Single channel electrooculogram(EOG) based interface for mobility aid

Abstract

Human computer interfacing (HCI) technology has emerged as a new pathway towards the improvement of different rehabilitative aids. In this paper, new approach to control the motorized human computer interface using electrooculogram (EOG) is proposed. A mobility interface controlled by eye movements has been developed to help the disabled individuals with motor impairment who cannot even speak. Electrooculogram(EOG) is the potential generated in due the movement of the eyeballs and can be acquired from the surrounding region of eye socket. The signal is easy to acquire noninvasively and has a simple pattern. A low cost data acquisition system for EOG is designed. Horizontal electrooculographic signal is recorded by placing electrodes at the outer region of the orbit of eyes, and a reference electrode at neck. Using different combinations of eye movements in right and left direction a simple control strategy has been developed to drive motors. Control signals have been first generated using 8051 microcontroller. To meet the problems occurred while using 8051, ATMEGA microcontroller has been adapted. Directional movements of a small prototype of mobility aid (a toy car) with DC motors in right, left and forward is controlled and start and stop of movement is also implemented with ATMEGA. These control signals can be further used to command rehabilitative assistive device with eye movement sequences.