BrainGate Technology Allows Paralyzed Woman to Control Robotic Arm

       Ever think about what it would be like to be unable to move? To be unable to care for yourself in the simplest of ways? To have your own body be your prison? Many people suffer from debilitating disorders or accidents where they become paralyzed or quadriplegic. They can not care for themselves without assistance. But with emerging technology, they may be able to gain some of their independence back.
       Scientists have recently made an outstanding progress in giving people this independence with their biological computer interface technology.  A device, called BrainGate, allowed a paralyzed woman to control a robotic arm using only her brain. It consists of two quater-inch electrode grids that have 96 contact points with the brain. These electrodes read firing neurons to control the arm movement. The patient, Jan Scheuermann, was able to move the arm with desired movements after a week of the implantation. Now, she can even pick up glasses or candy bars and place them where she wants.
       This technology is an outstanding breakthrough for those who are trapped by their own body. Scientists predict that these robotic arms could be available to others within 5 to 10 years. And who is to stop at just robotic arms? This technology could be applied to an exoskeleton to allow the patient to move their own body. The possibilities are endless. In the words of Jan Scheuermann, "One small nibble for a woman, one giant bite for BCI."

Further information on the technology can be found below. Check it out!!

http://news.cnet.com/8301-27083_3-57559675-247/brain-implants-let-paralyzed-woman-move-robot-arm/

http://www.theguardian.com/science/2011/apr/17/brain-implant-paralysis-movement