Image of the micro-scale brain sensor developed by scientists at Georgia Tech. W. Hong Yeo/Georgia Tech
Researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) have developed a microscopic brain sensor which is so tiny that it can be placed in the small gap between your hair follicles on the scalp, slightly under the skin. The sensor is discreet enough not to be noticed and minuscule enough to be worn comfortably all day.
Brain sensors offer high-fidelity signals, allowing your brain to communicate directly with devices like computers, augmented reality (AR) glasses, or robotic limbs. This is part of what’s known as a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI).
To date, brain signals are typically captured non-invasively with electrodes mounted on the surface of the human scalp using conductive electrode gel for optimum impedance and data quality. However, these electrodes are generally uncomfortable to wear, especially when moving around.
While more invasive signal capture methods, such as brain implants, are possible, research by Georgia Tech sought to create sensors that are easily placed and reliably manufactured.
Sensor classified neural signals with over 96% accuracy
The sensor developed by Georgia Tech uses extremely small microneedles which are imperceptible to the user. These sensors are also wireless and flexible, removing the need for conductive gel to work.
This combination of factors lets the sensor stay in place all day, even if the wearer walks, runs, or performs other daily tasks. Because of this, the sensor can get closer to brain signals and collect cleaner, more accurate data.
When tested, the new sensor successfully recorded and classified neural signals indicating the objects the user focused on in the environment with 96.4% accuracy. Wearers could also browse through phone logs and accept augmented reality video calls completely hands free because the sensor was picking up visual stimuli.
According to the researchers, the new sensor could have critical applications in the real world, most notably in healthcare. It could, for example, help people with disabilities control prosthetics or communicate. It may even be used in the field of consumer tech, such as smart glasses, hands-free phones, and computer control.
Other applications include the AR and virtual reality market, which would make for a more immersive, hands-free, intuitive user experience. The sensors could also be handy for rehabilitation, for example, stroke or injury recovery through neural feedback.
Slight skin penetration increased signal quality
“I started this research because my main goal is to develop new sensor technology to support health care. I had previous experience with brain-computer interfaces and flexible scalp electronics,” said Hong Yeo, professor at Georgia Tech’s George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering.
“We needed better BCI sensor technology and discovered that if we can slightly penetrate the skin and avoid hair by miniaturizing the sensor, we can dramatically increase the signal quality by getting closer to the source of the signals and reduce unwanted noise,” he added.
“I firmly believe in the power of collaboration, as many of today’s challenges are too complex for any individual to solve,” noted Yeo. “Therefore, I would like to express my gratitude to all the researchers in my group and the amazing collaborators who made this work possible. I will continue collaborating with the team to enhance BCI technology for rehabilitation and prosthetics,” he said.
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The study has been published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal.
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Christopher McFadden Christopher graduated from Cardiff University in 2004 with a Masters Degree in Geology. Since then, he has worked exclusively within the Built Environment, Occupational Health and Safety and Environmental Consultancy industries. He is a qualified and accredited Energy Consultant, Green Deal Assessor and Practitioner member of IEMA. Chris’s main interests range from Science and Engineering, Military and Ancient History to Politics and Philosophy.