Developing a Sensor Calibration Device for Sensory Brain Computer Interfaces
Loading...
Date
2024-05
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Ohio State University
Abstract
Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs) provide individuals with severe neurological conditions the ability to regain functions they have lost, such as movement and speech. Significant research with these BCI systems has been performed specifically in spinal cord injury patients in an effort to create methods for restoring motor functions to patients. A lack of knowledge, however, exists in creating BCI systems that can naturally restore sensory function in such patients. New implantable fingertip force sensors have been developed that could provide patients the ability to regain this crucial function of the nervous system. These novel sensors, however, require calibration with commercial sensors to be effective and useful for different patients who require their own unique stimulation parameters. This project aimed to create a first-generation (“alpha”) prototype of a calibration apparatus for these sensors for specific patient scenarios as well as test and validate the prototype in a real patient setting. Following the design, prototyping, and validation process, a modular, custom forearm cradle device was created and proven to be capable of registering force outputs in a clinically relevant setting. A production process was created along with the first iteration of the cradle, permitting the expansion and tailoring of this process for usage in several different patients. Furthermore, the function of the device in registering the force outputs of patients’ hands was verified in four healthy volunteer subjects. This was accomplished using the commercial sensors selected for verifying the custom sensors against. Results showed that force outputs could be distinguished based on the time duration of force applied, the magnitude of strength applied, the location of force application, and ultimately the individual applying the force. These initial results confirm the need for the patient-specific calibration setup that has been developed in this study.
Description
Keywords
brain computer interface, sensor calibration, implantable sensor, cradle, neurotechnology, paralysis