Group No.

1
Section L3

Instructor: Dr Sayantan Chakraborthy

Group Members ID Numbers

Sri Hari Sai 2023A7PS0078U
Jessica Thomas 2023A7PS0039U
Karishma D Doshi 2023A7PS0040U
Salihah Aga 2023A7PS0085U
Shahna Shajahan 2023A7PS0092U
Venkata Shreya Vella 2023A7PS0096U
Rahul Bhaskar 2023A7PS0107U
 Neuralink Corp.
Fremont, California
The United States of America

A Report
on
Neuralink and its Applications

Prepared
for
Jeff Zuckerberg
Owner, Founder

By
M.G. Ravichandran
Head, Research Department

Approved by
Mr Jared Birchall
CEO
Neuralink Corp.
November 2023
 ABSTRACT

Elon Musk founded Neuralink, a company that leads the way in brain-
computer interface (BCI technology). Their cutting-edge neural implants are
intended to close the communication gap between computers and the human
brain, enabling face-to-face interaction.
Neuralink devices use electrodes inserted in ultra-thin threads to record and
trigger brain activity. This innovative technology may be used to cure
neurological conditions, improve cognitive function, and facilitate smooth
communication between humans and machines. Being a driving force behind
the development of BCIs, Neuralink represents a revolutionary step in realizing
the full potential of BCIs for improving human health and advancing
technology. In this report , we will be discussing the mechanism of brain chip
development, health and safety implications, features of BCI and accessibility
of the technology.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to Prof. S. Madapusi, Director,

BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus for giving us the opportunity to apply and
understand our engineering concepts in a practical atmosphere.

We are extremely grateful to Mr Ashish Gupta, Professor, Computer Science

Department for being a helpful guide in answering our queries and sharing his
experience and knowledge with us.

We would also like to thank Dr. Sayantan Chakraborthy, TRW Faculty, for
providing us with all the assistance required for successful completion of this
report and particularly for giving us the motivation at every step.

Also, special mention to Dr. Shazi Shah Jabeen, TRW Faculty, for providing us
with guidelines and support to help us complete our project.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract
Acknowledgements
Table of Figures

1. Introduction
1.1 Authorization
1.2 Background of the Study
1.3 Objectives
1.4 Scope
1.5 Limitations
1.6 Methods and Sources of Data Collection
1.7 Report Preview

2. Mechanism and Overview

2.1 Introduction
2.2 Neuralink
2.3 BCI and EEG
2.3.1 P300 Systems
2.3.2 N1 Chips
2.4 Mechanical Structure of Brain Chips
2.5 Research Outcomes

3. Health and Safety Ramifications

3.1 Introduction
3.2 Brain Chips and Human Brain
3.3 Health Safety
3.4 Brain chip connections to the Brain
3.5 Research Outcome

4. Interfacing and Connectivity

4.1 Introduction
4.2 Brain-Computer Interface
4.3 Basis of Connectivity
4.4 BCI Challenges
4.5 Risk Controls
 4.5.1 Technical Controls
4.5.2 Policy Controls
4.6 Research Outcomes

5. Affordability and Accessibility

5.1 Introduction
5.2 Technical Challenges of Neuralink
5.2.1 Scalability and Portability
5.2.2 Transfer rate
5.2.3 Electrode Stability and yield
5.3 Accessibility
5.3.1 Accessibility of Neuralink
5.3.2 Benefits of accessibility of Neuralink
5.3.3 Challenges faced
5.4 Affordability
5.4.1 Challenges faced in affordability
5.5 Potential Risks
5.5.1 Privacy Issues
5.5.2 Legal Issues
5.5.3 Social Issues
5.6 Research Outcomes

6. Integration
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Neural Interface Architecture
6.3 Biomedical Implications
6.4 Neuro-Communication framework
6.5 Public Perception and Adoption
6.6 Research Outcome

7. Conclusion
8. Recommendations
References
Appendix
 TABLE OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1 Students Awareness of Neuralink

Figure 2.2 Mechanism of a hybrid EOG-P300 BCI with dual monitors

Figure 3.1 Brain chip connections to the brain

Figure 3.2 Students Opinion on surgical implanting of brain chips

Figure 4.1 Diagram for the flow of BCI Cycle

Figure 4.2 Students identified problems for Neuralink Connectivity

Figure 5.1 Students challenge ideas based on accessibility of Neuralink.

