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Robots with Brains, Real Brains

August 18, 2008 by: dave
Robots with Brains, Real Brains

This falls into both the 'Bad Ass Awesome Cool!' category and also the 'Holy Crap Get the Crowbar and Bucket of Water they are Coming!' category. University of Reading scientists have developed a robot controlled by a biological brain formed from cultured neurons.

Yes, brains cells. In the past when scientists have used brain cells, there has always been a computer in the loop. Not this time however. They took rat brains, stripped them down to single neurons, then put them in a nutrient bath with an electrode array. This is all attached to a robot platform, that can move about and have assorted sensors onboard. Those sensors trigger the electrodes, and in turn those 'stimulate' the neurons. The neurons grow connections, and learn to avoid obstacles.

Apparently, one of the primary reasons for this research is to understand the actual neurons, and how they grow and react. This could eventually lead to solutions for Alzheimer's, spinal injuries, etc. Very cool and noble, until the machines rise to kill their creators. I have my crowbar and water ready.

Seriously, can someone put this thing in my totally retarded roomba and scooba?

Tags: brain, cyborg, robot

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