Brain–computer interfaces for controlling wheelchairs

Abstract The state of the art on brain-controlled wheelchairs is presented through a brain–computer interface in real environments, that is, nonvirtual. For that purpose, we focus on basic aspects of the devices, such as the type of signal used to establish the communication channel, the navigation system used by the wheelchair, the tasks to be performed by the user, the interface of the device that the user will handle and the evaluation methods applied. Finally, some conclusions on the feasibility of future proposals are extracted. We conclude with a summary of what has been achieved as well as suggestions for possible challenges that should be faced in order to improve the quality of life of the many patients with severely reduced motor abilities.