Russian doctors are testing a device that will allow stroke survivors to type texts on a computer with an effort of thought, said Alexander Semyonov, executive director of the branch union of the National Technological Initiative (NTI) "NeuroNet", in an interview with RIA Novosti.
The project of Russian developers "Neurochat", according to him, is a software and hardware complex, a neuro-headset and a special interface. A wireless headset with electrodes is placed on the patient's head. The patient, concentrating on the conceived letter of the alphabetical matrix on the monitor screen, can type text. The terminal can be installed on the patient's bed or wheelchair. Patients can communicate with people nearby, as well as using the Internet.
“The development received the CES Asia award as one of the most interesting and promising products. At the end of March, we plan to present the project at the European Neuro Convention (conference on neurotechnology - ed.) In England. This will be the first presentation of the finished product to international customers,”Semenov said.
According to him, the first experimental batch of devices consisted of several hundred devices; it was sent out for testing to a number of Russian rehabilitation centers. Currently, negotiations are underway on the purchase and supply of the device to Russian centers.
“Serial production, according to our forecast, will begin in late spring or early summer,” Semenov said.
However, he did not rule out that in the future the device could be used in industry and in the entertainment industry. “By industry - where there is interaction between people and machines. I think my colleagues will do it,”he said.