Embodying cultured networks with a robotic drawing arm

Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2007:2007:2996-9. doi: 10.1109/IEMBS.2007.4352959.

Abstract

The advanced and robust computational power of the brain is shown by the complex behaviors it produces. By embodying living cultured neuronal networks with a robotic or simulated animal (animat) and situating them within an environment, we study how the basic principles of neuronal network communication can culminate into adaptive goal-directed behavior. We engineered a closed-loop biological-robotic drawing machine and explored sensory-motor mappings and training. Preliminary results suggest that real-time performance-based feedback allowed an animat to draw in desired directions. This approach may help instruct the future design of artificial neural systems and of the algorithms to interface sensory and motor prostheses with the brain.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arm / physiology*
  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Biomimetics / instrumentation*
  • Biomimetics / methods
  • Bionics / instrumentation*
  • Bionics / methods
  • Cell Culture Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Cell Culture Techniques / methods
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Cybernetics / instrumentation
  • Cybernetics / methods
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Humans
  • Nerve Net / physiology*
  • Pattern Recognition, Automated / methods
  • Rats
  • Robotics / instrumentation*
  • Robotics / methods
  • Systems Integration