Imagination Centre
Making Valuable Childhood Connections through BCI
Helping Children Explore Their World
The Imagination Centre, located within Glenwood Rehabilitation Hospital, is home to the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) program. Patients at this facility have access to various brain-computer interfaces using Emotiv Epoc X EEG headsets. These BCIs allow children with disabilities to control wheelchairs, video games, robots, remote-controlled cars, smart home technology, rolling balls, and a bubble maker.
BCI Enables ‘Participation in Life’
The Imagination Centre is one of the very few places in North America where brain-computer interface therapy is offered. BCI is more than a novelty, allowing you to control devices with your mind. In this context, it provides a way to participate in life in ways that many of us take for granted, but for those with disabilities were previously unimaginable.
Dr. John Andersen is a developmental pediatrician and Medical Director of the GRH BCI Program and Imagination Centre.
“Our research team is excited to learn how using BCI in play can affect children's sense of independence and autonomy, as well as their creativity and confidence,” he says.
The program also welcomes individuals with adult-onset conditions such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
Liam’s Story
Born with cerebral palsy, Liam faces challenges with movement and communication. However, through the use of Emotiv Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology at the Imagination Centre, Liam can now play and interact with his loved ones. The Imagination Centre is making previously impossible opportunities for play, creativity, and fun a reality for Liam.
BCI can enable children to play, learn, create, and be heard. To offer this opportunity early in life, when it has the most profound effect, could be life-changing.
Cutting-Edge Hardware, Versatile BCI Software
Our award-winning EEG headsets, like the Epoc X and Insight, are at the core of our BCI solutions. Designed for both precision and comfort, they measure professional-grade brain data for a multitude of applications. Leverage the full potential of BCIs with our comprehensive software suite, including EmotivBCI and integration with platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and NodeRed. These tools offer an accessible way to implement BCIs, from direct mental commands to performance metrics and beyond.