SECTION 1.

0: IDEA FORMULATION & DATA COLLECTION

Our data collection was through: Theoretical (through journals and epilepsy info websites) Empirical (we were able to use a real person with epilepsy in our group)

1.1 ABOUT THE EPILEPSY

STATISTICS It is a fact that epilepsy can start at any time of life. Epilepsy is not when a person has just one seizure event unless the seizure become recurrent. Statistics shows that about 500,000 people in the UK live with epilepsy according to (EpilepsyAction, 2011). Another research by (Epilepsy.com, 2006) indicates more broadly that around 60 million people in the world have epilepsy at any one time and that atleast 2.7 million Americans have been treated for epilepsy in the past 5 years. Regrettably, epileptic seizures in up to 30% of people with epilepsy do not respond to available medications. (Steven C., 2006).

PROBLEM DEFINATION For the purpose of this study, we shall lay our focus on those suffering from grand mal (tonicclonic) seizures. Its symptoms are characterized among others by repeated jerking, forming, muscle contraction, complete loss of consciousness. The study is particularly concentrates on those epileptic patients with very frequent occurrences of grand-mal seizures daily and weekly.

The good news is that epilepsy can be diagnosed and even treated to a certain extent but its actually difficult to prevent so far. When an individual experiences seizure for the first time, its inconclusive whether its epilepsy or not. To find out, various tests are conducted on the person. This tests includes MRI brain scans, EEG scans and blood tests. (Dr. Fisher R., 2010).

Consequently, when the results concludes that it is indeed epilepsy, then certain Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AED) are recommended to help reduce or stop a seizure from occurring by stabilizing the persons brain electrical activities.

DEFINATION Similar to electronic devices, the human brain functions based on some form of electrical activities. To produce thoughts, feelings and actions, electrochemical impulses are generated by the Neurons in the brain which acts on other neurons, glands and muscles. When these nerve cells or neurons in the brain conduct those electrochemical signals abnormally, it creates a storm of electrical activity which may then result to a seizure. A person is said to be epileptic when he/she has had at least two of these seizures. Epilepsy is a much known neurological disorder which is characterized by recurrent seizures. (Steven C. (2006); Benjamin C. (2011)).

Although there are various types of epilepsies and seizures, ranging from infant, young adult, up to senior adults. The most common include Febrile Seizures epilepsy, Frontal Lobe epilepsy, Temporal Lobe epilepsy, Juvenile Absence epilepsy, Secondary Generalized epilepsy, grand-mal or TonicClonic seizures and so on. (Gregory, 2006).

A person living with epilepsy is exposed to some risks which range from high potential to least potential. The major one being Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). This according to (epilepsyfoundation.org, 2011) happens without a specific cause. However, some people with types of epilepsies such as Grand-Mal seizure may result to SUDEP. Epileptic patients with Tonic-Clonic seizure are also at risk of falling in dangerous places if taken by surprise.

1.2 ABOUT THE PERSON WITH THE EPILEPSY IN GENERAL

TARGET AUDIENCE Our technology is specifically designed for epileptic patients with grand mal or tonic-clonic epilepsy. This form of epilepsy is characterized by seizures that affect the entire brain. Our target age group are mostly people from the ages of 16 and above who are expected to know basic computer operation such as browsing the internet. They are typically independent people who move around constantly to conduct their daily activities. They are also expected to own a mobile phone. According to (mayoclinic.com ,2009), there are two stages under the grand mal phase, which are the Tonic and Clonic stages. The tonic stage compromises the part of the brain that is responsible consciousness and muscle behaviour. The patient loses consciousness and the entire muscles contract at the same time leading to a fall at which point some patients scream prior to the 2

incident because vocal cord muscles seize along with others thereby forcing air out. This phase lasts for ten to twenty seconds. The Clonic stage characterizes the phase where entire muscles go into a pattern of contraction then again flexing and relaxing which might last for 1-2 minutes. Furthermore, our target users experience these seizures on a recurrent basis and cannot be able to predict when they are about to have one. Therefore, our assistive Device/solution is engineered and programmed to accommodate our target users problems and aid them in conducting their regular activities despite the impairment.

1.3 PERSONA OF A TYPICAL PERSON WITH EPILEPSY

Name: Gender: Age:

Designation:

Joe Chan Male 18 Student

Joe is first year student studying Architecture in American University Qatar. Like many international students, he is trying to adapt to his new environment and making new friends. However, he is a student with disability because he suffers from a chronic form of Epilepsy (GrandMal Epilepsy) and he gets seizure attacks very often. This is traced back from the car accident he had when he was 8 years old. Joe currently lives in the same city as his cousin Jack, who is a field engineer at a construction industry in Doha. Jack knows Joes situation and picks him up every weekend to spend time together around the city. He basically serves as Joes guardian. Joe is practically independent in that he caters for himself in most of his day to day activities like cooking, laundry, grocery and so on. Using the public transportation, He is sometimes afraid of going out because his type of epilepsy is characterized by recurrent seizures. It is very crucial that Joe carry his medication all the time because without his medication, Joes condition would even be worst according to his doctor. So far the drugs has reduced his seizure occurrence from an average of 9 times per week to 5 times. The seizure episodes and the side effects of the medication tend to make him very forgetful which is something he must live with for now. Every month, he is required to go to his doctor for an EEG routine check which helps the doctor in giving Joe medical advice on his medication and lifestyle tuning on issues such as sleep pattern and diet. Joe has a seizure diary which helps him keep track of his seizure episode dates, location and prior activities/conditions. He also needs to carry this to the doctor during the monthly routine checkup.

