Sensor Device for Measuring Fine-Motor Hand Functions

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This invention relates to a specialized sensor device designed to measure fine-motor functions of the hand, such as grip strength and finger movement, while being used inside a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The sensor is shielded against electromagnetic fields, ensuring it operates without interference from the strong magnetic and electromagnetic fields present in MRI environments. This enables real-time correlation between measurements of fine hand movements and the corresponding brain activity observed through MRI imaging, which was previously technically challenging due to compatibility issues.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Clinical research to study the neural correlates of fine-motor hand functions by simultaneous measurement of grip strength and brain activity in MRI environments.
• Diagnosis and monitoring of neurological diseases (such as Parkinson’s disease or stroke) by assessing changes or deficiencies in fine-motor hand function and brain involvement.
• Development and assessment of rehabilitation therapies for patients with impaired hand motor skills, by providing feedback on functional improvement tied to brain activity changes.
• Studies investigating aging effects on motor function and corresponding neural adaptations using combined behavioral and MRI approaches.
• Real-time biofeedback training for patients during neurorehabilitation within an MRI scanner, using visual projections of motor performance data.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Allows free, uninhibited movement and precise measurement of hand motor function even within strong MRI environments, overcoming previous technological limitations.
• Enables direct, synchronized correlation between fine-motor performance and brain area activation in real-time during MRI scans.
• Does not interfere with MRI image quality or pose safety risks (e.g., heating or movement due to magnetic fields) thanks to electromagnetic shielding and non-metallic construction.
• Industry-standard measurement precision, suitable for both clinical and research settings, including use with individuals exhibiting severe motor impairment.
• Permits new types of scientific and clinical investigations, expanding the understanding of how specific brain regions underpin fine-motor skills, and how these links change with disease or therapy.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor device for measuring fine-motor hand functions. It is characterized by a force sensor shielded against electromagnetic alternating fields. This permits free mobility of the sensor device in the magnetic resonance tomograph. By using the sensor device according to the invention in the magnetic resonance tomograph, the fine-motor hand functions recorded by means of the sensor device can be correlated with a detection, by means of the magnetic resonance tomograph, of the brain areas involved in the hand functions. Both parameters, i.e. the fine-motor hand functions and the brain areas involved in the performance of the hand functions, can in this way be correlated with each other.