A low-cost real-time embedded EOG-based assistive mobility system for individuals with motor function disorders
Preetha S1, Sasikala M1, Mohanavelu K2
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering Guindy, Anna University, Chennai, India.
Summary
This study developed a low-cost, real-time electrooculography (EOG) device to help individuals with motor impairments control wheelchairs using eye movements. The system achieved high accuracy, offering an accessible mobility solution.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Assistive Technology
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Motor function disorders significantly impair mobility and well-being, increasing reliance on care.
- Eye movements offer a viable channel for communication and control when motor function is compromised.
- Electrooculography (EOG) records eye movements, presenting potential for advanced human-computer interaction (HCI).
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a real-time, low-cost electrooculography (EOG)-based assistive device for individuals with motor impairments.
- To enable intuitive control of mobility devices, such as wheelchairs, through eye movement detection.
- To create an accessible and reliable assistive technology solution, particularly for low-resource settings.
Main Methods:
- A two-channel EOG system was designed, incorporating a custom amplifier and ESP32 microcontroller for signal processing.
- EOG signals from various eye movements and blinks were recorded from both able-bodied and disabled participants.
- A lightweight, subject-specific threshold-based classifier was implemented for efficient and accurate embedded deployment.
Main Results:
- The system achieved 100% accuracy in healthy participants and 99.2% in disabled participants.
- Mean response times were recorded at 2.03s for healthy and 2.04s for disabled participants, with high information transfer rates.
- Classified eye movements and blinks were successfully mapped to wheelchair navigation commands, demonstrating intuitive control.
Conclusions:
- The developed portable, real-time EOG system offers a practical and effective mobility solution for severe motor disabilities.
- The low-cost and reliable design makes it suitable for low-resource environments, promoting inclusive assistive technology.
- User feedback confirmed the system's ease of use, safety, and comfort, highlighting its potential for enhancing quality of life.
