Researchers propose a self-calibrating integrated approach that operates at the hardware, signal processing and user interface levels to adapt to the new recording session with the least burden on the user as outlined here: 1) The hardware and circuit level approach, where the aim is to find input contact mismatch by injecting a reference signal of known amplitude and observe the common-mode rejection ration (CMMR) of the circuits and electrodes. Artifacts of this reference signal manifest themselves when the electrode coupling is worsening. 2) Employing the signal processing calibration techniques to resolve the strong variation in electroencephalography (EEG) signals from one session to another. Specifically, the research team proposes adaptive training algorithms to utilize relevant information from prior recording sessions to shorten or even omit the calibration time for the next session. 3) Creating customizable user interface in order to produce a more user friendly interface that create less burden on the user. More adaptive user interfaces will lead to more comfortable use, higher transfer rate and better accuracy in realization of the user intents. Researchers plan to develop an inexpensive, easy-to-wear, and low power brain computer interface (BCI) system that uses dry-contact EEG electrodes and can be connected to the computer via Bluetooth and is suitable for real-time applications.
EEG systems have been around for a relatively long time and their applications have been mostly inside the laboratories. However, BCI applications can potentially include any real-world interaction in our daily life. The introduction of low profile, and inexpensive BCI devices with the size of a cellphone and comparable prices create opportunities for new applications controlled with our thoughts, expressions and emotions. For instance, with the rising incidence of chronic diseases, a major health care application for BCI self-calibrating devices is wearable in-home assessment systems to quantify the existence of symptoms or effectiveness of treatments for brain deficiencies through long term EEG recording and analysis. BCI technology has great potentials to become the most common communication alternative for users interacting with computers. For instance, BCI devices are capable of emerging in the gaming industry. It enables the consumers to experience an entirely new form of human-machine interaction by eliminating the conventional joysticks for gaming, entertainment, navigation and rehabilitation.
Motivated by recent understanding of brain functions, many researchers have explored Brain Computer Interface (BCI) technology as a new communication and control channel. With the development of inexpensive, easy-to-wear, low profile and low power electroencephalography (EEG) signal acquisition systems, various applications of BCI have become available such as assisting disabled individuals to move independently, developing treatment procedures and patient assessment for many brain disorders, entertainment and gaming applications. One major challenge in realization of the EEG brain signals is the long calibration time required as the EEG signals show significant variations among different recording sessions. Hence, using BCI devices for daily applications can be a hassle as tedious calibration procedures before usage are required. Therefore, an effort is needed to reduce such calibration time. In this project, we specifically aim at employing BCI technology for medical/health-care/wellness applications. Intellectual Merit: The intellectual merit includes several sensor calibration techniques along with paradigm development to enhance the information transfer rate (ITR). A thorough market analysis and customer survey was conducted which impacted the BCI prototype development. Broader Impact: Ubiquitous health monitoring can revolutionize the way the healthcare industry functions today. By now, the potential benefits of health monitoring are well recognized by experts in the field. Health monitoring has great potential for preventive medicine, in addition to facilitating curative medicine. Damage caused by many diseases and events can be minimized or prevented if detection and diagnosis occurs early enough. The outcome of this research will eventually impact the healthcare industry by providing a more effective measurement system to the caregivers.
