Brain–computer interfaces: a review

Abstract 'Can the brain understand the brain?Can it understand the mind?'Such questions, here posed by neurophysiologist and 1981 Nobel laureate David Hubel, are under constant debate, but through the investigations of neurobiologists, psychologists, and physiologists, current knowledge and understanding has come a long way since brain exploration began hundreds of years BC. This article looks at how insights from some of the pioneers of neuroscience have begun to be integrated with today's technology, so bringing about the dawn of an era of brain and computer interfacing. One result has been brain–computer interfaces that can liberate the thoughts of those suffering from 'locked in' syndrome, by detection and interpretation of the brain's physiological signals. Also, manipulation of and support for the body's electrical and chemical signalling network has led to a variety of rehabilitation and therapeutic benefits, for example the possibility of giving sight to the blind. Brain–computer interfacing offers scope for augmentative channels for the brain, allowing it to become more directly connected with its environment, and extending the boundaries imposed by our own biological systems. Such interfaces will form a part of the future of rehabilitation engineering and contribute to improving the quality of life of many people.