Scientists have developed a neuro-computer interface that allows monkeys to control the movements of a robotic wheelchair from a distance, solely with the power of thought. Similar devices will help paralyzed disabled people start moving again. The development is described in the journal Nature Scientific Reports.
The invention was presented in the laboratory of the renowned neurointerface specialist Miguel Nicolelis of Duke University. Previously, Nicolelis's monkeys could only operate with prostheses. However, now for the first time, scientists have managed to adapt the neurointerface to control movements of the whole body. A wireless multichannel implant was integrated into the brain of an experimental animal: using only 300 neurons, the monkey imagined the path of the chair's movement and reached its target.
The stimulus for the monkeys was a plate of grapes, which they tried to reach. Scientists have recorded brain signals and converted them into digital commands that control the movement of the vehicle.
Unlike previous experiments (with prostheses), the monkeys were not trained to operate with a joystick. This fact is especially noted by researchers: the new technology can be transferred to paralytics who do not have to first learn with their hands. In addition, Nicolelis implants have proven their strength and safety for brain tissue: they work for several years.
Over time, the quality of wheelchair management has improved. The monkeys began to mentally calculate the distance to the plate of grapes (judging by the new signal from their brain). “Our data indicate that the wheelchair is assimilated by the animal's brain and is perceived by it as an element of the body image. In fact, the chair becomes part of the monkey's body,”Nicolelis said.
After 17 years of research, the scientist noted that his technology has reached the stage where you can start implanting devices in the human brain and begin clinical trials.