Abstract: A method of developing a brain state advisory system including the following steps: deriving a brain state advisory algorithm; applying the brain state advisory algorithm to patient EEG data to identify occurrences of the target patient brain state (such as, e.g., a pro-ictal state or a contra-ictal state) in the patient EEG data; determining if a performance measure of the advisory algorithm for the target brain state exceeds the performance measure of a chance predictor for the target brain state; and if the performance measure of the advisory algorithm for the target brain state exceeds the performance measure of a chance predictor for the target brain state, storing the advisory algorithm in memory of the brain state advisory system. The invention also includes seizure advisory systems.

Abstract: In the field of electrotherapy, there are currently known devices and methods, in which either the frequency or the amplitude of a therapeutic current is varied. According to a representation of the amplitude on a logarithmic frequency scale, said methods are designated correspondingly as methods of vertical or horizontal stimulation. Various advantages and disadvantages are associated with both methods. The invention relates to a device for carrying out an electrotherapeutic method, according to which the amplitude (A) and the frequency (f) of the therapeutic current (iB) are simultaneously varied within a therapeutic frequency band (fB), which lies in the medium frequency range, in such a way that the method is carried out in discrete frequency steps, either in the range of different frequencies lying just below a stimulation threshold (RS), or periodically between a stimulation that lies above the threshold and a stimulation that lies below said threshold.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method of assessing the efficacy of treatment of neurological or psychological disorders. The preferred embodiment uses at least two surface electrodes to acquire EEG signals from the surface of a patient's body, a processor for computing from the EEG signals various features and indices that are representative of the patient's neurological or psychological state. Changes in these parameters may be used to assess the efficacy of treatment and to modify the treatment to optimize the resultant patient state.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring physiological signals from a subject to determine the subject's susceptibility for having a seizure. Also includes are systems and methods for activating an alert when there is a communication error between an implanted device and the external assembly. Additionally included are systems and method for long-term substantially continuous physiological signal data collection. At least a portion of the systems of the present invention may be implanted within the subject. In some embodiments, brain activity signals are sampled from the subject with implanted electrodes and are communicated to an external assembly where the brain activity signals are analyzed to determine the subject's susceptibility for having a seizure.

Abstract: A quantum interface control system for manipulating, evaluating, modulating, and responding to characteristic changes in a matrix of two or more stochastic generators when influenced by other external stochastic generators, such as mental or thought field energy is provided. The QICS device includes two or more quantum source generators, a quantum pattern processor, and a feedback controller. In operation the QICS provides an interface between quantum form-information created by a mental or thought energy, and one or more corresponding physical states as expressed through temporal constraints defined by perception, movement, and communication. The QICS recognizes and utilizes the phenomenon that quantum generators capable of producing quantum form-information, such as mental energy or other stochastic resonators inherently respond to quantum form-information of one another and additionally imprint quantum form-information onto each other.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of monitoring a subject's neurological condition. In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of analyzing a physiological signal (such as an EEG) from a subject to determine if the subject is in a contra-ictal condition; and if the subject is in a contra-ictal condition, providing an indication (e.g., to the subject and/or to a caregiver) that the subject is in the contra-ictal condition, such as by activating a green light or other visible output. In some embodiments, if the subject is in a pro-ictal condition, the method includes the step of providing an indication (such as a red light) that the subject is in the pro-ictal condition. The invention also provides neurological system monitors.

Abstract: A noise-free portable EEG system is provided. The system has hardware and software and can evaluate mental state quantitatively. The quantitative data of mental states and their levels can be applied to various areas of brain-machine interface including consumer products, video game, toys, military and aerospace as well as biofeedback or neurofeedback.

Abstract: A system using neurological control signals to control a device is disclosed. The system may include a sensor sensing electrical activity of a plurality of neurons over time and a vector generator generating a neural control vector from the sensed electrical activity of the plurality of neurons over time. The system may also include a control filter to which the neural control vector is applied to provide a control variable and an output device controlled by the control variable.