1.4 USER REQUIREMENT

FUNCTIONAL/NON-FUNCTIONAL WEBSITE REQUIREMENTS OF THE DEVICE AND ADD-ON

A. Cerebro Device 1. The Cerebro device must be able to alert the user about a prior seizure 2. The Cerebro device must make provision for user to carry their medication(s) 3. The Cerebro device should remind the user when its time to swallow their medication(s) 4. The Cerebro device should maintain a light weight 5. The Cerebro device must be subtle enough in order to maintain users privacy 6. The Cerebro device must send and receive data in real-time

B. Add-on Telemedicine Website 1. The add-on telemedicine website should accept EEG readings from the Cerebro device. 2. The add-on telemedicine website should be able to analyse EEG data with high accuracy. 3. The add-on telemedicine website must be able to send notification to the Cerebro device on prior seizure. 4. The add-on telemedicine website should be able to send emergency sms to caregiver and doctor. 5. The add-on telemedicine website must be able to send notification to the Cerebro device on medication schedule. 6. The add-on telemedicine website must be able to send medication re-stock notification to the users mobile phone. 7. The add-on telemedicine website should allow new user registration. 8. The add-on telemedicine website should provide users with seizure diary.

SECTION 2.0: ANALYSIS

2.1 OUR SOLUTIONS

DESIGN SPECS: Design comes in form of a head band or a head cap (this aesthetic design is aimed at ensuring privacy of user) which means no one will know the user is wearing an assistive technology for Epilepsy. Detachable medication container with sensor technology to determine medication level Soft cotton lining to ensure users comfort. Limited buttons and keys to provide simplicity.

TECHNICAL SPECS: The device to notifies the user on a seizure attack 150 seconds prior to the attack. 10 electrodes embedded of Cerebro device for optimal EEG recording Upto 30 hours battery life Internet connectivity with upto 1MB bandwidth speed Pico cell technology for extension and boosting of network service even when out of coverage ADD-ON WEBSITE SPECS: State of the art telemedicine website with intelligence Allows users to register and maintain a profile Links users profile to his/her hospital personal file Collect EEG data from Cerebro device and analyse using its advance EEG analyser Sends critical emergency information to doctor and caregiver Allows user manage seizure diary Informs the user on the need to re-stock medication through an SMS.

2.2 TECHNOLOGIES TO BE USED

y y y y y y y

Wearable brain computer interface Gsm/Gprs Technology Mobile processor Weight Load Sensor technology Ultra battery Vibro-Tactile feedback Telemedicine with elements of intelligence

ULTRA BATTERY (VERY LASTING BATTERY)

LONG

Ultra battery can store condensed energy than any other type of battery in existence, researchers developed the battery by placing xenon difluoride in a tiny diamond anvil cell. A tiny device that measures only two inches by three inches .The cell uses two tiny diamond anvils to produce incredibly high pressures in tiny, contained spaces. (S. Ariel (2010); W. Alasdir (2010))

PICO-CELL Pico-cell: is used to provide high system capabilities and data rates to target geographical areas. Because public WLANs became available, so Pico-cell in public wireless network are implemented using cellular radio technologies. Such a Pico-cell is implemented using a Pico-cell radio base station to cover a small area. (Mishra,Ajay R.2004.) GPRS/GSM TECHNOLOGY The general packet radio service (GPRS) is an enhancement of GSM system that makes the use of packet switch data services possible to mobile users. GPRS extend data capabilities of GSM and provide connection to external packet data networks through the GSM infrastructure with short access time, and is also nonvoice value added service to the mobile users. GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) uses TDMA technology as their air interface standard; it dictated how the system should be design and operated. Both the GPRS and GSM are used to transfer data, and it can be attached together at the same time, but there is a limitation, because the two cannot be used at the same time. (Beddell,P.2003.) WEARABLE BRAIN COMPUTER Are fully functional, self-powered selfcontrolled computers that worn on a body, that allow the user to access information anywhere and at any time.Brain computer uses signals records from the brain to directly control a computer by putting the wearable device, wearable computer provide access to information and interaction with the information anytime anywhere. If the device is worn then he can control objects around. (Barfield,W & Caudell,T.2001.) 7

TELEMEDICINE WITH ELEMENTS OF INTELLIGENCE It assists elderly people that have high risk of health problems. It supports pre-hospital health emergencies, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions and medical collaboration through sharing of health related information resources. It will use medical data from vital signs for, on the other hand, the detection of symptoms using a simple rule system. A. Jara et al. (2009). VIBROTACTILE FEEDBACK Vibro-actuators are brought into contact with the skin in order to create vibrotactile stimulations. It triggers the mechano receptors in the stimulated area via vibrations.it read an uninterrupted flow of feedback to the user, this feedback is usually delivered through the visual channel. (Holger R et al (2005); C. Febo & K. Laura (2007)) LOAD SENSOR Load sense is an intelligent load sensor that can be integrated with a crane hook, fork lift or other handling device.it has an onboard single-chip computer for recording, analyzing and archiving readings and wireless communication capability which transfer data in real time to a computer.

