A revolutionary Mind Switch that allows people to activate and control electrical devices without using their hands is achieving excellent results in trials and is set to be commercialised. The trials were conducted in the homes of quadriplegics and people suffering a similar loss of movement caused by stroke, polio or cancer-based disruption of the central nervous system or spinal cord. Most could activate the switch in one to three seconds more than 90 per cent of the time. The ECU is activated by a burst in alpha brainwaves when a person closes their eyes.
People require no training other than familiarisation with the equipment.
The technology has attracted worldwide interest because of its considerable potential to give people with severe physical disabilities and diseases of the central nervous system greater independence by giving them control over electrical equipment in their homes or workplaces. We want to better understand the brain and the effect of certain drugs on the brain, so that we can fine tune the technology and enhance the ECU as we better understand its limitations and functions. Professor Craig also plans to adapt the ECU for use as a communication device rather than a control device. More information may be found here .