Motor Imagery Performance Through Embodied Digital Twins in a Virtual Reality-Enabled Brain-Computer Interface Environment

My research in neuro rehabilitation centers around improving upper limb function for individuals with neurological injuries or disorders using a combination of EEG, motor imagery, and virtual reality technologies. The primary goal is to understand how these technologies can be integrated to enhance the effectiveness of motor skills rehabilitation. Virtual reality environments have become more sophisticated, enabling realistic simulations, tailored to individual rehabilitation needs, which help in refining motor skills in a nuanced manner.

Hybrid systems that combine VR with other technologies like robotic arms and haptic feedback devices are also on the rise. One of the current experimental challenges with the use of brain computer interfaces revolves around the issue of intersubject variability and the need for extensive training. Each individual's brain signal can be vastly different, which means that BCIs often need to be extensively customized or calibrated for each user.

Current treatments, often like the immersion and interactivity necessary for maximum efficacy. To fill this gap, our protocol utilizes motor imagery with an innovative twist, integrating digital twins represented by personalized 3D avatars in a virtual reality setting. This integration enhances immersion, making the rehabilitation process not just a mental exercise but also an engaging experience.

Our research protocol offers significant advantages over other techniques, particularly in terms of ease of set and cost effectiveness. A standout feature is the creation and utilization of 3D avatars that closely resemble the subjects. This is achieved using simple, readily available tools and software that can generate personalized avatars from basic input data such as photographs.