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

TL;DR

Lu.i is a low-cost, interactive electronic neuron device designed for educational and outreach purposes, helping students and the public understand neural dynamics and brain-inspired computation.

Contribution

It introduces a portable, customizable electronic neuron model that visualizes neural activity, enhancing neuroscience education and science communication.

Findings

Lu.i effectively demonstrates neural dynamics in educational settings.

The device is versatile for workshops, classrooms, and outreach activities.

It fosters understanding of neuroscience and neuromorphic engineering among diverse audiences.

Abstract

With an increasing presence of science throughout all parts of society, there is a rising expectation for researchers to effectively communicate their work and, equally, for teachers to discuss contemporary findings in their classrooms. While the community can resort to an established set of teaching aids for the fundamental concepts of most natural sciences, there is a need for similarly illustrative experiments and demonstrators in neuroscience. We therefore introduce Lu.i: a parametrizable electronic implementation of the leaky-integrate-and-fire neuron model in an engaging form factor. These palm-sized neurons can be used to visualize and experience the dynamics of individual cells and small spiking neural networks. When stimulated with real or simulated sensory input, Lu.i demonstrates brain-inspired information processing in the hands of a student. As such, it is actively used at workshops, in classrooms, and for science communication. As a versatile tool for teaching and outreach, Lu.i nurtures the comprehension of neuroscience research and neuromorphic engineering among future generations of scientists and in the general public.