Figure 5.2 Neuralink’s total funding amounts (2017-2021)

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 AUTHORIZATION

The present report is based on Neuralink and its Applications and was
approved and authorized by Mr. Jared Birchall, CEO of Neuralink Corp.
on 20 September 2023.

1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Elon Musk founded Neuralink in 2016. The company's goal is to facilitate

human-machine cooperation and improve human cognitive capacities.
The company has developed technology consistently since its founding
and has advanced significantly in a short amount of time. But for the
past 7 years, Elon Musk’s company has not yet achieved human trials as
of yet due to the ethical argument. A vocal minority believe that surgical
implantation of brain chips may lead to cognitive disabilities, in addition
to this some others believe it may not be ethical to test these brain chips
on humans as to declare them as safe for public usage. Many also
believe Neuralink will not be accessible to the general public due to its
high costs and complications in usage.

This has halted Neuralink’s progress and slowed down their clinical trials,
but as of this year, the corporation has been granted permission by the
FDA(Food and Drug Administration) for its first in-human clinical trials.
Also due to vast industrialization and rampant increase in supply, it is
estimated that the cost and distribution of Neuralink Brain Chips will
favour the general population and make it more readily available in the
future. [1]

Research Gap: Because neuralink is a very new and specialized issue, not
many studies have been done on it. Additionally, since we are potentially
intrusively implanting a brain chip in a human brain, there are safety and
ethical concerns.
 In cause of this above reason, we have decided to undertake a study on
the applications and achievability of Neuralink as a new form of global
connecting technology and also conduct a deep dive into the topic and
its various subtopics.

1.3 OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this report are:

● To study whether Neuralink is safe, secure and scalable

● To discuss the medical and ethical discrepancies

● To identify solutions for the aforementioned problems

1.4 SCOPE

● A survey was conducted among engineering students to discover the

awareness of Neuralink as a technological advancement.
● This study is covered in a time from 2021-2023, with no particular
geographical area. We have considered technical, biological,
philosophical and economic standpoints in this study.

1.5 LIMITATIONS

● Neuralink, being a relatively new concept, is very challenging to base

a research project on as not much public information is released by
the corporation.

● In addition, through the survey conducted, we mentioned the sample

space consisted of college students, hence it may lead to a biased
sample as well as a generalization of the sample without inclusion of
other groups, which would form a broader range of responses.
 ● Due to time constraint, the listed suggestions and recommendations
were not tested

1.6 METHODS AND SOURCES OF DATA COLLECTION

● We have used multiple trusted web-journals and reports from IEEE

Xplore, Science Direct, Link Springer
● We have also conducted surveys on the topic and its applications. We
discussed about the problems and raised questions that test the
knowledge of the students on Neuralink. Our sample size was based on
engineering questions of reputed institutes from ages 17-22.

1.7 REPORT PREVIEW

In this research report, we aim to discuss the importance of brain chips in

our future and how this could be the future not only for technology, but
also for biomedical research. We also look to explain the interface and
mechanism of Neuralink. We also discuss the importance of accessibility
and affordability in this report.
CHAPTER 2: MECHANISM AND OVERVIEW
2.1 Introduction
In this chapter we discuss the logistics of Neuralink. As stated in the problem
statement in 1.2 of the introductions, Neuralink, which involves the usage of
brain chips, requires the need for complex mechanical structures. Let us look
at the main overview and a mechanical blueprint for Neuralink:

2.2 Neuralink
In 2016, Elon Musk registered a startup called Neuralink, which remained
hidden until 2017, when it was revealed to the world. Neuralink, as the name
suggests, creates a connection between the neurons in our brain and the
machine (smartphones or computers). On July 16, 2019, the white paper
"ELON MUSK AND NEURALINK" was published, which explained what the
company has and how to achieve a general symbiosis of man and machine, or
artificial intelligence (AI). "We are already cyborgs. We are so connected to our
phones and computers that losing a phone feels like losing a limb." - ALIVE Elon
Musk said at Neuralink's launch event that the company aims to "understand
and treat brain disorders" and "preserve and improve our brain" and "create a
well-aligned future." In the interview, Elon Musk also talked about how the
company plans to recreate the "neural lace", which is an invented way/method
to transfer brain content to a machine and vice versa. [2]

