A hybrid brain-computer interface (BCI) using tactile stimulus and motor imagery

Brain computer interfaces (BCI) allow for persons with severe motor impairment to communicate with the outside world. These systems work by either providing some stimulus (in the form of sound, touch or visual cues) or asking the user to imagine a certain motion. By analyzing the resulting brain activity using superficial electrodes on the scalp, a technique known as electroencephalography (EEG), selections on a computer may be made. Our research will combine motor imagery with tactile (touch) stimulus into one hybrid BCI. This BCI system will include two distinct sources of information and is expected to have a high accuracy as well as information transfer rate. Such a hybridBCI is a cutting-edge system that is expected to advance the field of assistive communication device development. This will move us one step closer to providing those with severe motor impairments the transformational ability to communicate with others.

Faculty Supervisor:

Michael Noseworthy

Student:

Rami Saab

Partner:

Discipline:

Engineering - computer / electrical

Sector:

University:

McMaster University

Program:

Globalink Research Award