2.3 CONSOLIDATING THE TECHNOLOGIES (BASICALLY THE PUTTING

TOGETHER THE TECHNOLOGIES TO SATISFY OUR SOLUTION)

Figure 1.0: Showing the interaction of all the technologies to form our solution

DESIGN RATIONALE (LOGIC BEHIND DESIGN) The technology device, Cerebro, has a certain smart edge and logic behind it. This device has been created to fit the requirements of its users. However, the logic behind this design was motivated by the fact that individuals suffering epileptic syndrome often experience seizures more often than usual. Most of the time these people cannot predict or know when these seizure might occur, so it will be highly dangerous if these individuals were doing something risky at a point in time when these seizures kick in for example climbing a ladder, swimming, going down an escalator and so on. This device is to help keep them safe in scenarios such as the ones just listed, while also assisting them to cope with their condition as well through this technology.

DESIGN VERIFICATION (meet the requirement/person)

Our device can be authenticated through the following Firstly, it definitely solves the problem of informing and alerting users about a seizure attack 2mins prior before it happens. Through the feedback device it will also deliver a message to remind the user to take their medication according to the time. Through the information on the telemedicine online system, the user can also receive messages on his mobile phone number on his account contact details to re order medicine stock.

Secondly, this device is also subtle in a way that it is durable, feasible, efficient and purchasable. The telemedicine system sponsor will ensure efficiency is currently kept on high standards.

Problems of miscommunication have also been solved in the design of Cerebro. As long users wear the device, their interest is being executed swiftly. However in the cases whereby users take off their Cerebro, they are vulnerable and cannot receive feedback through other means.

2.4 SOME ARGUMENTS ON DESIGN ALTERNATIVES (critical thinking)

DECISIONS EEG data Processing

INITIAL DECISION
The initial decision was to have the EEG data to be collected by the device and process it at the same time in order to find seizure patterns.

PROBLEM FACED
The problem was that the processing requirement for this EEG analyser software appears to be too high for a mobile processor so loading this software on the device will make it probably crash or extremely slow. The problem with the audio feedback is that if the user is in a noisy environment, then he might miss an important alert. Another problem is that user has to wear the earpiece all the time which can be tiring and boring. The problem with this method is that if the users phone is switched off or out of battery, then it means he will lose some critical alerts which defeats the aim of having the Cerebro device all together.

ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION
The solution we came up with was to have an add-on Telemedicine website that would have the EEG analyser software embedded into it so that the Cerebro device will only collect the EEG readings from the users head then send that data to the Telemedicine website for processing. The alternative solution is that we applied vibro-tactile feedback. This form of haptic technology is suitable in any environment whether noisy or not. And the user doesnt have to wear an earpiece any longer but only a device behind his ear in order to get a vibration feedback. The alternative to this was that we placed the critical alerts such as medication reminder and prior seizure alert directly on the Cerebro device. We maintained alert by SMS for medications re-stock notification because extra detail needs to be specified such as which of the medications on the Cerebro is finished. The solution we arrived at was to have multiple detachable containers so that each container would vibrate each time the medicine timing was due. The user could easily detach it from the device by sliding it out and taking the dose needed and then re-attach it back. We decided to create an exterior in form of a Cap, head warmer or a head band. This outer exterior would help cover the Cerebro and make it look less of a gadget and more of a regular wearable material. Thus, the users privacy is more protected.

Feedback type

The initial decision was to have an earpiece on the users ears so that each time a notification is received, an audio feedback will be played to the user.

Where should the alerts be?

Initially we thought of sending all notifications such as seizure alert, medication reminder and so on to the user via SMS to his phone.

Medication container

At the beginning, we decided to have one medication container on the Cerebro device, which means each time the user needs to swallow their medicine, they need to press a button and a dose of his medication is released one at a time. The outer aesthetics of the Cerebro device was meant to be plain without any covering that would make it look like any everyday wearable things.

Well the problem with this is what if in a situation where the user has more than one medication? Then its unreasonable to mix them up into one container. And another problem is what if the release button on the medication container hangs? The problem with this decision is that the Cerebro device will appear more like a gadget than an everyday wearable material. This would make the user look too conspicuous and therefore a breach of his/her privacy.

