Neurotechnologies for Brain Machine Interfacing

About The goal of this program is to bring together diverse stakeholders across neurotechnologies, research institutions, industry and government agencies to identify and address gaps in the existing standards for Brain-Machine Interfacing (BMI)/Brain Computer Interface (BCI) based solutions. Interest in BMI/BCI is consistently growing and state-of-the-art research is currently being tested on its intended end-users. Translation from laboratory proof-of concepts to viable clinical and assistive solutions, as well as consumer applications entails a large set of challenges. The possibility of deploying and commercializing BMI/BCI-based solutions requires researchers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to ensure these devices comply with well-defined criteria on their safety and effectiveness. BMI/BCI systems typically require integration of multiple sub-components comprising measuring and analysis of neural activity, and provision of feedback to the user through different means (including displays, virtual reality systems, haptic interfaces and exo-skeletons, among others). The lack of specific standards on neurotechnologies for BMI/BCI hinders the interoperability, and regulatory compliance of new devices and in consequence, consists a barrier for industrial applications to access a wide market. Get Involved We welcome new participants from academy, industry and government agencies that are interested in neurotechnologies including, but not limited neural acquisition systems (Neuroimaging, EEG, ECoG, and multiunit activity), electrostimulation at central (TMS, tDCS, tACS) and peripheral (FES) levels. Individuals who are interested in related technologies comprising virtual reality systems and gaming, haptic devices, rehabilitation robotics, as well as, wellness devices, healthcare and rehabilitation, gaming applications and others should also participate and get involved. Possible Industry Outcomes Proposed deliverables and outcomes from this Industry Connections activity may include documents (e.g., white papers, reports), proposals for standards, conferences and workshops, databases, computer code, etc. Expected outcomes: Provide an integrated overview of all standards activity that is specifically related to BMI-related neurotechnologies Identify any gaps in the existing standards and suggestions on how to address these gaps Expected impact in multiple markets including: Motor rehabilitation Assistive technologies, including neuroprosthetics, exo-skeletons, and communication devices Diagnosis and therapies for motor and cognitive disorders Health monitoring, in particular for healthy aging Virtual and augmented reality Training in industrial and military applications Gaming Cognitive training How to Participate To learn how to join the Neurotechnologies for Brain-Machine Interfacing team, please express your interest by sending an inquiry to: Ricardo Chavarriaga, Chair Carole Carey, EMB Standards Committee Chair Additional Contacts Industry Connections Program Administrator