EEG Wheelchair Control With AR Path Selection for Locked-In Users
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobility systems for individuals with locked-in syndrome (LIS) are difficult to control, slow, and cause user discomfort due to reliance on eye tracking technologies.
Innovation Solution
A mobility system utilizing an electroencephalogram (EEG) to detect steady state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) and a vision system with augmented reality (AR) glasses for direct object/path selection and automatic navigation, enabling faster and more comfortable control through EEG data processing and visual stimuli.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If eye tracking technologies are used to control mobility systems for persons with LIS, then the system can detect user intent, but the control becomes slow and causes user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces eye tracking technology with EEG-based brain-computer interface technology. Instead of mechanically tracking eye movements, the system directly detects neural signals from the brain using electroencephalogram sensors, substituting a mechanical/optical system with a neurophysiological signal processing system that provides faster and more direct intent detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual stimuli as an intermediary between the user's intent and the mobility system control. The system presents visual targets that elicit SSVEP responses, using these stimuli as a mediator to translate neural activity into controllable commands, thereby accelerating the control process compared to passive eye tracking
2Extent of automation
If eye tracking technologies are used to control mobility systems, then the system can navigate automatically, but the control process becomes complex and difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex eye tracking hardware and algorithms with EEG-based neural signal processing. By directly measuring brain waves and detecting SSVEP responses to visual stimuli, the system achieves automatic navigation through a more straightforward neurophysiological measurement approach, reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic visual stimuli that flicker at specific frequencies to elicit steady-state visual evoked potentials. This periodic action creates distinct, easily detectable neural response patterns that simplify the detection and interpretation process, making the automated control system more manageable and less complex
3Ease of operation
If traditional control methods are used for mobility systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the user experience lacks immersion and interactivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces AR glasses as an intermediary display device that overlays visual stimuli and environmental information directly in the user's field of view. This creates an immersive interface that enhances user comfort and interaction by providing intuitive visual feedback and control targets without requiring the user to shift attention or physically manipulate controls
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a unified system: the AR glasses serve as both the display interface for visual stimuli and the camera for capturing the environment, while the EEG system simultaneously monitors neural activity and processes control commands. This multi-functionality enhances user experience without proportionally increasing system complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system allows for faster, more comfortable, and immersive control of electric wheelchairs by individuals with LIS, reducing the need for manual navigation and enhancing user interaction with integrated neural networks for improved accuracy and speed.
Implementation Method 1
an electroencephalogram, EEG, system configured to detect steady state visual evoked potentials, SSVEPs
Data Source
AI summary
A mobility system and a method for controlling it. The system comprises an electric wheelchair (2); an electroencephalogram, EEG, system (3) configured to detect steady state visual evoked potentials, SSVEPs, and to record EEG data; a vision system (4) comprising a display (5) and a camera (6), and the display (5) is configured to show visual stimuli; a controller. The method comprises controlling the EEG system to record EEG data; controlling the camera to capture a digital video or image and executing an algorithm to detect an object or path; controlling the display to show first visual stimuli overlapping or pointing towards the path or object; processing the EEG data to determine if first SSVEPs are generated; and if first SSVEPs are generated, controlling the electric wheelchair to move towards the object or via said path. Also, a controller, a computer program and a computer-readable medium.