The aesthetics and privacy

10

SECTION 3.0: DESIGN

3.1 SCENARIO & STORY BOARDS
SCENE 1: NEW REGISTRATION

User registering

Telemedicine Registration

When the user purchases the Cerebro, he/she visits the Cerebro telemedicine website where they register their personal details, medication details, the doctor/neurologists details and details of their caregivers. In this initial registration, the user is obliged to register and sign up for his new log name and password and also required to enter the following: Personal details like full names, home & work address, telephone number(s), age, occupation, Hospital details: hospital name, hospital address, hospital telephone number, hospital file number. Medication details: Specific Medication type(s), Prescription details (time and ration). Caregiver information: Caregivers name, address, direct contact number Doctors information: Doctors name, address, direct contact number, email address. The Rationale For a new user, it is necessary to perform an initial registration before proceeding to use the Cerebro device. This may be referred to as the enrolment process where all their initial details are registered before the device is then activated and ready to use. Without this initial enrollment, virtually all the main features of the device will be inactive as a result no emergency contacts can be reached, there will be no medication schedule reminder because of the missing medication details, no access to the users EEG data by the Neurologist.

11

SCENE 2: SEIZURE ALERT

This describes a scenario whereby the intelligent telemedicine system has analyzed the EEG data received from the Cerebro device and has determined approximately 90% probability of a potential seizure. The mobile processor on the device sends this EEG data to the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) embedded within the Cerebro itself, which relays this data to the telemedicine system. After analyzing this EEG data, if a potential seizure is detected and proven correct by the telemedicine system, it will then transmit an alert to the device which then gives the user a vibro-tactile feedback 150 seconds before his seizure occurs. Consequently, the Telemedicine online system sends an SMS automatically to the caregiver and the Doctor with details such as the location and exact coordinates of the epilepsy patient. In the case where the user is in an environment that has limited or no network coverage, for example in a basement or elevator, Cerebro has a smart technology device embedded inside it called Pico cells. This technology scans and then boosts network signals significantly by 300 meters all around the perimeter of Cerebro.

12

The Rationale The user is given a prior alert through a vibro-tactile feedback on his ears instead of blinking lights or audio sounds. The vibro-tactile feedback is quite and subtle which means that only the user is aware of what he is experiencing without exposing his condition to people around his environment. We devise a method to ensure or reduce false alerts also through the accurate EEG analyzing program which has been tested to have detected seizures with above 90% accuracy. It is this program that we embedded into this Telemedicine Online System which interfaces with the Cerebro Device.

SCENE 3: MEDICATION REMINDER

The Cerebro has a small detachable casing material that is designed to contain Anti-Epileptic drugs (AED), which this user has to carry all the time. Since the user has entered details of the medication schedule on the telemedicine online system during the initial setup, then the user gets alerted through vibro-tactile on the detachable casing.

The Rationale The user will hardly miss his medication again. The medication casing is made small and easily detachable for the convenience of the user. We can see that the initial medication detail the user added into his profile is being used by the Telemedicine system to remind him that it is time to take his medicine.

13

SCENE 4: UPDATING SEIZURE CALENDAR

Vibro tactile

Detachable Casing

This involves the user logging on to their profile on the telemedicine online system where they would find a seizure calendar, which is used in keeping track of their seizure attacks. In this the user enters the location of the seizure, prior activity before the seizure, most importantly the date and time and any other comments on the episode.

The Rationale The significance of this calendar is to help to user trace the history of his seizures. As seen in the scenario above, the user enters details such as prior activities before his seizure, this historic information might help the user to find patterns of the prior activities that has led to his/her seizures so that he/she may prevent such related habits.

14

SCENE 5: MEDICATION RE-STOCK REMINDER

User updating the seizure calendar

Seizure calendar

The detachable casing has a weight load sensor that is used to determine the current level of the AntiEpileptic drugs. It does this by comparing the initial weight of the casing and the current weight. So if the level for example goes below 10 grams, then it interfaces with the telemedicine online system, which in turn sends an SMS to his preset mobile number informing him to re-order his Anti-Epileptic drugs (AEDs). In addition the telemedicine online system receives the users current location as well and then links to Google maps and search in order to locate available pharmacies that have AntiEpileptic drugs and sends this information along to the user in the SMS.

The Rationale The user is informed that his medicine level is low so that he may purchase more. This is sent via SMS because it requires to specify the detail of which of the medications is finished and the name as well. The ration for example of how much medication he/she needs to take also may change so there might be need to update the Telemedicine online system.

15

SECTION 4.0: EVALUATION

4.1 PURPOSE (What are we evaluating?)
The purpose of this evaluation is to look at how well this product may behave. These aspects we are evaluating all fall under the non-functional requirements of the Cerebro Device and the add-on Telemedicine website that the device constantly interacts with.

A summary of some critical questions we are choose to investigate in our evaluation are outlined as follows: 1. Is the Cerebro device reliable enough? 2. Will the EEG data of the user and other information be safe? 3. Will the user have sufficient control on the actions of the device? 4. How will the user understand the feedbacks and interactions?

