Researchers show off robot hand neural interface

It looks like robot hands have taken yet another step into human-like territory, with a team of researchers at John's Hopkins University recently demonstrating a new neural interface that allows an artificial hand to be used to play the piano. But that's not all! In true mad scientist fashion, to actually control the hand, the researchers relied on neural activity recorded from a monkey's brain. According to MIT's Technology Review, that resulted in the fingers on the hand performing their intended movement about 95 percent of the time. While the system doesn't currently work in real time, the researchers are reportedly planning a live demonstration with a monkey within the next six months. Apparently foreseeing a potential monkey-machine rampage, however, the researchers have wisely decided to only let the monkey control a virtual version of a prosthetic arm.

[hickhamt @ Jul 26th 2007 8:52AM]

why dont they just cut out the middle man, and teach the monkey to play the piano?? wouldnt that be cheaper?!?!

[Bella @ Jul 26th 2007 8:55AM]

This robot hand is an incredible step in science for people who are missing limbs. This is an amazing opportunity for those who have lost arms, legs etc. This could really change people’s lives. Can't wait to see how this will be used in the future. Science and technology when combined can cause some wonderful advances.

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[PJK @ Jul 26th 2007 10:25AM]

Science and technology when combined? As opposed to the technology created using magic?

[Bella @ Jul 26th 2007 1:54PM]

No opposed to science with out the great advances of great technology! Science can stand alone with out technology! Magic? you have been reading your Harry Potter book haven't you?

[PJK @ Jul 26th 2007 11:01AM]

Nope, Science can't stand alone without technology, inextricable link goin on there.

[Bella @ Jul 26th 2007 1:53PM]

The science of human nature isn’t “technology”. The science of nature isn’t “technology”.

Definition of science: a branch of knowledge or study dealing with a body of facts or truths systematically arranged and showing the operation of general laws: the mathematical sciences (nowhere does it mention technology).

[_man1c_ @ Jul 26th 2007 9:12AM]

his name is RoboCop..

[strider_mt2k @ Jul 26th 2007 10:54AM]

Big hand everybody!

Big hand!

[blackfeather @ Jul 26th 2007 11:11AM]

Imagine the concert-goer's surprise when the robotic hand starts flinging feces at the audience.

[Chuckles McGee @ Jul 26th 2007 11:41AM]

The researchers have wisely decided to only let the monkey control a virtual version of a prosthetic arm.

Wow. Limited to a virtual artificial limb. Almost just like using the fake thing!

[Nitsualien @ Jul 26th 2007 12:51PM]

... how long before the monkey files a virtual worker's comp lawsuit for simulated carpal tunnel injuries?