Neuroprosthetics: Reconnecting with the World

Neuroprosthetics are intelligent tools that patients suffering from limb loss or paralysis can use to reestablish their connection with the world. To achieve this goal, we must return to the definition of the mind and cognition. The mind converts sensory information we gather from our interactions with the environment into thoughts and feelings. With the body as a vessel, the mind processes and interprets of the steady stream of input we receive from our senses. To situate itself within the environment, the mind creates a virtual representation of the body called the body schema. With time and practice, this schema can update and adapt to include external objects and tools. If successful, these tools become transparent and effortless to use. Neuroprosthetic devices should behave and function like a real-life body part would. With an effective closed-loop system with high tactile sensitivity and response, our minds should not be able to tell the difference between muscle and machine