Event driven neural network on a mixed signal neuromorphic processor for EEG based epileptic seizure detection

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Computer Science

Background:

• Long-term monitoring of biomedical signals is crucial for managing neurological conditions like epilepsy.
• Current wearable technology faces challenges in achieving long-lasting operation for seizure detection and analysis.
• Brain-inspired spiking neural networks (SNNs) offer a promising solution for ultra-low power signal processing on neuromorphic systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate a novel SNN architecture for always-on epilepsy monitoring.
• To demonstrate the potential of SNNs deployed on neuromorphic hardware for real-time seizure detection.
• To advance the development of embedded intelligent systems for resource-constrained environments.

Main Methods:

• Co-design and validation of a novel SNN architecture on a mixed-signal neuromorphic chip.
• Real-time processing of analog Electroencephalographic (EEG) seizure data using a custom asynchronous mixed-signal neuromorphic platform.
• Integration of an analog front-end (AFE) and asynchronous delta modulation (ADM) circuit for direct spike generation from EEG signals.
• Utilizing a linear classifier for seizure detection based on SNN-extracted features.

Main Results:

• The hardware-implemented SNN successfully captured partial synchronization in neural activity during seizures.
• The neuromorphic chip processed analog EEG signals in real-time, generating spike streams directly from the data.
• A post-processing linear classifier reliably detected seizures using SNN-extracted local features.
• Demonstrated feasibility of full on-chip seizure monitoring.

Conclusions:

• The developed SNN architecture and neuromorphic platform show significant potential for always-on epilepsy monitoring.
• This research advances the creation of intelligent, low-power wearable units for autonomous EEG event detection.
• The findings open new possibilities for patient care and management of neurological disorders in out-of-hospital settings.