Automated sensing, interpretation and conversion of facial and mental expressions into text acronyms using brain-computer interface technology

There has always been a need for a more natural way of communicating with electronic devices than the common digital input methods such as buttons and touchscreens which are not only limited in the depth of communication but also limit the people who use them especially individuals with handicaps. In this paper we present a design methodology to input simple text acronyms into a message by using natural facial expressions and mind states; furthermore we discuss how this can be expanded into a new paradigm for digital communication. As a proof of concept we show that commercially-off-the-shelf (COTS) brain-computer interface (BCI) technology along with Emotiv Control Panel Software Suite can be used to convert facial expressions and mind states into actions by pairing it twelve of the most commonly used text acronyms. Emoitv EEG Neuroheadset was utilized to sense and capture user´s EEG and EMG data, and Emotiv Control Panel Software was used to interpret the facial expressions and mind states and convert it into its corresponding text acronym.