Brain computer interface: Design and development of a smart robotic gripper for a prosthesis environment

Abstract

Brain Computer Interface (BCI) technology is a tremendously growing research area having various application. Its involvement in medical field lies with prevention and neuronal rehabilitation for severe injuries. BCI systems try to build a pathway between the human brain and external devices, providing the patients a media for communication with the world Thus eliminating the scope of depending on others to a less degree. BCIs are often oriented at research, mapping, assisting, augmenting of human cognitive or sensory-motor functions. The growth of BCIs has increased in the recent years, paving way for research and aiming to be more accessible for the people. This paper describes a method to control a prosthetic moving robotic gripper with the use of brain waves. Brain waves, detected using Neurosky Mindwave Mobile headset, are processed, and sent to the microcontroller for controlling realtime application. Thus, this system provides a method for the Amyotrophic Laterals Sclerosis (ALS) patients, or people who have little or no reliable muscle movement, to control the prosthetic gripper and lead a selfreliant life to some extent.