Mind Controlled Drone Anyone?

Last week scientists at The University of Minnesota showed the world that thought control aircraft are now possible. Using a modified AR Drone and the newly developed "Brain Computer Interface" the team has conducted several successful tests using nothing more than thoughts to control the direction of the aircraft.

Thought controlled devices have been in development for some time, and I remember a few years ago Mattel Toys released a popular thought controlled game called Mindflex. I'm really excited about this new technology because I think it will eventually lead to some life changing medical devices for the disabled.

Brain controlled model aircraft are probably a little ways out from the hobbyist market though. Personally I would rather fly with radio control. What would happen if your cell phone rang or you had some other distraction while flying? Most likely a bad crash!

Still a thought controlled drone is a very cool idea. The video below gives you a complete briefing of the technology and you can see it in action there.

The full original press release for the Mind Controlled AR Drone is here. 


   

Posted by Matt 6-12-13