Events List

The University of Washington Department of Computer Science & Engineering will host Dr. Yoky Matsuoka (founding Director of the CSNE; now at "Nest").  Dr. Matsuoka will present a seminar titled "Robots and Thermostats: More in Common Than You'd Think."

Abstract:  The first industrial robots were created as a tool for assembling cars, but in recent years, they've evolved to take on ever more important roles - including replacing parts of the human body - and capabilities, such as the ability to be controlled by the human brain. Similarly, the traditional thermostat started out as a simple switch on the wall. Using the similar approaches to creativity and intelligence that's been applied to the field of robotics, Nest has transformed the thermostat into a sexy, energy-saving device that gives us a glimpse into the home of the future.

Dr. Hugh Herr, Associate Professor, Program of Media Arts and Sciences and Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) will present a seminar titled "The Importance of Neuromechanical Limb Models in the Design of Leg Prostheses and Orthoses.”

Abstract:  A long-standing goal in rehabilitation science is to apply neuromechanical principles of human movement to the development of highly functional prostheses and orthoses.  Critical to this effort is the development of actuator technologies that behave like muscle, device architectures that resemble the body’s own musculoskeletal design, and control methodologies that exploit principles of biological movement.  In this lecture, I discuss how agonist-antagonist actuation, polyarticular limb architecture, and reflex behaviors can result in quiet, stable, and economical legged mechanisms for walking and running.  Neuromechanical models are presented to examine the importance of limb morphology and neural control on locomotor performance.  These models are then used to motivate design strategies for prosthetic and orthotic mechanisms.

Dr. Adrienne Fairhall, CSNE faculty member, will present "Information transmission in neurons and networks" as the speaker for the MathAcrossCampus Lecture.

Abstract:
The brain is often thought of as a computer, taking in and transforming information into new forms that allow it to drive actions. How does one mathematically quantify how information is represented in neural systems? We show that in many sensory systems, information is represented efficiently, even at the level of single neurons, and that properties of single neurons can dramatically affect the way in which information at different timescales is propagated through neural networks.
 

The Center for Sensorimotor Neural Engineering will host a seminar by Dr. Vivian Mushahwar, Professor, University of Alberta ("Restoring Function after Neural Injury or Disease using Novel Applications of Electrical Stimulation") on Monday, October 29, 2012 at 3:30 pm.  The seminar will be held in Russell Hall, 1414 NE 42nd St., Suite 204, Seattle, WA.

Abstract:  The overall goal of our work is to develop interventions for improving function after neural injury or disease and alleviating some of the secondary complications associated with these conditions.  In this talk I will describe part of our work in preventing the formation of pressure ulcers, a serious complication associated with immobility and lack of sensation, using intermittent electrical stimulation.  This surface electrical stimulation approach produces postural shifts by inducing periodical muscle contractions in those who are unable to move on their own. The periodical contractions prevent excessive mechanical deformation of the muscle and restore oxygenation, which in turn prevent the breakdown of tissue.  I will also describe some of our efforts in restoring standing and walking after spinal cord injury using intraspinal microstimulation.  This approach involves the implantation of very fine wires inside the spinal cord, below the level of a lesion, and passing minute electrical currents to produce functional leg movements.  Long durations of weight-bearing standing and propulsive over ground walking could be achieved using this approach. The above are but two neuroprosthetic-based interventions in various phases of preparation for translation to the clinic. Other neuroprosthetic interventions are also under development in our group and show great promise for clinical implementation.  I will share my vision regarding the path of such interventions from discovery to market and the important role these approaches play in the improvement of human health.