Figure 2.1 Students Awareness of Neuralink

2.3 BCI and EEG

A brain computer interface (BCI) is a technology that connects the brain

directly to an external device, transforming a perceived object and intention or
mind into a command to control the device, independently of peripheral
nerves and muscles. BCI is very important for patients suffering from various
neuromuscular degenerative disorders because they have very limited
communication channels. [3] Among various brain imaging techniques, the
electroencephalogram (EEG) is widely used in BCI due to its useful properties
(non-invasive) measurement, relatively low cost and high temporal resolution.
Motor imagery-induced synchronization and desynchronization, stable visual
potentials, and P300). event-related potentials are well-known brain responses
and they are widely used in BCI research [1]

Figure 2.2 Mechanism of a hybrid EOG-P300 BCI with dual monitors

2.3.1 P300 Systems

The P300 potential is a positive spike evoked by an auditory, visual or

somatosensory stimulus. In standard P300 BCI systems, the system detects the
target on which the target is focused by detecting the P300 potential evoked
by the target stimulus. Normally, the Visual P300 BCI screen displays a series of
menu items and randomly increments them. When subjects fixate on a single
target, the P300 is generated only when that target is primed. By detecting the
occurrence of the P300, the system can distinguish whether the objects are
focusing on the target or which target the objects are focusing on. [5]

2.3.2 N1 Chips

The N1 chip is the heart of Neuralink. It is a custom-made chip that acts as a

translator between the human brain and the computer. It can process massive
amounts of neural data in real time and provide feedback to the user. The N1
chip makes Neuralink technology unique and powerful. The N1 chip is
incredibly powerful, capable of processing up to 10,000 channels of neural
data in real time. This allows for a more natural and intuitive interaction
between the user and the computer, as the computer can interpret the user's
thoughts and react accordingly.

2.4 Mechanical Structure of Brain Chips

Microelectrodes are the gold standard for recording action potentials, but no
clinically translatable microelectrode technology exists for large-scale
recording. This would require a system with material properties that offer high
biocompatibility, safety and longevity. In addition, this device would also
require hands-on surgical access and high-density, low-power electronics to
ultimately facilitate fully implanted wireless operation. [4]

Most long-term neural recording devices are arrays of electrodes made of rigid
metals or semiconductors. Although rigid metal arrays facilitate brain
penetration, the size of the rigid probes and brain tissue, differences in Young's
modulus and flexural stiffness can lead to immune reactions that limit the
function and longevity of these devices. In addition, the fixed geometry of
these arrays limits the populations of accessible neurons, especially due to the
presence of blood vessels.

An alternative approach is to use thin, flexible multi-electrode polymer probes.

The smaller size and greater flexibility of these probes should provide better
biocompatibility. However, the disadvantage of this approach is that the thin
polymer probes are not rigid enough to be inserted directly into the brain; they
must be eased by pinning, spraying, or other methods, all of which are quite
slow. To meet the operational requirements of a high-bandwidth brain-
machine interface by leveraging the properties of thin-film devices, the
researchers developed a robotic approach to efficiently and independently
push a large number of fine and flexible polymer probes through multiple
brains areas [6]

2.5 Research Outcome

In conclusion, a mechanistic review of Neuralink provides fascinating insight

into the complex design and functionality of neural interface technology. At
the core of the Neuralink chip are ultra-thin filaments equipped with
electrodes that represent amazing engineering precision. These filaments, finer
than a human hair, are strategically placed to facilitate two-way
communication with neurons. The chip also contains a neurostimulator, an
important component responsible for decoding neural signals and enabling
seamless interaction between the human brain and external devices. The
careful integration of these components demonstrates Neuralink and its
meticulous attention to detail in its design, which underscores its commitment
to advancing neurotechnology. As the field of neural interfaces continues to
evolve, the mechanical intricacies of the N1 chip are proof of the convergence
of cutting-edge technology and neuroscience, enabling a reformative and
unprecedented opening of the human-machine interaction landscape.
opportunities to understand and improve the human brain.

CHAPTER 3: HEALTH AND SAFETY

RAMIFICATIONS
3.1. Introduction
A brain chip contains a small computer-based chip containing a rechargeable
lithium battery, which is placed behind the ear and tiny thin hair like wires
attach it with the brain which monitors brain activity. These wires send signals
from the brain to the chip which is then wirelessly transmitted to the
computers.

