Wireless system for ambulatory monitoring

IMEC and its research affiliate Holst Centre have unveiled a miniaturised and wireless eight-channel EEG system suitable for remotely monitoring patients in their daily environment, resulting in more natural readings and greatly increasing the patients' comfort.

The EEG system can be connected to individual electrodes, standard EEG monitoring hats or proprietary EEG headsets. The system records high-quality EEG signals when connected to gel electrodes.

Early tests with dry electrode are promising, although more research is required to achieve reliable measurement in non-controlled environments. The data is wirelessly transmitted in real time to a receiver up to 10 m from the system. IMEC has also developed algorithms to interpret the brain signals, linking the brain activity to the degree of relaxation.

At the heart of the system is IMEC's eight-channel, ultra-low-power analog readout ASIC. The electronics, including ASIC, radio and controller chips, are integrated on a PCB that measures 47 by 27 mm.

The whole system is packaged in a small box with status LEDs, a switch button and interfaces for DIN32 cables.

The packaged system consumes 1.8 mA, allowing over three days of autonomy with a 160 mAh Li-Ion battery.