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    • 专利摘要:
    Device (10) for measuring and / or stimulating brain activity, preferably EEG, comprising means for transmitting and / or detecting (12) physiological signals produced by the brain of an individual, and a medium (14) said transmitting and / or detecting means (12), characterized in that said support (14) is configured to extend over the top of the individual's head, the support comprises means (16) detachable attachment to an accessory (20) intended to be worn by the individual, on his head, such as an audio headset (20), the support is configured so that the transmission and / or detection means ( 12) physiological signals are, when the device (10) is carried by the individual, maintained in substantially tight contact with the head of the individual by the accessory (20).
    公开号:FR3058628A1
    申请号:FR1661057
    申请日:2016-11-15
    公开日:2018-05-18
    发明作者:Julien Dauguet；Mehdi Dutheil
    申请人:Cosciens；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    (57) device (10) for measuring and / or stimulating a cerebral activity, preferably EEG, comprising means for transmitting and / or detecting (12) physiological signals produced by the brain of an individual, and a support (14) of said emission and / or detection means (12), characterized in that said support (14) is configured to extend over the top of the head of the individual, the support comprises means (16) for removable attachment to an accessory (20) intended to be worn by the individual, on his head, such as an audio headset (20), the support is configured so that the transmission means and / or detection (12) of physiological signals are, when the device (10) is worn by the individual, maintained in substantially tight contact with the head of the individual by the accessory (20).
    Device for measuring and / or stimulating brain activity
    TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a device for measuring and / or stimulating the cerebral activity of an individual (for example electrical) or even other types of bio-measures such as the pulse, and an audio headset equipped of such a device.
    STATE OF THE ART There are various ways of measuring the brain activity of a person: BCT thermal measurements (Brain and Core Thermometer), optical measurements (near infrared spectroscopic imaging (N 1RS), for example), magnetic measurements (magnetoencephalography), etc.
    [0003] A conventional and well-known way of measuring the brain activity of an individual is to measure brain electrical activity. A device for measuring brain electrical activity (or electroencephalograph) tracks the overall activity of large sets of brain neurons. The electroencephalogram (or EEG) is conventionally used clinically for diagnostic purposes or in research for brain exploration. EEG can be used to determine different states in an individual: state of consciousness, wakefulness, sleep stage, degree of cognitive engagement, level of stress, etc. The amplitude of an electrical signal is proportional to the degree of synchronization of nerve activity in neurons in a given region of the cortex. Indeed, when a group of neurons is simultaneously excited, their weak emitted signals add up and become perceptible for electrodes on the surface of the skull.
    In the current technique, there are many devices of the electroencephalograph type. They each include sensors for detecting electrical signals emitted by an individual's brain, and a support for these sensors. From classic and known manner may be, the general form of an EEG headset (invented in the early twentieth century) used in the medical field or that of research, is substantially that of a hat. Often, like ECG devices (electrocardiogram) on the heart, the electrodes of an EEG device are directly placed and individually glued one by one on the individual by a specialized technician, with conductive paste adhesive sometimes lined with a medical plaster. The whole is then covered with a net. EEG is a method of exploring the brain that includes a spatial, frequency and temporal component: it therefore involves having several electrodes distributed over the individual's skull.
    In order to maintain the spatial component, the EEG helmets used in research have a spider shape. However, so-called “general public” EEG devices accessible to individuals for personal and private use generally operate by means of dry electrodes, and for the most part comprise electrodes all aligned in the same plane and grouped in a region. specifies such, for example, the forehead. These “general public” devices are therefore conventionally presented in the form of a band or in a generally elongated and curved shape in C or U to match the shape of the head of the individual who wears it, and the support extends over his forehead.
    Other “general public” devices include sensors located on the top of the head of the individual who wears it, but their use is made inseparable from the use of headphones because of their integration therein. this, which is very impractical when the individual wishes to use only the headphones, or use the EEG with a different medium. This makes the device impractical and limits its use.
    In addition to electrical measurement, there are other techniques for measuring the brain activity of an individual which require the presence of a sensor in contact with (or close to) the scalp. We can, for example, cite the photonic measurement N 1RS (Near Infra Red Spectroscopÿ), the measurement of the magnetic field produced by the electric currents flowing naturally in the brain MEG (Magnetoencephalography), the thermal measurement BCT (Brain Core Temperature), or still the measurement by ultrasound, "Functional Ultrasound Imaging".
    The present invention provides an improvement to these technologies in order, on the one hand, to reintroduce the spatial component into the measurements of EEG devices intended for the “general public”, in particular by giving the possibility of reaching other brain regions ( central, parietal, occipital, temporal region), while facilitating their use. On the other hand, the present invention proposes to make accessible to the "general public" other methods of measuring brain activity.
    [0009] Independently of the techniques for measuring brain activity, there are techniques (in full expansion) for stimulating brain activity. These techniques are commonly grouped under the term neuromodulation, and are conventionally of the photonic, magnetic, ultrasonic and / or electrical type.
