Development of New Detection Device Could Impact Future Of Sports Concussion Diagnosis
Dr. Hashem Ashrafiuon, a mechanical engineering professor in Villanova University’s College of Engineering, is currently working on a new device to reduce the number of and effects of concussions on student and professional athletes.
BCILab™ software, developed by Dr. Ashrafiuon and his colleagues from University of Wisconsin and Brain Computer Interface LLC, analyzes brain wave data, or EEG signals, from a computer chip inside a player’s helmet which detects abnormalities in the player’s brain activity. Ashrafiuon states, "It can basically be used to diagnose any "health problem" that affects brain activity. We hope to monitor brain health in patients with mild traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, and sleep and circadian disorders."