The Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) Project

Melody M. Moore, Ph.D.
Computer Information Systems
Robinson College of Business
Georgia State University

Research on brain power and computing by Dr. Melody Moore was recently publicized by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Dr. Moore's ground-breaking work centers on the use of the human brain to interact with computers. The work stems from Dr. Moore's life-long goals to assist those with physical impediments. Her research began at Georgia Tech, where she was a doctoral student. At GSU, she hopes to break those physical barriers that have bound others from reaching their full potential.

The BCI research project is a collaborative effort between researchers at Neural Signals, Inc., Georgia State University, Georgia Tech, and Emory. The goal of the research is to develop technologies that will assist computer users who are completely paralyzed, or "locked in". These users cannot type, use a mouse, or speak, so they cannot use any existing input devices. Dr. Philip Kennedy of Neural Signals, Inc. developed a neurotrophic electrode that can be implanted into the motor cortex of the brain, which allows a locked-in patient to operate a computer by generating and controlling specific brain signals. Successful trials in rats and monkeys led to the implantation of the first human in 1997. Subsequently two more humans were successfully implanted and have shown that they can generate the brain signals that allow them to operate a computer.

Dr. Moore is the Director of Software Research for the BCI project. She and her students have been developing and testing software in the areas of intelligent device drivers, alternative communication methods, new interface paradigms (inventing the hysteretic or "nudge and shove" method for cursor navigation), patient training, research data collection, internet access, and environmental control.

Media Coverage
The BCI project has been covered by every nearly major news network and newspaper in the world, including NBC, CBS, ABC, CNN, and the BBC. Newspaper coverage included a front-page article in the Washington Post, articles in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the French Le Monde. Magazine and journal coverage included Discover Magazine, Science News, Science, and many others.

Awards
For developing the neurotrophic electrode, Dr. Kennedy and the BCI project team have received recognition with national and international awards. Dr. Kennedy has received:

• The 1999 Discover Award for Assistive Technologies (Editor's Choice)
• The 1999 Atlanta Business Chronicle "Health Care Heroes" award
• The World Technology Network 1999 award for Medical Technology