Brain Control Interface Configuration Using Universal Neural Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) limit users to controlling pre-defined tasks using either task-relevant or task-irrelevant mental tasks, restricting flexibility and versatility in controlling various applications and devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of systems and methods that enable users to utilize task-irrelevant neural signals as universal switches, allowing control over multiple end-applications, including software and devices, by measuring and transmitting neural-related signals to process them into input commands, which can be compiled and used to configure device control systems for improved performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current BCI systems use task-relevant or task-irrelevant mental tasks to control pre-defined target tasks, then the system can operate with a fixed control structure, but the versatility and flexibility in controlling various applications and devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal switch mechanism where a single neural signal can be mapped to multiple different input commands across various applications and devices. The system allows one thought to control multiple functions (cursor movement, text selection, device control) without requiring separate neural recording sessions or complex task-specific configurations for each application, thereby achieving multi-functionality while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
2Ease of operation
If BCI systems allow users to control only pre-defined target tasks set by researchers, then the system configuration is simplified, but the user's ability to independently control a variety of end-applications is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to independently configure and map their own neural signals to desired commands for different applications without requiring researcher intervention or complex system reconfiguration. Users can自主ly establish the mapping between their thoughts and control commands across multiple end-applications, making the system self-configurable and empowering users with direct control flexibility while avoiding the complexity of manual system reconfiguration by specialists.
3Measurement precision
If neural signals are measured and processed into input commands for each specific application, then precise control is achieved, but data compilation and system configuration become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system measures neural signals once and processes them into a universal set of input commands that can be applied across multiple applications and devices. Rather than implementing separate neural signal processing pipelines for each application, the system creates a universal mapping layer that translates detected neural patterns into standardized commands, thereby maintaining precise neural signal detection while reducing the overall complexity of data processing and system configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Universal switch modules, universal switches, and methods of using the same are disclosed, including methods of preparing an individual to interface with an electronic device or software. For example, a method is disclosed that can include measuring brain-related signals of the individual to obtain a first sensed brain-related signal when the individual generates a task-irrelevant thought. The method can include transmitting the first sensed brain-related signal to a processing unit. The method can include associating the task-irrelevant thought and the first sensed brain-related signal with N input commands. The method can include compiling the task-irrelevant thought, the first sensed brain-related signal, and the N input commands to an electronic database.