Abstract: A system for testing a subject's cognition and motor timing includes an actuator, a sensor and a computer. The actuator is configured to present to the subject multiple stimuli, including predictable stimuli and non-predictable (e.g., random or pseudo-random) stimuli. The sensor generates sensor signals associated with the subject responding to the stimuli. The computer stores timing values associated with the sensor signals for a plurality of the sequences of stimuli, and analyzes the timing values to determine if the subject has an anticipatory timing impairment. The system may also be configured to provide feedback signals to the user, in which case the system also functions as cognition timing and motor training system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to monitor the neurologic state of a patient undergoing general anesthesia is provided. Previous automated systems to monitor the neurologic state of a patient undergoing general anesthesia involve a significant time delay between the patient's true hypnotic state and the computed indices. The present invention reduces this time delay by using a different analysis technique applied to spontaneous EEG. A wavelet decomposition and statistical analysis of the observed EEG is conducted and compared to reference data to provide a numerical indicator. In addition, this indicator is more consistent with the patient's loss of consciousness indicated by the loss of count event than previous systems.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a technique for rating neuromodulation efficacy based on evaluation of the response of the patient to sensory stimuli with and without delivery of neuromodulation therapy. In addition, the invention may provide a system capable of delivering sensory stimuli on a quantitative basis in a coordinated manner with delivery of neuromodulation therapy. A device programmer may provide a platform for controlling delivery of the sensory stimuli, delivery of neuromodulation therapy, and generation of rating information for neuromodulation efficacy based on patient sensory response to the stimuli. In operation, the programmer controls application of selected sensory stimuli to the patient's body and records the patient's verbal or physiological responses to the stimuli. This invention can be used to be a diagnostic or prognostic test that a given neuromodulation therapy, such as neurostimulation or drug delivery, is and will be successful.

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.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for transmitting neural signal information. Methods, systems, and computer programs products are disclosed for neural channel selection in a multi-channel system. A method according to one embodiment can include a step for receiving a plurality of neural signals on a first plurality of channels. The method can also include a step for calculating criterion variable value for the neural signal on each of the channels. In addition, the method can include a step for ranking the channels by the criterion variable value. The method can also include a step for calculating mutual information between a measured output and a total population activity for the first plurality of channels. Further, the method can include a step for determining a second plurality of channels that encodes a predetermined amount of the mutual information.

Abstract: The neurophysiology testing and monitoring system provides a multifunctional neurological testing system for a variety of neurological tests, such as electroencephalographs (EEGs) and magnetoencephalographs (MEGs), to be performed on a patient. The system includes a housing for receiving at least one neurological measurement system and a conductive gel supply. A selectively positionable elongated support is pivotally mounted on an upper end of the housing at a proximal end thereof, and a sensor cap is mounted on the distal end of the elongated support. The sensor cap is selectively and adjustably positioned to be adjacent the head of the user so that at least one sensor, such as an EEG electrode, mounted on the sensor cap comes into contact with the patient's head. The EEG electrode is in communication with the conductive gel supply for selective application of conductive gel to the user's head.

Abstract: Apparatus and method detect a detection cluster that is associated with a neurological event, such as a seizure, of a nervous system disorder and update therapy parameters that are associated with a treatment therapy. The occurrence of the detection cluster is detected when the maximal ratio exceeds an intensity threshold. If the maximal ratio drops below the intensity threshold for a time interval that is less than a time threshold and subsequently rises above the intensity threshold, the subsequent time duration is considered as being associated with the detection cluster rather than being associated with a different detection cluster. Consequently, treatment of the nervous system disorder during the corresponding time period is in accordance with one detection cluster. Treatment therapy may be provided by providing electrical stimulation, drug infusion or a combination.

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.