4.2 TECHNIQUE/CRITERIA Suitable criteria for what you are evaluating?

In order to answer those critical questions outlined in our purpose of evaluation, we selected different principles from various Heuristics guidelines such as (ISO, 2005); (Norman & Nielsen, 2010); (Neilsen, 1994).

1. Reliability (Norman & Nielsen, 2010) This according to the authors means that a device or system must work well as expected. A system or device must not behave in a random and unexpected manner. 2. User Control and non-destructive operation (Neilsen, 1994); (Norman & Nielsen, 2010) For a system or product to be accepted by users, it must allow them to feel control over the device to an extent. This includes giving the user an undo control for example incases where they mistakenly perform a wrong operation. 3. Learnability & Discoverability (Norman & Nielsen, 2010) This refers to how the device or system enables the abilities of the user to discover the controls and functions quickly. This means also allowing the user to remember and perform the tasks easily and effectively.

4. Security and Privacy (ISO, 2005) The fundamentals of the ISO/IEC 17799 requirements of information security states that information must maintain Confidentiality, integrity and availability (i.e. CIA). If any of these fundamental principles are breached, it may result to serious consequences (ISO, 2005).
16

4.2. OUTCOME OF THE EVALUATION CHECK 1

The principle: Reliability Our Discoveries: In reference to the principle of reliability, we discovered that this Cerebro device to a large extent has attempted to fulfil the essence of reliability by especially by adding a Pico cell device which boasts the network connection in places with minimal network connection. But the problem however is in a situation where the network itself is unavailable due to network problem by the Telecom carrier which means there will be no transmission of EEG data to the add-on Telemedicine website and so there will be no processing. The outcome of this is that the user will not get alert. Potential Impact: Highly critical

The recommendation: Since this discovery is of high impact, this calls for an urgent alternative. As experts, we recommend that the developers should: embed a dual sim card technology on the Cerebro device; and add a secondary sim card of another Telecom carrier Therefore, by having 2 sim cards in the Cerebro, it means each time the primary sim card fails; the device automatically switches to the secondary sim card.

17

CHECK 2
The principle: User Control and non-destructive operation Our Discoveries: In the event of a seizure, the Telemedicine system sends SMS to both the doctor and the caregiver. However, we discovered that assuming there is a false alarm of a potential seizure but for some reasons the seizure doesnt occur, there is no button or control provided for the user to communicate/inform the caregiver or his doctor that the seizure has not occurred so that they will not worry.

Potential Impact: Medium Impact The recommendation: We recommend that a false alarm button should be added to the device so that if the seizure doesnt occur, the user can press the button so that another message will be sent to the doctor and caregiver so that they dont need to come to the location anylonger. Through this, the user gets better control.

CHECK 3
The principle: Learnability & Discoverability Our Discoveries: The Cerebro device so far is quite easy to use. The design fulfils the principle of affordance which means the user knows he is supposed to wear it like a cap. The controls arent too many so the discovering what to do is not too difficult especially since there is Mapping on the buttons and on the detachable casing However, the Cerebro device does not inform the user on the need to constantly update his profile on the Telemedicine website especially details of the Seizure episodes. Users who are not use to keeping a diary might not remember to keep track of their seizure. Potential Impact: Medium The recommendation: The Cerebro device has to also inform the user on the need to constantly update seizure details on the Telemedicine website.

18

CHECK 4
The principle: Security and Privacy Our Discoveries: On this principle of safety and privacy of data, we have discovered that the Cerebro device does not have security software or tools that may ensure that the data being transmitted to and from the Telemedicine online system is free from harm by a third party. This increases the risks since the data sent and received is through a wireless medium which makes it more susceptible to hackers. Therefore, we are not convinced that there is adequate security measures to fulfil the ISO/IEC 17799 requirements of information security states that information must maintain Confidentiality, integrity and availability (i.e. CIA).

Potential Impact: Highly critical

The recommendation:
We recommend that a special mobile anti-virus should be installed.

19

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, we have been able to find people with certain impairment (epilepsy), design a specialty assistive technology (Cerebro Device) along with an add-on (Telemedicine Online System) to support the Cerebro device. In order to achieve that, we first had to find out what this epilepsy is all about and also about the people suffering from epilepsy through a theoretical research and from a participant within our group who actually has epilepsy. Then we find out what suitable technologies that may fit the requirement of these people with epilepsy and came up with a suitable solution. In the end, we conducted an expert evaluation in order to discover design issues with the nonfunctional requirements of our device. We used various heuristics during the evaluation and the outcomes of the evaluation included recommendations for future enhancement of our product.

