Brain-Computer Interface Device

About Brain-Computer Interface Device:

 

• This device is capable of decoding brain activity into speech faster, more accurately and covering larger vocabulary than existing technologies
• People with neurological disorders, including brainstem stroke or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often face speech loss due to paralysis of muscles.
• Previous studies have shown that it is possible to decode speech from the brain activities of a person with paralysis, but only in the form of text and with limited speed, accuracy and vocabulary.
• Researchers demonstrated a BCI that collects the neural activity of single cells with an array of fine electrodes inserted into the brain, and trained an artificial neural network to decode intended vocalisations.
• With the help of the device, a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis was able to communicate at an average rate of 62 words per minute, which is 3.4 times
• This BCI decodes brain signals to generate three outputs simultaneously: text, audible speech and a speaking avatar.

 

What is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?

• It is a neurodegenerative disease in which special nerve cells called motor neurons in the brain and spine which control an individual’s voluntary functions like walking, chewing, talking, moving their arms- are affected.
• It’s also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
• As these nerve cells progressively die, the muscles dependent on them are unable to function or move, due to which they begin to atrophy or waste away.

 

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Q1) What is Neurodegenerative diseases?

Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration and dysfunction of the nervous system, particularly the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain. These diseases are often chronic and incurable, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive, motor, and/or behavioral functions.

Source: New brain-computer interface device gives voice to paralysed.