Abstract: A method and system for the detection and prevention of epileptic seizures utilizing bioelectric signals to assess a seizure profile (SP) and an adaptive control system for neurofeedback therapy. The inventive method and system provide the detection of changes in the non-linear dynamics of brain electrical activities to characterize and differentiate individual susceptibility to seizure onset, predict the occurrence of a seizure episode, and initiate neurofeedback training to prevent the attack.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an architecture of an embedded internet robot system controlled by brain waves, wherein the brain-computer interface and the internet robot system cooperate with the alertness level detection technology and the instruction translation technology, and thereby, the user can control a distal-end robot purely via consciousness activities and can interact with the environment as if there were an entity representing the user's consciousness appearing in the distal end. The seriously disabled person can regain his expressive ability via the present invention. Further, the present invention can also be applied to a multi-player interactive game system.

Abstract: A method and a Cranial Electrical Stimulator CES (4) for operation in a diagnosis, treatment, research, and test mode related to mental disorder, are disclosed. Diagnosis is based on a detected condition of passage of an electric signal via a pathway in the brain defined as passing from a first to a second electrode of a pair of electrodes from an array (12) attached to the skull (6) of a patient. Treatment is achieved by injecting a treatment signal in the pathway detected as having a condition. A practitioner (2) operates a workstation (8) of the CES (4) that controls a signal and routing box SRB (10) generating input signals and receiving output signal from the brain, via the skull (6) and electrodes (12). The PC (14) of the workstation controls signal input, output reception, measurement, display and storage in memory (15).

Abstract: The invention relates to detection of encephalopathy based on EEG signal data obtained from a patient. A first signal component is derived from the EEG signal data, the first signal component representing low frequencies of the EEG signal data. A first parameter indicative of disorder in the first signal component and a second parameter indicative of disorder in EEG signal data representing a first frequency band are then computed, wherein the first frequency band includes higher frequencies than said low frequencies. An indicator of encephalopathy is then determined based on the first parameter and the second parameter, the indicator of encephalopathy being indicative of encephalopathy.

Abstract: A method and device for automatically assessing loss of hearing sensitivity and compression (recruitment) with user defined frequency resolution by means of extrapolated DPOAE I/O functions and ABRs as well as for automatically fitting hearing aids without any cooperation of the subject tested using a device having a display screen attached to a handheld device generating and collecting otoacoustic emission signals and brain stem response signals into a programmed with a clinical audiogram with fitting parameters for hearing aids calculated on the basis of assessed hearing threshold and compression and identifying the type of hearing required for the individual.

Abstract: Treatment apparatus and method for the enhancement of neurophysiological processes of a patient's visual system utilizes a computer generated display that provides a patient simultaneously with passive visual stimulation images and visual cognitive exercises. The stimulation images include moving elements having edges or points of contrast. The exercises include visual and phonological elements. The invention is used to treat reading, writing and speech disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as having broader applications for example in sports sciences.

Abstract: A closed loop brain-machine interface is disclosed. The closed loop brain-machine interface translates one or more neural signals into a movement, or a series of movements, performed by a machine. The close-loop brain-machine interface also provides sensory feedback to the subject. Methods of employing the closed loop brain-machine interface are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a technique for rating neuromodulation efficacy based on evaluation of the response of the patient to sensory stimuli with and without delivery of neuromodulation therapy. In addition, the invention may provide a system capable of delivering sensory stimuli on a quantitative basis in a coordinated manner with delivery of neuromodulation therapy. A device programmer may provide a platform for controlling delivery of the sensory stimuli, delivery of neuromodulation therapy, and generation of rating information for neuromodulation efficacy based on patient sensory response to the stimuli. In operation, the programmer controls application of selected sensory stimuli to the patient's body and records the patient's verbal or physiological responses to the stimuli. This invention can be used to be a diagnostic or prognostic test that a given neuromodulation therapy, such as neurostimulation or drug delivery, is and will be successful.

