A device and method for decoding neuronal responses wherein sequences of potentials from neurons are monitored while specific motor tasks are carried out, and these sequences are characterized using order statistics and subsequently the order statistics are used to decode action potentials representing unidentified motor tasks to determine the desired motor task. The method of the invention comprises the steps of monitoring action potentials caused by a motor task being requested by the brain, calculating a spike density function and order tasks for each distinct motor task, to relate action potentials to their specific motor task. The invention also offers methods of formulating instructions for a prosthetic device. This method comprises the steps of learning the neuronal responses of distinct motor tasks by monitoring action potentials caused by a motor task being requested by the brain, calculating a cumulative density function for each distinct motor task, and using order statistics to relate action potentials to their respective motor tasks; monitoring action potentials from at least one neuron of said user wherein the action potentials are caused by the request for an unknown motor task; using said learned neuronal responses to determine which motor task is being requested by the monitored neuron; and formulating instructions on how to carry out the requested motor task. The device of the invention comprises a prosthetic limb, a device capable of making said prosthetic limb carry out motor tasks, a device capable of recording action potentials from neurons, and a device containing instructions for monitoring neurons, calculating cumulative density functions, utilizing order statistics, and determining instructions for various motor tasks.
Decoding algorithm for neuronal responses