Lobachevsky University presents its unique developments in the field of neural interfaces

At the All-Russia exhibition of high technologies and innovations "Hi, Future" held from September 16 to September 17 in Kazan, Lobachevsky University has demonstrated a pre-production prototype exoskeleton "Ilya Muromets". Some unique results in developing a neural interface have been also presented. UNN scientists have shown a human-computer neural interface that can control a quadcopter or an exoskeleton. Instead of using a complex and expensive brain-computer interface, Nizhny Novgorod researchers used neural impulses from muscles in the operation of their device. The project is led by Dr. Viktor Kazantsev, UNN Vice-Rector for Research.

Alexey Pimashkin, Head of the Neuroengineering department at the UNN Center for Translational Technologies explains the principle of operation of the new device: "In today's world, to control various electronic devices and computers, people use their hands. Every muscle when strained generates a weak electric field which can be detected and used to control the devices. Now, with the advent of accurate and miniature microelectronics, there are portable sensors that can read muscle tension forces on skin surface". Members of the UNN research team use their own sensors, make electronic circuits and write the necessary software. According to Alexey Pimashkin, the aim is to create a universal instrument for translating conscious human biosignals to control a variety of devices.