BCI Applications for the General Population

This chapter addresses brain-computer interface (BCI) applications for the general population (i.e., applications that are not specifically intended for people who are disabled). These nonmedical uses fall into three major categories. The first category includes BCI applications for improving, stabilizing, or otherwise optimizing conventional neuromuscular performances. For example, BCI-based monitoring of brain signals that correlate with poor attention might be used to trigger stimuli that encourage attention. The second category includes applications of BCI technology that enhance conventional neuromuscular performances beyond their normal capacities. For example, BCI-based monitoring of brain signals associated with a difficult visual-detection task might be used to improve the speed or accuracy of detection. The third category includes BCI applications that broaden or enrich life experience. These include BCI-based internet-browser applications, computer games, relaxation applications, and applications that enable artistic expression such as music or painting.