ZigBee-based Wireless Intra-oral Control System for Quadriplegic Patients

A human-to-computer system that includes a wireless intra-oral module, a wireless coordinator and distributed wireless controllers, is presented. The state-of-the-art ZigBee protocol is employed to achieve reliable, low- power and cost-efficient wireless communication between the tongue, computer and controllers. By manipulating five buttons on the wireless intra-oral module using the tongue, the subject can control cursors, computer menus, wheelchair, lights, TV, phone and robotic devices. The system is designed to improve the life quality of patients with stroke and patients with spinal cord injury.

[1]  Jerald D. Kralik,et al.  Real-time prediction of hand trajectory by ensembles of cortical neurons in primates , 2000, Nature.

[2]  Xiaorong Gao,et al.  A BCI-based environmental controller for the motion-disabled , 2003, IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering.

[3]  Ethan R. Buch,et al.  Physiological regulation of thinking: brain-computer interface (BCI) research. , 2006, Progress in brain research.

[4]  L.J. Trejo,et al.  Brain-computer interfaces for 1-D and 2-D cursor control: designs using volitional control of the EEG spectrum or steady-state visual evoked potentials , 2006, IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering.

[5]  P. Kennedy,et al.  Restoration of neural output from a paralyzed patient by a direct brain connection , 1998, Neuroreport.

[6]  Maysam Ghovanloo,et al.  Tongue drive: a tongue operated magnetic sensor based wireless assistive technology for people with severe disabilities , 2006, 2006 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems.

[7]  Sandro Mussa-Ivaldi,et al.  Neural engineering: Real brains for real robots , 2000, Nature.

[8]  Aleksandar Milenkovic,et al.  Journal of Neuroengineering and Rehabilitation Open Access a Wireless Body Area Network of Intelligent Motion Sensors for Computer Assisted Physical Rehabilitation , 2005 .

[9]  Walter H. Chang,et al.  The new design of an infrared-controlled human-computer interface for the disabled. , 1999, IEEE transactions on rehabilitation engineering : a publication of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society.

[10]  M. Fried-Oken,et al.  Voice recognition device as a computer interface for motor and speech impaired people. , 1985, Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation.

[11]  H. Flor,et al.  A spelling device for the paralysed , 1999, Nature.

[12]  J. A. Wilson,et al.  Electrocorticographically controlled brain-computer interfaces using motor and sensory imagery in patients with temporary subdural electrode implants. Report of four cases. , 2007, Journal of neurosurgery.

[13]  S. Meagher.  Instant neural control of a movement signal , 2002 .

[14]  C B Parker,et al.  Intra-oral remote control. An access device for the severely disabled , 1990, British Dental Journal.