# Mind-Control Wheelchairs Swiss Researchers Have Developed a Brain-Powered Chair By Josh Milenthal | Published 2010-09-08 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/brain-powered-wheelchair-by-epfl References: [engadget](http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/swiss-researchers-show-off-brain-controlled-ai-augmented-wheelc/) & [actu.epfl.ch](http://actu.epfl.ch/news/neuroprosthetics-the-mind-is-the-pilot/) Swiss Researchers are making extreme progress within the field of [neuroprosthetics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braincomputer-interfaces) (a.k.a. devices controlled by the brain). The Brain-powered wheelchair by [EPFL](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bearmind-helmet) is the latest technology that gives the user control, using their mind. Measuring EEG readings to sense brain patterns, it also includes [artificial intelligence](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deepmind-ai-chair) to give "shared" control to the rider, and allow for a more sophisticated ride. The wheelchair is capable of detecting objects using image-processing software, and can avoid them easily. The technology is capable of differentiating between certain objects as well, such as a desk or cabinet. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.3/10 - Popularity: 16% | Activity: 76% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Brain-powered Wheelchairs:** The development of brain-powered wheelchairs is disrupting the assistive technology market, providing enhanced mobility and independence for individuals with physical disabilities. - **Neuroprosthetics:** Advancements in neuroprosthetics are opening up new possibilities for controlling devices with the mind, revolutionizing assistive technology and medical applications. - **Artificial Intelligence in Assistive Devices:** The integration of artificial intelligence into assistive devices like wheelchairs is transforming how they function, enabling more intuitive and adaptive control for users. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Assistive Technology:** The field of assistive technology is being revolutionized by brain-powered wheelchairs, offering innovative solutions for individuals with physical disabilities. - **Medical Devices:** The development of neuroprosthetics and brain-powered wheelchairs is disrupting the medical devices industry, providing new ways to enhance patient mobility and quality of life. - **Artificial Intelligence:** The integration of artificial intelligence into assistive devices like wheelchairs presents exciting opportunities for the AI industry to advance its capabilities and applications in real-world settings. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modified Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/leaning-wheelchair.md) - [All-Terrain Electric Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scewo-bro.md) - [Assistive Brain-Sensing Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/think2switch.md) - [Sleek Robotic Wheelchair Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robotic-wheelchair.md) - [VR Electric Mobility Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mobility-wheelchair.md) - [Robotic Movement-Interpreting Wheelchairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/honda-unione.md) - [AI-Enabled Brain Implants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/northwell-health.md) - [Brainwave-Connected Tech Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/myndplay-myndhub.md) - [Urban Mobility Chairs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uni-one.md)