Photo Credit: The Guardian and 3DPrinter.Net
Whether you like soccer (football) or not, you have to love how the 2014 World Cup is being kicked off... literally. A paralyzed teen is expected to kick off the games using a high-tech exoskeleton and 3D printed helmet equipped with advanced mind-control technology. Strategically placed electrodes will send commands from the teen's brain to a computer that will use wireless technology to control the exoskeleton's movements.
A collaborate effort that included contributions from Colorado State, Duke University and the Technical University of Munich. While some focused on 3D printing the custom helmet or exoskeleton, others worked on the mind controls. The event is being sponsored by Walk Again. Dr. Miguel A.L. Nicolelis, a neuroscientist from the organization and native Brazilian, convinced FIFA officials there to allow the paraplegic's participation in the ceremony - which will have a world-wide audience.
“As Dr. Nicolelelis’ work with mind-control technology gained international attention, he approached officials in Brazil to suggest that Walk Again be showcased at the end of the Opening Ceremony. ‘Sports can be a huge avenue to reach out to people that would never actually pay attention to science news,’ Dr. Nicolelis said. ‘I always wanted to show kids in Brazil how important science can be for society.’”
I love soccer... all the same, I think that kick is going to be the most memorable... a game changer and a win.