Brain Controlled Wheelchair: A Smart Prototype

Abstract

EEG has been largely used in both clinical and research applications. Brain computer interface (BCI) system is one of the major EEG research applications which can provide a new way of communications for special users who cannot communicate via normal pathways. This paper focuses on the development of the brain controlled wheelchair which incorporates two additional control interfaces including joystick and a remote control through an android phone. All three controls are integrated in such a way that it allows the user to change the mode of control by simply changing the state of the slide switch. This work utilizes the Neurosky Mindwave Mobile headset to capture the EEG signals through a single channel placed at the FP1 position. Eye blinks and attention levels are the key features of the captured EEG that are extracted and identified through an android application. The design also assimilates ultrasonic sensors based safety system which is capable of detecting the obstacles in all four directions to ensure the safety of the user.