Communication technology between human brain and computer, which we are so often shown in Hollywood films remains a fantastic concept. But some large companies are keen to implement a similar interface to reality. Take Elon musk with his Neuralink or Facebook, which explores the possibility of linking man and machine together. Manage research projects of the Ministry of defense DARPA is also interested in this technology and have even invested money in its development.
DARPA funds in the amount of $ 65 million have been apportioned among six promising from the point of view of military projects that are included in the program Neural Engineering System Design (NESD). Officially this program was announced back in 2016, but it took some time military in order to find the right contractors for the implementation of tasks. And the main task is the creation of neuroimplants allowing communication between computer and human.
Among the selected artists, one private company and five research organizations. The first phase of the project will be the development of a revolutionary hardware to implement data transfer between computer and human brain. Initial testing will produce in animals and cultured animal cells. Scientists from brown University will develop implant for cerebral cortex. At the same time, a private company Paradromics will develop the interface of microscopic electrodes for stimulation and readout of clusters of neurons.
Other researchers will seek opportunities to manipulate visual processes in the brain. The team from Columbia University set themselves the task of creating an effective but non-invasive bioelectric interface is capable of transmitting the signal in the visual cortex of the brain. The team of the University of California will create a miniature microscope in order to study the behavior of neurons inside the brain. The staff of the French Fondation Voir et Entendre plan to create a link between the artificial retina and the visual cortex, using optogenetics. Laboratory John Pierce will focus on fabrication of optical prostheses.
One year later, the program will move to its second phase. It involves researching the possibility of introducing established technologies in the human body, as well as resolving legal issues and obtaining permits for further human trials.
DARPA is funding six developers brain-computer interface
Sergey Grey