|
As a complement to typical input/output devices (e.g., keyboard or mouse), brain-computer interfaces have been developed to facilitate communication with such devices as computers, PDAs, software applications and phones. This invention describes a method of improving the communication interface between a brain and a data processor by iteratively presenting stimuli and optimizing the difference between elements, which are attended vs. those that are ignored.
Specifically, combinations of visual, auditory and tactile stimulus are delivered and brain activity differentiated between activity in response to and activity independent of the stimuli. Sensors may include EEG, functional magnetic resonance imaging and functional near infrared imaging. By varying the conditions of presentation, the input is processed, then combined with feedback to the user and a training algorithm to yield an improved system with a faster and more accurate interface than currently available.
This technology may have critical utility for:
- Handicapped individual including persons suffering from multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury
- An emergency signaling device for hospital patients or the elderly
- The growing population suffering from repetitive motion syndrome caused by everything from typing to surgery
While not critical, this also complements the overall trend toward more intuitive, efficient and effective interactions with the expanding number of processors in our daily lives.
References and Links:
Recent research related to this patent can be found at: UCSD Brain Computer Interface Home
Research interests can be found at: UCSD Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory
A video demonstration of this technology is found at: Game Prototype
Patent pending: US 10/ 863587
Case Number: SD1999-002
Keywords: interface, disabled, handicap, handicapped, signal
Inquiries To: invent@ucsd.edu
|
