mind control device patent

I saw a patent on the USPO website (via williamcooper.com) for a device to alter brain waves from a distance. It was registered in 1976. What is the deal with this thing? Do you really need a working prototype before you get a patent?

LINK

Mod Edit: Long URL link only

[edit on 23-9-2004 by UM_Gazz]

Folks patent a lot of things, including some unworkable devices. And no, you don't really need to get a working prototype. I'm not sure how someone would test that.

100 MHZ doesn't seem to do much to the human brain.

it was invented in the forties, its called Television...jejejejee

well, someone had to do it. wish it was me...