Adaptive Technology Thought-Controlled Wheelchairs By: Mary Nell Patterson

The Article in Context of the Adaptive Technology Researches are developing a thought-controlled robotic wheelchair. Spanish scientists have begun research on Brain Computer interfaces or BCI -capable of converting thought into commands the wheelchair can execute. Other scientists hope to develop a smaller means of wheelchair technology that works with EEG or electroencephalogram electrodes

Benefits of the Technology Patients who suffer from disease or injury can now have hope of independent mobility. The goal of this technology is to bring mobility and independence to disabled individuals. The navigation technologies of a robotic wheelchair can override mechanical and human errors

How it Works Some thought controlled wheelchairs are powered by brain computer interfaces. Other researchers are developing a small, mobile interface that is powered by EEGs. Researchers are planning on using non-invasive devices to record the rhythms from the skull. Two 800-MHz Intel computers mounted on the wheelchair will process the thought readings and send instructions to the wheels.

Drawbacks and Limitations BCIs are powered by large computers and are physically plugged into the brain. EEGs have a reputation for providing very crude signals. -But advances in decoding are precise enough to control the movements of a wheelchair.