From the viewpoint of biology, learning and education can be defined as the processes of forming neuronal connections in response to external environmental stimuli, and of controlling or adding appropriate stimuli, respectively.

Computers can't do that but researchers in Japan have shown how they can control electronic devices simply by reading brain activity.

The "brain-machine" developed by Hitachi Inc. recently analyzed changes in the Akiko Obata's blood flow and translated those into electric signals which linked to a mapping device that controlled a toy train.


Akiko Obata wears the brain machine and controls a model train in Hatoyama, Japan


Using optical topography the machine sends a small amount of infrared light through the brain's surface and maps out changes in blood flow, usually activated by doing calculations or singing songs or similar activity.

Now the race is on to make commercial applications that will power things like a remote for your television.

In combination with companies like Honda, these machines could even be interfaced with next-generation automobiles.

Because these sensors don't have to physically enter the brain, they could be used in any number of applications.