| A brain-reading device empowered by AI has successfully restored a paraplegic man's ability to walk.
Using adaptive AI algorithms, the "digital bridge" device decodes a
patient's real-time movement intentions from brain recordings. The
device could help restore mobility and control in stroke patients and
those with spinal cord injuries. - Swiss
and French neuroscientists developed the brain-machine interface, which
uses wireless signals to reconnect the brain with muscles that were
paralyzed due to spinal cord damage.
- Electrodes are implanted in the patient's brain to detect neural activity when they attempt leg movements.
- An
AI algorithm then translates the brain signals and sends pulses to
electrodes in the spine, stimulating muscles and nerves to produce
movement.
- Thanks to the device, Gert-Jan Oskam, who was
paralyzed in a 2011 cycling accident, can now stand, walk short
distances, and climb stairs.
- Despite not achieving smooth strides, Oskam can control standing and walking through his thoughts.
- The findings from EPFL researchers and Swiss hospitals were published in Nature on Wednesday.
Credit: Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne |
