Researchers Develop Improved Methods of Noninvasive Mind Control of a Robotic Arm

For people with severe disabilities that affect their ability to use their bodies, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or spinal cord injuries, technology that makes it possible to control devices with their minds could enhance quality of life.

However, some technologies of this type are not well suited for widespread use because they involve surgical implants. Noninvasive technologies that use electroencephalographic (EEG) equipment would be more practical.

In a recent study, partially funded by NCCIH, researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Minnesota were able to enhance the effectiveness of real-time control of a robotic arm using noninvasive EEG-based technology. With the new techniques, people were better able to learn to use the brain-computer interface.