Abstract: Neurochip for Neuroprosthetic Control. According to one embodiment, a neural spike detection system is provided. The neural spike detection system can include a signal receiver operable to receive a plurality of neural signals including neural spikes. The system can also include a neural spike detector adapted to communicate with the signal receiver and detect neural spikes in the plurality of neural signals. Further, the system can include a transmitter connected to the neural spike detector and operable to transmit an information signal when a neural spike is detected.

Abstract: A biofeedback system and method for analyzing the performance of an individual and group. The system employs a plurality of transducers for transmitting biofeedback and brain wave information as well as other biological information such as heart rate, pulse, body temperature, etc. This information is individually analyzed relative to the following neurotechnology (Neutech) formula: fbhwd˜2(3?N)×f? Where: N=˜0˜1˜2˜3˜4˜5˜ In one embodiment, a plurality of transmitters are provided for receiving biofeedback and brain waves and other information unique to the specific user. This data is then collected and transmitted and the data processed with subsequent demonstration of process data in the form of biofeedback information.

Abstract: At least an electroencephalogram (EEG) detected by a sensor is input from a signal input section as a vital sign signal. The vital sign signal is stored in a storage as vital sign data. A display includes a first display area, a second display area and a third display area. A controller reads out the vital sign data from the storage to display the vital sign signal on the display. The controller includes a first display processor, which displays the EEG in a real time manner, on the first display area, a second display processor, which displays the EEG at a time point in past, on the second display area, and a third display processor, which displays a time-varying trend of a parameter of the EEG, on the third display area. A designator designates a time point in past in the trend displayed in the third display area, so that the EEG at the designated time point is displayed on the second display area.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for determining the state of entrainment between biological systems which exhibit oscillatory behavior such as heart rhythms, respiration, blood pressure waves and low frequency brain waves based on a determination of heart rate variability (HRV) and an evaluation of the power spectrum thereof. Entrainment reflects a harmonious balance between the two branches of the autonomic nervous system within the body. This internal state of heightened physiological efficiency enhances health and promotes optimal performance. According to one embodiment a method is used to determine the entrainment level based on an entrainment parameter related to HRV. The method first determines the power distribution spectrum (PSD) and then calculates an entrainment parameter (EP), which is a measure of the power distribution in the HRV spectrum.

Abstract: Provided are an apparatus and a method for recognizing positive/negative intention using a fine change of gamma wave of a brainwave comprising the steps of detecting the brainwave from a head of a user, receiving and amplifying the brainwave detected from the step of detecting the brainwave, converting the amplified analog brainwave to one of a digital type, and recognizing the positive/negative intention of the user by detecting the fine change of the gamma wave of the brainwave in the digital type, which is transmitted from the A/D converting portion, whereby it is possible to implement an application of a real time interface and minimizes inconvenience for the user, and it requires no separate user practice.

Abstract: A method for modifying cranial electrical potentials utilizes an electrical lead having first and second electrodes. The electrical lead may also include either a resistive component for increasing the resistance of the electrical lead, or a diode for restricting the flow of electricity through the lead to a single direction. The electrical lead is attached between skin surface areas of a human head, such as between ears, or an ear and an area of the scalp or forehead. Preferably, two electrical leads are utilized, one lead extending from a left ear to a right portion of the head, and the other electrical lead extending from the right ear to the left portion of the head. Scalp electrical potentials are altered in a passive manner resulting in beneficial effects on a variety of psychiatric disorders and brain functioning.

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.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for phase shifting neurological signals received from monitoring elements of a medical device. The medical device comprises a plurality of monitoring elements each receiving a neurological signal. The device processes the neurological signals and identifies a time shift of the neurological signals relative to each other. The neurological signals are then time shifted according to the time shift upon which the signals are utilized to provide closed-loop feedback control of a treatment therapy.

