Think2Switch

What is Think2Switch?

Think2Switch is a brain-computer interface (BCI) access tool that enables individuals to activate a switch using brainwave activity rather than physical movement. A switch is a type of access method used in assistive technology that allows a person to control devices, make selections, communicate, or interact with their environment.

Switches are commonly activated through physical movement, such as pressing a button with a hand, head, foot, or other body part. It uses a non-invasive EEG headset to detect brainwave patterns, which are interpreted through the Think2Switch app. A trained “active command” state is then used to trigger a switch activation. This creates an additional or alternative access pathway for communication, environmental control, and participation in daily activities for individuals with complex access needs.

How does Think2Switch work?

Think2Switch is based on the calibration and detection of two brain states:

• Rest state
• Active command state

During calibration, the system learns the individual’s unique brainwave patterns associated with each state. This allows the software to recognise when the user shifts from a resting state into their active command state. Once trained, the system detects intentional entry into the active command state and translates this into a switch activation. The active command state is typically supported by a consistent internal cue (e.g. repeating “go go go” or a similar self-selected strategy).

Importantly, Think2Switch does not read thoughts, interpret language, or determine what a person is thinking about. Instead, it provides a reliable way for the user to signal when they want to activate a switch, using a trained brain activity pattern.

Who can benefit from Think2Switch?

Think2Switch may benefit a wide range of individuals who need an alternative way to communicate, participate, and control aspects of their environment when physical access is difficult or unreliable.

It is not limited to a specific diagnosis. Suitability is based on each person’s individual abilities and overall needs.

It may be particularly helpful for individuals who:

• Are unable to reliably use physical switches due to limited movement
• Experience inconsistent access using physical switches or alternative access methods
• Need an additional or alternative way to make choices or communicate intentions

This may include (but is not limited to) people with: 

• Complex physical disability
• Neurological conditions that affect movement and control
• Progressive conditions where movement changes over time
• Fatigue-related variability in motor control
• Individuals who are developing early access skills and need supported ways to participate

Think2Switch can add to existing access options and may be used alongside other communication and assistive technology systems, rather than replacing them.

What can Think2Switch support?

Think2Switch can support a wide range of communication and environmental control activities in everyday life. The examples below are not exhaustive.

• Communication
• Requesting needs and wants
• Making choices
• Expressing emotions
• Social participation
• Environmental control
• Turning lights on and off
• Controlling simple household or assistive devices
• Increasing interaction with the immediate environment

Partner Assisted Scanning (PAS) 

Some users may benefit from Partner Assisted Scanning (PAS) as part of their access to Think2Switch, particularly where additional communication support is needed to enable participation and choice-making. PAS is a communication approach where a trained communication partner supports the user by verbally presenting options, allowing the person to indicate their choice using their Think2Switch access method. PAS supports meaningful participation when independent scanning is not accessible.

How PAS is used with Think2Switch:

• Options are first introduced to the user
• The communication partner lets the user know when the scan sequence is starting
• Options are then presented verbally in a clear, steady sequence
• Each option is given one at a time with consistent pacing, with pauses between items to allow processing time
• The user is supported to activate their command state when they hear their preferred option in the scan sequence (e.g. “go go go” or “yes, yes, yes”)
• The partner then confirms the selection and supports follow-through where appropriate

Who PAS may be helpful for 

PAS may be helpful for individuals who:

• Are developing early access skills
• Benefit from hearing options presented aloud
• Are not yet able to reliably scan or interpret visual information
• Benefit from partner support to make choices

PAS can provide an additional layer of support within Think2Switch, helping ensure that users with a wide range of access needs are able to participate meaningfully.

Discover how Think2Switch may support access and participation  

If you think Think2Switch may be suitable for your child, please contact our team to discuss assessment and next steps in developing an individualised access solution. They will be able to make recommendations for suitability and setup based on your child’s individual presentation and goals.

Considerations include: 

• Consistency of attention and engagement
• Ability to maintain a reliable internal strategy for activation
• Fatigue levels and overall cognitive load
• Environmental factors that may affect focus or signal quality
• Integration with existing AAC and access systems