Brain-computer interfaces may enable paralyzed individuals to perform basic actions like eating and typing, but there is more to life than just that. This is where an innovative new BCI comes into play, as it has empowered a man to control a virtual drone simply by thinking about moving his fingers.
Various types of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) operate in different ways, with many of them detecting brain electrical activity patterns linked to thoughts of moving specific body parts.
For example, if a paralyzed user imagines raising their immobile right hand, the BCI identifies the unique neuron pattern that fires in response to that thought. The system then executes a predefined action corresponding to that mental command, such as raising the hand of a robotic arm.
Although current technology primarily focuses on assisting users in conducting daily tasks, BCIs have also been utilized to elevate food to a paralyzed individual’s mouth or select letters on a computer screen for typing messages.
However, it is equally crucial for users to engage in recreational activities, games, and social interactions. This is where the new BCI comes into play, developed as part of the BrainGate2 project by researchers from Stanford, Rice, and Brown universities in the US.
Unlike non-invasive BCIs that use EEG readings, this BCI necessitates surgical implantation of two arrays in the brain’s motor cortex to precisely monitor neurons associated with finger control. Wires run from the electrodes to a pedestal on the skull, which connects to a computer for EEG analysis.
In a recent study, the BCI allowed a tetraplegic man to pilot a virtual quadcopter through an indoor obstacle course. By mentally dividing his right hand, he could control the drone’s movements in different directions.
After extensive training sessions, the test subject became proficient in maneuvering the drone through obstacles, combining multiple finger commands simultaneously. He showed no signs of fatigue and even requested more time for flying practice.
Prof. Jaimie Henderson from Stanford highlights the importance of focusing on aspects beyond basic functions, such as recreation and social connection. The study was published in the journal Nature Medicine.
Thought-controlled quadcopter | Michigan Engineering
Source: University of Michigan
