Validation of Electromagnetic Field Sensor Performance Through Porcine Skulls: Implications for Neurostimulation and Recording Techniques.

Recent technological advancements have led to the development of portable helmet systems equipped with induction sensor stimulators for non-invasively monitoring neural electromagnetic fields in real-time. The helmet incorporates a Mu-metal shield, a material designed to block low-frequency electromagnetic fields and to reduce external interference. This study utilized an adult pig model to validate the ability of these sensors to record and stimulate neural activity through pig skulls, which closely mimic human cranial anatomy. Sensor-stimulators, which both detect and deliver electromagnetic stimulation, were integrated into the helmet for neural activity monitoring. Employing proprietary BS-1000 induction sensor stimulators integrated into a custom-designed helmet, our research focused on the efficacy of transmitting and modulating electromagnetic fields (EMFs) beyond the varied thicknesses of the pig skull. Induction sensors, a type of electromagnetic field sensor, were used to measure neural signals non-invasively. The experimental setup included measuring EMF responses at baseline and under conditions of incremental cranial barrier thicknesses, assessing both the recording and stimulating capabilities of the system. Results indicated that the EMF penetrated the swine skull and that the sensors maintained signal integrity and functionality despite increases in bone thickness of the pig skull compared to humans, successfully capturing and stimulating neural activity across all tested scenarios. These findings demonstrate the potential of this technology for non-invasive neuromodulation and neural monitoring. Its application in traumatic brain injury (TBI) research could facilitate real-time assessment of neural function and aid in the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.