EEG headsets<\/a> that detect brainwaves will mimic the interface of a neuroprosthetic limb.\u00a0 Guests will have to try and move a virtual leg by actively controlling their own thoughts.\u00a0 This experience challenges guests to re-evaluate the difficulty of actions that they take for granted and to respect the difficulties of those who must live with replaced body parts.<\/p>\nNeuroprosthetics<\/strong>
\nThe goal of prosthetic technology has always been to create artificial limbs that can act as effective substitutes for the lost ones, and one of the biggest limitations has always been the fact that prostheses, even if motorized, need to be able to be controlled by the intentions of the user.\u00a0 However, research over the past few years has made this possible.\u00a0 By using implanted chips that connect directly to nerves or even to the brain, scientists have begun to discover ways to interpret the electrical signals of the nervous system to control computer cursors and even robotic arms.\u00a0 While not yet commercially available for amputees,\u00a0 the science fiction of fully articulated cybernetic hands and jumping legs is heading towards reality.<\/p>\nExperience<\/strong>
\nIn the museum, guests will be presented with a touchscreen and EEG headset.\u00a0 The touchscreen will allow guests to begin a first-person experience set in the hypothetical future about losing one’s legs in an unfortunate accident.\u00a0 In this future, the guest will be able to receive a pair of neurally-controlled prosthetic legs but still must undergo rehabilitation to learn how to use them.\u00a0 The EEG headset will simulate the normally implanted interface with the legs by gathering the guest’s brainwave activity.\u00a0 Within the context of an easily accessible museum experience, the brainwave data will be used in a simple game mechanic to move the virtual prosthetic legs.\u00a0 Controlling one’s brainwave activity is inherently less familiar and intuitive than using a mouse or a keyboard, and guests will initially find it awkward and even frustrating; however, as they gradually adapt and succeed, and even if they don’t, the experience will leave them with humble respect for the difficulty that real amputees must go through to rehabilitate – to re-learn things that are often taken for granted but necessary to be self-sufficient in society.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n\t\t