Brainput computer

Researchers from MIT, Indiana University and Tufts University have developed “Brainput,” a system which detects when your brain is trying to multitask, then offloads some of that work to a computer. The research team was headed by Erin Treacy Solovey in hopes of increasing productivity and focus by letting computers do mundane work. The device uses functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure the activity of your brain. The data is then analyzed to determine what you’re busy thinking about. If Brainput determines your mind is busy multitasking, its software will kick in and begin to take over some of that work for you.

Similar technology exists, such as cars and steering wheels which can kick into autopilot when they realize the driver is no longer paying attention or has fallen asleep. Google, for example, has built a car which drives itself. Using cameras, lasers and radar, the Google car can safely navigate roads all by itself, without the need for human piloting. Brainput could be used in such applications, allowing cars to take over the driving duties if we reach down to select a CD. Using Brainput is easy as well, and the entire device is lightweight and free of a lot of hardware. The fNIRS system is mostly composed of a headband and a few wires which attach to the computer. From Red Orbit.