Chongqing - Imagine controlling a computer with just your thoughts – a reality now, thanks to a groundbreaking brain-computer interface. Decoding brain signals offers new hope for people with disabilities and a future where thoughts and technology seamlessly connect.

Recently, Bridging News spoke with Chongqing Yunnao Medical Technology Co., Ltd., a company based at the Chongqing Institute for Brain and Intelligence.

The company's independently developed brain-computer interface rehabilitation training system is the world's first to receive a medical device registration certificate for a brain-controlled robot product. It is also the first set of core technology equipment recognized by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

One of their key machines, the brain-computer interface rehabilitation training system, is designed for use in hospitals' rehabilitation and neurology departments, primarily to assist stroke patients in their recovery.

Peng Xinya, Market Manager at Chongqing Yunnao Medical Technology Co., Ltd., explained that the system uses a non-invasive electroencephalogram (EEG) cap to capture and analyze a patient's motor intentions and imagined movements. These signals are then transmitted to a machine, which sends them to an electrical stimulator targeting specific paralyzed areas, prompting the patient to move.

Unlike traditional methods, this technology shifts from passive to active rehabilitation. In passive rehabilitation, patients receive treatments without active participation, like therapy or massage. Active rehabilitation, on the other hand, involves patients directly in their recovery through exercises or activities, aiming to improve outcomes and promote long-term recovery.

"Active rehabilitation requires neurologically-driven thinking," said Peng. "Our goal is to build new neural pathways outside the body to stimulate limb movement and assist in the rehabilitation process."

A stroke patient participates in brain-computer interface rehabilitation training. (Photo/Chongqing Yunnao Medical Technology Co., Ltd)

The company has also fine-tuned the design of its equipment to better accommodate patients. "We noticed that some traditional rehabilitation devices could lead to uncomfortable positions for patients. Therefore, we made ergonomic adjustments to our products to ensure greater comfort," she added. For example, it introduced machines especially targeted at specific body parts, like the hands and legs.

Currently, the company's machines are being used at the Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, with up to 10 patients using them daily. Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting significant improvements.

In addition to rehabilitation, Peng noted that neuroscience encompasses a wide range of fields. For example, many people, especially younger individuals, experience sleep disorders due to the fast pace of modern life. This is an area the company plans to explore further, to address sleep problems through neuroscience.