Brain-computer interface systems

bci logo

Our research seeks to develop an efficient and effective brain-computer interface (BCI) system that will serve as a communication access method for individuals with locked-in syndrome. We strive to improve the accuracy and speed of the technology, as well as user satisfaction, for a system that can be used for functional written and spoken expression.
                                                                    

Introducing CAMBI

Logo for CAMBI (Consortium for Accessible Multi-Modal Brain-Body Interface)

The REKNEW team is part of the interdisciplinary, multi-institutional Consortium for Accessible Multimodal Brain-Body Interfaces (CAMBI). This dynamic team brings together scientists and students from REKNEW and the Oken Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at Oregon Health & Science University, the Cognitive Systems Lab at Northeastern University and the Future Interactions Group at Michigan Technological University. Together, we explore and create innovative, user-centered assistive technology access methods for individuals with severe speech and physical impairments.

Learn more about CAMBI and see a list of our brain-computer interface dissemination efforts.

Please follow the links below to view written information and videos about our brain-computer interface systems for assistive technologies.

Basic design of a BCI system for assistive technology control

BCI Schematic
Basic design of a BCI system for assistive technology control

In BCIs using visual, auditory, or tactile stimuli, a computer selects stimuli to be presented to the user via a presentation device (e.g. display, headphones, or tactors), and the user's reactions produce brain signals. In self-driven BCIs, the user spontaneously produces brain signals;the left-hand portion of the figure (in gray) does not apply in these systems. In either case, the brain signals are processed and digitized by signal acquisition hardware and sent to the computer for analysis. If the computer has sufficient evidence to infer the user's intent, it sends a control command to the AT software or device. If not, it initiates the presentation of additional stimuli to the user, or, in the case of self-driven BCIs, awaits additional information from the user. In many systems, the user simultaneously receives input from the stimulus presentation device and feedback from the AT. 

Dr. Melanie Fried-Oken explaining what the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is.
Betts Peters, Ph.D., CCC-SLP presenting on “Brain-Computer Interface as an AAC Access Method” in November of 2022 hosted by the University of Central Florida.
Dr. Melanie Fried-Oken, Ph.D., Director of OHSU Assistive Technology Program and Betts Peters, Ph.D., CCC-SLP presenting on Brain Computer Interfaces for Communication as part of the 2021 ALS Research Week hosted by the ALS Association of Oregon & SW Washington Chapter.

Innovations in Neuroscience

Greg Bieker, a man with locked in syndrome and a consultant to our BCI team, demonstrating the Brain-Computer Interface program.

The Oregon Brain Institute published the 2018 Innovations in Neuroscience, highlighting leading edge research conducted at OHSU. The REKNEW Brain-Computer Interface program was featured in the book. We are proud of our contribution to the OHSU clinical research community which includes a short description of our work with photos and a video featuring Greg Bieker, a man with locked in syndrome and a consultant to our BCI team.

See the publication (pages 16-19)