Mind-Controlled Daleks & Community Innovation at East Riding Leaders Event
On May 15th, we had the incredible opportunity to showcase our work at a truly special event held at Beverley Leisure Centre. This wasn’t just any event—it was an exclusive gathering of the Top 100 Leaders in the East Riding of Yorkshire, bringing together some of the most forward-thinking individuals across the region.
We were honoured to be invited to represent innovation in technology and community engagement. And what better way to do that than by bringing along a Dalek, but not just any Dalek…
Introducing: The Society Dalek
Our Dalek isn’t just a replica. It’s a fully custom-built piece of tech with a custom interior, integrated sensors, and here’s the exciting part, a dual-control system. The Dalek can be operated:
- Wirelessly using Node-RED, our go-to visual programming interface, ideal for IoT and quick prototyping.
- And even more impressively, using the Emotiv Epoc Insight EEG headset, a piece of tech that reads brainwave activity to control digital devices.
Above: Our society Dalek, ready to roll.
We demonstrated our mind-controlled Dalek using EEG technology, and participants were amazed to see the machine respond to thought commands. The Dalek was wirelessly driven using Node-RED and an Emotiv Epoc Insight headset, creating a unique blend of sci-fi and science fact.
What We Demonstrated
Our goal was to demonstrate how brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) like the Emotiv Epoc can be used in community and educational settings to encourage engagement with emerging technologies.
Using real-time EEG data, participants could control the Dalek with nothing but their minds—well, concentration and specific mental cues picked up by the headset. And yes, it really worked!
The Dalek turned, moved, and even responded to neural commands, all while we explained the science, potential applications, and ethical considerations behind the technology.
Reactions from Local Leaders
We were blown away by the response. Many attendees were intrigued, if not a little astonished, at the ability to control a physical object using thought alone.
Several of the leaders even tried the headset themselves, successfully manoeuvring the Dalek across the venue floor. It was a brilliant way to not only entertain but also educate about how such technologies can be adapted for:
- Assistive devices for individuals with limited mobility
- Interactive learning in schools and community centres
- Public engagement through STEM and tech demos
Above: An attendee successfully steering the Dalek using brainwaves.
The Bigger Picture: EEG in the Community
While the Dalek is a fantastic showpiece, our broader aim is to encourage conversations around the practical use of EEG and neural tech in everyday community settings.
We highlighted both the benefits and the limitations of current EEG systems:
Benefits:
- Accessibility and engagement
- Real-time interaction
- Use in neurofeedback training
- Inclusive educational possibilities
Limitations:
- Signal accuracy
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Cost and accessibility of hardware
Our team focused on bridging the gap between futuristic technology and local impact, making the case for inclusive tech education and hands-on demonstrations in non-traditional spaces.
What’s Next?
Following this successful showcase, we’re looking forward to collaborating with local leaders and organisations to bring EEG and neuro-controlled tech to more community spaces, classrooms, and events.
📬 Interested in a demo, workshop, or partnership?
Get in touch: uniofhullroboticsociety@gmail.com
Final Thoughts
We’re so grateful to have been part of such a forward; thinking event, surrounded by leaders who genuinely care about innovation and community development.
A huge thank-you to the organisers and everyone who stopped by to learn, laugh, and think their way into the future—literally.
Above: Our team who took part.
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