Lu.i - A low-cost electronic neuron for education and outreach

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Educational Technology
• Neuromorphic Engineering

Background:

• Growing societal engagement with science necessitates effective communication tools.
• Existing teaching aids for fundamental sciences are abundant, but neuroscience lacks comparable demonstrators.
• There is a need for engaging, hands-on tools to explain complex neuroscience concepts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce Lu.i, a versatile, electronic implementation of the leaky integrate-and-fire neuron model.
• To provide an engaging, tangible tool for visualizing neural dynamics.
• To facilitate the teaching and public understanding of neuroscience and neuromorphic engineering.

Main Methods:

• Development of a parametrizable electronic device representing the leaky integrate-and-fire neuron model.
• Design of a palm-sized, interactive neuron demonstrator.
• Stimulation of the device with sensory input to showcase brain-inspired information processing.

Main Results:

• Lu.i effectively visualizes the dynamics of individual neurons and small neural networks.
• The device demonstrates brain-inspired information processing when students provide sensory input.
• Lu.i is actively used in workshops, classrooms, and science communication events.

Conclusions:

• Lu.i serves as a valuable tool for neuroscience education and outreach.
• The device enhances comprehension of neuroscience research and neuromorphic engineering principles.
• Lu.i fosters engagement with these fields among students and the general public.