Duke researchers envision mind-controlled weaponry

The Blue Devils certainly haven't fared well on the hardwood of late, but a group of engineering minds at Duke University are thinking up ways to get even. While we can't actually confirm the motives, a recent patent filing spells out details of a device that can "use the brain's thoughts to control an array of mechanical and electrical devices, up to and including weapons." Thought-controlled interfaces have long since been available, but these researchers are suggesting that everything from household items like televisions and ovens to "weapons systems" could be used to not only "improve one's quality of life," but could actually produce thoughts that litearlly kill. Interestingly, the verbiage even mentions that the recently-ratified UWB technology could be used to beam commands from your devious brain, and although it's not surprising to find that DARPA has a hand in funding department, we're still not any closer to finding out when our military will switch from triggers to impulses.

[Via Wired]

[tundraboy @ Mar 20th 2007 11:53PM]

Okay so how does the thought controlled weapon distinguish between you issuing a command to fire versus you thinking about issuing a command to fire?

What if your mind wanders and you daydream about firing the damned weapon at your asshole C.O.?

What if you fall asleep while on your post then start dreaming of firing indiscriminately at imagined enemies surrounding you?

This is sooooo bogus.

[ryan @ Mar 21st 2007 12:14AM]

you'd not be able to stop thinking about something just because you know you musn't think it... it's silly.

this won't help the energy crisis either

[ryan @ Mar 21st 2007 12:24AM]

and by the way you're absolutely right tundraboy, how is this better than pushing a button?
i mean, this would be cool for playstation , but weapon control..?

[Jason @ Mar 21st 2007 1:50AM]

Think in Russian..

Think in Russian...

[Keff @ Mar 21st 2007 5:59AM]

Blast you!

...ops :)

[Ford Mustang @ Mar 21st 2007 7:20AM]

So this is how that kid on the twilight zone got his powers.

[Phred @ Mar 22nd 2007 8:00AM]

You've totally overlooked the most important application of this technology:

If we are fast enough in switching all our weapons to thought control, then when the robot uprising happens, the mindless robots will be unable to use stolen human weapons, giving us a much needed head start. This may indeed be humanity's saving grace!