Neuroprosthetics and Solutions for Restoring Sensorimotor Functions
Abstract
This project is focused on the development of a radically new class of prosthetic devices that will mimic more closely the full range of sensory and motor capabilities of natural limbs. To this end, we have made initial progress on four integrated projects to advance the development of neuroprosthetic limbs including: 1) creation of a sensory neural interface to provide amputees with tactile and kinesthetic feedback from their prosthetic limb, 2) improving the biocompatibility of implanted neural interface electrodes, 3) development of a virtual reality training and testing system for neuroprosthetic limbs, and 4) development of prosthetic hardware testing equipment and procedures. To date, we have completed pilot experiments to characterize the organization of sensory neurons in the DRG for the creation of a sensory feedback neural interface and evaluated the brains response to sensory stimulation. We have completed pilot experiments to evaluate histologically the tissue response to electrodes implanted chronically in DRG, dorsal roots, and spinal cord. We have designed and developed a virtual reality training system based on BCI2000, creating custom software to greatly extend the functionality of BCI2000. Finally, we have developed a test jig to determine compliance with ISO standards for prosthetic hardware, and we have begun testing prosthetic feet.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- AD1008449
Entities
People
- Carl Lagenaur
- Douglas J Weber
- Rory A. Cooper
- Tracy Cui
- Wei Wang
Organizations
- University of Pittsburgh