PIT SCIENTIST.COM

How to build a brain
















To make Gordon's 'brain', scientists removed brain cells from rat embryos and grew them in a dish. Bathed in a warm nutrient solution, the cells, also known as neurons, form connections with each other.
'We keep Gordon's neurons in an incubator at body temperature,' says creator Kevin Warwick, robot expert at the University of Reading. 'We feed them every few days with a fresh nutrient and mineral solution - similar to the kind of thing athletes drink.'

Remote brain power
















To avoid infection, Gordon's neurons have to be kept apart from his robotic body. The neurons are stored safely inside a sterile chamber, and signals are sent between them and the body via a wireless link.

A basic body
















Although his brain is special, Gordon's body is more run-of-the-mill. Standing just 11 cm tall, he moves about on two wheels. Sonar sensors allow him to detect nearby objects.

Which way to turn?





















Scientists have managed to teach Gordon to avoid bumping into the walls of his pen 80% of the time. His sonar system sends information as an electrical pulse to his neurons. The neurons respond and send signals back to his body, telling it which way to turn.