One of the fun things about living and working in Silicon Valley is constantly learning about next generation technologies and ideas. Numerous innovations come out all the time, however one of the most fascinating recent breakthroughs is a seamless computer / brain interface call Neural Lace. Neural Lace consists of a micro thin connectivity mesh that can be injected into the brain and can grow and integrate with human brain tissue. This implantable lace will eventually create a wireless brain-computer interface that can exponentially increase human intelligence by enabling seamless access to artificial intelligence in real time.
This new micro technology is small enough to be injected by needle into the brain and holds tremendous possibilities for accessing vast data storage repositories, controlling machines and enhancing brain capabilities. In addition, it also holds promise for providing medical benefits such as controlling degenerative maladies like Parkinson’s Disease and enabling paraplegics to control devices with their thoughts. Another immediate application of Neural Lace technology is to provide medical staff the ability to monitor brain activity and increase our understanding of biological nervous systems.
The most amazing surprise of this technology is that Neural Lace prototypes have already been created and successfully tested in lab mice. Lab mice subjects that received these bioabsorbable micro implants continued to function normally as their brain cells successfully integrated with the newly added electronic circuitry.
Scientists have known for a long time that biological brains operate on electrical signals and that gland secretions could be controlled and regulated via a Neural Lace integration. One of the interesting applications of this biological circuitry could allow voice, data and video to be communicated bi-directionally to and from the brain. It could also enable humans to accurately store and preserve memories directly from their brains onto computers.
As with most technical innovations, they tend to occur at the convergence of multiple technical disciplines. The Neural Lace is no different. This technology comes at the interface of Neuro-science, Chemistry, Nanotechnology, Wireless and Computer Science. The brain / mechanical connection that integrates cerebral matter with computers will likely be tested on humans within the next decade and could provide a sophisticated artificial intelligence layer on top of our existing limbic and cerebral cortex brain functions.
As with most radical technical advances, the societal ramifications at first glance may appear concerning. While the risks are apparent, it does make sense that Neural Lace technologies will eventually help mankind accelerate human intelligence. Any kind of advanced acceleration will require next generation design to push the envelope of existing mobile screen and voice-activated interfaces.