Brain-computer interface using fMRI: Spatial navigation by thoughts

Seung Schik Yoo, Ty Fairneny, Nan Kuei Chen, Seh Eun Choo, Lawrence P. Panych, Hyun Wook Park, Soo Young Lee, Ferenc A. Jolesz

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

207 Scopus citations

Abstract

A brain-computer interface (BCI) is a way of conveying an individual's thoughts to control computer or electromechanical hardware. Capitalizing on the ability to characterize brain activity in a reproducible manner, we explored the possibility of using real-time fMRI to interpret the spatial distribution of brain function as BCI commands. Using a high-field (3 T) MRI scanner, brain activities associated with four distinct covert functional tasks were detected and subsequently translated into predetermined computer commands for moving four directional cursors. The proposed fMRI-BCI method allowed volunteer subjects to navigate through a simple 2D maze solely through their thought processes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1591-1595
Number of pages5
JournalNeuroReport
Volume15
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 19 2004
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Biofeed
  • Cognition
  • Imagery
  • Mental task
  • Rehabilitation
  • fMRI

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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