Nessi: an EEG-controlled web browser for severely paralyzed patients.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology

Background:

• Previous EEG-controlled browsers had limitations, restricting users to specific pages and alphabetical link selection.
• These limitations posed challenges for users with severe paralysis, especially with identical or graphical links.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an advanced EEG-controlled web browser, Nessi, overcoming the limitations of previous systems.
• To enable independent internet access for severely paralyzed individuals through enhanced control and broader functionality.

Main Methods:

• Integration of the open-source Mozilla browser with graphical in-place markers.
• Utilizing distinct brain responses (slow cortical potentials) to control frame colors around selectable web elements.
• Expanding functionality beyond links to include interactive elements like email and virtual keyboards.

Main Results:

• Nessi enables users to select any link on a web page, regardless of its name or graphical representation.
• Users can interact with diverse hypertext-based applications, including email and virtual keyboards.
• The system provides independent internet browsing for individuals with severe paralysis without voluntary muscle control.

Conclusions:

• Nessi significantly enhances internet accessibility for severely paralyzed individuals.
• The new system overcomes previous limitations, offering greater control and a wider range of online activities.
• This advancement opens up new possibilities for hypertext-based applications and communication for users with motor impairments.