Hybrid EEG Sensor Array for Brain/Computer Interfaces

描述（由申请人提供）：有严重运动障碍的人需要替代的沟通和控制方法，甚至可能无法使用最基本的传统辅助技术。不依赖于神经肌肉功能的通信和控制技术至关重要。许多研究表明，人们，包括那些有严重运动障碍的人，可以学习使用脑电图或EEG来控制光标，选择图标，进行基本的文字处理，甚至操作机器人手臂。沃兹沃斯中心健康研究所的科学家已经开始将这些复杂的脑机接口或BCI从实验室设备转换为实用的，用户友好的辅助设备。目前的技术足以用于实验室使用;然而，沃兹沃斯中心最近的研究表明，需要训练有素的技术人员应用传统的EEG记录电极，以及与湿的、基于电解质的头皮连接相关的不适是家庭使用的严重障碍。该项目旨在通过开发用于家庭BCI系统的革命性干EEG传感器系统来克服这些障碍。该系统将利用QUASAR在混合传感器技术方面的最新创新，该技术允许使用不需要皮肤准备或电解质凝胶的有源传感器进行高保真EEG记录;它们只需要轻轻接触头皮。这项工作应该改进BCI技术，将其建立为临床实用的易于使用的通信技术，并显着改善严重运动障碍患者的生活。在这个项目中，量子应用科学与研究（QUASAR），公司。建议与沃兹沃斯中心健康研究所的科学家合作，开发一种基于脑电图的可穿戴设备，用于家用脑机接口系统。拟议的系统为严重残疾的个人提供了用脑电波控制计算机、轮椅和其他辅助设备的可能性，提高了他们的通信能力，并为他们提供了对辅助设备的更大控制，使他们能够在世界上发挥作用。尽管BCI系统目前存在，但它们受到与它们的使用相关联的电极需要专业应用并且长期佩戴不舒适的事实的限制。QUASAR独特的传感技术允许开发一种安装简单，长期佩戴舒适的设备。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): People with severe motor disabilities need alternative methods for communication and control, and may not be able to use even the most basic conventional assistive technology. Communication and control technology that does not depend on neuromuscular function is essential. Many research studies have now shown that people, including those with severe motor disabilities, can learn to use electroencephalograms or EEG to control a cursor, select icons, do basic word-processing, or even operate a robotic arm. Scientists at the Wadsworth Center's Health Research Institute have begun to convert these complex brain-computer interfaces or BCIs from laboratory devices into practical, user-friendly assistive devices. The current technology is adequate for laboratory use; however, recent studies at the Wadsworth Center have shown that the need for a trained technician to apply conventional EEG recording electrodes and the discomfort associated with a wet, electrolyte-based connection to the scalp are serious barriers to acceptance for home use. This project aims to overcome these barriers by developing a revolutionary dry EEG sensor system for use in home BCI systems. This system will take advantage of recent innovations at QUASAR in hybrid sensor technology that allow high-fidelity EEG recordings to be made with active sensors that do not need skin preparation or electrolyte gel; they only need gentle contact with the scalp. This work should improve BCI technology, establishing it as an easy-to-use communication technology that is clinically practical, and significantly improve the lives of people with severe motor disabilities. In this project, Quantum Applied Science & Research (QUASAR), Inc. proposes to work with scientists at the Wadsworth Center's Health Research Institute to develop an EEG- based, wearable device for an at-home brain-computer interface system. The proposed system offers the potential for severely disabled individuals to control computers, wheelchairs and other assistance devices with brainwaves, increasing their communication capabilities and providing them greater control of the assistive devices that allow them to function in the world. Although BCI systems currently exist, they are limited by the fact that the electrodes associated with their use require professional application and are uncomfortable for long-term wear. QUASAR's unique sensing technology allows the development of a simple-to-install, comfortable device for long- term wear.