EARBUD APPARATUS WITH INTEGRATION OF REAL TIME IN-THE-EAR ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHY AND ELECTRODE PORT THAT CAN SIMULTANEOUSLY PLAY AUDIO VIA SPEAKER HOUSING

Abstract

An earbud system integrates real-time EEG monitoring with audio playback. Using specialized silicone electrodes, it captures and interprets EEG data, serving as a passive and continuous tool for screening neurological conditions. This allows for on-the-spot brain monitoring while retaining conventional earbud functions. It can particularly be used in medical scenarios, like open brain surgery, where traditional EEGs cannot be integrated during the operation itself. The system aids emotional balance, stress relief, and neurostimulation, bolstering brain health, mood enhancement, and relaxation. Its applications span wellness for therapeutic interventions and entertainment for tailored content using biometric feedback. This invention broadens traditional earbud capabilities, merging biometrics, health tracking, and customized audio suggestions.

Claims

1. An earbud system, comprising: a. a body containing audio playback components; b. a silicone eartip that incorporates conductive filaments facilitating the capture of electroencephalography (EEG) signals; c. a ground electrode positioned to make contact with an user's ear; d. a battery unit to power the system; e. a circuit integrated within the earbud system for EEG data acquisition, amplification, and digitization; f. a communication module for wirelessly transmitting EEG and audio data.

2. The earbud system of claim 1, wherein the silicone eartip may be partitioned into a grid formation which enhances the surface area for the electrode arrays, thereby improving EEG signal reading accuracy.

3. The earbud system of claim 1, further comprising software compatibility to interface with Human-Machine Interface applications on external devices, enabling real-time visualization and analysis of EEG data.

4. The earbud system of claim 5, wherein the software utilizes artificial intelligence for EEG pattern recognition, emotional tracking, and personalized music recommendations based on the analyzed EEG data.

5. The earbud system of claim 1, further designed for applications in medical scenarios, including but not limited to open brain surgeries, to provide non-obtrusive real-time EEG monitoring.

6. The earbud system of claim 1, wherein said system aids in emotional balance, stress relief, and neurostimulation by providing feedback-based audio adjustments or cues.

7. The earbud system of claim 1, designed to function both for recreational audio playback and for health-monitoring purposes.

8. A method for capturing EEG data and audio playback using an earbud system, said method comprising the steps of: a. ensuring correct positioning of the earbud for optimal EEG signal capture; b. calibrating the system to the user's unique brainwave patterns; c. selecting an audio source for playback; d. activating EEG monitoring, wherein the system captures brainwave activities, including but not limited to alpha, beta, gamma, and theta waves; e. providing real-time feedback to the user based on analyzed EEG data; f. adjusting audio output based on user feedback and EEG data interpretation.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of wirelessly transmitting captured EEG data to an external device for further analysis and visualization.

10. The earbud system of claim 1, wherein the integration of EEG systems within the earbud results in a minimally invasive method for screening neurological conditions while the user benefits from standard earbud functionalities.

11. The earbud system of claim 1, wherein the system's purpose extends to wellness sectors, facilitating mood-based therapeutic interventions and entertainment sectors for content delivery based on real-time biometric feedback.

12. The earbud system of claim 1, wherein the system is designed ergonomically to prioritize user comfort while ensuring consistent and accurate EEG data capture.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] In the following portion relating to the detailed description, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained more in detail with reference to the example figures of the proposed invention shown in the drawings, which:

[0021] FIG. 1 depicts a front-view perspective of the EEG earbud system in the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a rear-view perspective of the EEG earbud system in the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 3 delineates a side-view perspective of an individual wearing the EEG earbud system in present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 4 portrays an aerial view of the acquisition of data through alpha, beta, gamma, and theta brainwaves.

[0025] FIG. 5 is an aerial view of the EEG circuit embedded in the EEG earbud system.

[0026] FIG. 6 displays a schematic diagram of the EEG earbud system once the earbud apparatus is placed into the ear canal and has optimal function.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The present invention discloses an advanced earbud system equipped with non-obstructing EEG technology, designed to monitor brainwave activity in real time while simultaneously delivering high-quality audio experiences.

[0028] FIG. 1 provides a front-view representation of the EEG earbud system, highlighting its essential components. The 101Ground Electrode is designed for direct contact with the user's ear. Its primary function is to detect EEG signals from various regions in the brain. As the reference point, this electrode plays a significant role in noise reduction, thereby enhancing the clarity of EEG signals.

[0029] Adjacent to the ground electrode is the 103Body of the Earbud. This structure serves as the container for critical components of the EEG earbud system: including wiring, circuitry, and battery storage. It effectively links the components, ensuring integrated functionality of the earbud system. The 105Silicone Ear Tip is designed to fit within the outer ear canal. Beyond its role in audio quality improvement by channeling sound waves, its conductive properties allow it to play an integral part in EEG data capture. Its conductivity, achieved through various methods such as the integration of conductive filaments, facilitates the transmission of EEG signals to the relevant circuitry. Some embodiments might incorporate a grid pattern on the eartip to increase the electrode arrays' surface area, aiming to enhance EEG reading accuracy. Further down in the same figure, the 107Earbud Hook is highlighted. This component is designed to loop around the user's ear, providing stability. Added stability ensures proper positioning of 105 during EEG signaling. In some design variations, the hook incorporates conductive silicone elements, potentially enabling more extensive EEG data capture around the ear. Additionally, the 109End of Earbud Hook contributes to the device's structural stability, especially during prolonged use.

