Emotiv Systems has announced that it now has the technology for video games players to control actions using their minds. The company claims its Project Epoc system can move objects based on a gamer’s thoughts, reflect facial expressions and respond to the excitement or calm that the gamer mentally exerts.

Emotiv Systems, a pioneer in brain computer interface technology, unveiled on Wednesday a brain/computer interface system with a helmet and software applications at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco.

Project Epoc, based on the latest developments in neuro-technology, is a headset that uses a set of sensors to tune into electric signals naturally produced by the brain to detect player thoughts, feelings and expression. It connects wirelessly with all game platforms from consoles to PCs.

Three different detection suites can be combined to achieve even more spectacular game-play experience.

1. Expressiv detection suite attempts to mimic the user’s facial expressions on a graphical representation of a user – known as an avatar. Facial gestures include smiling, frowning, winking and blinking.
2. The Affectiv detection suite is able to detect certain emotions or levels of interest, adding another layer of reality to avatars. It could also be used to detect how users are feeling about the programs they are operating – including levels of comfort or frustration – and respond accordingly.
3. The Connitiv detection suite, allows a user to control the movement of a virtual object, such as a ball by imagining particular actions including pushing, pulling, rotating or lifting. It requires gamers to mentally concentrate on a particular action.

The company also launching the Emotiv Development Kit (EDK) which it says will allow developers to create games that respond to a player’s emotions and allow players to control their characters’ expressions and manipulate objects using only the power of their brain. The company, however, has not announced pricing for the EDK, but says the headset will be available to consumers in 2008.

Emotiv is marketing its technology first to gamers. It will initially pitch the device to the innovation-hungry game developers. The company also announced that it is developing its technology for use in other industries, including medicine, security, market research and interactive television.

Now Emotiv’s product could open a new range of options for developers.

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Entry was posted on Wednesday, March 7th, 2007 at 9:50 pm under Uncategorized.

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