Hats help mute spelling

For people suffering from spinal injuries or illnesses that can not move their arms or are mute, a special device called intendiX will help them spell words based on brain waves.

According to the Discovery page, the intendiX device consists of a head cap connected to a computer interface. This is a product developed by Australian technology company Guger Technologies.

To capture brain activity, the cap is equipped with EEG electrodes (commonly used in electroencephalography). Unfortunately, this headgear model now requires users to use a gel between their heads and the new EEG electrodes. Nevertheless, Guger Technologies experts are looking at ways to release a dry version of the hat.

The person wearing a hat will then stare attentively at a computer screen, which flickers on various rows, containing a matrix of letters and symbols set up like a keyboard on the screen. Just by focusing your attention on the letter you want in a few seconds, the program can determine which user intends to choose the letter.

A representative from Guger Technologies asserted that most people use the expertly designed 10-minute workout system using the intendiX system and can spell from 5 to 10 characters per minute.

Designed to serve people with severe disabilities at home or with carers , the intendiX appliance can do much more than just write a text message. Users can make it read aloud digitized text, print text or send e-mail. The only requirement to use this device is visual acuity and several seconds focus on the computer screen.