[0030] In FIG. 2 the rear view of the EEG earbud system is presented in FIG. 2. Central to this figure is the 103Earbud Body, serving its role as the main structural component of the EEG earbud system. The 201Speaker is showcased, indicating its function of transforming digital inputs into auditory outputs. This audio delivery occurs concurrently with the EEG data capture facilitated by the silicone eartip. Thus, users of the presented invention can perform tasks such as listening to music and conducting phone calls while the EEG detection technology occurs. Other components illustrated include the 203Battery, a rechargeable unit responsible for powering the system. Additionally, the 205Circuit provides a glimpse into the technical operations of the system. It illustrates the stages of EEG data acquisition, amplification, and subsequent digitization. With the support of efficient circuitry and noise-reduction techniques, this component emphasizes the system's dedication to maintaining data precision. Lastly, the 105Eartip is revisited, reinforcing its dual function in refining audio delivery and capturing EEG data.

[0031] Earbud and Human Interaction in FIG. 3 illustrates a humanoid wearing the earbuds. The user, denoted by 301, benefits from audio outputs. The audio is generated by the earbud, as referred to by 303, equipped with audio drivers optimized for sound playback. The earbud also features a microphone for audio input purposes. While the user 301 performs the standard tasks of an earbud, EEG signals are detected and interpreted instantaneously. The design ensures that as the user engages with audio content, the device concurrently records EEG data, monitoring the user's brainwave activity.

[0032] Ground Electrode and Earbud Hook integrated within the earbud is the ground electrode, marked as 101, which contacts the user's ear. This interface is vital for data acquisition, focusing on EEG data from the brain's temporal lobe. An earbud hook, labeled 107, is incorporated to ensure the stability of the device and the consistent positioning of the ground electrode. Designed for endurance, this hook promotes continuous and stable usage. It's worth noting that certain models might employ conductive silicone in the earbud hook, allowing for additional electrode arrays not only within the ear canal but also around the ear's exterior. This approach broadens the EEG data capture domain, aiming for enhanced precision. The tail of this earbud hook, 109, is designed for a snug fit around the lower part of the ear, further stabilizing the device.

[0033] An aerial perspective in FIG. 4 visualizes the data acquisition process, capturing a range of brainwaves, notably alpha, beta, gamma, and theta frequencies. This visualization underscores the earbud's capability to monitor a comprehensive spectrum of brainwave activities. Software Integration for Devices in FIG. 4 delves into the software interaction potential of the EEG earbud system. Capable of wireless data transmission, the system can interface with Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software on various devices. Indications 401 and 403 point towards compatibility with mobile and tablet software, respectively. Once the data is relayed, both the mobile and tablet software can graphically represent EEG waves, as denoted by 405 and 407. This real-time visualization offers users insights into their brain activity. Additionally, 409 and 411 outline potential and alternative interface displays that incorporate artificial intelligence for EEG analysis, pattern recognition, music suggestions, and emotional tracking based on EEG data.

[0034] The technical outline included in the Circuitry in FIG. 5 depicts a suggested circuit, 205, defining the system's technical foundation. This circuit prioritizes the raw EEG data collection through carefully crafted electrode interfaces and emphasizes signal processing. The latter involves amplifying and digitizing the analog brainwave signals and conducting advanced frequency domain analysis. The design focuses on clear signal pathways and digital filtering techniques to uphold EEG data quality. Operational overview which has the Apparatus Flow Chart includes FIG. 6 provides a flowchart detailing the chronological user interaction with the earbuds.

[0035] The sequence initiates with 601User Input, where the earbuds are activated and the desired audio content is selected. Earbud activation occurs once silicone ear tip 105 is placed directly into the ear canal. Following this, 603Device Initialization checks the device's positioning and internal system operability. After passing this stage, the system gears up for EEG monitoring. Post-initialization, the 605EEG Calibration phase adjusts the system based on the user's unique brainwave signatures, promoting consistent accuracy. The 609Audio Source Selection allows for audio content choices, while 611EEG Activation activates the electrodes for comprehensive brainwave monitoring, including but not limited to alpha, beta, and gamma waves. Real-time Feedback and Interaction is placed during 613Audio Playback, the system showcases its dual capability of audio delivery and simultaneous brainwave monitoring. This live data is then relayed and visualized for the user. The 615 Feedback Analysis offers user feedback, suggesting audio adjustments or cues, enhancing the listening experience. Lastly, 619 Optional User Interactions offers users an avenue to modify their experience and access their EEG data, with potential auditory alerts based on the EEG analysis.

[0036] It should be noted that the system described herein may be modified in known or foreseeable manners, and the above description is not intended to be limiting. One or more aspects of this disclosure can meet certain objectives, while one or more aspects can lead to certain other objectives. The generic principles shown can be applied to various other embodiments without departing from embodiments of the disclosure. Such other modifications to the embodiments, examples, uses, are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached.