Suggestion for Smart Glasses and TGAM Integration with OpenBCI

vinnyMS1vinnyMS1 Canada
edited October 13 in Opportunities

Hi OpenBCI team and community!

First of all, I’d like to express my appreciation for the innovative work you’re doing in the field of brain-computer interfaces and neurotechnology. Your contributions are truly shaping the future of this field.

I wanted to propose an idea that could significantly expand OpenBCI's reach and impact: creating a pair of OpenBCI-compatible smart glasses and a TGAM-based OpenBCI version. I believe both of these additions could provide practical, portable, and user-friendly solutions for real-time brainwave data acquisition.

Smart Glasses Integration: With the rise of wearable technology, integrating OpenBCI with smart glasses seems like a natural step forward. Imagine a device that allows users to wear lightweight smart glasses embedded with EEG sensors that can:
Capture brainwave data discreetly in various real-world environments.
Integrate augmented reality (AR) elements for neurofeedback, allowing users to interact with their brainwave data in real-time.
Pair seamlessly with existing OpenBCI hardware/software, opening up new applications for cognitive monitoring, mental health, neurofeedback training, and even gaming. This could make neurotechnology far more accessible and adaptable for everyday use, beyond traditional lab settings.

TGAM OpenBCI Version: TGAM, as a single-channel EEG module, is cost-effective and widely used in consumer brainwave headsets. An OpenBCI TGAM version could target hobbyists, developers, and those in education or early-stage neurotech exploration who may not require the complexity of multi-channel systems like Cyton or Ganglion. It could provide:
A lightweight, easy-to-use, and affordable option for entry-level neurotech enthusiasts.
The perfect bridge for integrating OpenBCI with the existing TGAM-based devices or DIY setups.
An opportunity to encourage innovation at the intersection of consumer-grade EEG tech and OpenBCI’s open-source community.

Both of these ideas would offer a great balance between affordability, portability, and usability. They could attract new users, developers, and researchers looking to experiment with brain-computer interfaces in more casual and non-laboratory settings.

I’d love to hear thoughts from the community on this! Do you think these devices would be a good fit for OpenBCI’s ecosystem? Would there be interest in a Kickstarter or community-driven campaign to get something like this in development?

Thanks for considering this suggestion, and looking forward to the discussion!

Best regards,

Comments

  • wjcroftwjcroft Mount Shasta, CA

    Hi Vinny,

    To clarify, the glasses shown in the photo are ordinary ski goggles, not Smart / AR glasses. A number of firms are developing AR / Smart glasses systems, but currently the cost of these is substantial. Compare that to the cost of the TGAM which is around $20. A conclusion might be drawn that such customers would be looking for a more capable EEG system than a single channel. And they have the budget to support that.

    https://www.google.com/search?q=cost+of+ar+glasses

    Numerous interface libraries already exist for the TGAM / Neurosky one channel EEG board.

    https://www.google.com/search?q=tgam+eeg+library

    Including Python and Arduino versions.

    https://www.google.com/search?q=tgam+eeg+python

    https://github.com/mjain72/brainwave [just one example]

    It is also possible that Brainflow developer could add TGAM support in the future. The OpenBCI GUI is supporting OpenBCI hardware. And sales of such hardware fund engineers to maintain the GUI and Brainflow developments.

    Regards, William

  • Hi William,

    Thank you for your response and for the insights regarding AR glasses and the TGAM module. I understand the points you raised, particularly about the current high cost of smart glasses and the existing support for TGAM in other platforms. However, I'd like to elaborate further on why I believe these ideas still present a valuable investment opportunity for OpenBCI.

    Smart Glasses Integration: While it’s true that AR/Smart glasses are currently expensive, this trend is rapidly changing. As more companies invest in the AR/VR space, costs are expected to decrease significantly, making this technology more accessible. OpenBCI, by positioning itself early in the wearable neurotechnology market, can be ahead of the curve, offering real-time EEG capture integrated into smart glasses. This not only aligns with the growing demand for wearables but opens new possibilities for applications in sectors like healthcare, education, and even entertainment.

    Here's why this investment could be pivotal:

    Early Mover Advantage: By integrating OpenBCI tech with smart glasses now, you’d be entering the market before it becomes saturated. This can establish OpenBCI as the go-to solution for BCI wearables.
    Diverse Use Cases: AR glasses with EEG sensors could be used for neurofeedback training, real-time cognitive monitoring, hands-free BCI interaction, and even assistive technology for individuals with disabilities. These are just a few examples, but the possibilities are endless.
    Expanding User Base: By making the tech more portable and accessible, OpenBCI can attract a broader audience beyond the current research and development community. Everyday users, hobbyists, and even gamers may find value in this product.

    TGAM OpenBCI Version: You made a valid point regarding the TGAM’s cost-effectiveness and existing interface libraries. However, integrating TGAM functionality into the OpenBCI ecosystem could provide even greater value for both the OpenBCI community and newcomers:

    Entry-Level Accessibility: As I mentioned earlier, TGAM could serve as an affordable entry point for those curious about neurotech but who may not have the resources to invest in a Cyton or Ganglion. A TGAM-based OpenBCI device would lower the barrier to entry, encouraging more people to experiment with brainwave tech.
    Building Future Innovators: By targeting students, hobbyists, and early-stage developers, OpenBCI can foster a new generation of neurotech innovators. TGAM’s affordability allows schools, universities, and DIY enthusiasts to explore neurotechnology without the cost limitations of multi-channel systems.
    Ecosystem Expansion: With TGAM support within the OpenBCI ecosystem, users could transition from a single-channel to multi-channel systems as their needs and expertise grow. This would provide a clear, scalable pathway for neurotech exploration, which could lead to greater long-term engagement with OpenBCI’s higher-end products.

    Strategic Value: While both ideas may cater to different segments, together they form a cohesive strategy: OpenBCI could cater to both the high-end professional/research market (through AR glasses integration) and the hobbyist/educational market (with TGAM). This multi-tiered approach would significantly expand the user base, diversify revenue streams, and ensure that OpenBCI continues to lead the neurotech field as it evolves.

    I understand the current priorities for OpenBCI, but I believe that both smart glasses integration and a TGAM-based version would be sound long-term investments. They’d provide a balance between innovation and accessibility, aligning with OpenBCI’s mission of democratizing neurotech.

    I’d love to hear further thoughts on these ideas and whether the community sees potential here.

    Thanks again for considering this!

    Best,
    Vinny

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