BCI – Brain Computer Interface Race is a competitive racing game for Cybathlon, an event in which research teams in the field of prosthetics and robotics compete for a gold medal in various disciplines.
In the BCI Race, the athletes use their own brain-computer interface (BCI) devices and software to steer a futuristic wheelchair to the finishing line. They try to generate distinct brain signals which are used to steer their wheelchair.
We at Insert Coin consulted with Cybathlon on the game mechanics to be used, and designed and implemented the game. The game features an open interface for BCI devices, game mechanics which guarantee that all athletes face the exact same conditions. I was mainly responsible for designing and implementing the intelligent camera system TV overlays and tools for live transmission.
Note: Due to the COVID pandemic, Cybathlon was an online event in 2020, and athletes competed remotely. Normally, Cybathlon takes place live in a physical venue.
CYBATHLON of ETH Zurich is a unique championship in which people with physical disabilities compete against each other to complete everyday tasks using state-of-the-art technical assistance systems. Beyond the competition, the CYBATHLON offers a platform to advance research in the field of assistive technology and to promote the dialogue with the public about the inclusion of people with disabilities in everyday life.
