circuit substrate together form a rigid-flex circuit. A sensor may be removably disposed through a substantially central opening defined by each electrode module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Neuronetrix Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Kalford C. Fadem
  • Patent number: 8457752
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of improving the contrast of electrical neural stimulation and expanding the dynamic range for brightness, and specifically a method of improving the contrast of an image supplied to the retina, or visual cortex, through a visual prosthesis. The background brightness for a blind subject is often not perfectly black, but a dark gray or brown. When stimulating visual neurons in the retina, low current stimulation tends to create a dark percept, the perception of a phosphene darker than the background brightness level perceived in the un-stimulated state. The human retina contains neurons that signal light increments (“on” cells) and neurons that signal light decrements (“off” cells). In a healthy retina, the on cells tend to fire in response to an increase in light above the background level, while the off cells tend to fire in response to a decrease in light below the background level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Greenberg, Matthew J. McMahon
  • Patent number: 8457709
    Abstract: A sensor mounting system includes a rigid main body portion defining a housing within which is mounted a compression element. In use, the compression element provides a predetermined biasing force to force a sensor against the skin of a subject. A secondary support structure provides an adjustable biasing force to retain the main body portion against the subject. Alternatively, the main body portion may be mounted to a rigid pod with one or more secondary compression elements, with the pod itself retained against the subject. An interface layer extending from the main body portion provides a cushion to improve the comfort of the subject. The interface layer and sensor interface elements may be in the form of fingers to increase contact of the sensor with a selected portion of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Quantum Applied Science & Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Matthews, Neil John McDonald
  • Publication number: 20130131460
    Abstract: A physiological signal collection electrode comprises a signal collection pad having a skin contact portion, a signal output pad and an elongate bridging portion interconnecting the signal collection pad and the signal output pad. The signal collection pad, the signal output portion and the bridging portion are integrally moulded of a flexible, conductive and resilient material. The width of the bridging portion is substantially smaller than that of the skin contact portion. A narrowed bridging portion operates to concentrate collected physiological signals collected by the skin contact portion before the signals are output to the signal output pad. An elongate bridging portion reduces skin covering area for better wearer comfort as well as providing better resiliency to the electrode when the bridging portion is extended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: DAYTON TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED
    Inventor: Paul Anthony Yuen
  • Publication number: 20130131461
    Abstract: The electroencephalogram electrode unit for small animals includes a base that covers the scalp or brain surface of a small animal and has a plurality of through holes and a plurality of electrodes. Each of the plurality of electrodes is inserted into each of the plurality of through holes, and each of the plurality of electrodes is equipped with an insulating tube, an electrode section disposed within the tube, an extraction conducting wire that is connected to the electrode section and extracts the EEG signal to outside, and a paste that is filled within the tube. The tube is installed in the through hole in a manner of standing upright from the scalp or brain surface, and the electrode section is formed in the form of a wire and is disposed, in a manner of standing upright from the scalp or brain surface, within the paste filled within the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: TOHOKU UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Riera Jorge, Akira Sumiyoshi, Ryuta Kawashima
  • Publication number: 20130116531
    Abstract: An electrode system comprises electrode modules, flexible connectors, and sensors. Each electrode module defines a substantially central opening and has circuitry that includes an amplifier. A conductive ring is exposed in the opening of each electrode module. The flexible connectors include flexible circuitry coupled with the circuitry of the electrode modules. Each sensor includes an electrolytic hydrogel portion that is configured to contact a test subject and outwardly extending tabs that are in communication with the hydrogel portion, The tabs are configured to contact the conductive ring of an electrode module with the sensor is inserted in the opening of the electrode module. The system may thus sense evoked response potentials (ERPs) from the test subject through the electrolytic hydrogel portions, amplify those potentials, and communicate the amplified potentials through the circuitry of the flexible connectors. A control box may initiate ERP testing and store the test results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: NEURONETRIX SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Neuronetrix Solutions, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130109932
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed determining a pulmonary function by mounting one or more sensors intra-orally; capturing intra-oral data; and determining the pulmonary function based on an analysis of the intra-oral data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: SONITUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Sonitus Medical, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8428681
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to methods and systems for monitoring bioelectric potentials. In some instances, an electrode is applied to a patient's skin. The electrode may be at least partly inserted into the patient's skin, such as by inserting at least part of one or more teeth underneath the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Persyst Development Corporation
