Jose Luis "Pepe" Contreras-Vidal, professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering, works every day to help those suffering from conditions like paralysis and stroke.
A leading figure in the field of brain-machine interface systems, Contreras-Vidal develops algorithms that can read electrical activity in the brain and translate that activity into movement intentions that drive robotic exoskeletons and advanced prosthetic limbs.
Last week, he took the first steps in a new research collaboration. Working with engineers from NASA/Oceaneering Space Systems, he began studying the NASA X1 exoskeleton for use as a rehabilitation device on earth. By using the X1 to assist individuals recovering from a brain injury, the team believes it can help the brain re-wire itself for walking. Click here to see photos, and watch video of the research below.