A Real-Time System for Triggering Muscle Stimulation Based on Electromyography Measurements

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Devices using functional electrical stimulation have been successful in re-training hand function followingspinal cord injury and stroke. However, triggering of the electrical stimulation is still rudimentary: thestimulation is triggered by tapping the stimulation device with the other hand or by moving the head. In thiscontext, the stimulation devices developed by Rehabtronics Inc. would highly benefit from a design feature thattriggers electrical stimulation based on the user's muscle activity. Such biofeedback would allow seamless andeffortless triggering of stimulation. It has also been shown to be an effective therapy modality to re-teachfunction after neural injury. In this project, we aim to collaborate with the industrial partner to develop aprototype for triggering electrical stimulation based on muscle activity measurements. We will useelectromyography electrodes, a microcontroller-based environment, and wireless communication to obtain adesign solution that is tailored towards the industrial partner's stimulation devices. This project is expected tobenefit the Canadian industry and healthcare system. It will also allow us to train future biomedical engineersin biomedical instrumentation, real-time control, and bio-signal processing.