Abstract: This invention teaches further method improvements to forewarn of critical events via phase-space dissimilarity analysis of data from biomedical equipment, mechanical devices, and other physical processes. One improvement involves conversion of time-serial data into equiprobable symbols. A second improvement is a method to maximize the channel-consistent total-true rate of forewarning from a plurality of data channels over multiple data sets from the same patient or process. This total-true rate requires resolution of the forewarning indications into true positives, true negatives, false positives and false negatives. A third improvement is the use of various objective functions, as derived from the phase-space dissimilarity measures, to give the best forewarning indication. A fourth improvement uses various search strategies over the phase-space analysis parameters to maximize said objective functions. A fifth improvement shows the usefulness of the method for various biomedical and machine applications.

Abstract: Electrical signal data from a target location are recorded and collected. A signal analyzer analyzes the signal data and determines whether characteristics of the signal data resemble noise data or whether a departure from noise is present. If the characteristics show a departure from noise, neuronal activity at the target location is indicated.

Abstract: A control apparatus includes an arithmetic unit for generating a brain wave pattern based on a brain wave signal obtained from a driver's head, for comparing the generated brain wave pattern with a plurality of brain wave patterns pre-stored in a control processing unit, when there is a match between the generated brain wave pattern and one of the plurality of brain wave patterns pre-stored in the control processing unit, for identifying an operation description associated with the one of the plurality of brain wave patterns, and for reading corresponding control data so as to generate and deliver a corresponding control signal that causes a vehicle-mounted apparatus to carry out an operation specified by the associated operation description to the vehicle-mounted apparatus based on the control data.

Abstract: An electrocorticography-based brain computer interface (BCI) and related methods are described.

Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating physiological coherence using respiratory training are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optimal respiratory cycle and/or RSA pattern is determined. A subject is then trained to adhere to this optimal respiratory level using one or more breath indicators. In another embodiment, the timing sequence of the breath indicators is optimized for a given subject's reaction time and/or atypical breathing events. In yet another embodiment, a subject's respiratory rhythms are used to detect their emotional state and corresponding feedback provided.

Abstract: A neural lead and method of treating neurological disorders by stimulation of the cerebral cortex of the brain is provided. The lead is designed for reduction of strain between the lead body and the lead paddle caused by the position of the lead body above the cranium and the lead paddle beneath the cranium. The lead is also designed to include a two dimensional chronic electrode array for better stimulation coverage of the target area of the cerebral cortex. A method of treating a neurological disorder by stimulating the cerebral cortex is also presented.

Abstract: A brain machine interface for decoding neural signals for control of a machine is provided. The brain machine interface estimates and then combines information from two classes of neural activity. A first estimator decodes movement plan information from neural signals representing plan activity. In one embodiment the first estimator includes an adaptive point-process filter or a maximum likelihood filter. A second estimator decodes peri-movement information from neural signals representing peri-movement activity. Each estimator is designed to estimate different aspects of movement such as movement goal variables or movement execution variables.

Abstract: A neurofeedback technique uses color as its feedback cue. A preferred embodiment of the invention includes an amplifier that receives EEG signals from electrodes (e.g., adhesive electrodes, SQUID sensors, etc.) on or adjacent the person's scalp, a low or band pass filter, a color processor and a display. The color processor converts an aspect of one or more channels of the person's EEG signal(s) to a color and shows that color to the person on the display. The aspect of the EEG that is converted to color can be the frequency or the amplitude of the person's EEG signal(s). If EEG amplitude is used in the conversion process, the instantaneous, average or peak amplitude can be used. This process is dynamic, meaning that the system repeatedly converts the EEG signal to color. Conventional adhesive electrodes or non-adhesive sensors can be used to detect the person's brain activity.

Abstract: In one aspect, a method of detecting ischemia within the brain of a patient. The method includes assigning a first value to a first signal generated by a tissue on the right-hand side of the body and assigning a second value to a second signal generated by a tissue on the left-hand side of the body. The method also includes comparing the first value and the second value. The difference between the first value and the second value indicates that ischemia is present within the patient's brain.