3.2 Brain chips and Human Brain

The human brain, being a complex structure in the human body, controls all
voluntary and involuntary actions performed by a human. The human brain
consists of around 86 neurons, each neuron communicates with each other to
form circuits and share information with each other. Inserting a computer-
based chip in between these neurons and changing the flow of electric signals
to and from the brain is a complex task with high risk.

3.3 Brain chips and Health Safety

Brain chips provide quality life to people of determination. This chip helps
control the activities performed by the brain of a paralyzed person. Studies
show that brain implants can record a person’s neural activity when they
attempt to speak. These brain signals are decoded into normal words on a
computer screen using audio speech or animated avatars.[1]
Brain chips also help to give sight to blind. A surgical robot helps chips
communicate with the brain by sending signals through 64 tiny wires into the
visual cortex. The rain receives visual images directly through brain chip.
Brain chips can be helpful to treat various diseases like Parkinson's disease by
placing thin metal wire in the brain which send electrical pulses to the brain
helping control motor symptoms. Essential tremor, Epilepsy by recording
electrical activity of the brain and if any seizure-like activity is detected then
delivering small electrical currents to the brain to stop or shorten the seizure
etc.
Brain chips can also treat diseases like dementia, depression etc. by placing
small electrodes permanently in the brain. These electrodes deliver low levels
of impulses regulating mood, addiction, chronic pain etc. which helps in
detecting abnormal brain activity and then delivering electrical signals to
suppress the pain.

Brain chips also play an important role in learning and retaining memory. This
smarter technology gives access to infinite data, improving our knowledge.
Uploading the memories into an artificial intelligence system stored on a cloud
server which helps to retain the memory and never need to worry about
forgetting them.[2]
Figure 3.1: Brain chip connections to the brain
Even if brain chip has benefits but it can also be harmful. Is not easy to insert
brain chips into human brains because it is one of the most complex and
delicate organs in the human body, which controls the proper functioning of
our body. Any damage to the brain can result to improper functioning of our
body and may even lead to death.
One of the main concerns about brain chips is that they may cause damage to
the brain tissues both during and after implantation. Even minor brain injuries
can cause permanent damage or death. If implantation of the chip is done
incorrectly, then it can lead to infections and inflammations in the brain,
increasing risks of developing Alzheimer's diseases in later stages of life.
Since brain chips are computer based, they have a risk of failing at some point
of time during their usage. Once the chips fail, repairing them is not easy.
Electrodes are inserted into the brain and can damage the brain tissues both
during and after their insertion. Implants may cause scarring around the
implantation site which could lead to health-related issues like seizures or
paralysis if not treated properly.
Brain chips incorporate a lithium battery that will help in running the chip. The
lithium battery can be charged remotely. But if this battery damages or fails
then it can cause damage to the brain tissue. Lithium batteries are unsafe
because they can cause serious problems with overheating and at times
explode due to over usage.
Placing a brain chip will involve making small holes in the skull to implant
electrodes into the brain tissues and includes a surgery to implant a
pacemaker-like device under the skin in the chest which would contain
batteries needed to run the chip. Due to these procedures being near the most
crucial parts of the human body, there are high risks of complications like
bleeding in the brain, stroke, infection, troubled breathing, nausea, heart
problems, seizures etc.
Once the brain chips are placed, possible side effects after the surgery like
seizures, infections, headaches, and trouble in concentrating, stroke etc. are
prone to occur, which overtime may go downhill. Brain chips, being computer-
based, need electricity to run, but if the wiring is not done properly or any
component of the device is connected to the battery fails, then it could lead to
damage of brain tissues, shocks, burns and skin irritation due to the flow of
electricity.
Brain chips are invasive as surgical procedures are required to insert them into
the brain, which can be harmful if the procedures are not done properly. Other
methods like electroencephalogram (EEG) can be used which are not invasive
or do not require surgical procedures for reading brain electrical activities like
brain chips.
Some brain chips are also not compatible with strong-magnet medical
equipment's such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). Another problem
that can arise is due to migration of brain chip implants i.e., the movement of
chip away from its intended position in the brain due to lose screws, cage
extrusion, inlay extrusion etc. This can lead to hardware failure, pain,
numbness, or other complications. Unwanted tissue reactions due to brain
chips are the inflammatory responses of the brain tissues to foreign materials
(brain chip). This can cause discomfort or damage to the brain and can also
affect the performance of the brain chip. Factors like the material of the chip,
duration of the procedure, size and shape of the chip and location at which the
chip is being implanted can influence tissue reactions in the brain.