20

REFERENCES
1. Epilepsy Action. 2011. Annual Report 2009 | Epilepsy Action. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.epilepsy.org.uk/about/annualreport. [Accessed 20 March 2011]. 2. Steven C epilepsy.com. 2011. Who Gets Epilepsy? | epilepsy.com. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.epilepsy.com/101/ep101_WHO. [Accessed 20 March 2011]. 3. Benjamin C. 2011. Epilepsy: Seizure Symptoms and Types on MedicineNet.com. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.medicinenet.com/seizures_symptoms_and_types/article.htm. [Accessed 20 March 2011]. 4. Mishra,Ajay R. (2004). Fundamentals of cellular network planning and optimisation: 2G, 2.5G, 3G Evolution to 4G. England: Wiley. p26-29. 5. Sauter,M. (2006). Communication systems for the mobile information society. England: Wiley. p77-79. 6. Barfield & Caudell (2001). Fundamentals of wearable computers and augumented reality. New jersey: Erlbaum. p471-477. 7. Ariel schwartz. (2010). Ultra-Battery is Worlds Most Powerful Non-Nuclear Storage Battery. Available: http://inhabitat.com/ultra-battery-is-worlds-most-powerful-non-nuclear-storage-battery/. Last accessed 19-03-2011. 8. Alasdir wilkins. (2010). New ultra-battery is the most powerful non-nuclear energy storage ever. Available: http://io9.com/#!5579571/new-ultra+battery-is-the-most-powerful-non+nuclear-energystorage-ever. Last accessed 19-03-2011. 9. J. Jara, M. A. Zamora-Izquierdo and A. F. Gomez-Skarmeta. (2009). An Ambient Assisted Living System for Telemedicine with Detection of Symptoms. Available: http://www.springerlink.com/content/xp6668717m7242m0/. Last accessed 19-03-2011 10. Holger Regenbrecht, Joerg Hauber, Ralph Schoenfelder, Andreas Maegerlein. (2005). Virtual reality aided assembly with directional vibro-tactile feedback. Available: http://www.citeulike.org/user/quek/article/693820. Last accessed 19-03-2011. 11. Febo Cincotti,1 Laura Kauhanen. (2007). Vibrotactile Feedback for Brain-Computer Interface Operation. Available: http://www.hindawi.com/journals/cin/2007/048937/ref/. Last accesse 19-032011. 12. Sharp H., et al, (2007). Interaction Design: Beyond Human-Computer Interaction. 2nd Ed. England: Wiley. 13. Norman, D.A. & Nielsen, J., 2010. Gestural Interfaces : A Step Backward In Usability. interactions, 17(5), p.46.

14. Neilsen, J. Enhancing the explanatory power of usability heuristics. Proceedings ACM CHI94 Conference , (Boston, MA. April 24-28): 152-158. 15. ISO/IEC 17799. (2005): International Organization for Standardization. Information Technology - Security Techniques - Code of Practice for Information Security Management. ISO/IEC 17799:2005 (E). Geneva. ISO Copyright Office

21

APPENDIX (reflective essays)

A: FARID JEGA - REFLECTIVE REPORT INCEPTION: The whole idea originated from a real life incident where a woman holding a baby suddenly had a seizure and dropped the baby in her hand resulting to the babys fracturing an arm. This event got us to look into this intriguing incident when this coursework was issued. Initially the previous subject that had a seizure attack has an epileptic condition that led to unforeseen frequent seizure episodes. This problem inflicted interest in the minds of all group members and after a group meeting, a consensus was reached and we chose to brainstorm on how to mock up a conceptual technological device to assist personnels that had epilepsy syndrome. CONCEPT BACKGROUND & TARGET AUDIENCE After agreeing on the Epilepsy condition, we went further to read up on articles and statistical reviews such as Mayoclinic.com which I personally reviewed myself, in a bid to gather information about the condition itself in order to grasp the whole concept and help in building our rationale and motivation. From our gathered materials, we tried to sieve out the relevant points about this condition and how we could utilize this information in identifying our goals and aims. In this phase we defined our target audience, which were people who had their epilepsy condition in the clonic stages. Basically these were targets that go into unconscious fit seizure episodes for about 2 minutes that cannot be detected freely while subjects are out of the perimeter of a device that reads Electroencephalogram (EEG) scans. We also identified that our subjects have to take constant medications thatll reduce the probability of episodes. Furthermore every subject required keeping a seizure calendar for doctors evaluation and so on. These target features and characteristics helped us in defining the scope of our project. SCOPE AND BOUNDARY: After the research on the impairment and our target audience, we gathered our requirements and used this information to define to the whole scope of the project. In essence this is where problems arose in the group due to the debates and constant revision on the device requirements. There is no medical drug or technical device that actually stops these fits from occurring hence only helping these people live with their condition is the assistance that only technology can offer. However after evaluating this closely, we realized that it was actually playing according to the project requirement. In addition, we continued to specifically define the goals of the device we were going to create together with the devices limitations and functions and options it isnt going to cover. DESIGN AND PROTOTYPING: This stage of the project, being the crucial part of our project, required finesse and absolute detailed definition. We built our device based on a device (Enobio) that reads EEG brain scans that interfaced with computer software. This is a problem because it doesnt help our users
22

condition considering it only works when they are within the proximity of the computer. We had to collaborate a couple of technological devices and systems to a device that would be able to predict seizure attacks and inform these subjects prior to the incident so that they can comfortably arrange to get ready for it or even better avoid the risk of danger. This was a part which I took part in actively reevaluating the technologies trying to find the most suitable way for them to work collectively.

