Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) in the United States have developed groundbreaking technology that enabled a paralyzed man to control a robotic arm simply by thinking.

Reported in Scitech Daily, the artificial intelligence-supported brain-computer interface (BCI) allowed the patient to direct the robotic arm to grasp and lift objects by merely imagining moving his hand. SYSTEM OPERATING WITHOUT INTERRUPTION FOR 7 MONTHS Unlike previous systems that typically failed within a few days, this newly developed technology successfully operated continuously for seven months. Its consistent performance over extended periods offered significant hope for individuals with paralysis. HOW DOES THE SYSTEM WORK? Small sensors were implanted in the brain of the paralyzed patient to detect thought signals. When the patient imagined moving his hand, these sensors captured the signals. The AI-supported system processed these brain signals to initiate movement in the robotic arm. Initially, the movements were not precise. Therefore, the patient practiced on a virtual robotic arm to improve the system’s accuracy. Thanks to the learning capability of the AI, over time, he became more adept at directing the real robotic arm more precisely. HOPE FOR PERFORMING DAILY TASKS With this AI-supported system, the patient was able to grasp and lift objects, open a cupboard, pick up a glass, and fill it by holding it under a water dispenser. Dr. Karunesh Ganguly, who led the research, mentioned that the system will continue to be developed and ultimately be transformed into a technology that patients can use at home in the future. Ganguly expressed optimism, stating, “We now understand how this system operates, and I truly believe it will be effective. Prosthetics that paralyzed individuals can control simply by thinking are no longer just a dream!”