Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) are intended to control assistive technology (AT) without physical movement, offering great potential benefit to people with significant movement impairments. Regrettably, most current BCIs are dedicated devices that interface primarily with BCI-specific software, providing only limited functionality. While a significant investment of time and money could duplicate some functions of commercial AT in BCI-specific devices, a better approach is to augment BCIs with universal/plug-and-play outputs. BCIs could then substitute for physical input devices in the operation of commercial AT, linking BCIs with the full benefit of commercial AT at a minimum of cost and effort. At the same time, a plug-and-play BCI approach retains the benefits of product testing and technical support inherent in commercial AT products. Further, AT designed for people who type slowly and make inaccurate mouse movements may offset the limited capabilities of current BCIs, making plug-and-play BCIs more functional than BCI-specific devices alone.

The UM-DBI project is exploring the use of EEG-based BCIs as the interfaces to operate several types of commercially available AT devices. Research topics include BCI improvements to support operation of commercial AT, function during no-control periods, technical support needs of people with disabilities for independent BCI use, the affect of AT features on BCI functionality, and perceptions and priorities for BCI function.