Figure 3.2 Students Opinion on surgical implanting of brain chips

3.4 Research Outcome
The human mind is the most perplexing construction present in the human
body, which does extremely significant capabilities expected for endurance.
The neuron’s structure circuits and offer data with one another. Embedding a
cerebrum in the middle of between these neurons is certainly not a simple
undertaking.
Cerebrum chips have given desire to many individuals. Individuals of
assurance, blind individuals, individuals with illnesses like Parkinson's,
dementia, despondency and so forth. might benefit from some intervention.
These mind chips, with the assistance of terminals, convey low degrees of
motivations in the body directing temperament, constant agony, enslavement
and so on. It likewise assumes a significant part in learning and holding
memory, giving admittance to more brilliant innovation.
Mind chips, even subsequent to having different advantages, additionally
accompanies different adverse results, for example, risk of harming cerebrum
tissues both during and after implantation, spillage from lithium batteries that
are utilized to make the cerebrum chips utilitarian, medical procedure
expected for implantation of cerebrum tissues and pacemakers turning out
badly and so on. There are high possibilities of different secondary effects after
the medical procedure like seizures, contaminations, migraines, upset
breathing and so forth.
CHAPTER 4: INTERFACING AND CONNECTIVITY
4.1 Introduction
As stated in the problem statement in 1.2 of the introductions, to make
Neuralink a successful idea, we need to first make a secure brain computer
interface and check for possible connectivity. In this chapter, we will be looking
into the features of brain-computer interface, connectivity of the interface,
challenges of BCI and its risk controls.

4.2 Brain-Computer interface

Brain-computer interface (BCI) connects the brain to other technologies to
communicate in real time. The conversion mechanism uses the user input
brain signals to give out output control signals or commands. Its goal was to
analyze and interpret brain activity in order to translate mental functions into
machine and device language. A key component is determining the conversion
algorithms and proper signal processing that allow neural signals to be
converted into command signals which are operational, and that the computer
can recognize in real time accurately through the BCI system. This involves
adjusting to the relation of the human brain and BCI which is a mutual
adaptation [1].

Figure 4.1: Diagram for the flow of a BCI Cycle

4.3 Basis of connectivity

The BCI life cycle, which is a five-phase, closed-loop process that incorporates
brain data collecting and stimulation procedures. These stages are: (1)
generating brain signals; (2) acquiring and simulating neural data; (3)
processing and converting data; (4) decoding and encoding; and (5)
applications.

From an engineering standpoint, a brain-computer interface (BCI)

communicates by setting up intermediate components for signal processing
and acquisition, outputs (signals directed to the external environment by
implementing the commands), and inputs (user neural signals). Using a BCI
device effectively requires a closed-loop set up for three distinct processes:
processing, actuation (effector), and sensing.

During the sensing= process, technologies detect bioelectric signals using a

variety of invasive and non-invasive technologies. Electroencephalography
(EEG) , local field potentials (LFP) and electrocorticography (ECoG) are the most
commonly used BCIs [2]. The microchip conditions and digitizes neural signals
captured as scalp EEG, surface ECoG, spikes, or LFP. The traditional method
involves wirelessly sending digital data to an external processor, which raises
issues with latency, battery consumption, and privacy. Neural decoding and
feature extraction are carried out directly on the neural device in on-chip
computing [3].

During the processing phase, the computer interprets the user’s intention
acquired by the sensors using the neural data. This intention signal is then
transformed into precise command signals that conduct the actuation process
for the computer or robotic system. Some of the proposed actuators involve a
computer cursor, a motorized wheelchair, and a semi-autonomous robot. The
user’s feedback is then effectively used to alter the thoughts and signals to
produce fresh signals for the BCI for interpretation again, which hence closes
the cycle.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID-based system) uses radio waves to

identify and tag an object. This helps in network security and in connectivity of
brain-computer interface. Brain activity is identified in a secure manner
through this design.

