Before we discuss how a BCI lab interface can improve your organization, let’s unpack some key terms and ideas here. First, a brain-computer interface (BCI) allows direct communication between the brain and a special device.
BCI technology monitors the activities of the brain and central nervous system and translates voluntary choices into active commands. The signals recorded from the brain by BCI systems allow individuals with impaired functions to communicate and control objects in the real world.
Most of the uses of BCI are in medical applications. They’re developed using BCI lab interface software and hardware. BCI provides special assistance to patients who have neurological dysfunctions like severe brain injuries, ALS, stroke and spinal cord injuries because it enables pure brain-based communication with the environment. BCIs are also effective for motor rehabilitation after a stroke or a brain mapping treatment.
BCI labs utilize the signals obtained from the human scalp through electroencephalography (EEG) or electrocorticogram (ECoG) to pick up specific motor-related neural patterns that can be translated into actions like limb movements or talking. With this technology, BCI labs have demonstrated control of robotic arms, machines, electronic gadgets, opening doors, writing letters, operating smartphones and drones use.
At Lifepoint Informatics, we can provide MATLAB-based laboratory systems for the research and development of new BCI applications. These systems include software and hardware components required for data capture, real-time and offline analysis of data as well as the neurofeedback and classification of data. We can also offer sample BCI applications that allow you to develop unique BCI experiments quickly.
Some of the applications created for a BCI lab interface include:
1. Motor Rehabilitation
Stroke rehabilitation can be enhanced with motor imagery (MI) training. The real-time feedback provided can improve functional recovery. The brain-computer interface, based on motor imagery, can be linked with a rehabilitation robot. When the user thinks about a type of movement, the system detects the movement imagery and then triggers the rehabilitation device to give feedback.
2. Smart Device Control
People who suffer from paralysis can use a BCI and virtual reality system to control smart home devices. It’s now possible for a user to have a screen showing 3D images of devices in a living room or bedroom. As the person uses the appropriate control mask, they can control their phone, TV, climate control system, windows, doors and even play music.
3. Spelling
The P300 is a type of brain activity that’s part of a brainwave which appears some milliseconds after a stimulus. The EEG can detect this signal and it can be used for spelling and writing. On a computer screen, the user sees letters flashing. When the user counts the letters to communicate, the P300 signal is produced inside the brain. Then, the BCI interface software analyzes the EEG data and displays the correct letter or string of letters.
Get Robust BCI Lab Interface Software
At Lifepoint Informatics, we supply robust BCI lab interface software that makes it easy for our clients to develop new experiments and applications. To schedule a free consultation with our software experts, please complete our contact form or give us a call at 877.522.8378 now.