    Brain photon stimulation, or photoneuromodulation, is based on the fact that the absorption of photons causes photochemical reactions in the neurons of an individual and alters their activity. The light source can be of the “near infrared laser” type or else a light-emitting diode. This stimulation technique can be of the LLLT (Low-level Light / Laser Therapy) type.
    Non-invasive (or minimally invasive) magnetic brain stimulation is called TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation): this technique consists of generating a magnetic field by an antenna on the surface of the brain of the stimulated individual. This will induce micro electric currents in the brain region under the antenna (principle of electromagnetic induction).
    The non-invasive (or minimally invasive) brain stimulation technique by ultrasound can be of the TPU (Transcranial Pulsed Ultrasound) type: it can use, for example, low-intensity low-frequency ultrasound to modulate the brain activity of the individual. stimulated, probably by generating a mechanical action on cell membranes.
    Electrical brain stimulation is conventionally presented, and in a manner known per se, in two forms:
    - direct current stimulation tDCS (Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation), and
    - stimulation by alternating currents tACS (Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation).
    The supposed mechanisms of action of brain electrical stimulation aim to depolarize / hyperpolarize (tDCS) the membranes of neurons or synchronize / desynchronize (tACS) the natural electrical oscillations of the neurons of the stimulated individual in a cortical region.
    All these stimulation techniques can be made accessible to the "general public".
    The present invention thus proposes to democratize access to these brain stimulation techniques via a practical and easy to use device.
    PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION The invention proposes for this purpose a device for measuring and / or stimulating a cerebral activity, preferably EEG, comprising means for transmitting and / or detecting physiological signals produced by the brain of an individual, and a support for said emission and / or detection means, characterized in that:
    - Said support is configured to extend over the top of the head of the individual, the support comprises removable attachment means to an accessory intended to be worn by the individual, on his head, such as a headset This device makes it possible in particular to measure the cerebral state in which the individual is in order to possibly adapt his direct electronic environment to this state or, conversely, to induce a particular cerebral state adapted to his environment or its activity. The cerebral activity measured is advantageously the cerebral electrical activity, the emission and / or detection means comprising a sensor for detecting electrical signals.
    The invention also makes it possible to stimulate cerebral activity to induce a certain cerebral state while measuring the cerebral activity of said individual. For example, the individual's brain can be stimulated by an optical signal from a transmitter, such as a diode, while an electrical sensor, such as an electrode, measures the brain activity of the individual. This creates a feedback loop and secures possible brain stimulation.
    According to the invention, the support is removably attached, that is to say detachable and attachable (at will), to an accessory which is preferably chosen from an audio headset, for example with a headband, a headset, a pair of glasses, a protective helmet, a headgear, a headdress, a beanie, a cap, a hat, a scarf, a headband, a cap, a kippa, a virtual reality or augmented reality helmet, augmented reality glasses, etc. The device can thus be worn in addition to one of the aforementioned accessories without discomfort and can be disassembled and dissociated from the accessory.
    Several options are available to the individual wishing to wear the device: If the device is autonomous and long enough to grip the head of the individual, the device holds itself on the head of the individual , i.e. it can be worn alone, without being attached to an accessory and without risk of being lost. However, the possibility of attaching it to an accessory remains. In the case where the support of the device is not autonomous or not long enough to enclose the head of the individual, the device can be fixed to one of the aforementioned accessories, in particular a headband, making it possible to extend the support and wear it without risk of losing it.
    The fact that the device is removable makes it possible to choose and adapt the accessory to which it is paired according to the situation in which one wishes to use the device and therefore to use it in different contexts, different situations and different places without risk of disturbing, surprising, annoying or shocking those around you. We can thus, for example, pair it with a cap to read in a park, with a protective helmet to carry out work on site or a trip by bike, and pair it with an audio headset to concentrate in an open-space . This allows, for the same device, ease and flexibility of use essential to uses adapted to all kinds of daily activities. Furthermore, this same cap, this same protective helmet and this same audio headset can be used without being coupled to the device. Thus, a single device is enough to cover a huge range of activities and there is no need to combine accessories "without devices" and "with devices" in your personal belongings. The decoupling between the device and the accessory thus allows a personalized combination: in terms of headphones, hat, site helmet, etc., the needs and choices can be very specific and personal. If the user is already equipped with an accessory that he has obtained independently of his wish to measure brain signals, and that he wishes to keep the personal use of this accessory, for example for hygienic reasons , the removability thus makes it possible to reconcile a preexisting accessory with the device. The only constraint is to wear an accessory suitable for the use of the device in the case where the device is not autonomous.
    The device can easily be declined in several sizes or shapes to best suit the user and use, independently of the modes and currents which change the design of a headset or a cap, for example.
    In addition, if it is necessary to replace either the device or the accessory, it is not necessary to replace the whole but simply an individual element.
    The invention provides a particular positioning of the device on the head of the individual. Like a headband, the device extends over the top and sides of the individual's skull, which makes it more discreet, more comfortable, more practical, more functional and more aesthetic than, for example, the devices extending over the forehead.
