What is BRAINGATE?

The Brain Gate Neural Interface Device is a proprietary brain-computer interface that consists of an internal neural signal sensor and external processors that convert neural signals into an output signal under the user's own control. The Brain Gate Neural Interface System is an investigation assistive device designed by Cyber kinetics, Inc. Brain Gate, the technology includes an electrode array The computer chip, which is implanted into the brain, monitors brain activity in the patient and converts the intention of the user into computer commands.

The main concept behind this technology is the idea of implanting tissue micro electrodes known as cortical neural prosthetics (CNPs) into specific portions of the brain to permit the recording of electrical signals sent from both the surface of the brain and within the cerebral cortex region. The motor cortex is chosen as the location to implant the device because it produces the cleanest movement signal. There are thousands of different portions of the brain that control how we function and move. These signals are then translated into command signals that drive a biomedical device, such as a prosthetic limb or computer display. By implanting the CNP into the motor cortex section, nearly smooth movements can be obtained. Every CNP is composed of three building blocks without these the CNPs would not work effectively.