Abstract: A method for cognitive function assessment in a patient uses the ERP waveform features and parameters that maximize the correlation between the ERP components and behavioral performance on a neuropsychological test of language comprehension (PPVT-R). The method provides an electrophysiological diagnostic technique that can be used in the assessment of aphasic patients. ERPs are recorded during a computerized version of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised (PPVT-R, Form M). In the computerized version, a picture is presented followed by a congruent or incongruent spoken word. A derived measure is calculated from the ERP differentiation between congruent and incongruent words. The N400 is the primary component elicited to incongruent spoken words.

Abstract: A method of detecting vulnerable arterial plaque formed on the vessel wall in vivo is disclosed. The method comprises obtaining an image of the arterial plaque, measuring the temperature of the arterial plaque, and determining whether the plaque exhibits an elevated temperature compared to the temperature of at least one adjacent vessel wall site. The method may include determining whether the plaque exhibits an elevated temperature of between 0.4 to 4° C. above at least one adjacent vessel wall site.

Abstract: A system for determining anesthetic state of a subject includes a brain monitor configured to measure at least one parameter of brain activity of the subject and to provide at least one brain monitor output signal indicative of the measured at least one parameter, a stimulator configured to apply a non-surgical stimulus perturbation to the subject and to provide at least one stimulus output signal indicative of timing and intensity of non-surgical stimuli applied to the subject, an analyzer coupled to the brain monitor and the stimulator and configured to receive the at least one brain monitor output signal and the at least one stimulus output signal, to determine a stimulus difference between the non-surgical stimulus intensity in the absence of the perturbation and in the presence of the perturbation, to determine a monitor difference between the a first value of the at least one parameter in the absence of the perturbation and a second value of the at least one parameter in the presence of the perturbation

Abstract: A system of accessing the brain of a subject to record and/or stimulate brain stares thereof. The system includes control means, first accessing means having a plurality of contact surfaces configured to operatively connect the control means to the brain of the subject to provide three-dimensional stimulation thereof; second accessing means having a plurality of contact surfaces to operatively connect the control means to the brain of the subject to provide access thereto for the purposes of obtaining three-dimensional recordings of the brain electrical activity of the subject; and a waveform bank containing a plurality of stimulating waveforms. The control means is configured to operative apply a first at least one of the stimulating waveforms of the waveform bank to the brain of the subject through the first accessing means and to assess acceptability within defined limits, as determined by preset criteria, of the subject's response to the application of the at first least one of the stimulating waveforms.

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.

Abstract: In an embodiment, neural activity of a subject may be measured with an implant in the sensory motor cortex of the subject and used to predict an intended movement. The measured neural activity may be the local field potential (LFP) at an electrode or single unit (SU) activity. The spectral structure of the LFP and the SU activity may be estimated using spectral analysis techniques. The estimated LFP and SU responses may be used to predict and intended movement by the subject.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-lingual communication method and apparatus, wherein a physical or physiological signal consciously created by a first subject (1) is detected and converted into a transmitted output signal presented to a second subject (7) in order to communicate information from the first subject (1) to the second subject (7). The invention further relates to rehabilitation of handicapped people.

Abstract: A method and system for the detection and prevention of epileptic seizures utilizing bioelectric signals to assess a seizure profile (SP) and an adaptive control system for neurofeedback therapy. The inventive method and system provide the detection of changes in the non-linear dynamics of brain electrical activities to characterize and differentiate individual susceptibility to seizure onset, predict the occurrence of a seizure episode, and initiate neurofeedback training to prevent the attack.

Abstract: A system and method for displaying 3D data are presented. The method involves subdividing a 3D display region into two or more display subregions, and assigning a set of display rules to each display subregion. Visible portions of a 3D data set in each display subregion are displayed according to the rules assigned to that display subregion. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the boundaries of the display regions, the display rules for each display subregion, and the 3D data sets assigned to be displayed in each display subregion can be set by a user, and are interactively modifiable by a user during the display. In exemplary embodiments of the invention the same 3D data can be displayed in each display subregion, albeit using different display rules. Alternatively, in other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a different 3D data set can be displayed in each display subregion.