    The invention also provides a device comprising means for transmitting and / or detecting physiological signals intended to be located under the accessory worn by the individual. This allows the accessory to exert pressure on the signal transmission and / or detection means and thus optimizes the contact between the user's scalp and said signal transmission and / or detection means without creating discomfort or discomfort.
    The device according to the invention may include one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation from one another or in combination with each other:
    - The device is configured to operate autonomously, so that it can be used alone, without accessories, in a fully operational manner. However, to maintain it on the user's head, an accessory is necessary,
    - electronic elements of the devices are shared with the accessory, - the removable fixing means are integrated into the device,
    the removable fixing means are attached to the device, and can for example take the form of a magnetic clip,
    the support has a generally elongated shape curved in C or U,
    - the support comprises one or a relatively thin strip shape configured to be interposed between the accessory and the head of the individual,
    - the support has a general form of strip,
    - the support is made of flexible material, so as to best adapt to the curvature of the head of the individual and / or of the accessory worn by the individual,
    - the support is articulated, so as to best adapt to the curvature of the head of the individual and / or of the accessory worn by the individual,
    - The support consists of several sheets, so as to have a so-called closed position, in which it has the shape of a strap and an open position, in which it has a form of bellows, so as to best adapt both to the shape of the head of the individual and to the shape of the accessory and to optimize the contact between the means of emission and / or detection of physiological signals and the head of the individual,
    - The support consists of two semi-rigid strips of different lengths, superimposed, fixed to each other by their centers, the upper strip comprising means for fixing each of the ends of the lower strip, so as to have a so-called open position, in which the support has an overall shape of a strap and a closed position, in which the ends of the lower strip are folded back and fixed to the upper strip via the fixing means, so as to have a loop shape forming a spring in order to best adapt both to the shape of the head of the individual and to the shape of the accessory to optimize the contact between the means for transmitting and / or detecting physiological signals and the head of the individual,
    - the support comprises, substantially in the middle, that is to say at the level of the top of the C or U, said fixing means,
    - the support comprises at least two means of fixing at a distance from each other, and preferably regularly distributed along said support,
    said fixing means form a loop which is intended to grip said accessory or to be crossed by said accessory,
    said connecting or fixing means are of the type with magnets, hooks and loops, cooperation of shapes, elastic snap-fastening, non-slip elements and / or elastic elements,
    - said emission and / or detection means are located on an internal face, for example, concave curved of said support,
    - Said emission and / or detection means are in the form of pins or discs comprising at least one dry electrode configured to come into contact with the scalp of the individual wearing the device, without adding coupling liquid, despite the presence, or not, of hair,
    - the electrodes have protruding pins whose free ends are configured to come into contact with the scalp of the individual wearing the device, without adding coupling liquid, despite the presence or not of hair,
    the pins or discs are made of a conductive polymer material, preferably flexible or flexible,
    - the device also comprises at least one electronic card for amplifying the electrical signals detected by the sensors, and for processing said signals,
    - at least one of said transmission and / or detection means is integral with an electronic local amplification card,
    - at least one of said emission and / or detection means is an optical sensor comprising a radiation source (for example an LED light-emitting diode), a detector (for example of CMOS type), and a dispersive element (for example a diffraction grating),
    - at least one of said emission and / or detection means is of the chip-scale atomic magnetometer (CSAM) sensor type intended for the measurement of magnetic fields. This type of sensor conventionally has the following characteristics: high sensitivity, inexpensive, requiring no cooling, consuming little energy, portable, no need for direct contact, etc.,
    - at least one of said emission and / or detection means is of the micro thermistor sensor type, making it possible to measure the cerebral temperature using for example the principle of zero heat flow,
    - at least one of said emission and / or detection means is of the cerebral electrical stimulation electrode type, associated with a module capable of generating micro electric currents,
    - at least one of said emission and / or detection means is of the LED (Electro-Luminescent Diodes) type producing a light stimulation in the near infrared spectrum (wavelength between 750 and 1400nm), for example targeting the prefrontal cortex following ultra short pulses at a frequency of 10 Hz,
    at least one of said emission and / or detection means is of the conducting coil type (or pair of butterfly type coils), comprising a copper cable covered with insulator, of circular shape and of diameter on the order of 2-10 cm, and producing a magnetic field,
    - at least one of said transmission and / or detection means is of the piezoelectric transmitter or CMUT (Capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers) type capable of generating a low intensity low frequency ultrasonic wave of the order of 5-6 MHz for example, directed towards the individual's brain,
    - the device also comprises means of remote communication with an electronic system independent of said accessory, such as a mobile phone,
    - the support is in the form of a headband and is configured to enclose the head of the individual, from the top of his head to the vicinity of his ears,
    - said emission and / or detection means are removably attached to the support or this support comprises removable and replaceable elements,
    - at least one of the measurement and / or stimulation means is positioned in contact with or close to the user's scalp (off forehead). This allows the spatial component of the measurement or stimulation to be extended, and allows the device to be less sensitive to physiological artefacts such as the movements of the user's eyes or forehead,
    - the support is configured to pass under the accessory worn by the individual.
