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Assessment and Communication for People with Disorders of Consciousness
Published on: August 1, 2017
Brain-computer interface research at the wadsworth center developments in noninvasive communication and control.
Dean J Krusienski1, Jonathan R Wolpaw
1School of Engineering, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
International Review of Neurobiology
|July 18, 2009
Summary
This study demonstrates noninvasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technology using electroencephalography (EEG) and sensorimotor rhythms (SMRs) to help disabled individuals communicate and control devices, with applications extending to space missions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Technology
Background:
- Severely disabled individuals often face challenges in communication and environmental interaction.
- Existing assistive technologies may have limitations in providing seamless control and interaction.
- Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) offer a promising avenue for restoring function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and refine noninvasive electroencephalography (EEG)-based BCI methods.
- To enable severely disabled individuals to communicate and interact with their environment.
- To translate laboratory-proven BCI technology for home use with minimal oversight.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) for noninvasive brain signal acquisition.
- Employing sensorimotor rhythms (SMRs) for cursor control in one and two dimensions.
- Developing a P300-based BCI for comprehensive personal computer control.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that both disabled and able-bodied individuals can learn to accurately control cursors using SMRs.
- Developed a practical P300-based BCI for full personal computer access and control.
- Innovations applicable to diverse BCI contexts, including space exploration.
Conclusions:
- Noninvasive EEG-based BCIs, utilizing SMRs and P300 paradigms, are effective for aiding communication and interaction in disabled individuals.
- The developed BCI technology shows potential for translation into home-based systems.
- BCI advancements have broader implications, including potential use in space missions.
