Brain-computer interface

Brain-computer interface (BCI), also known as a neural-control interface (NCI), mind-machine interface (MMI), direct neural interface (DNI), or brain-machine interface (BMI), is a direct communication pathway between an enhanced or wired brain and an external device. BCIs are often directed at researching, mapping, assisting, augmenting, or repairing human cognitive or sensory-motor functions.

History

The field of BCI research and development has since focused primarily on neuroprosthetics applications that aim at restoring damaged hearing, sight and movement. Thanks to the remarkable cortical plasticity of the brain, signals from implanted prostheses can, after adaptation, be handled by the brain like natural sensor or effector channels.

Research

Research into BCIs began in the 1970s at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) under a grant from the National Institutes of Health, followed by a contract from DARPA. The papers published after this research also mark the first appearance of the expression brain–computer interface in scientific literature.

Types

There are several types of BCIs, classified by the method of signal acquisition. These include invasive BCIs, partially invasive BCIs, and non-invasive BCIs. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, with invasive BCIs providing the highest quality signals but also posing significant risks.

Applications

BCIs are used in a variety of applications, from medical applications such as neuroprosthetics to military applications such as drone control. They also have potential uses in entertainment, such as video gaming and virtual reality.

Challenges

Despite the promising potential of BCIs, there are several challenges that need to be overcome. These include the complexity of the human brain, the need for long-term stability of neural recordings, and ethical considerations.

See also

• Neuroprosthetics
• Neuroscience
• Neurotechnology
• Cybernetics