BRAIN-COMPUTER INTERFACE WITH ADAPTATIONS FOR HIGH-SPEED, ACCURATE, AND INTUITIVE USER INTERACTIONS

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application introduces a brain-computer interface (BCI) system that combines real-time eye-movement tracking with brain activity tracking. This integration aims to enhance user interaction with machines by providing a user interface (UI) that is both high-speed and accurate. The system is designed to be hardware agnostic, meaning it can be used with various hardware setups, allowing for intuitive and efficient user manipulation of applications or devices.

Background

BCIs have traditionally been developed as assistive technologies, enabling individuals with severe disabilities to communicate and control devices using brain signals. The patent discusses the limitations of existing BCIs, such as the Farwell-Donchin speller, which allows users to select characters at a slow pace. The new BCI system seeks to overcome these limitations by providing a faster and more accurate method of interaction, making it suitable for both disabled and able-bodied users.

Hybrid BCI System

The hybrid BCI system described includes components for tracking eye movements and processing brain activity. It features a pointing control mechanism analogous to a mouse pointer and an action control similar to a mouse click or keyboard stroke. These features enable users to interact with the UI and control connected devices in a natural and intuitive manner. The UI is designed to facilitate various interactions, such as scrolling, zooming, and object manipulation.

Implementation

The system employs eye-tracking devices to determine where the user is focusing on the screen, while neural signal monitoring identifies the user's intent. This combination allows for precise control over the UI, enhancing the user's ability to perform actions like activating or deactivating elements, navigating menus, and controlling virtual environments. The patent outlines adaptations that improve the speed and accuracy of these interactions.

Applications

The described BCI system has potential applications in various fields, including assistive technologies for disabled individuals, gaming, virtual reality environments, and general computer interaction. By improving information transfer rates and reducing error rates, the system aims to provide a more natural interactive experience for users in real-world settings. The patent also references prior applications that focus on similar high-speed eye-tracking features.