Bin He, Ph.D., leads a team of scientists and engineers who are working on a device that allows human subjects to control the flight of small, remote-controlled helicopters using only their minds. The researchers believe this technology has the potential to restore mobility and independence to individuals suffering from neuromuscular disorders and paralysis, and could enhance the natural motor functions of pilots, surgeons and ordinary citizens.

Credit: Thomas Strand

In this experiment, a user controls the flight of a 3-D virtual helicopter using brain waves.

Credit: Bin He, University of Minnesota