HANDS-FREE COMPUTER ACCESS FOR THE SEVERELY DISABLED

提出了一种基于EEG、EOG和EMG前额生物电位的多通道计算机输入系统，用于对残疾人的增强和替代通信(AAC)技术进行免提控制。一个原型系统的结果显示了该系统的潜力：身体健全的受试者经过有限的训练后，使用该系统来定位和点击出现在随机屏幕位置上的小目标，其获取时间比使用标准手动鼠标获得的更好。建议对由于身体限制而无法使用技术的不同年龄和残疾的个人进行干预研究。受试者将接受使用该系统进行免提光标控制以及使用该系统操作具有代表性的AAC软件的培训。对受试者的沟通和互动程度的定量和定性评估将通过问卷调查和使用AAC技术的录像会议在干预该系统之前和之后获得。结果将用于评估该系统作为残疾人免提AAC技术的一种方法的效果。将确定改善系统性能的手段，包括信号提取和简化用户界面、培训和校准/格式化程序。拟议的商业应用：提供负担得起的、易于学习的、免提的AAC技术计算机接入，适用于各种残疾人士，包括那些严重到其他接入系统无效的人。还允许访问互联网、生产力软件、环境控制等，从而提高这些人的生活质量和独立性。

Development of a multi-channel computer input system based on EEG, EOG, and EMG forehead bio-potentials for hands-free control of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technologies for individuals with disabilities is proposed. Results with a prototype system demonstrated the potential of the proposed system: able-bodied subjects, after limited training, used the system to position and click the PC mouse cursor on small targets appearing at random screen locations with acquisition times comparing favorably to those obtained with the standard manual mouse. An intervention study is proposed with individuals of varying ages and disabilities who have been unable to access technology due to physical limitations. Subjects will be trained in hands-free cursor control with the system and the use of the system to operate representative AAC software. Quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the subject's degree of communication and interaction will be obtained with questionnaires and video-taped sessions with AAC technologies before and after intervention with the system. The results will serve to evaluate the efficacy of the system as a method for hands-free access to AAC technology for persons with disabilities. Means to improve system performance will be identified, including signal extraction and simplification of the user interface, training, and calibration/formatting procedures. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: Provides affordable, easily learned, hands-free computer access to AAC technology applicable to individuals with a wide range of disabilities including those so severe that other access systems are ineffective. Also enables access to the Internet, productivity software, environmental control, etc., thereby enhancing quality of life and independence for these individuals.