Motion support system using brain signals (INSPIRE)

The project is dealing with the mechanism of human motion by combining state-of-the-art pattern recognition and artificial intelligence algorithms for the modeling of motor complexity.
Our goal is the implementation of an integrated Hybrid Brain-Computer Interface (HBCI) system to support and restore motor functions. In this context, several concepts will be tested and new ones will be developed to accurately analyze high-quality data as well as to study and model the physiological regulatory mechanisms of human locomotion.
At the same time, sophisticated computational tools will be developed for the implementation of an automated real-time closed-loop control system that can support and restore motor functions by combining electroencephalographic (EEG) and electromyographic (EMG) data. Our main hypothesis is that successful recognition of the desired movement offers:

• Motor function assistance and rehabilitation capabilities by stimulating muscle fibers through external electrical stimulation.
• Kinetic independence for the disabled through an automated system that uses brain and muscle signals to control a modified wheelchair.

The main objectives of this proposed research are:

• The design and modeling of the neurophysiological mechanisms responsible for motion.
• The development of advanced computational tools for automatic real-time motion recognition.
• The design and development of an HBCI device for the control of a wheelchair.
• The design and development of a portable non-invasive system for the support and rehabilitation of motor functions.

  The research work was supported by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (H.F.R.I.) under the “First Call for H.F.R.I. Research Projects to support Faculty members and Researchers and the procurement of high-cost research equipment grant” (Project Number: HFRI-FM17-1540).

  Project Τitle: IMPLEMENTATION OF AN INTEGRATED SYSTEM FOR THE SUPPORT AND REHABILITATION OF MOTOR FUNCTIONS THROUGHT A HYBRID BRAIN-COMPUTER INTERFACE (INSPIRE)

  Project Duration:  December 19, 2019– December 18, 2022 

  Project Framework & Funding:
  Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (H.F.R.I.)
  Funding: 190.000 €

  Principal Investigator (UNIWA): Dr. Panteleimon Asvestas, Email: pasv@uniwa.gr, Tel: +30-2105385375

  Consortium – Partners:

  1. University of West Attica (Coordinator)
  2. Institute of Communication and Computer Systems, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens.
  3. 2^nd Department of Medical Physics and Rehabilitation, National Rehabilitation Center.