Publication
Mindful Mobility: EEG-Based Brain-Computer Interaction for Elevator Control Using Muse Headset
Devansh Srivastav; Thomas Kaltbach; Ahmer Akhtar Mughal; Nischal Giriyan; Moaz Bin Younus; Tobias Jungbluth; Jochen Britz; Jan Alexandersson; Maurice Rekrut
In: Proceedings of the International Conference on Ubiquitous Computing and Ambient Intelligence (UCAmI 2024). International Conference on Ubiquitous Computing and Ambient Intelligence (UCAmI-2024), November 27-30, Ulster University, Belfast, United Kingdom, Springer, 2024.
Abstract
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) systems represent an innovative approach to human-computer interaction, enabling users to control devices and interact with technology solely through brain activity. This study investigates the feasibility and potential of non-invasive EEG-based BCI for elevator control, addressing two primary research questions: 1) Can a person reliably control an elevator through a BCI system? and 2) What are the usability and user experience outcomes of such a system? We integrated a Muse headset with a remote-controllable elevator system using an iPhone as the interface over a local network. This setup allowed users to operate the elevator using blinking, jaw clenching, and mental focussing as triggers. Performance, accuracy, and user experience were evaluated through experiments involving 50 participants aged 12 to 60. Usability was measured with the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire along with additional feedback questions. Key findings indicate that the system achieved an average SUS score of 80.3, reflecting excellent usability on the adjective rating scale. Moreover, 94% of participants successfully controlled the elevator, performing tasks such as activating and deactivating brain control, calling the elevator, and selecting floors. The user experience questionnaires reveal that most participants found the system easy to use, well-integrated, and perceived the introduction of brain-controlled elevators to positively impact accessibility and inclusivity in buildings.