Work In Progress: Adapting Inexpensive Game Technology to Teach Principles of Neural Interface Technology and Device Control

摘要

An inexpensive commercially available game that detects the brain's beta wave activity to control game function was analyzed by biomedical engineering students to teach principles of electrical engineering, device control and neural interface technology. Students disassembled the game and identified major systems and components. They analyzed inputs and output signals to determine how the game could be used for device control. A low cost housing was designed and built for the game components with integrated front panel switches and connectors for signal inputs and outputs. Prototyping breadboards were integrated into the housing to allow flexibility to build various signal conditioning circuits. Students were able to use the device to mentally create musical notes of various pitches and design a frequency filter to create TTL signals for device control. The game served as a low-cost and fun teaching tool to facilitate student interest for learning about circuits and neural interface technology.