A review of advances in noninvasive brain–machine interfaces for robotic-assisted rehabilitation

Over the past decade, brain–machine interfaces (BMIs) have surged forward, fueling remarkable advancements in brain-controlled robotic devices aimed at restoring autonomy for individuals grappling with severe motor disabilities. These innovations represent a profound leap in assistive technology, empowering patients to regain control over their surroundings and tackle once-unthinkable tasks. This review delves deeply into the evolving landscape of noninvasive BMI-driven robotic systems, synthesizing insights from a comprehensive analysis of 86 studies conducted over the past 15 years. It places a particular emphasis on the dynamic interplay between the user, the BMI system, and the robotic device, dissecting both the strides made and the persistent hurdles in this complex field.
Despite these substantial gains, there exists a significant gap in the research: the conspicuous lack of direct end-user evaluations, especially those involving individuals with disabilities. Technological advancements in signal processing and machine learning have indeed sharpened BMI accuracy, yet only a handful of devices have been thoroughly trialed by the actual end-users—those who would ultimately depend on these systems in daily life. Without the invaluable feedback from disabled individuals, developers are left with a limited understanding of the user experience, hampering efforts to refine BMI technology for real-world applications. This gap highlights an urgent need for a user-centered research approach, one that prioritizes the voices and needs of the intended users.
Additionally, integrating BMI systems with robotic platforms remains a formidable challenge. For BMIs to become more intuitive and responsive, interfaces need to be simplified to ensure a seamless translation from brain signal to robotic action. This is where user-centered design becomes essential: it can improve usability, enhance comfort, and ultimately heighten the real-world impact of BMIs in clinical and everyday scenarios. Addressing these challenges will be pivotal in transforming noninvasive BMIs from experimental setups to practical, accessible tools capable of profoundly improving the lives of individuals with motor impairments .