Case studies
BCI: Brain–Computer Interfaces
Brain → Electrodes → Signal Processing → Computer/Device
Think of it as a translator that converts your brain's electrical signals into commands that computers can understand—no physical movement required.
A brain computer interface (BCI) is a system that determines functional intent - the desire to change, move, control, or interact with something in your environment - directly from your brain activity.
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) range from non-invasive scalp caps (EEG) for gaming/AR to invasive surgically implanted electrodes (or semi-invasive ECoG on the surface) for high-resolution control, such as helping paralyzed individuals move robotic arms.
Restoration: Enabling communication and basic interaction for paralyzed individuals.
Control: Direct mental command over external devices (prosthetics, wheelchairs).
Navigation: Moving cursors and interacting with computers via thought alone.
Mobility: Restoring functional movement via brain-triggered electrical stimulation.
Therapy: Real-time neurofeedback for rehabilitation and self-regulation.
According to recent reports by Grand View Research and the World Economic Forum, the global BCI market is projected to grow from roughly $2.4 billion in 2024 to over $6.5 billion by 2030 — a growth rate of about 18% annually.
Source: Grand View Research
Case Study #1: Muse 2 Headband - Fitbit for your brain
Overview
Muse is a brain-sensing headband and app designed for mental fitness and sleep optimization. It works by using EEG and other sensors to measure your brain activity, heart rate, breath, and posture in real-time. During training sessions, the device provides audio feedback (like changing weather sounds) that corresponds to your mental state, helping you learn to focus, manage stress, and find calm.
People use Muse to improve their focus, build mental endurance, reduce stress, and get detailed insights into their sleep patterns to enhance overall recovery and cognitive performance.
Lab-grade brain data. Proven gains. Muse’s Alpha Peak focus metric and EEG neurofeedback are validated in over 200 studies with leading institutions like Harvard, NASA, and Mayo Clinic.
Heuristic & Principle
Visibility of System Status: Weather sounds instantly communicate brain state
Aesthetic-Usability Effect: Looks like headphones not medical device, removing stigma
Error Prevention: Bad sensor contact gives false readings without warning users
User Privacy & Control: Stores 1B+ minutes of brain data with unclear ownership rights
Public & Personal thoughts
Excited: The Muse system blends EEG- and fNIRS-based neurofeedback to help improve focus, mental endurance and sleep — a promising leap in personal brain-fitness tech.
Concerned: The high price point and reliance on sensor accuracy might limit real-world benefit and sustained usage for many people.
“As a veteran with PTSD, the headband has been life-changing in its ability to promote calmness, focus, and make me feel present.”
77%
felt they had a better
handle on their stress
20%
improvement in sleep
quality
72%
reported better focus & clarity
Case Study #2: BrainGate - Turning Thoughts into Action
Overview
BrainGate is an investigational brain-computer interface that restores communication and mobility to people with paralysis from spinal cord injury, or stroke. A tiny silicon chip with 100 electrodes implanted in the motor cortex captures neural signals which algorithms translate into commands for computers, tablets, and robotic limbs.
The clinical trial, running since 2004, is the longest-running implanted BCI study with 14 participants over 17+ years. Users achieve remarkable outcomes: typing at 90 characters per minute, shopping online, video chatting with family, and controlling robotic arms with thought alone.
Heuristic & Principle
Visibility of system status: BrainGate gives real-time feedback as users control devices, ensuring clear awareness of system response.
Match between system and real world: The chip translates brain signals into natural motions that feel intuitive to users.
Error prevention: Occasional signal noise and calibration issues can trigger unintended actions, showing limited error-handling precision.
Participant & Personal thoughts
"Two participants (ages 35 and 63, both with spinal cord injuries) successfully used the wireless BrainGate system in their homes rather than lab settings, operating continuously for up to 24 hours“
"Some of them feel skin irritation around the small device portion on top of the head"
Excited: BrainGate gives people with paralysis the power to control devices directly with their thoughts - a breakthrough in human-machine connection.
Concerned: Surgical implantation and long-term safety raise ethical and medical challenges that still need careful resolution.