    This ensures proper maintenance of the transmission and / or detection means in contact with the user's scalp, and also makes it possible, when the device is worn by a user, to hide the transmission means and / or detection and thus to protect them from possible shocks which may damage them and thus reduce the operating time of the device,
    - said emission and / or detection means are configured to detect other types of bio-measurements such as the pulse.
    The present invention also relates to an audio headset, comprising a hoop carrying at two opposite ends means for transmitting sound or music, characterized in that it comprises at least one device as described above fixed so removable in particular to the support.
    The present invention also relates to a sensor for detecting, preferably, electrical signals emitted by the brain of an individual, in particular for a device for measuring cerebral electrical activity, preferably EEG, as described below. above, this sensor comprising one or more of the characteristics described above, taken in isolation from one another or in combination with each other.
    DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES The invention will be better understood and other details, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description given by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :
    FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a device according to a first embodiment of the invention,
    - Figures 2 to 4 are other schematic views of the device of Figure
    1, seen respectively from below, from above and from the side, FIGS. 5a and 5b are schematic perspective views of a support for the device according to a second embodiment,
    FIG. 6a is a schematic front view of the device according to the second embodiment, attached to an accessory,
    FIG. 6b is a schematic front view of the device according to the second embodiment, attached to an accessory and carried by an individual,
    FIG. 7a is a schematic perspective view of the device according to a third embodiment,
    FIG. 7b is a schematic front view of the device according to the third embodiment, attached to an accessory and carried by an individual,
    FIG. 8 is a series of schematic front views of the device according to the third embodiment, showing the mounting thereof,
    FIGS. 9a and 9b represent the fixing of the device of FIG. 1 on an accessory, in an embodiment in which the removable fixing means are not integrated into the device,
    FIGS. 10a and 10b represent the positioning and the fixing of the device of FIG. 1 on the head of an individual, in an embodiment in which the removable fixing means are integrated into the device,
    FIGS. 11a and 11b are schematic perspective views, and in axial section for FIG. 11b, of a sensor of the device of FIG. 1, and
    - Figure 11c is another schematic view in axial section of the sensor of Figure 11a.
    DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0030] Figures 1 to 4 show a first embodiment of a device 10 according to the invention for measuring the brain activity of an individual. In this embodiment, the device 10 makes it possible to measure the electrical brain activity (EEG) of the individual wearing it.
    According to this embodiment, the device 10 essentially comprises:
    - transmission and / or detection means 12, here sensors 12 for detecting electrical signals emitted by the individual's brain,
    a support 14 for the sensors 12, and
    - Means 16 for removable attachment of the support to an accessory intended to be worn by the individual, on his head, such as an audio headset (Figures 9a and 9b).
    The sensors 12 will be described in detail in the following with reference to Figures 10a to 10c.
    In this embodiment, the support 14 has a generally elongated and curved C or U shape. It is configured to extend over the top or even the sides of the head of the individual. It comprises here two curved parts 14a, 14b mounted one inside the other, or superimposed Alternatively, not shown, the support 14 may have a general shape of strip, which allows exert a certain pressure on the means of emission and / or detection 12 of physiological signals even in the absence of accessory 20, thus making it possible to maintain the sensors and / or transmitters 12 in contact with the skull of the user. By headband is meant any accessory 20 forming an O, worn around the head of an individual. The headband can thus, for example, pass over the forehead or over the head of the individual wearing it, pass in front of or behind the ears, attach to the back of the head or under the chin, etc. The internal or lower part 14a has a length less than that of the external or upper part 14b.
    When it is worn, the external part 14b extends over the head of the individual, at an angle of between 150 and 200 ° approximately, and for example 180 °. It thus extends generally on the top and sides of the head of the individual, for example up to the vicinity of the top of the ears, in the manner of a headband.
    When worn, the internal part 14a extends over the head of the individual, at an angle of between 50 and 120 ° approximately, and for example 90-100 °. It also extends globally on the top of the individual's head.
    In the example illustrated, the function of part 14a is in particular to be the support for the sensors 12 and to integrate the acquisition circuit. The function of the part 14b can be in particular the positioning and the maintenance of the device 10 on the head of the individual.
    The parts 14a, 14b can be fixed together in a removable manner. The individual can thus for example personalize the device by replacing the part 14b with the same part but of different color, size and / or shape (s). This is particularly the case when the part 14a forms a measurement module including the sensors 12, as in the example shown. Part 14b can then be personalized by its owner or the person wearing it.
    Each of the parts 14a, 14b or the support 14 in general comprises or is formed of an elongated strip of substantially fine and wide material. Each part 14a, 14b or the support 14 has a thickness E1, E2, E (E = E1 + E2) less than the width L1 of the support or of the device. Preferably, 2 * (E1 or E2 or E) <L1 <4 * (E1 or E2 or E), or even 2 * (E1 or E2 or E) <L1 <3 * (E1 or E2 or E).
