Progress Beyond the State of the Art
B-CRATOS introduces groundbreaking advancements in neural recording, stimulation, and wireless signal transmission through subdermal fat tissue. The high-bandwidth (>32 Mbps) wireless communication system developed within B-CRATOS remains unmatched in commercial products, enabling high-resolution (64-channel) neural action potential recording.
For the first time in a neurological medical device application, B-CRATOS integrates high-bandwidth RF backscatter and Fat-IBC communication, facilitating bi-directional motor control and sensory feedback. In non-human primate (NHP) trials, B-CRATOS will demonstrate the ability to:
Transmit motor commands from the motor cortex to a prosthetic arm using Fat-IBC.
Return sensory feedback (tactile, position, and force) from the prosthetic arm to the primary sensory cortex.
This is made possible by a novel low-power stim/record ASIC and an implantable titanium module, supporting the transition to human clinical trials following successful NHP validation.
The system builds upon the Utah Array, which has been used in both human and NHP applications with percutaneous connectors. In B-CRATOS, however, motor intention signals will be read wirelessly, eliminating the need for percutaneous connectors:
Neural signals are transmitted wirelessly through subdermal fat tissue to a head-worn processing unit.
Data is converted into microwave signals that propagate via Fat-IBC to a dexterous robotic arm.
AI and machine learning algorithms process these signals in real time to generate precise motor control sequences.
Bi-directional sensory feedback is sent through the same Fat-IBC channel, allowing the head-worn device to stimulate electrodes in the sensory cortex.
The bench-top and NHP demonstrations will provide the necessary proof-of-concept validation, supporting the transition to clinical trials for stroke, spinal cord injury, and amputee patients.
Expected Results and Impact
B-CRATOS is set to establish a new technological foundation for the next generation of brain-machine interfaces. The project marks a turning point in machine learning, human-machine interaction, and neural rehabilitation, with the following key impacts:
Paradigm Shift in Neurotechnology: Moving from global-acting pharmaceuticals (with widespread side effects) to localized, targeted neurostimulation-based therapies.
First Fully Wireless, Always-On Brain-Computer Interface: The first fully implantable, continuous-operation BCI for recording and neuromodulation of neurons with single-neuron resolution, enabling real-time brain plasticity and learning for sensor and prosthetic integration.
Secure, Encrypted Intra-Body Network: Enabling brain-organ communication, intra-body sensor networks, wearable exoskeletons, and advanced prosthetics.
Two-Way High-Speed Brain-Computer Link: Supporting real-time sensing and stimulation for applications in neurorehabilitation, learning enhancement, and immersive augmented reality.
Electronic Skin for Sensory Restoration: Integrating self-powered triboelectric nanogenerators for large-area, high-resolution electronic skin, enabling naturalistic tactile feedback. This has applications in prosthetics, burn treatment, gaming, and augmented reality.
New Powering Methods for Medical Implants: The mechanical-to-electrical power conversion capabilities of B-CRATOS components could help eliminate battery dependence in implanted devices.
Impact on Key Sectors
The B-CRATOS wireless platform is compatible with all electrode, sensor, and effector types, making it a versatile foundation for next-generation neurotechnology. It has direct applications in:
Neural disease treatment (e.g. stroke rehabilitation, spinal cord injury recovery).
Electroceuticals (closed-loop neuromodulation therapies).
AI-driven neuroprosthetics (intelligent bionic limbs).
Exoskeleton control (real-time, brain-controlled assistive devices).
Robotics and biohybrid systems (seamless human-machine integration).
Future Outlook
With NHP trials as the next major milestone, B-CRATOS is positioned for transitioning to clinical trials, paving the way for real-world adoption in medical applications. The technology is highly promising, and its successful validation will mark a major leap in neural interfaces, neuroprosthetics, and personalized neurorehabilitation.
