Multiuser brain-computer interface to control an educational robot through visual imagery
Summary
This research study aims to validate shared robotic control based of the imagining of robot movement using an electroencephalographic (EEG)-based multiuser Brain-Computer Interface (BCI). Pairs of participants will direct an educational robot's path on a mat by imagining its movements, employing the multiuser BCI to interpret their EEG brain waves. We are currently seeking typically developed adults to participate in this research.
Call to action
If you are an adult aged 18 or older, we invite you to take part in our research study to validate the multiuser brain-computer interface system using visual imagery of robot motion. The findings from this study will further support the use of this multiuser BCI in enabling individuals with speech and motor impairments to interact with others in shared robotic activities through visual imagery-based thoughts.
Who can participate
To participate in this study, individuals must be typically developed adults 18 years old or older, with vision that is normal or corrected (glasses or lenses are acceptable), and hearing that is normal or similarly corrected. Participants should be fluent in English and capable of remaining seated comfortably for periods of at least 5 minutes.
Funding agency
PRISM lab and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation of Colombia
What's involved
You will be invited to attend one (1) session at Holland Bloorview that is estimated to last for one and a half hours. During the session, you will collaborate with another participant in controlling an educational robot on a line-following mat through your thoughts via the EEG-based multiuser BCI. Each adult-adult dyad will sit facing each other at a central table where an educational robot is placed on the line follower mat, and will wear EEG headsets.
The session is divided into two parts, each with four blocks of ten trials. You will receive audio instructions about performing a visual imagery task relating to imagining the movement of the robot following a line. Once the multiuser BCI detects EEG activity, the educational robot will move forward on the line follower mat. Structured resting periods will be indicated through audio cues, and you can take breaks at any time if needed. The collected EEG data from the session will be analyzed to validate the effectiveness of the visual imagery task in multiuser BCI control of a robot.
During the session, you will also be asked to complete questionnaires to assess your experience. One questionnaire describes any relationship you have with your session partner. A second questionnaire measures your ability to visualize and form mental pictures. The final one measures the subjective workload you encountered during the tasks in the session.
Deadline
Interested in participating
If you are interested in participating in this study or have additional questions, please contact nmolano@hollandbloorview.ca or call 416-425-6220 x3138, and we will get back to you promptly. Contacting us does not commit you to participate in the study.
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Additional information
Version (29/11/2024) REB# 0639
Visual Imagery-based Multiuser Brain-Computer Interface
Recruitment will continue until June 2025 or until we reach a maximum of 30 participants.
