Human-machine interfaces

Understanding the relationship that exists between an assistive device and its user is essential if researchers are to design better systems for people with spinal cord injury.  Research in the area of human-machine interfaces is focused on understanding and developing new communication strategies and methods to allow users a higher and more natural degree of control over assistive devices. 

Current projects underway include a brain-computer interface system that enables people to control assistive devices without touching them.

Reaching out to grasp a cup of coffee or flip on a light switch isn’t something most people have to think about. But for people who are paralyzed, the brain signals that trigger such actions are often interrupted along the way. Imagine if there was a way to help brain messages get through and make unresponsive limbs work again.

2009                            Source: Toronto Rehab +8 Report on Rehabilitation Research,

 

 

Is it possible to control devices through thought alone? One researcher is determined to find the answer. César Márquez is presenting the results of a brain-machine interfacing (BMI) study and its implications for people living with limited mobility at a national spinal cord rehabilitation conference on Friday. BMI technology uses brain signals to control devices like computers and robotic arms. This means people living with physical disabilities would have the ability to control assistive devices through thought.