Helmet that reads driver's mind
This special helmet uses brainwave technology to know when the driver is distracted.
In tests, F1 drivers wearing the mind-reading helmet improved their ability to concentrate by nearly 50%. The high-tech device, which looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie, was created thanks to a collaboration between Ford Performance (Ford's motorsports division), scientists from Kings College London and technology company UNIT9.
This seemingly ordinary helmet can read the wearer's mind.
According to previous studies, distraction is the most common cause of accidents, from professional racing to ordinary driving. There are many reasons why drivers lose focus, such as: worrying too much or being absorbed in observing an unusual point on the road...
A racer participating in testing.
To understand when drivers are distracted, scientists have equipped helmets with a device called EEG, which reads the brain's electrical activity. The EEG results will be analyzed by a computer and from there, it will be known whether the driver is focusing on driving or thinking about something else.
The technology is currently only being tested on the racetrack. The support team will receive records and warnings from the helmet, thereby promptly reminding the racer. Normally, racers have a concentration ability 40% higher than normal people. If using this device, their concentration ability is improved by nearly 50% compared to their normal level, so the risk will be extremely low.
Brainwave signals and necessary warnings will be sent to the support team.
Many hope the technology will continue to improve to expand its application, for example a hat that can automatically alert drivers when it reads distracted thoughts.