Modular Headgear Design for Neurotechnological Applications

Modular Headgear Design for Neurotechnological Applications

van Duuren, P.

Rusak, Z. (mentor)
Jellema, A.H. (mentor)

Industrial Design Engineering

Design Engineering

Integrated Product Design

2016-12-21

Over the last ten years, various products have been introduced with which consumers can analyze or even modify the activity of their brains. When it comes to the design of these neurotechnological headgears, there are contradictory requirements between the functionality, fit and experience. As a result, current devices are generally either oversimplified in their capabilities, or limited in their comfort, accuracy or quality of the interaction. This report describes the development of a novel headgear design that addresses this compromise and aims to offer a better balance between these three properties through the introduction of modularity. At first a better understanding of the technological possibilities is created through literature research. Three technologies are selected for implementation in the headgear: EEG, fNIRS and tES. Relevant anthropometric data are thereafter collected and requirements are formulated regarding ea. the target range of head shapes and the accuracy (‘technical fit’) of the product placement. Key application scenarios are then selected for which the modular product cab be most valuable. These scenarios are used to formulate requirements from different users and contexts. The selection focusses on the at home neurorehabilitation after brain trauma, on ‘neurofeedback’ training and on general cognitive enhancements. This preparatory phase sets the stage for an iterative creative process in which the main contradictions in the assignment are tackled. The final design comes about in a three-step manner. First there is a focus on the basic modular structuring of the components. Next the concept is further elaborated upon in terms of form and interaction, and later in detailed solutions, materials and production. The result of this project is a design that goes by the name Nerva headgear. It is an adaptable frame that can be used to place the various technical tools on the different target locations on the scalp. The frame is built up of elements that can be re-configured. The necessary electronics can be connected to the structure. In this way the product can be adapted for different applications, users and usage contexts. It can be set up to target only the areas of interest and using only necessary technological tools on the scalp. By extending or rotating some of the key components of the headgear, the product can be adapted for users with different head shapes and sizes. Furthermore, it is possible to regulate the pressure that is exerted on the scalp. This allows to optimize the comfort and the signal stability during use. A prototype is developed and put to test to assess the performance of the design on the aspects functionality, fit and experience. The evaluation shows many points for further improvement, but the concept remains intact. The important features of the product have proven to be feasible and the practical potential is affirmed. The adaptability for different head shapes was found successful (though various adjustments are suggested) and it is believed that the design can potentially outperform alternatives in its technical fit. The overall user experience has remained generally positive, especially on its hedonic qualities. A study with a more representative user group should be performed in the future to assess the true pragmatic qualities of the design.

Neurotechnology
headgear
modularity
design

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:3e7dab6f-6702-4f0d-904f-591e4fdaf24e

Campus only

Student theses

master thesis

(c) 2016 van Duuren, P.