A Smart Textile Based Facial EMG and EOG Computer Interface

This paper investigates a wearable approach to facial electromyography and electrooculography. The aim is to reduce discomfort and setup time in electromyographic research, rehabilitation, and computer control. A screen and stencil printed passive electrode network is fabricated on a textile headband. When this headband is worn, an array of stencil printed electrodes makes contact with the skin. The electrodes are connected to external electronics by screen printed flexible conductive tracks. The printed electrode headband is used in a facial electromyographic control system to evaluate performance. The system can be used to control a mouse cursor or simulate keyboard functions. It was found that 50 Hz noise levels in the printed textile electrodes were similar to commercial disposable electroencephalography electrodes. The effect of a wearable approach on pressure variations and motion artefact is examined. The way in which this influences the design and performance of the control system is discussed.