Gavin Dollman, researching the power of brainwaves controlling robots. Photo: Igno van Niekerk

One of the most interesting studies currently being done at the University of the Free State, is Gavin Dollman’s investigation into how our brainwaves can be used to manipulate a robot which can be connected to a computer.

Gavin is doing research for a master’s degree, and his field of study reminds one of futuristic movies like Star Trek and The Matrix. Gavin uses a computer headset which is commercially sold and used to make computer games more interactive. Gavin has written software that assists a user with the headset in manoeuvring Lego robots in different directions. He is now investigating how several factors influence a person’s ability to direct the Lego robots. According to Gavin, the application of this technology might even assist a person in having an extra sense which can be “controlled” by the power of your brainwaves.

It is when one see this kind of work being done at the UFS that we realize once again why we are a University of the Future!