Brain Computer Interface Device for Speech Impediments

The human brain is one of the complex structures in the universe. A numerous experiments and studies were carried out on it in a proper and systematic manner to analyze its characteristics. As the consequence of availability of high-speed electronics and efficient algorithms various high efficient BCI devices were developed. The dry electrode based BCI device implemented here falls to the non-invasive BCI category and shall assist a speech impediment person by restoring the ability to call a person on demand situations artificially. Currently, the brain electrophysiological signals BCI used can be divided into three categories: specific frequency components of EEG produced spontaneously during the process of brain thinking, such as alpha waves, beta waves and so on; next is the brain evoked event- related potentials (ERP), i.e. neural electrical activity of cerebral cortex induced by specific sensory stimulus or event operation; and the third category is the electrical activity signals of neurons in group directly acquired from the detection electrode implanted into the specific region of the brain cortex. Here the advantages of ERP signal are exploited to implement a Brain Computer Interface device for speech impediments using the Neurosky's Mindwave Headset, Intel Galileo Board & ISD series chip.