I-Spin

I-Spin performs real-time decoding of motor neurons using a blind-source separation approach for multichannel EMG signal processing.

Key Features:

• Real-time motor unit decoding: Separation vectors (motor unit filters) are optimised for each motor unit from baseline contractions and then re-applied in real time during test contractions.
• Visual feedback provision: The firing activity of multiple motor neurons can be provided through different forms of visual feedback to participants.
• Support for multiple electrode types: Compatible with both surface and intramuscular electrode arrays.
• Multi-muscle applicability: Validated on five lower limb muscles including gastrocnemius lateralis and medialis, vastus lateralis and medialis, and tibialis anterior.
• Synthetic signal validation: Validated with synthetic EMG signals generated during a range of isometric contraction patterns.

Scientific Applications:

• Movement control research: Provides a framework and guidelines for researchers studying movement control at the motor neuron level.
• Neuro-feedback investigations: Enables experimental paradigms where participants receive real-time feedback on the output of spinal cord circuits.
• Neural interfacing studies: Supports interfacing investigations requiring real-time EMG decomposition.
• Contraction intensity analysis: Assesses how variation of contraction intensity between baseline and test contractions impacts real-time decomposition accuracy.

Methodology:

I-Spin uses blind-source separation for multichannel EMG signal processing. Separation vectors (motor unit filters) are optimised for each motor unit from baseline contractions and then re-applied in real time during test contractions.