4.4 BCI Challenges

The most difficult problems with brain-computer interface pertain to human
safety, social justice, and equity. The human brain can be harmed by the need
to implant chips and other hardware for an invasive or semi-invasive brain
computer interface. In the event there can be illegal misuse of the relevant
hardware and software, for example, by manipulating signal thresholds or
inputting malicious signals, brain disorders, severe brain damage, and even
human life may result. The digital divide has resulted in a growing number of
significant issues with justice and fairness, which have caused fundamental
disparities between various groups in terms of wealth accumulation, resource
ownership, and information gathering, among many other areas. However,
due to technological limitations, political unrest, economic disparities, and
other factors, only a small percentage of people can afford to advance their
own development and become better than average.

Figure 4.2 Students Identified problems for Neuralink connectivity

4.5 Risk controls

4.5.1 Technical Controls

● Data masking or Obfuscation [4]: This is a process for masking and

encrypting sensitive data which avoids unwanted access. Neurodata, or
the electrical activity between neurons, is data produced by the nervous
system. If this neurodata can be reliably linked to a specific person, it
qualifies as "personal neurodata." Therefore, data obfuscation is one of
the best techniques to mask data.
● End-to-End Encryption of data (Third party): Sensitive personal
neurodata can be safeguarded both in transit and at rest with end-to-
end encryption. BCI developers can also benefit from privacy enhancing
technologies (PETs) that help maximize the utility of neurodata while
protecting the identity of the person to whom the neurodata belongs.

4.5.2 Policy Controls

 ● Rethinking Transparency and Control: There should be policies that
enable a degree of transparency that gives users meaningful control
over their personal neurodata and consider the privacy risks associated
with a given BCI application. Whoever controls and has access to the
data should have a proper level of transparency with informed consent.
● Multi-stakeholder engagement, institutional review boards, and ethical
review boards: Approval and review are necessary before deploying BCI
technology and gathering neurodata. An institutional review board (IRB)
review is required of BCI providers who are pre-registering clinical trials
or collecting primary research data from human subjects [5].

4.6 Research Outcome

Real-time brain-computer interface connects the brain to technology. By using
the user's input brain signals, the conversion mechanism produces output
commands or control signals. Its goal was to analyze and interpret brain
activity in order to translate mental operations into machine and device
language. The five steps of the BCI life cycle create a secure interface. From an
engineering, sensing, and processing perspective, implanting the brain chip
and analyzing the neurodata will need invasive or semi-invasive procedures. In
contrast, BCI has a number of difficulties, including those related to equity,
social justice, and human safety. Therefore, technical and policy risk controls
are in place to manage these risks.

Chapter 5: Accessibility and affordability

5.1 Introduction
As stated in the problem statement in 1.1 of the introduction, there is a need
to make the brain-computer interface accessible and affordable to the public,
by considering its impacts on society.
Extracting useful information from brain activity remains a very challenging
and multifaceted problem. Key challenges with intracortical BMIs are
overlapping and interrelated, compounding difficulty as they cannot be solved
in isolation [1]

5.1.1 Scalability and portability:

The increasing amount of available neural information has been one of the
major recent objectives in the field of BMIs. The design of Neuralink’s BMI
provides excellent portability as it is compact, making it easy to implant. This
structure has other implications such as safe integration into anatomical
structures enhancing its adaptability. One of the challenges that can arise is
the temperature limitation to below 0.5 degree Celsius so as not to harm any
tissues of surrounding cells, due to thermal dissipation.

5.1.2 Transfer rate

Information rate is a key figure merit of BMI(Brain machine interface)
performance. Information rate is corresponded to the effective number of
bps(bits per second) information which can be extracted from the neural data
by the brain machine interface system. For example, translated words or
characters per second for BMI(brain machine interface) by enabling a user to
type text.

5.2 Accessibility
5.2.1 Accessibility of neuralink
Accessibility of neuralink is not advanced yet. As the neuralink is still in its early
stages of development. The BMI is not yet accessible to common people as
advanced technology, conducting research, and seeking regulatory approvals
are yet to be needed. As Neuralink has expressed an interest in making its
technology widely accessible. But neuralink (BMI) need more regulatory
approvals, clinical testing, cost consideration, integration with healthcare
systems. There are some pros and cons.

