July 2nd, 2024

Bionic leg moves like a natural limb, without conscious thought

A groundbreaking bionic leg controlled by the brain and spinal cord, named AMI, improves speed, balance, and mobility for amputees. Lead researcher Hugh Herr emphasizes natural control and plans for further enhancements.

Read original articleLink Icon
Bionic leg moves like a natural limb, without conscious thought

A recent study published in Nature Medicine introduces a groundbreaking bionic leg controlled entirely by the brain and spinal cord, allowing users to move the prosthesis with their own thoughts and reflexes. The technology, tested on 14 participants with below-knee amputations, demonstrated significant improvements in speed, balance, and mobility compared to standard robotic legs. The system, called an agonist–antagonist myoneural interface (AMI), amplifies nerve signals from remaining muscles to enable natural movement patterns. Participants using the AMI walked 41% faster than those with conventional prostheses, showcasing the potential for a more intuitive and integrated bionic limb experience. The study's lead researcher, Hugh Herr, highlights the natural feel and control of the bionic limb, emphasizing the importance of neural interfaces in creating a seamless connection between the user and the prosthesis. Future developments aim to enhance the device's design for everyday use and expand its capabilities to accommodate more demanding activities.

Related

Mapping the biology of spinal cord injury in unprecedented detail

Mapping the biology of spinal cord injury in unprecedented detail

EPFL researchers develop 'Tabulae Paralytica' atlas using AI and molecular mapping to study spinal cord injuries in mice. Identifies key genes, challenges astrocyte roles, and highlights Vsx2 neurons for recovery. Published in Nature, the study offers insights for potential gene therapy.

Self-healing 'living skin' can make robots more humanlike

Self-healing 'living skin' can make robots more humanlike

Researchers have developed self-healing "living skin" for robots using cultured skin cells and silicone. This innovative method enhances robots' appearance and functionality, mimicking human skin's healing process. The skin attaches securely with v-shaped hooks, improving aesthetics and durability. Published in Cell Reports Physical Science, this advancement could revolutionize robotics and medical treatments.

A Model of a Mind

A Model of a Mind

The article presents a model for digital minds mimicking human behavior. It emphasizes data flow architecture, action understanding, sensory inputs, memory simulation, and learning enhancement through feedback, aiming to replicate human cognitive functions.

Chinese scientists create robot with brain from human stem cells

Chinese scientists create robot with brain from human stem cells

Chinese scientists have created a robot with a human stem cell-based artificial brain, using brain-on-chip tech for tasks like object gripping. The innovation merges brain organoids and neural interface chips, advancing brain-computer interfaces for human-robot intelligence and medical uses.

Open and remotely accessible Neuroplatform for research in wetware computing

Open and remotely accessible Neuroplatform for research in wetware computing

An open Neuroplatform for wetware computing research combines electrophysiology and AI with living neurons. It enables long-term experiments on brain organoids remotely, supporting complex studies for energy-efficient computing advancements.

Link Icon 1 comments
By @hulitu - 4 months
> Bionic leg moves like a natural limb, without conscious thought

Missed school ? /s