Yesterday we discussed Elon Musk's new initiative to develop a more direct communication path between the human brain and computers. That technology has the potential to treat very complex conditions, and the best part is that Musk is not the only one working on it. The Case Western Reserve University has created a neural platform based on two implants that allowed a man to move his arm after being quadriplegic from a bicycle accident eight years earlier.
Imagine for a moment that you've been paralyzed in an accident, and after eight years you can move again. It doesn't matter if the movement is partial or limited: what seemed lost has been restored. Now, consider all those people in that situation today. What wouldn't they give to see that restoration reflected in their own bodies? Why not think of a future that eradicates the wheelchair? At this point, exoskeletons come to mind, still far off for different reasons, but definitely within our development capabilities. And then there are brain interfaces. Invasive, very experimental, and increasingly effective. If you want proof, let me tell you the story of Bill Kochevar:
Brain Interfaces
Bill Kochevar
Bill Kochevar, 56 years old. He became quadriplegic eight years ago in a terrible bicycle accident. The damage to his spinal cord was too severe, and from the shoulders down, nothing responded to his commands. A group of researchers at Case Western Reserve University offered Kochevar the opportunity to test a new experimental platform called BrainGate2. With two electrode arrays implanted in his brain, plus electrodes on his right arm and hand, and prolonged training based on virtual reality technology, Kochevar moved his arm again with just a thought. He could also drink water without help, eat a pretzel and mashed potatoes.
When his parents asked him if he wanted to try the system, Kochevar was blunt in his response: Someone has to research. If these procedures are not carried out, "things don't get done." The researchers see BrainGate2 in its current state as a proof of concept with plenty of room to evolve, and we hope that in the not-too-distant future it can help those who wish it.