5.2.2 Benefits of accessibility of neuralink

One of the applications of the system can be the use of robotic arms that can
help the paralyzed people to a great extent. The ideas of connecting the brain
to external cameras and use of brain controlled robotic limbs is expected to
have increased demand in the future and largely contribute to the healthcare
industry. A society in which all people have equal opportunity to use these
technologies will be a one with less socio-economic disparities thereby leading
to a better community.

5.2.3 Challenges faced by accessibility of neuralink

o The first challenge faced by the BMI accessibility is regulatory
approvals. BMI would likely need regulatory approvals from health
authorities in various countries before they could be widely used.
To ensure the safety and efficacy of medical authorities. As it is
risky if it is not properly implanted into the brain.
o The second challenge faced by the BMI is clinical testing Before it
is widely accessible it needs to undergo rigorous clinical testing to
demonstrate its safety and effectiveness.
o The third challenge is cost consideration. The cost of Neuralink
devices could play a significant role in determining their
accessibility.
o The fourth challenge Widespread accessibility would also depend
on the integration of Neuralink technology with existing
healthcare systems, including collaboration with medical
professionals for implantation procedures and ongoing support.
Figure 5.1 Students Challenge ideas based on accessibility of Neuralink.

5.3 Affordability
Figure 5.2 Neuralink’s total funding amounts (2017-2021)
It's important to note that the affordability of advanced medical technologies
can be influenced by various factors, including research and development
costs, manufacturing expenses, regulatory requirements, and market
dynamics.

5.3.1 Challenges faced by affordability of neuralink.

The high costs associated with BCIs, and related procedures could create a
significant socioeconomic divide, limiting access primarily to the wealthy.
Ethical considerations demand that efforts be made to ensure that these
technologies are accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, thereby
minimizing societal disparities and fostering inclusivity.[2]

5.4 Potential risks

While the Brain Computer Interface offers many benefits in various fields, it
also involves potential risks that must be considered while making neuralink
accessible and affordable to everyone to ensure the well-being and autonomy
of individuals.

5.4.1 Privacy issues

The preservation of privacy and confidentiality of personal information is a
challenge as BMI involves collecting large amounts of physical and neural
biodata. The fact that the neuralink allows people’s inner thoughts to be read
and revealed could modify people’s behaviour that in turn can lead to mental
surveillance and psychological harm. Not only are people unwilling to disclose
their cognitive load, but it could also generate significant stress. Hence, It is
essential to establish robust safeguards to protect individuals' agency and
ensure that their neural activity remains private and free from external
influence.

5.4.2 Legal issues

We imperatively need to define who should control access to BMIs, for safety
reasons. As for privacy issues, regulation and laws will be needed.

5.4.3 Social issues

The ethical dimensions of the use of BMIs go beyond the contexts of clinical
research and patient care, such as economic pressures and regulatory controls
associated with commercial availability of BMIs. With the increase in Machine
brain interaction, there will be diminishing social interactions.

5.5 Conclusion
In conclusion, the exploration of Neuralink's accessibility and affordability
reveals both promising advancements and potential challenges. On one hand,
Neuralink's groundbreaking technology holds the promise of revolutionizing
the field of neurotechnology, offering unprecedented opportunities for
individuals with neurological disorders and pushing the boundaries of human-
machine interface. However, the current state of accessibility and affordability
raises important considerations.

CHAPTER 6: INTEGRATION

6.1 Introduction
In the domain of neuroscience and innovation, Neuralink, established by
visionary business person Elon Musk, has arisen as a notable endeavor with
the brassy objective of consistently consolidating the human mind with man-
made consciousness. This research paper digs into the diverse components of
Neuralink, investigating its systems, reasonableness and openness, wellbeing
and security consequences, as well as the many-sided parts of interacting and
availability.
6.2 Neural Interface Architecture
An application-explicit incorporated circuit planned by Neuralink has
empowered the formation of a 1,536-channel recording framework. This
framework comprises fringe circuit control to serialize the digitized data
gathered, 256 enhancers that can be exclusively designed, and simple to-
computerized converters inside the chip. To acquire a superior comprehension
of how the mind capabilities and the ability to energize these neurons once
more, it endeavours to interpret data accumulated from neurons into a
fathomable twofold code. Neuralink can record the terminating of a gathering
of neurons because of the terminals' ongoing size, which keeps them from
recording the terminating of individual neurons. Delegates of Neuralink accept
this issue might be settled algorithmically, yet doing so is computationally
costly and yields loose outcomes.