    The parts 14a, 14b, and in particular the part 14b, can be flexible by spacing their longitudinal ends, so as to facilitate the positioning of the support on the head of the individual. The support and its parts are for example made of plastic material and / or fabric and / or leather.
    To optimize the operation of the sensors and / or transmitters 12, it is necessary to exert pressure on said sensors and / or transmitters 12 which is perpendicular to the surface of the user's head, and not perpendicular to the surface of the accessory 20 used. If the accessory 20 used matches the shape of the user's head, this constraint is not a problem. However, in the case where the accessory 20 has its own shape, independent of the shape of the user's head, this can become a problem.
    Thus, according to a second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5a and 5b, the support 14 has the same general elongated and curved C or U shape as in the previous embodiment, but the support 14 may include, between the parts 14a and 14b, several sheets 15, so as to present an overall structure of bellows or accordion. Indeed, depending on the accessory 20 chosen by the user, the accessory 20 may not exert a uniform pressure on the device 10, and cause a loss of efficiency of the sensors and / or transmitters 12. In particular, if the accessory 20 is a headset 20 with headband 18: this accessory 20 is stable on the head, widely accepted in society, in very diverse contexts, and in particular comprises electronic components which can be shared with the device 10. The headset 20 is thus an accessory 20 very relevant for being used as a support for the device 10 according to the invention. However, the headphones 20 have, in a conventional manner known per se, a specific form: it does not simply rest on the top of the head of the user but its maintenance is also ensured by the pressure "in clamp" that the 'headband 18 of the helmet 20 exerts on the ears of the individual who wears it. This characteristic typically has the consequence that the arch 18 is not uniformly in contact with the scalp of the individual who wears it: conventionally, only the top of the arch 18 touches the head of the user, as visible in Figure 6b. The headband 18 thus encloses, on the outside, headphones 22 to ensure the pressure on the ears of the user. As the spacing between the outside of the earphones 22 pressed against the ears is strictly greater than the spacing between the ears of the user, the radius of curvature of the arch 18 is greater than that of the head of the user (see Figure 6b). Because of these different radii of curvature, the arch 18 does not follow the shape of the head, it deviates from it over a significant portion (and this all the more as one moves away from the top of the head), and the surface of the arch 18 is therefore not in continuous and uniform contact with the head of the user. The second embodiment of the device 10 thus makes it possible to ensure optimal contact and a suitable pressure for all of the sensors and / or transmitters 12, and also guarantees the comfort and stability of use of the device 10.
    Thus, this second embodiment of the support 14 allows to adapt the distance between the sensors and / or transmitters 12 and the head, and if necessary, to ensure that the pressure exerted on each of the sensors and / or 12 transmitters on the stimulation or measurement zone is adequate. Indeed, the part 14b (upper face) remains in contact with the accessory 20 conforms to the curvature (see FIG. 6a), while the part 14a (lower face) conforms to the curvature of the head of the user (see FIG. 6b). The accordion shape of the support 14 allows the device 10 to exert a bidirectional thrust: towards the accessory 20 and towards the head of the user.
    Furthermore, the support 14 according to the second embodiment has two positions. A so-called closed position (see FIG. 5a), in which the parts 14a and 14b are in contact over their entire length and a so-called open position (see FIG. 5b), in which the longitudinal ends of the parts 14a and 14b are spaced apart. the other. The closed position makes it possible in particular to facilitate the storage and transport of the device 10. The closed position gives the support the same characteristics and properties as the first embodiment of the device 10.
    According to a third embodiment, close to the second embodiment, the support 14 comprises two layers of leather 14a, 14b superimposed, of different lengths, fixed to each other by their respective centers. As visible in FIG. 7a, the part 14a (lower face) is a strap (for example made of leather) thick enough to carry the sensors and / or transmitters 12 (here three in number, also distributed over the length of the strap) , intended to come into contact with the user's scalp It is also intended to be folded back on itself so as to form a loop which is flexible enough to match the outline of the shape of the user's skull but which is however rigid enough to act as a spring and ensure the desired pressure. The part 14b (upper face) for this purpose comprises means for fixing each of the ends of the part 14a in order to be able to maintain the part 14a in its folded (or closed) position. In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the means for fixing the part 14b take the form of a sheath intended to receive the ends of the part 14a. Thus, when it is in the folded position and carried by the user (see FIG. 7b), the support 14 according to this embodiment has the same elastic properties as the embodiment presented previously. It thus ensures, in the same way, optimal contact between the sensors and / or transmitters 12 and the surface of the user's scalp by a suitable pressure exerted between the accessory 20 (here a headband 18 of helmet audio indicated by dotted lines in FIG. 7b) and all the sensors and / or transmitters 12. This makes it possible to optimize the operation of the device 10 and to ensure better comfort for the user. As for the previous embodiment, the rest (or open) position makes it possible in particular to facilitate the storage and transport of the device 10. The open position gives the support 14 according to this third embodiment, the same characteristics and properties as the first embodiment of the device 10.
