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Scientists have been experimenting with muscles and technology to
solve both human and robotic mobility issues for years. Now it looks
as though researchers from the Engineering and Physical Sciences
Research Council have made a significant leap forward for paraplegics,
thanks to a revolutionary microchip the team has dubbed "Active Book."
What's notable about the chip is that it stimulates more muscle groups
than existing technology without the need for external connections.
This was accomplished via micro-packing and precision laser
processing, which allowed tiny electrodes to be cut from platinum foil
and rolled into a 3D book shape. These platinum foil "pages" close in
around nerve roots, and are micro-welded to a hermetically sealed
silicon chip. Once embedded into areas within the spinal canal, the
chip can work to stimulate paralyzed muscles, implying patients could
even "perform enough movement to carry out controlled exercise such as
cycling or rowing." A press release from the Council says the Active
Book will begin trials sometime next year -- we can't wait to see the
results.
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