Brain Computer Interface-The Next Generation User Interface

Brain-computer interface (BCI) is a fast-growing emergent technology, in which researchers aim to build a direct channel between the human brain and the computer.

These are linguistic independent and can be used anywhere across the world .

Types of BCI:

1.    Invasive 2. Non-Invasive 3. Semi Invasive

Invasive: Invasive BCIs are implanted directly into the grey matter of the brain during neurosurgery. As they rest in the grey matter, invasive devices produce the highest quality signals but are prone to scare tissues.

Non-Invasive: In this process the user wears a wearable cap which is studded with electrodes.It has no complication of surgery but signals are weak as they are placed above the thick skull.

Semi Invasive: Semi-Invasive BCI devices are implanted inside the skull but rest outside the brain rather than amidst the grey matter.

Applications:

• Provide disabled people with communication, movement restoration.

• Provide enhanced control of devices such as wheel chairs, vehicles, or assistance robots for people with disabilities.

• Provide additional channel of control in computer games.

• Monitor attention in long-distance drivers or aircraft pilots, send out alert and warning for aircraft pilots.

• Develop intelligent relaxation devices.

• Control robots that function in dangerous or inhospitable situations (e.g., underwater or in extreme heat or cold).

• Bionics/Cybernetics

• Dream Capture

• “Google Search” through brain

BCI research is an interdisciplinary endeavour involving neuroscience,engineering,signal processing,rehabilitation and lies at the intersection of emerging technologies such as Machine learning and artificial intelligence among others.

BCI is considered as a new frontier in science and technology.