    In general, the solution chosen to fill the space between the surface of the user's scalp and the accessory 20 preferably has flexibility making it possible to ensure a certain elastic pressure on the sensors and / or transmitters 12 while allowing closing (or opening) called "flat" of the support 14 adapted in particular to the storage of the device 10. The fixing means 16 are intended to secure the device to the accessory 20, so for example to guarantee optimal positioning of the device 10 on the head or to keep it discreetly between the accessory 20 and the individual's head, in particular when the accessory 20 is a headset 20, as illustrated in FIGS. 10a and 10b.
    The fastening means 16 can be of any type. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, they include a loop extending substantially in a median plane P1 which is a median transverse plane of symmetry of the device. P2 is a median longitudinal plane of symmetry of the device 10. The loop thus defines a passage opening out towards the two longitudinal ends of the support 14.
    The accessory 20 is intended to pass through this passage. In the case of the headphones of FIGS. 10a and 10b, it is the arch 18 of the headphones 20 which passes through the passage of the loop of the fixing means 16. The headphones carry headphones 22 or speakers at the ends of the hoop 18 and is of the supra-aural type.
    In practice, the loop can be achieved by fixing two elements 16a, 16b of elongated shape. A first element 16a at a first end linked to the support 14, for example at the front (zone A), and a second opposite end which is intended to be removably fixed by snap-fastening or elastic clipping, by loop / hook system ( Velcro® type for example), by magnet, by adjustable hook, by pressure, by non-slip system, by elastic system, etc. on a first end of a second element 16b, the second opposite end of which is linked to the support 14, for example at the rear (zone B).
    In the embodiment presented in Figures 9a and 9b, the fastening means 16 are in two parts: a first part 16a secured to the support 14 and at least a corresponding second part 16b intended to be attached to the support 14. Each added part 16b is fixed on the accessory 20, an audio headset 20 in this case. In the example of FIGS. 5a and 5b, the fixing means 16 are magnetic and the corresponding parts 16a and 16b cooperate by magnetization. Thus, each added part 16b is in the form of a metal clip intended to be clipped onto the arch 18 of the headphones 20. Each added part 16b is adaptable to several thicknesses. The attachment of each attached part 16b to the headband 18 of the headset 20 allows magnetic cooperation with each corresponding integral part 16a, and thus makes it possible to removably fix the device 10 on the accessory 20.
    In this example, the device 10 is a device 10 for EEG measurement and comprises a support 14 in the form of a flexible leather strap. The support 14 carries the three integral parts 16a on its external face. Each integral part 16a is in the form of a housing. The first box 16a is located in the center of the support 14. Two other boxes 16a are located on either side of the first box 16a, the three boxes being distributed evenly on the support 14. Each box 16a is surmounted by a magnet which comes opposite a corresponding clip 16b fixed on the accessory 20.
    In the examples shown, the device 10 comprises two sensors 12 but it could understand more. It can also include transmitters. The device 10 can comprise two different types of sensors: measurement sensors 12, as illustrated in FIG. 1, for example, and also so-called mass or reference sensors (not shown in the figures).
    These sensors 12 are carried by the support and in particular by its internal part 14a. They are substantially located at 60 ° from one another and at 60 ° from the longitudinal ends of the support 14. lb are located at the aforementioned plane P2.
    Figures 11a to 11c show an embodiment of the sensors 12. Each sensor 12 comprises two parts, namely a pin 24 and an electronic card 25 for amplification of the electrical signals emitted by the brain of the individual carrying the device 10. The electronic amplification card 25 is a small local amplification circuit (in the example considered, it is a mini round electronic card) which makes it possible to make each sensor 12 "active", it that is, the signal is locally amplified, which makes the signal less sensitive to surrounding electromagnetic disturbances.
    The pin 24 comprises a disc-shaped base, one face F of which is intended to be oriented towards the head of the individual and comprises an electrode 27 consisting of a set of protruding pins 28. Each pin 24 is made of a conductive polymer material, preferably flexible or flexible, this flexibility participating in maintaining contact and the pressure exerted on the sensors and / or transmitters 12. In order to optimize this pressure, it is possible to mount the pins 24 on flexible supports (foam for example) of size increasing as one moves away from the top of the head of the user (not shown). It is also, for example, possible to mount the pins 24 on supports in the form of a "chimney bellows" which can open or completely close flat, potentially linked in cascade one over the other.
    The pins 28 have a generally cylindrical or frustoconical elongated shape. They extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the plane of the base. Their number is between 5 and 50 and for example between 10 and 30. Each pin 28 comprises at its free end, opposite the base, at least one circular surface 30 substantially flat intended to come into contact with the scalp for the detection of brain activity. Alternatively, each pin 28 could have a pointed end, so as to promote contact with the scalp.
    The electrode 27 is preferably of the dry type, that is to say that it is intended to come into contact with the scalp and to detect electrical signals by itself, without adding liquid or gel of coupling.
    In the particular embodiment of the invention considered, each pin 28 of the electrode 27 has a length or height between 2 and 5mm. Its free circular surface 30 has for example a diameter between 1 and 2mm.
