Think2grasp - BCI-Controlled Neuroprosthesis for the Upper Extremity

Abstract

By application of grasp neuroprostheses a restricted hand function can be successfully improved. The introduction of hybrid neuroprostheses based on Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) and orthosis holds promise to compensate for a substantial loss of upper extremity function in individuals with high spinal cord injury (SCI). Novel user interfaces are necessary to make use of their additional degrees of freedom. In the European Project TOBI (Tools for Brain-Computer Interfaces) a motor imagery (MI) based, hybrid BCI (hBCI) for control of an upper extremity hybrid neuroprosthesis was evaluated following a user-centered design. This technology allowed several end users with SCI to successfully perform activities of daily living and may therefore serve as a valuable assistive device for functional rehabilitation of severely motor impaired individuals.