Furthermore, we went on to design and describe how these technological devices and systems would work. An overall picture of this device that we call Cerebro was also depicted in our group report showing details of its features. SCENARIOS AND EVALUATION: After describing our persona and defining the requirements, we identified scenarios in a bid to capture what our device can do. Basically this helped us in knowing the limitations and expectations of our concept. A group member and I were tasked to complete this step. We spoke about 5 scenarios in general and these were used to create the storyboard design and descriptions. After grasping the limits of our design module, we further investigated our design through four sets of principles. These principles were to check for 1.Reliability (Norman & Nielsen, 2010) 2.User Control and non-destructive operation (Neilsen, 1994); (Norman & Nielsen, 2010) 3.Learnability & Discoverability (Norman & Nielsen, 2010) 4.Security and Privacy (ISO, 2005) The significance of abiding by what these principles we decided on was to find out the problems and flaws of our design in order to improve and enhance its capabilities thereby delivering even a more effective system which would assist these subjects significantly.

23

B: ABDULMALIK - REFLECTIVE REPORT This second course work is quite exciting and quite touching because we are attempting to create a real solution for those with impairment. Initially, we started with an impairment called Capal Tunnel Syndrome which is related to people who use their fingers for manual works excessively. The idea was not very interesting and the solution was even less convincing. As a result, I and Farid suggested the idea of creating a solution for either the blind or those with epilepsy. We discussed this with the group and with the lecturer. Eventually, we finalised on creating a solution for those with epilepsy.

IDEA FORMULATION & DATA COLLECTION The idea was to help epileptic patients with Tonic-clonic seizures which involve very often recurrent seizures. I suggested to the group that we find enough data on the target and the impairment as much as possible. I found a person with epilepsy in order to help answer some questions we had. I was able to gather empirical data as a result and this was a significant progress for my group at this stage. I asked him questions in form of an informal interview and extracted as much data as possible

ANALYSIS At this stage, I contributed especially by researching the wearable brain computer interface and the prior seizure algorithm. I helped in writing the user requirement and in compilation of the documentation at this stage. I wrote our personas to reflect a typical target user of our device. I initially suggested the name iHeadBand although the group decided to change to Cerebro Device. I explained to Kanao the specification clearly inorder for him to come up with some sketches as well. Alond with Farid, we prepared the slides and did some editing in order to present to Ms Engie.

DESIGN In the design stage, we used participatory design by having a person with epilepsy in the group to participate in the design thinking which contributed a lot to our final design outcome. We did a lot of debates on the design ideas and criticized the initial design by identifying the possible problems and eventually a came up with alternative solutions I actively participated in creating the scenarios and explaining the design ideas. I verified that the design met the user requirement.

24

EVALUATION The evaluation method used was an analytical form of evaluation which is classified as Expert evaluation involving us as the experts to perform a Heuristic Evaluation on the design of our product. I was primarily in charge of the evaluation. I worked with other group members to decide and specify the purpose of our evaluation. I went ahead to look for the suitable criteria to adopt as a guideline to discover our design solution. Using those guidelines such as Neilsons and Norman as well as ISO information security standards to check our design. I wrote the discoveries and the recommendation for future enhancement.

My personal References:
Epilepsy Action. 2011. Annual Report 2009 | Epilepsy Action. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.epilepsy.org.uk/about/annualreport. [Accessed 20 March 2011]. Steven C epilepsy.com. 2011. Who Gets Epilepsy? | epilepsy.com. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.epilepsy.com/101/ep101_WHO. [Accessed 20 March 2011]. Benjamin C. 2011. Epilepsy: Seizure Symptoms and Types on MedicineNet.com. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.medicinenet.com/seizures_symptoms_and_types/article.htm. [Accessed 20 March 2011]. Sharp H., et al, (2007). Interaction Design: Beyond Human-Computer Interaction. 2nd Ed. England: Wiley. Norman, D.A. & Nielsen, J., 2010. Gestural Interfaces : A Step Backward In Usability. interactions, 17(5), p.46.
Neilsen, J. Enhancing the explanatory power of usability heuristics. Proceedings ACM CHI94 Conference , (Boston, MA. April 24-28): 152-158.