    In the example illustrated, the other face 32 of the pin 24 comprises a cylindrical flange 34 which extends around the axis X of the pin and which comprises an annular bead 36 radially internal with respect to this axis. This rim 34 defines with the face 32 a housing 35 for receiving the electronic card 26, which is intended to be maintained in this housing by the bead 36 (Figures 6b and 6c).
    The pin 24 further comprises a radially outer annular flange 38 which can be used for mounting the sensor 12 in a housing provided for this purpose of the support or its part 14a.
    The pin 24 is preferably made in one piece from a plastic material, which is advantageously relatively flexible, so that:
    the electrodes 27 are flexible to facilitate the contacting of each free end with the scalp of the individual,
    the pin 24 can be mounted by elastic snap-fitting or slight elastic deformation in the housing of the support 14 mentioned above, and
    the electronic card 25 can be engaged in the housing 35 by elastic snap-fitting or slight elastic deformation of the bead 36 and the flange 34.
    In a particular embodiment of the invention, the pin 24 or the sensor has a height of between 7 and 10 mm for example. Its external diameter (maximum) is for example between 10 and 30mm approximately.
    The electrodes 27 can be made of an electroconductive elastomeric material. They can be produced from silicones loaded with conductive elements. These conductive elements include, for example carbon (in the form of a nanotube for example), metallic fibers, etc.
    The face 32 of each sensor 12 can be slightly curved. Each local amplification card 25 has an upper face on which electronic components are soldered and a lower face (covered with a layer of copper) which is pressed against the silicone, by pressure thanks to the bead 36.
    As mentioned above, the device 10 comprises, in addition to the local amplification cards 25 at each sensor 12, a main acquisition card 26. The main acquisition card 26 is of larger dimensions and includes a greater amplification gain (of the order of x12 or even x24) than the local amplification cards 25. The acquisition card 26 can also include radio-transmission tools, calculation, means data storage, input channels connected to pins 28 of each electrode 27 for the acquisition of electrical signals, means for amplifying electrical signals, wireless communication means, for example of the BLE (bluetooth low) type energy), microprocessors or microcontrollers in particular programmable, which can, for example, allow the connection of the device to a communication device, in particular mobile such as a tablet or telephone portable. This can allow analysis and / or processing in real time.
    The amplification card 25 of each sensor 12 is connected to the main acquisition card 26. In a variant, the amplification cards 25 of the sensors 12 can be connected to electrical supply means such as a rechargeable battery or battery. The sensors 12 can be connected to the main acquisition card 26 or to these supply means (not shown) by flexible sheets of conductive wires, which extend, for example, inside the part 14a of the support 14 The main acquisition card 26 is connected to electrical supply means (not shown), such as a battery, for example.
    As mentioned above, the device 10 may include a mass sensor.
    Conventionally, the mass of a clinical EEG is either on the ear lobe, or on the nose bone, or on the mastoid bone (hard part behind the ear): all these parts have common not to be areas generating potential differences neither muscle, nor nerves, etc.
    For example, the device 10 may include a mass sensor in the form of an ear clip (not shown). This mass sensor then has the shape of an ear clip (or loop), intended to clip onto the user's ear lobe.
    In the example illustrated in Figures 9a and 9b, the first central housing 16a is slightly larger than the other two and includes the mass sensor, the main electronic card 26 and the battery. The other two housings, 16a contain the measurement electrodes 12 (which pass through the strap).
    In another exemplary embodiment (not shown), the device 10 may comprise a mass sensor in the form of one of the electrodes 27, for example central (inactive, in this case), or of electrodes 27 at the end of the support 14 intended to rest on the mastoids of the user.
    In another embodiment of the hemoencephalography type, the device 10 may include sensors 12 of the NIRS type in order to measure:
    - hemoglobin concentration, and / or
    - oximetry, and / or
    - the individual's pulse.
    The measurement of the hemoglobin concentration and of the oximetry are local measurements which make it possible to provide information on the brain activity of the cortical region of the individual covered by the sensor 12.
    In another embodiment, the device 10 can comprise sensors 12 of magnetometer type (for example CSAM) in order to measure the magnetic fields generated by the cerebral electrical activity of the individual wearing the device 10 and detect, for example, the amplitude of the alpha rhythm (brain rhythm of a person awake, eyes closed, relaxed). This embodiment can be used for neurological feedback (neurofeedback).
    In another embodiment, the device 10 may include sensors 12 of the thermistor type for monitoring the evolution of the user's brain temperature and for example reporting on circadian rhythms.
    In another embodiment, the device 10 may include electrical stimulation electrodes in order to modulate the natural electrical activity of the neurons of the user's cortex. The currents generated are alternating currents and their frequency can be included in:
    - an interval of frequencies conventionally measured by EEG (0.1 to 80 Hz), or
    - a higher frequency range (up to 5kHz) to obtain cognitive effects,
    - a higher frequency range (up to 200 kHz) for therapeutic effects in the case of tumors.
    The stimulation typically lasts on the order of 10 minutes in the frontal, central (for example Cz), parietal or occipital regions. The intensity of the current can typically be between 0.4 and 1mA and in phase with the natural cerebral oscillations at the frequency and localization concerned.
