A group of scientists at Brown University have developed a device that allows people with paralysis to use their thoughts to perform various tasks from a tablet. The name is BrainGate and consists of a brain-machine interface that connects to a simple tablet to send messages, check emails, listen to music, know the weather forecast, and even enjoy playing a digital piano.
According to the official Brown University statement, the study included a group of volunteers with severe paralysis and tetraplegia who were implanted into the cerebral cortex with an aspirin-sized chip. In this way, the chip acts as a sensor that registers neuronal activity and allows you to navigate through the tablet software without inconvenience.
The study was published in PLOS ONE magazine, in collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital, Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Stanford University experts.
The report shows that the chip implanted in the brains of paralyzed patients has 100 electrodes to detect the brain signal and send it to a computer. The computer, in turn, is programmed to recognize different types of activities, such as thoughts about performing activities. These actions are then converted into computer commands to control the tablet.
To do the research, scientists used a Google Nexus 9 tablet that had previously disabled all accessibility features. The commands were sent via Bluetooth to the device, whose connection worked like a wireless mouse.
One of the participants’ accomplishments was using text apps like Google Hangouts, where they could type about 30 characters per minute. Finally, the participants explained that the device was very useful and even thought that the movements and controls on the tablet were “natural”.
Previously, Brown University scientists were able to show that BrainGate is able to allow a paralyzed person to take coffee only with his mind. In this sense, they trust that this interface will provide extensive applications for patients with spinal paralysis.
Reference: Schadenfreude deconstructed and reconstructed: A three-sided motivational model. New ideas in psychology. Volume 52, January 2019, pages 1-11. DOI: 10.1016 / j.newideapsych.2018.09.002