Portable Electroencephalogram Biofeedback Device


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Abstract

Biofeedback is a therapy currently being researched to treat many psychological and physiological disorders. It is not known how attempting to control autonomic functions of the brain may help resolve abnormalities, but results overwhelmingly point towards biofeedback’s legitimacy. EEG biofeedback involves the monitoring and altering of brain activity and has been shown to effectively treat such problems as epilepsy, mood disorders, addictions, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The majority of EEG biofeedback devices are designed for use in clinical situations by experience personnel.

Introduction

Pharmacological therapies have been the standard way of treating most types of disorders and syndromes. However, alternative therapies are currently being prescribed by physicians as a new approach to healing and include such treatments as acupuncture, chiropractics, and biofeedback. These treatments’ mechanisms are not very well understood, but results demonstrate promising progress in patient rehabilitation.

Literature Search

A patent search revealed several methods (6,855,112; 5,450,855; 5,280,793) for regulating neural responses via monitoring them on a display for the purposes of biofeedback.
Commercially available products are very expensive and are not typically EEG specific. For instance, the Stens NeXus-10 serves as an electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECG), electromyogram (EMG), and slow cortical potentials (SCP). This device, while providing professional grade quality, will also run the buyer $4395. C2 and ProComp also manufacture high quality EEG biofeedback devices starting at about $2000.

Design Constraints

The portable EEG (brain wave monitor) will take an incoming signal from a series of electrodes, amplify the signal to measurable and interpretable levels, filter out specific frequencies and present the occurrence of those distinctive brain waves in a manner applicable for biofeedback.
The device should also be small and portable, have the ability to be used daily, have a relatively simple interface, and be comfortable, as it will be used while meditating. In order to conserve costs, internal and external parts need to be as simple and minimal as allowed.
All aspects of the device need to be in compliance with AAMI and FDA standards and regulations for related devices.