In this age of information, the way our brains connect with the outside world is undergoing a revolution. The name of this revolution is called brain-computer computing (BCI), and it is not just a concept in science fiction, but a cutting-edge technology that exists and is developing rapidly. Today, let's step into this mysterious and infinite realm of possibilities and explore the direct communication between the human brain and the computer.
Brain-computer connection, as the name suggests, is a technology that enables direct communication between the brain and the machine. It captures the neural signals of the brain and converts them into instructions that the machine can understand, so as to achieve the purpose of controlling the machine with the human mind. It sounds like magic, but it's actually backed by a deep scientific foundation and complex technical implementation.
There are three main types of brain-computer interfaces: invasive, non-invasive, and semi-invasive. Invasive BCI requires electrodes to be implanted inside the brain to provide the most precise signals; Non-invasive BCI uses sensors on the scalp to capture signals, which is simple to operate and does not cause damage to the brain. Semi-invasive BCI is somewhere in between, with electrodes implanted on the surface of the brain or under the meninges.
Brain-computer interface has a wide range of applications, from medical treatment to game entertainment, from virtual reality to remote control. For example, in the medical field, BCI technology can help paraplegic patients regain mobility or allow blind people to "see" through mind-controlled visual devices. In the field of entertainment, BCI technology can allow players to control game characters through thinking, providing a new gaming experience.
China has also made a series of important progress in the field of brain-computer interface. For example, a team from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tiantan Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University successfully helped a high paraplegic patient to control the movement of a computer cursor with EEG activity using wireless minimally invasive brain-computer interface1. In addition, the intelligent bionic hand and intelligent bionic leg products launched by Brainco, a domestic brain-computer interface unicorn company, have been certified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)2.
The future of brain-computer articulation is full of infinite imagination. With the continuous advancement of technology, in the future, we may be able to interact more complex with computers through ideas, and even achieve direct communication between ideas. Not only will this dramatically improve the quality of life for people with disabilities, but it may also revolutionize the way we interact with the world.