Wavelink
Story of Wavelink
Runner-Up at NatHacks 2024
WaveLink is an experimental dual-EEG system designed to detect real-time neural synchrony between therapist and patient—a powerful moment of connection where brainwave patterns align. Built to provide insight into therapeutic rapport, the system integrates deep learning and component analysis through a pipeline called S.U.R.F.E.R., transforming raw EEG data into actionable insights.
My primary contribution was establishing the brain-signal data pipeline using a brand-new device called NeuroPawn, a startup EEG headset that started gaining movement earlier that year. Acting as the hardware liaison, I spent hours reverse-engineering the interface and troubleshooting data capture, even coordinating directly with the founder of NeuroPawnto get the system operational during the hackathon. Working primarily in Python, I successfully set up the real-time data stream—an essential foundation for the rest of the system.
While our prototype didn’t achieve full compatibility between test subjects (as expected with a newly grouped batch of engineers), we demonstrated the system’s ability to distinguish mismatched neural states. Despite tight constraints, technical hurdles, and last-minute hardware challenges, we delivered a compelling proof-of-concept that earned us runner-up and got me recognized on NeuroPawn’s website. The experience reinforced the value of adaptability, persistence, and the excitement of working at the cutting edge of accessible neurotech.
Check us out: NeuroPawn’s Website , GitHub , Devpost
Key Features
- Dual-EEG Synchrony Monitoring
WaveLink uses simultaneous brainwave readings from both therapist and patient to detect moments of neural alignment, aiming to quantify emotional connection in therapy. - SURFER AI Pipeline
A deep learning system combining self-supervised contrastive learning and canonical component analysis (CCA) to extract and interpret synchrony patterns from raw EEG data. - Affordable Neurotech Integration
Unlike costly devices like OpenBCI, WaveLink integrates NeuroPawn, an emerging, low-cost EEG solution, showing the feasibility of accessible neural interfacing in real-world applications.
What I took Away
- Adaptability is Everything in Experimental Tech
Working with undocumented hardware taught me how to adapt quickly—jumping on live calls with the founder, digging through raw data formats, and hacking together working solutions under time pressure. - Laying the Foundation Matters
Even though I focused on raw data acquisition, my work enabled the entire system to function. Without a reliable data stream, the rest of the project couldn’t even begin. - Prototype Success Isn’t Just in the Output
Despite not hitting full compatibility in the demo, the prototype proved our concept worked. The real success was showing we could interface dual EEG devices and begin interpreting the results.