The EUTOPIA PhD co-tutelle project, Brain-Computer Interface for Real-Life Applications, has recently been finalized in collaboration with the ETIS lab of CY Cergy Paris.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) allow people to control devices using their thoughts. This can be especially helpful for those who can’t move or speak, whether due to physical disabilities or situations like working with their hands in a noisy environment. One valuable use of this technology is a robotic arm that helps people with paralysis perform daily tasks, giving them more independence.

However, BCI technology still has some hurdles to overcome before it can be widely used, such as making sure brain signals are interpreted accurately in real time and creating standard ways to test these systems.

This PhD research tackled these challenges by designing a BCI system that controls a robotic arm, using technologies such as augmented reality and eye tracking. The system combines brain control with shared control of the robot, making it easier to use. This system could help people with disabilities do everyday things like sorting items or having a robotic arm bring them food when they’re hungry, reducing their reliance on caregivers and improving their quality of life.

Please note: Kevin De Pauw is a researcher with FARI; however, this project is being undertaken outside of the FARI framework