Can you drive a car with your thoughts? AI and brain–computer interfaces
How brain signals could assist driving, and what remains experimental.
From the August 2024 archive. This article explores research and possible applications.
Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs)
A BCI captures electrical signals from the brain and translates selected patterns into computer commands. In automotive research, this approach could help interpret a driver's intentions. Its potential for people with limited mobility makes it an important area to explore.
AI and deep learning
Machine-learning models can be trained to recognise patterns associated with intentions such as steering or braking. Calibration and testing matter because signals vary across people and conditions, and repeated use alone does not guarantee better accuracy.
Road safety
Researchers can explore how brain signals might complement cameras and other vehicle sensors. Detecting fatigue or intervening safely would require separate validation before any road-safety benefit could be established.
A more personalised experience
Adjusting cabin lighting or music in response to stress is another possible application discussed in the original article. It remains a scenario to explore.
Looking ahead
These experiments raise questions about accessibility and the role of driver assistance. Nissan demonstrated elements of its Brain-to-Vehicle research in a simulator at CES 2018.
The original article also considers using an NFT to reference service records and vehicle history. Such a token would still depend on the quality of the underlying records and on appropriate access controls.
These ideas point to distinct research questions about vehicle controls, accessibility and the reliability of vehicle data.
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