Electrical Geodesics

Apple Maps the Mind for Electrical Geodesics

By Barbara Gibson

The Geodesic Sensor Net, from Electrical Geodesics, Inc. (EGI), represents more than a blip on the screen when it comes to mapping out and visualizing human brain wave activity. Unlike traditional electroencephalograms (EEG) used for general purposes only, the Geodesic Sensor Net captures detailed brain wave activity that can be used for in-depth scientific research and more accurate characterization of brain activity in clinical disorders.

The Geodesic Sensor Net marks a quantum leap forward in collecting and using brain wave data to unlock uncharted territory in the human brain. By coupling the Geodesic Sensor Net with a Power Mac, Electrical Geodesics delivers a powerful tool that renders sensitive brain wave fluctuations.

While the Geodesic EEG System has been used in research facilities around the world since 1993, it was cleared for sale as a medical device in the United States and European Union in 2001, extending the benefits of a high channel count EEG for medical applications. In addition to routine EEG evaluation, the accuracy of the dense array system is particularly important in evaluating epileptic seizure brain activity.

An Exponentially Superior Research Method

With the information gathered from older EEG devices, scientists can only confirm the presence or absence of a condition such as epilepsy. By using the Geodesic Sensor Net, scientists are beginning to understand the nature and behavior of this condition, moving research in the field towards a cure. Dr. Don Tucker, Ph.D., a Professor of Psychology at the University of Oregon, started Electrical Geodesics, Inc. in 1992 to enhance research into human brain wave electrical activity.

Recognizing the medical importance of a more accurate EEG system, the Electrical Geodesics team implemented a full ISO-9000 quality system to provide the medical grade quality control necessary for both the United States and international medical approval. The Geodesic EEG System has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration, the CE mark under the European Medical Device Directive, and initiated the application process for approval from the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare.

“Only the Power Mac has allowed us to continue our emphasis on real-time visualization without compromising the quality of our signal processing.”

— Dr. Don Tucker, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at the University of Oregon

EEGs are used in a wide number of commercial applications, ranging from aeronautics to advertising. But for critical research and medical monitoring of the human brain, the traditional EEG does not offer enough data for researchers or physicians looking for subtle changes in brain activity. Traditional machines collect data from only eight to sixteen points on the subject’s head. The Geodesic Sensor Net uses up to 256 sensors and provides a more complete and useful map of a subject’s brain wave activity. The Geodesic Sensor Net’s ability to capture such detailed data is the reason why it surpasses other brain mapping devices — its reliance on a Power Mac is another.

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