Tech Project

Description of the challenges faced by the Tech Project

- Ability to genetically modify target neurons with specific opsins - Develop 3D neuronal probes for electrical and optical stimulation in a specific wavelength to control target neurons - Develop a signal processing module as an operational framework able to interact with the neuronal probe and to acquire, storage, and analyse the EEG data - Create a module for signal processing, containing the most relevant methods and algorithms, able to detect a variety of anomalies in EEG data - Use a commercially available EEG (e.g. EMOTIV EPOC) to control an external device (i.e. a robotic arm) with the signal processing framework - Combine the several technological components in an integrated system - Characterization and validation of the operational framework

Brief description of technology

This project combines optical technology with genetic modification techniques in the development of a new Optogenetic device. This device will allow optimization in the incidence of light on a particular population of genetically modified neurons, revealing specific biological effects. A software module will be also developed with the purpose of facilitating the process of acquisition, storage, visualization, analysis and processing of acquired data with the Optogenetic device, or with other devices or methods of acquisition of brain signals. As a proof of concept, the project will include the development of a brain-computer interface using a market available EEG (EMOTIV EPOC) to control a robotic arm in a four range movement. The artist will be able to use freely the software modules developed by INOVA+ and the external devices, namely, the EMOTIV EPOC and the robotic arm.

What the project is looking to gain from the collaboration and what kind of artist would be suitable

We are inviting the artists to define new perspectives of application for the brain-computer interface. One possible approach is to improve the interaction between the signal processing framework and the external device, i.e., the robotic arm, and create a more attractive and harmonize system. On the other hand, it would be interesting to evaluate how the exposure to different art expressions (music, paintings, etc.) can affect the brain activity of individuals, this is, the EEG data, and what applications this could have in other sectors, such as health. It is important for the organization to develop an attractive solution for the target audience, and to increase the exposure and dissemination of the project’s results.

Resources available to the artist

Office facility Internet connection Technical equipment Laboratory Periods of availability for artistic production Integration in the team of the project