"Neurabotics": an integration of neurons, rats and robots for advanced studies of brain-computer interface systems

Patrick Rousche, Ryan Clement, Chris Visser, Janet Cruz, Jennie Si

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

To address complex issues associated with the practical applications of brain-computer interface systems, we have developed a novel biorobotic system. We combine neurophysiological recordings in trained rats chronically implanted with multi-electrode arrays in sensory cortex with a mobile robot to create what we call the RABOT (rat-robot). The RABOT is a unique system that lends itself well to novel experiments in behavioral neuroscience and neural engineering. 6 rats were implanted with multi-electrode arrays in auditory cortex and placed inside a modified 12" round robot with 2-wheel differential drive locomotion controllable via on-board response levers. In preliminary evaluation, RABOTs were passively moved along a 16 ft track while a 2 Hz, free-field click stimulus was delivered at one end of the track. Response latencies varied almost linearly within the 16 ft track from 18-27 msec. Analysis of peak latency of multichannel PSTH responses was performed offline and used to estimate RABOT position and/or predict stimulus onset. The RABOT platform is ideal for both on and offline experimentation that more closely resembles real-world applications of brain-computer interfaces. In addition, multichannel neural recording in a 'real-world' sensory environment will help to further broaden our understanding of parallel processing in the nervous system.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationConference Proceedings - 1st International IEEE EMBS Conference on Neural Engineering
EditorsLaura J. Wolf, Jodi L. Strock
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages462-465
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)0780375793
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2003
Event1st International IEEE EMBS Conference on Neural Engineering - Capri Island, Italy
Duration: Mar 20 2003Mar 22 2003

Publication series

NameInternational IEEE/EMBS Conference on Neural Engineering, NER
Volume2003-January
ISSN (Print)1948-3546
ISSN (Electronic)1948-3554

Other

Other1st International IEEE EMBS Conference on Neural Engineering
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityCapri Island
Period3/20/033/22/03

Keywords

  • Brain computer interfaces
  • Control systems
  • Delay
  • Mobile robots
  • Neural engineering
  • Neurons
  • Neuroscience
  • Rats
  • Robot sensing systems
  • Sensor arrays

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Mechanical Engineering

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