Robotic Arm Using Brain Computer Interface

We live at that time in the history where the technology is advancing in a speed faster than ever. With the advent of powerful computers and increased knowledge about human brain, the scope of connecting our brains to machines have rapidly risen. Brain Computer Interface, commonly referred to as BCI is a direct communication pathway between an enhanced or wired brain and an external device. BCIs are often directed at researching, mapping, assisting, augmenting or repairing human cognitive or sensory motor functions. BCIs connect the brain to a computer system. It can be used to achieve aims like restoring sight, hearing, movement, ability to communicate etc. The project we are planning to do is to make a robotic arm which is controlled entirely by brain signals. The main functions we aim to incorporate in this project is the opening and closing of the arm. This is a basic point and it can be built upon. Something as basic as this will be a huge step in the lives of a disabled or paralyzed person. The conventional BCI systems are usually expensive, complex and lack portability. We plan to make an affordable, comparatively low cost, portable and at the same time, an efficient system. By making the system portable it makes a more preferable solution for handicapped persons. We mainly focus on building a prosthetic arm (robotic arm) that can be controlled using then brain signal. To achieve that we use the brains EEG signals. Also the computer is replaced with an embedded system that supports its portability. The required signals are obtained from an EEG headset; it is then processed and converted into respective commands for the movement of a robotic palm. As future advancements we will be trying to make the arm more movable and the same can be used for home automation.