    Inventors: Scott B. Wilson, Mark Scheuer, Dale Johnson, Scott Clear
  • Patent number: 8428680
    Abstract: A miniature microdrive system may be affixed to the skull and used to advance recording electrode bundles or injection cannula through the brain of freely moving test subjects, e.g., rodents. The microdrive may be constructed using a hybrid fabrication technique utilizing a printed circuit board and a small number of mechanical parts. The printed circuit board provides the base for both the electrical components and the mechanical components. The movement of a screw advances a shuttle that in turn moves an electrode bundle through the brain. Independently moving screws advance independent electrode bundles. The electrode wires are connected through the printed circuit board to a connector on the back of the board. Stainless steel cannulae are soldered to a grounding trace on the printed circuit board to guide the electrode bundle and provide a ground connection. With this system, multiple brain structures may be targeted simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Michigan
    Inventors: J. Wayne Aldridge, Andrew Klein, Marc Bradshaw
  • Publication number: 20130096410
    Abstract: A biosignal processing apparatus includes a signal acquisition unit and a determination unit. The signal acquisition unit is configured to acquire an output signal of an electrode that is placed on a biological surface. The determination unit is connected to the signal acquisition unit to determine, based on first frequency characteristics being frequency characteristics of the output signal, whether the electrode is in a first state in which the electrode is electrically connected to a measurement site of the biological surface or in a second state in which the electrode is electrically disconnected to the measurement site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Yusaku Nakashima
  • Publication number: 20130085363
    Abstract: An electroencephalographic headset includes: a supporter that includes expanding and contracting wires each having expansion and contraction properties and is to be attached to a head of a user by expansion and contraction of each of the expanding and contracting wires; and a plurality of electrodes that are provided to the supporter in defined placement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Seiji Wada, Takeshi Yamazaki, Natsuki Kimura, Yoshihiro Wakita, Koji Kashima, Tomiji Tanaka, Mitsuhiro Nakamura, Tatsumi Sakaguchi, Haruhiko Soma, Takuro Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 8412303
    Abstract: An electrode attached to the straps of and use with a template cap in making neurophysiological measurements. The electrode is configured to allow the user to quickly and accurately slide an electrode needle at a shallow adjustable angle into the scalp of the patient. The base of each electrode attaches to the cap at locations where measurements are to be made. The base supports a ramp that may be snapped into a clip on the base for storage and then springs resiliently from the clip when released. The electrode needle is carried by a slidable holder secured to the ramp at its slot and is slid forward following that slot when driving the needle down and through a small hole in the base of the electrode to insert it into the patient's scalp at the appropriate depth and angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Rhythmlink International, LLC
    Inventors: Shawn Regan, Isiah Daniel Smith, Katherine Hicks
  • Patent number: 8406841
    Abstract: A dry electrode for biomedical signal measuring sensor includes a conductive sponge, a conductive fabric, and a thin metal film. The conductive fabric covers the whole conductive sponge, and the thin metal film is disposed on one face of the conductive fabric opposite to the conductive sponge. When using the dry electrode in measuring biomedical signal, it is not necessary to apply a conductive gel on a patient's skin, at where the biomedical signal is to be measured. Without the need of applying the conductive gel, the dry electrode is readily for measuring biomedical signal at any time and can be conveniently used in measuring signal over a long period of time without the problem of an attenuated signal due to gradually becoming dried conductive gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: National Chiao Tung University
    Inventors: Chin-Teng Lin, Lun-De Liao
  • Publication number: 20130066184
    Abstract: A contoured bioelectrical signal electrode and a sensor headset are disclosed. A contoured bioelectrical signal electrode that also includes a conductive fabric is also disclosed. In some embodiments, a contoured bioelectrical signal sensor is provided that includes an electrode set and is connected to a holder that is connected to a headset.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: NEUROSKY, INC.
    Inventors: Tin Nguyen, Cheng-I Chuang, Koo Hyoung Lee, Jong-Jin Lim
  • Publication number: 20130066183
    Abstract: An active dry sensor module for measurement of bioelectricity is disclosed. The active dry sensor module of the present invention excludes the use of a conductive gel, thereby not supplying unpleasantness and discomfort to a reagent and preventing the interference of the signal due to a noise component. Further, the active dry sensor module of the present invention amplifies the biomedical signal to a desired level, thereby precisely and easily measuring the biomedical signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: NEUROSKY, INC.
    Inventors: Kyung-Soo Jin, Jong-Jin Lim, Jong-Gil Byeon, Eun-Tae Kim, Jin-Ho Park
  • Patent number: 8396562
    Abstract: A wide-filed retinal prosthesis enables an increased field of vision with a relatively small scleral incision. The retinal prosthesis includes a flexible substrate comprising a central member and at least one wing, with an array of electrodes disposed therein that are configured to stimulate the central and peripheral nerves of the retina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Doheny Eye Institute
    Inventors: Hossein Ameri, James Weiland, Helmut Eckhard, Stefan Ufer, Tenapat Ratanapakorn, Mark Humayun