    In another embodiment, the device 10 may comprise transducers of the laser or light-emitting diode type in order to carry out photobiomodulation of the brain activity of the user.
    In another embodiment, the device 10 may comprise conductive coils traversed by a current and generating a magnetic field directed towards the brain of the user. This magnetic field induces a current in the neurons of the cortex that it reaches. The coils are connected to a current pulse generator, comprising a battery coupled to a capacitance capable of reaching a sufficient voltage (of the order of kV) to generate an adequate stimulation pulse.
    In another embodiment, the device 10 can comprise piezoelectric type or CMUT (Capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers) type ultrasonic transducers generating low intensity low frequency ultrasonic waves and directed towards the user's brain in order to modulate its activity.
    In another embodiment, the device 10 may comprise a combination of different transmission and / or detection means 12 (sensors or transmitters) mentioned above, in particular, EEG sensors 12 coupled to transmitters 12 photobiomodulation LEDs, or 12 NIRS sensors coupled to electrodes 27 for electrical stimulation.
    权利要求:
    Claims (8)
    [1" id="c-fr-0001]
    1. Device (10) for measuring and / or stimulating brain activity, preferably EEG, comprising means of emission and / or detection
    5 (12) of physiological signals produced by the brain of an individual, and a support (14) of said emission and / or detection means (12), characterized in that:
    said support (14) is configured to extend over the top of the individual's head,
    10 - the support comprises means (16) for removable attachment to an accessory (20) intended to be worn by the individual, on his head, such as an audio headset (20), the support is configured so that the means emission and / or detection (12) are, when the device (10) is arranged on the head of
    15 the individual, sandwiched between the accessory (20) and the head of the individual, and maintained in substantially tight contact on the head of the individual.
    [2" id="c-fr-0002]
    2. Measuring device (10) according to the preceding claim, said device (10) being configured to operate autonomously.
    [3" id="c-fr-0003]
    3. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support (14) comprises one or has a relatively thin elongated strip shape configured to be interposed between the accessory (20) and the head of the individual .
    [4" id="c-fr-0004]
    4. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said fixing means (16) form a loop which is intended to grip said accessory or to be crossed by said accessory (20).
    5. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which said fixing means (16) are of the magnet, hook and loop type, cooperation of shapes, elastic snap-fastening, non-slip elements and / or elastic elements.
    6. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which
    [5" id="c-fr-0005]
    5 said sensors (12) are in the form of pins (24) or discs comprising at least one dry electrode (27) configured to come into contact with the scalp of the individual wearing the device (10), without adding liquid of coupling.
    7. Device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the pins (24) or discs are made of a conductive polymer material, preferably flexible or flexible.
    [6" id="c-fr-0006]
    8. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising
    15 furthermore at least one electronic card (25) for amplifying the electrical signals detected by the sensors (12), and for processing said signals.
    [7" id="c-fr-0007]
    9. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising
    20 further means of remote communication with an electronic system independent of said accessory (20), such as a mobile phone.
    [8" id="c-fr-0008]
    10. Headphones (10), comprising a headband bearing at two ends
    25 opposite means for emitting sounds or music, characterized in that it comprises at least one device (10) according to one of the preceding claims removably attached in particular to the support (14).
    1/5
    2/5
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    FR3058628B1|2021-07-30|
    WO2018091823A1|2018-05-24|
    US20200060571A1|2020-02-27|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    US20120029379A1|2010-07-29|2012-02-02|Kulangara Sivadas|Mind strength trainer|
    US20150313496A1|2012-06-14|2015-11-05|Medibotics Llc|Mobile Wearable Electromagnetic Brain Activity Monitor|
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    WO2020250160A1|2019-06-10|2020-12-17|Sens.Ai Inc.|Method and apparatus for motion dampening for biosignal sensing and influencing|
    TW201923415A|2017-08-23|2019-06-16|新加坡商偉創力有限公司|Light projection engine attachment and alignment|
    FR3102054A1|2019-10-18|2021-04-23|Devinnova|Helmet to improve the balance of the sympathovagal balance of an individual|
    法律状态:
    2017-11-30| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 2 |
    2018-05-18| PLSC| Publication of the preliminary search report|Effective date: 20180518 |
    2018-11-29| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 3 |
    2019-11-29| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 4 |
    2020-11-30| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 5 |
    2021-11-30| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 6 |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    FR1661057|2016-11-15|
    FR1661057A|FR3058628B1|2016-11-15|2016-11-15|DEVICE FOR MEASURING AND / OR STIMULATING BRAIN ACTIVITY|FR1661057A| FR3058628B1|2016-11-15|2016-11-15|DEVICE FOR MEASURING AND / OR STIMULATING BRAIN ACTIVITY|
    PCT/FR2017/053126| WO2018091823A1|2016-11-15|2017-11-15|Device for measuring and/or stimulating brain activity|
    US16/461,289| US20200060571A1|2016-11-15|2017-11-15|Device for measuring and/or stimulating brain activity|
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