BMI Systems

Abstract

The breadth of challenges that stand between concept generation and realization of the next generation of BMIs calls for tandem and synergistic development of the many facets of neurotechnology. Here, we have provided several examples of how the goal of system development (as opposed to component development) of a fully integrated BMI implant is leading to beyondstate-of-the art technologies that might not be realized readily in a piecewise fashion. To develop the necessary signal processing, neural interfaces, or electronics independently, as has been largely conducted in the past, may not yield optimal BMI systems that are capable of chronically interfacing with large neural assemblies and delivering meaningful function to the patient. The complete specifications of future BMI systems will be driven by the technical challenges encountered in a particular specialization of BMI neurotechnology and transferred bidirectionally to the others. For example, the choice of the appropriate physiological scale to derive the most robust control hinges upon the electrode design and polymer science to sense signals throughout the life of the patient. However, without feedback on the performance of neural decoding, one may have the nonoptimal but biocompatible electrodes that do not provide the most relevant information. It is clear that the next generation of BMI technologies cannot be built solely from existing engineering principles. So the question then becomes, "What is the best strategy to deal with technology bottlenecks?" Fortunately, neural engineering approaches can benefit from the intersection of top-down signal processing techniques with bottom-up theories of neurophysiology. By reverse engineering the neural interface problem using modified versions of standard signal processing techniques, one can overcome the bottlenecks.

Department(s)

Electrical and Computer Engineering

International Standard Book Number (ISBN)

978-159829035-6

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

1930-0336; 1930-0328

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2025 Morgan and Claypool Publishers, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Dec 2007

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