'Bionic spinal cord' aims to move robotic limbs with power of thought

Australian scientists hope a device about the size of a matchstick will one day help people with spinal cord injuries get back on their feet.

The device, a stent-electrode recording array or stentrode, could allow patients to control powered body armour, known as exoskeletons, or bionic limbs using only their thoughts, researchers announced Tuesday at the University of Melbourne

The stentrode will be implanted in a blood vessel that sits over the brain, and will turn brain signals into electrical commands that could wirelessly move the exterior mechanical technology. Currently, most exoskeletons are controlled by a joystick that is operated manually. Read more...