School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, & Health Systems

Kyle Smith

School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, & Health Systems

Biomedical Engineering

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Hasan Ayaz Biomedical Engineering

Electromyography Based Human Computer Interface

A Human Computer Interface (HCI) is a term used to describe a system that has the intention of allowing a person to directly interact with a computer environment in a way that is more natural than typical computer interfaces such as a keyboard and mouse. Current HCI’s are typically used in clinical settings to gauge participant behavior. Additionally, HCI’s have a wide number of uses in the broader medical field such as control of robotic exoskeletons or prostheses. HCI’s can also be used to assist everyday computer usage and even video games.

A working prototype of a HCI using Electromyographic (EMG) sensors and arm movements was implemented to provide a control system for a simple video game platform. This was done as a proof of concept on the feasibility of using EMG sensors in higher level computer interactions scenarios. Further work must be done to make the overall system more compact and robust to provide the necessary control for such systems. The next progression of this project would be the integration of multiple EMG sensors to allow for more unique signal combinations, hence allowing for wider array of possible outputs.