The technology can non-invasively read neural signals through the skin and convert them into commands for devices. This feature also helps patients to control the symptoms of certain diseases.
“For serious brain diseases like Parkinson’s or for people who are blind, surgery may be required. However, there are other approaches such as ours,” said BrainCo partner and senior vice president Nix He.
During the event, the company gave a visual presentation. A man with a bionic arm took the stage and demonstrated how the device responds to nerve impulses by moving his fingers solely with his mind.
Company representatives said that this is the world’s first prosthetic hand that allows independent control of each finger.
A participant in the presentation then played a short piece on the piano.
“The sensors merely touch the skin and read the neural signals underneath. The muscles then contract to move the hand,” He said.
The non-invasive approach is safer, easier for patients to accept and reduces risks and costs, she said.
A well-known player in BCI, Neuralink, uses an invasive method. The company injects ultra-thin threads with electrodes at the ends into brain tissue. They read the activity of neurons about the intention to do something. This approach provides higher accuracy, but the quality of the signal decreases over time.
Hae said her company’s technology could be used to improve concentration and sleep quality.
About the company
BrainCo was founded in the United States by Harvard University graduate Han Bicheng. He holds a master’s degree in law from Harvard Law School.
Last year, the firm opened its Asia-Pacific headquarters and R&D base in Hong Kong’s Cyberport.
