For over three decades BioControl was in the bionic interface and wearables business. We specialized in biosignal driven control of graphics and sound.
BioControl provided mobile sensor systems for capture and processing of a variety of bioelectric signals. We also provided signal processing software for interactive applications - to enable our customers to create their own HCI and BCI devices.
BioControl entered the market in 1992 with the BioMuse v.3 – a special purpose signal processing platform that acquired 8 channels of biosignal data (EEG, EMG, EOG, ECG, and EDA - in any combination of input channel configurations), performed real-time processing, and then streamed out control code to drive graphics, audio, and robotic devices.
BioMuse product development was based on pioneering work done by former Stanford researchers Hugh Lusted and Benjamin Knapp starting in 1987.
Knapp and Lusted had several technology "firsts" on the way to actual product release. For instance, they demonstrated BCI (EEG) control of graphics and sound at CyberArts - LA in 1990. Also, using their technology for rehab, they configured an EMG controller to enable disabled users to play air guitar, notably at Loma Linda Medical Center in 1991. In addition, they configured the pre-release version of the BioMuse to use EEG, EMG, and EOG (eye motion) signals to control video games.
The BioMuse 3 was purchased by numerous R&D facilities worldwide and used in university, corporate, and military labs all during the 90s.
Here is the chronology of Biocontrol projects, prototypes, and products:
BioMuse 1 - 1987
Multi-channel programmable biosignal (for EEG, EMG, EOG, ECG, and EDA) controller designed for brain-computer interface (BCI) and human-computer interface (HCI) applications.
Atau Tanaka first performed his EMG generated music at Stanford's Frost Amphitheater in 1992. Here he appears with the Biomuse in a Scientific American article "Controlling Computers with Biosignals", October 1996.
Hands Free Controller - 1996
Wireless EMG headband and armband for hands free mouse control
Telegrapple - EMG controlled arm wrestling online - 1999
Log on to Telegrapple and challenge your friends to a real game of physical strength via your robotic avatar. Your EMG armband conveys your muscle electrical energy to your virtual arm - and you can challenge anyone. World leaders can compete to relieve international tensions.
In conjunction with Sierra Group Services and KDG Interactive.
PS2 Video Game Controller - 2002
Game action controller using EEG, EMG, EOG, and ECG signals.
In conjunction with Sony Entertainment Inc.
Wireless Physiological Monitor - 2004
Wearable EMG and ECG module for continuous biometric monitoring
Telemuse - 2006
Wearable EEG, EMG, and ECG wireless module for continuous biometric monitoring
Wireless EDA Wearable - 2007
EDA recording unit - distributed through Infusion Systems, Canada
BioBeat wireless ECG wearable - 2007
ECG recording unit - distributed through Infusion Systems, Canada
BioFlex wireless EMG armband - 2007
Wearable EMG unit - distributed through Infusion Systems, Canada
BioVolt wireless EEG Headband - 2007
Dry electrode PSG headband with EEG, EMG, and EOG capability - distributed through Infusion Systems, Canada
EEG Earbuds for In-Home Sleep Monitoring Wearable - 2007-08
Sarnoff Institute collaboration with Biocontrol. Patent application US 2007/0112277A1
Multichannel Headband for In-Home Sleep Monitoring - 2007-09
Prototype headband testing re all night PSG studies at Stanford Sleep Disorders Clinic
PSG Headband for In-Home Sleep Monitoring - 2010
Wireless headband with 2 channel EEG, EMG, and EOG recording capability.
In conjunction with Stanford Sleep Disorders Clinic and MetroSleep Inc.
Body Worn Sensor Network - 2014
Body worn LAN supporting EEG, EOG, ECG, and EMG sensors bands with smart clothing integration.
Sensor data is processed and uploaded to smart phone or other network.
Developed by Senstream Inc. using Biocontrol sensors.
Wireless ECG Biometric Patch - 2016
Streams high quality single lead ECG, temperature, and motion data.