6.3 Biomedical Implications

The human brain is the most complex structure present in the human body,
which carries out all important functions required for survival. The neurons
form circuits and share information with each other. Inserting a brain chip in
between these neurons is not an easy task.
Brain chips have given hope to many people. People of determination, blind
people, people with diseases like Parkinson’s, dementia, depression etc. can be
helped. These brain chips, with the help of electrodes, deliver low levels of
impulses in the body regulating mood, chronic pain, addiction etc. It also plays
an important role in learning and retaining memory, giving access to smarter
technology.
Brain chips, even after having various benefits, also comes with various
negative outcomes such as danger of damaging brain tissues both during and
after implantation, leakage from lithium batteries that are used to make the
brain chips functional, surgery required for implantation of brain tissues and
pacemakers going awry etc. There are high chances of various side effects after
the surgery like seizures, infections, headaches, troubled breathing etc.

6.4 Neuro-Communication Framework

Brain-computer interface links the brain and technology in real time. The
conversion mechanism generates output control signals or commands by
utilizing the user's input brain signals. Its objective was to transform mental
functions into machine and device language by analysing and interpreting
brain activity. BCI life cycle consists of 5 stages which establish a secure
interface. From engineering, sensing, and processing standpoint, we need to
use invasive or semi-invasive techniques to implant the brain chip and analyse
the neurodata. Whereas BCI faces multiple challenges which include human
safety, social justice, and equity. Hence, to control these risks, there are
technical and policy risk controls. The technical controls include data masking
or obfuscation and end to end encryption. while the policy controls include
formation of ethical boards and proper transparency levels

6.5 Public Perception and Adoption

The Neuralink’s accessibility and affordability reveals both the promising
advancements and potential risks such as privacy issues, legal issues and social
issues. Brain-Machine interface technology has a widespread societal impact
and adoption. In the mission to advance Neuralink’s advancement in various
fields, it is necessary to ensure that the benefits of the idea are accessible and
affordable to those in need. Hence, increased research and development
funding should be allocated to streamline the process and facilitate its
access to the public.

6.6 Research Outcome

As society remains at the slope of a mechanical insurgency, Neuralink's brain
interface innovation can possibly rethink human-machine collaborations,
reshape mental capacities, and address neurological problems.
Nonetheless, with these commitments come basic contemplations spreading
over moral, clinical, and cultural spaces. This paper means to analyze Neuralink
extensively, revealing insight into the two groundbreaking potential and the
difficulties lie directly following such progressive neurotechnological
headways.
This exploration intends to add to the continuous talk encompassing Neuralink
by offering a far-reaching assessment of its mechanical underpinnings, cultural
ramifications, and moral contemplations. Through an interdisciplinary focal
point, we try to explore the intricacies of this neurotechnological outskirts,
expecting both the commitments and difficulties that lie ahead.

CHAPTER 7: CONCLUSION

This report has brought to light the advancement and potential in Neuralink.
The possibility of N1 chip implants in humans making them more advanced
beings, communication technology that links the brain to other computing
devices, attaching of brain chips to the human brain which can help overcome
various health related issues like, Parkinson's disease, dementia, other
neurological diseases etc. Envisioning a future with worldwide access for all at
the same price of today’s smartphones.
Along with the study, we also learned that majority of today’s engineering
students are aware of Neuralink but believe that the concept of implanting
brain chips is not a safe and ethical form of advancement. Another main
concern is the privacy and security of data when connectivity is established
between man and computers, but do believe, if done right, can make the
current education system redundant and give students an easy way to gather
knowledge.

CHAPTER 8: RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on the research outcomes stated in section 3.5, electroencephalography

(EEG) is the most used non-invasive BCI, and local field potentials (LFP) and
electrocorticography (ECoG) are the most commonly used invasive BCIs. A
comparative analysis and an intriguing taxonomy of these techniques is
recommended.
Based on the research outcomes stated in section 4.6, we suggest that one of
the best ways to help in the network security of BCI ,which identifies the brain
activity in a secure function, is the Radio Frequency Identification RFID-based
system. In this system, semi-active RFID tags are attached on the scalp that
transmit the recorded brain activities wirelessly to the Scanner Controller (SC)
which consists of a mini reader and timer for each patient.

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Appendix