ISO/IEC 17799. (2005): International Organization for Standardization. Information Technology - Security Techniques - Code of Practice for Information Security Management. ISO/IEC 17799:2005 (E). Geneva. ISO Copyright Office

25

C: KANAYO KENENNA CHUKWUNEKE - REFLECTIVE REPORT Its been a tough journey; well its always tough when it comes to finding a solution to a problem. At first we had different ideas and came up with different impairments to research on. We came to a consensus to look for an assistive technology for people with carpal tunnel syndrome. In my research, I found out this impairment is strongly believed to be dangerous but not very popular. So, we decided to choose Epilepsy, as it is a common disease that has taken lives and cost company and individual a lot of money, we chose it as a case study to develop an assistive technology for it. During the research work, I went through a couple of books and understood what the authors had to say. According to Schmitz and Trimble, (2002) The association between epilepsy and psychiatric disorders has a long and chequered history. For centuries seizures were considered to be a form of demonic possession. Beginning late in the nineteenth century, considerable attention has been directed towards cataloguing, describing and understanding disorders at the interface between epilepsy and psychiatry, particularly by European neurologists and psychiatrists. However, it is only in the past few decades that any attention has been paid to the epidemiology of these disorders. Similarly, aside from some early attempts by European physicians, there have been no efforts to develop an operational classification of psychiatric disorders in epilepsy. In the field of epilepsy, original observations are often the key to diagnosis and successful treatment. Indeed, the ability to recognize the unexpected or unusual attack gives more time to act. Further, case observations may have shown that a number of technologies have also been created for this disease, through intense research. We believe that original observations are fine examples of human curiosity especially for epilepsy. For this reason, we came up with a technology that will assist these patients; the technology is The Cerebro. This technology assists patients through crisis and warns the patient before the crisis. Now , I was in charge of designing the Cerebro to what it actually looks like , Its not a heavy gadget, it has been designed to fit the patient without inconveniences . So, with the aid of scenarios, I have carefully shown how this technology works, a step by step illustration with graffiti, to explain how the patient reacts and how the cerebro helps the patient through his/her crisis given that they are wearing the cerebro on their heads through the mechanism of the telemedicine system and all other components helping the cerebro to function perfectly. The cerebro is a gadget that has been designed to help these patients control the embarrassment and save them the cost of losing their lives during or after the seizure by reminding them when to get their medicine if its low, alerting them when they will have a seizure, reminding them constantly to take their medication and also sending feedback to the patients doctor and caretaker about his latest seizure, that way doctors can research more with this report and caretakers will know when their patient needs their assistance in a more difficult situation. Reference Schmitz B, Trimble M (2002, 11): The Neuropsychiatry of Epilepsy. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
26

D: AKANIMO ATTAH - REFLECTIVE REPORT The topic of our research was Epilepsy, from my research Epilepsy refers to a group of disorders that causes disturbances in the brains electrical signaling. When experiencing an epileptic seizure, a person may have uncontrolled movements in specific parts of the body or the entire body. A person may have strange emotions, convulsions, and muscle spasms. A seizure is the most common symptom of epilepsy. The purpose of our research was to design a technology that will alert an epilepsy patient before seizures occur. So that he will be aware and stay in a more conducive place. I contribute to the presentation, reports and design. I research on the technology that will alert the person before seizure occur and from my research I found the following technologies that will assist a person with epilepsy.  Weight load sensor technology- an intelligent load sensor that has an onboard single chip computer for recording, analyzing and archiving readings, it also has a wireless communication capability which transfer data in real time to a computer( Sensor technology, 2010)  Vibro tactile feedback - this are vibro actuators that are brought in contact with the skin in order to create a vibro tactile stimulation.(febo et al 2007)  Telemedicine with elements of intelligence - an assistive technology that supports pre hospital health emergencies, remote monitoring of patients with chronic condition and medical collaboration through sharing of health related information resources.(jara et al 2009)  Very long lasting battery (ultra battery) - battery that can store condensed energy than any other type of battery in existence. (Ariel S. 2010) I also contribute to the evaluation of our technology to know how functional our technology is by evaluating it base on usability, portability, operational and performance. (Sharp et al 2007)

27

E: BASHIR QASSIM - REFLECTIVE REPORT The main purpose of this our project is to assist people with seizure problem to know their status, so we undergo different methods of research on what are the causes and also how to treat the seizure problem. The group then decided to create a kind of technology that will help those people with seizure monitor their seizure incidences by alerting them, with the help of different technology use in the device we created. I personally research on different signs and symptoms of the disease, treatment and also the procedure on how to treat those with seizure problem. I participated in the design part by creating the Pico cell technology, a technology that help boost service in an areas where the services appear to be weak , like in the plane or in a lifter. That technology will help a lot in keeping the person with the seizure problem alert of his condition at any time any moment, even if he is in an area where the service appear to be low. I also did the evaluation part by using the Interaction Design beyond human-computer interaction 2nd edi. In order to know how functional and reliable our technology is ? I decided to evaluate the non functional part of it, since the functional part of the device is clear. The main function of our technology is to alert the user when ever seizure is to occur so that he should get prepare for it. And also sending messages to his Doctor and caretaker. I then decided to evaluate the Non functional part of the device to know how secure it is, the effectiveness of it, the processing speed, and then controlling of the device.

REFERENCE Sharp, H. et al (2007). Interaction Design. 2nd ed. England: Wiley. p586-592.

28