A team of researchers at Duke University has made significant strides in the development of a brain implant that could potentially enable individuals with severe speech impairments to communicate using their thoughts. The technology, which has been described as a 'speech prosthetic', involves implanting a dense array of electrical sensors in parts of the brain that control speech. These sensors are designed to measure and translate brain activity into speech.
The device, which is about the size of a postage stamp, does not read minds. Instead, it detects the electrical signals sent to the muscles involved in speech, such as those in the lips, tongue, jaw, and larynx. By interpreting these signals, the device can predict the sounds a person is trying to make, effectively turning thoughts into speech.
The technology has been tested on four patients undergoing brain surgery, with promising results. The device was able to translate thoughts into speech with an accuracy of 84%. Despite this, the technology is still slower than natural speech. However, the researchers are optimistic about its potential for improvement.
The project has recently received a $2.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, which will be used to further develop the technology. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurological conditions that impair their ability to speak.
The researchers have made a significant advancement in improving the resolution of the technology by creating a sensor that is twice as dense as previous designs. This increased density could potentially enhance the accuracy and speed of the device, making it a more effective tool for those who rely on it for communication.