EU researchers use brainpower to get moving
The results of an EU-funded project, which aims to improve the quality of life of paralysed people through better brain-to-computer dialogue, have been released.
The TOBI (Tools for Brain-Computer Interaction) project is working on brain-computer interaction technologies that allow people to regain control of paralysed limbs, surf the web and take ‘virtual’ walks with their thoughts. In contrast to similar experiments, which usually involve able-bodied patients or invasive brain implants, TOBI has broken new ground by developing non-invasive prototypes directly tested by and with potential users.
The project’s co-ordinator, Professor José del R. Millán of EPFL, says: “There are many people suffering from different levels of physical disability who cannot control their body but whose cognitive level is sufficiently high.”
The research involved at least three kinds of brain-to-computer dialogue, which meant paralysed patients could communicate and even move. The first investigation involved sending brain signals to a computer cursor via electrodes attached to a cap worn on the head. By thinking about what they wanted to type, patients could remotely control the computer cursor to surf the web and write emails and texts. In the second experiment, patients sent brain signals to control a small robot with video, audio and obstacle-detection sensors. They could then use the robot to take a virtual walk around the hospital or even meet up with loved ones in different places.
In a third experiment, patients were able to regain control of their paralysed limbs just by thinking about moving them. This was done using computer software designed to detect a patient’s intention to perform a certain movement. In some cases, intensive training and rehabilitation helped them to keep that control even after the electronics were removed.
The project was completed last year and the different prototypes are being fine-tuned. Adding her thoughts, Neelie Kroes, Vice-President of the European Commission with responsibility for the Digital Agenda, said: “The EU is helping new innovations be an opportunity, not a barrier, for people with disabilities. Technologies can enable greater autonomy and social inclusion.”