Brain–Computer Interfaces - Index of

182 G.R. Müller-Putz et al.
BCI applications are still mainly performed in the laboratory environment. Small
wireless EEG amplifiers, together with a form of an electrode helmet (or something
similar with dry electrodes (e.g., [25]), must be developed for domestic or public
use. This problem is addressed already from some research groups in Europe, which
are confident that these systems can be provided to patients in the near future. In the
meantime the current FES methods for restoration of the grasp function have to
be extended to restoration of elbow (first attempts are already reported [16]) and
shoulder function to take advantage of the enhanced control possibilities of the BCI
systems. This issue is also addressed at the moment by combining an motor driven
orthosis with electrical stimulation methods.
In the studies described above the direct influence of the neuroprosthesis to
EEG recording is discussed. A new and important aspect for the future will be
the investigation of the plasticity of involved cortical networks. The use of a neuroprosthesis
for grasp/elbow movement restoration offers realistic feedback to the
individual. Patterns of imagined movements used for BCI control then compete with
patterns from observing the user’s own body movement. These processes must be
investigated and used to improve BCI control.
Acknowledgments The authors would like to acknowledge the motovation and patience of the
patients during the intensive days of trainning. This work was partly supported by Wings for
Life - The spinal cord research foundation, Lorenz Böhler Gesellschaft, “Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt
- AUVA”, EU COST BM0601 Neuromath, and Land Steiermark.
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