Rules of engagement: Brain-computer interfaces for military training

Abstract

Simulation based training systems execute our 'intention to perform' an action in computer space by means of intermediary physical manipulations, such as pressing keys or directing a joystick. Transferring actions through these traditional input devices place an intermediary between the human operator and the simulation that can negatively affect user performance. To eliminate some of these bottlenecks, we explore the use of brain-computer interface techniques to improve the naturalistic interactivity within a military gaming environment using Second Life. We used a P300 speller approach to map action codes of the game to user actions (e.g., walk or run) within the environment. We report on the results of the study as well as discuss implications for future use of hybrid brain-computer interfaces as part of naturalistic interaction schemas for military training. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013.