The above video shows us the use of BMI technology (Brain-Machine Interface) that allows humans to control Honda’s Asimo humanoid robot simply by thinking certain thoughts. I discovered this amazing technology on one of my favorite “all things Japanese” blogs Pinktentacle.com.
Here is an excerpt from Pinktentacle’s post that explains how BMI works:
“The high-precision BMI technology relies on three different types of brain activity measurements. EEG (electroencephalography) sensors measure the slight fluctuations in electrical potential on the scalp that occur when thinking, while NIRS (near-infrared spectroscopy) sensors measure changes in cerebral blood flow. Newly developed information extraction technology is used to process the complex data from these two types of sensors, resulting in a more accurate reading. The system reportedly has an accuracy rate of more than 90%.”
If you take the amazing Asimo out of the picture and just think of how this technology could apply to other computers and gadgets the potential is pretty mind blowing. Instead of clicking a button to make something happen you may be able to just think about it. Answering your mobile phone, turning on the lights or even lifting a large X-Wing from a muddy bog. Just THINK of the possibilities. He, he. The only downside for now is the goofy spark plug ridden helmet and the fact that this technology is probably going to remain unavailable to us average civilians for at least the next 5-10 years. Below are links to more information:
Source information from Honda -> Honda’s Asimo BMI
Video collection on YouTube -> Honda’s Asimo humanoid robot
