McLaren Racing is to fit brain sensors supplied by Swiss startup MindMaze on Fernando Alonso during this year’s Indianapolis 500.
MindMaze is a brain technology company best known for its virtual reality (VR) system MindMotion Pro, which is used in the rehabilitation of stroke patients suffering with problems controlling their movement. The therapy uses a VR game combined with motion sensors and electroencephalographic (EEG) scanning of brain signals.
The two companies will collaboratively design and develop MindDrive and use it during the race to capture and transmit key neural signatures from the driver to a track-side medical team in real time in the event of an incident. It will also enable McLaren Racing to gather data and insight on overall driver safety and performance.
MindDrive will be rigorously tested during the team’s preparations for the world-famous racing event in May, McLaren said.
Bob Fernley, president of McLaren IndyCar, said, ” We’ve admired MindMaze’s approach to neuroscience for some time, and combined with McLaren’s expertise on track, and deep understanding of racers and their safety needs, this partnership has the potential to deliver a real step in the safety of the sport. We’re looking forward to getting started on our journey to the Indy 500 together.”
Tej Tadi, founder, MindMaze, said, ” We’re excited to develop MindDrive with McLaren Racing and employ it on track during testing as the team prepares for the Indy 500. We have the opportunity to progress driver safety while capturing new performance data that can benefit motorsports as a whole.
“We are committed to expanding the applications of cognichip technology to new industries by collaborating with pioneers who are known for pushing boundaries in innovation, such as McLaren Racing.”
According to MindMaze, its brain-sensing and computing platform captures neural and ambient signatures based on intent and makes them available via a human machine interface through an integrated chipset for use in other applications.
