Pison Technology Raises $7 Million in Series A for Human Machine Interface

By James White | Wednesday, 31 March 2021 | Startup, Science/STEM, Tech

The human body is a remarkably complex machine. Our cells are constantly using electrical signals to complete impressive tasks, from movement to forming thoughts. Startup biopotential company Pison Technology seeks to utilize these electrical impulses with a suite of modern technology to further enhance use of the human body’s natural processes. The startup human interface business recently closed a $7 million Series A to continue developing its ecosystem of products.

"Our technology was developed to help ALS patients control digital interfaces by just thinking of their intended movement,” said Dexter Ang, CEO and co-founder of Pison Technology. “What began as a mission to help patients navigate the world made smaller by disability has evolved into a world class platform that connects neurological output with today's digital world.”

The financing for the AI startup company was led by Lavrock Ventures. Other supporters of the business included Bose Venture Capital, In-Q-Tel, and Decisive Point. Previously, Pison Technology was awarded the AI for Accessibility grant from Microsoft to develop its nerve-sensing wearable technology. Prior to that, the ALS Association granted an ALS Assistive Technology prize to Ang and David Cipoletta, co-founder of Pison Technology. The newest funding from investors comes as the biopotential startup company begins to prepare its business for market launch in the near future.

Harnessing the Power of the Human Body

Founded in 2016 by Ang and Cipoletta, Pison Technology was originally intended to assist those affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a disease that targets the nervous system by breaking down nerve cells, ultimately degrading physical functions like movement, speaking, and, in extreme cases, the ability to breathe. The startup business develops a watch-like wearable device that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to interpret electrical signals that describe movement.

The technology designed by the AI startup company sports a wide range of applications. For example, the technology can be used to interact with digital screens by just thinking of performing a gesture or to allow users to control robots remotely with just their thoughts or gestures. Furthermore, the startup business uses the information gathered by its devices to create actionable insights which provide intelligence regarding the user’s health and mental state. Pison Technology has already partnered with tech giants such as Microsoft, Google, and Samsung to implement its hands-free control platform.

"Pison's early success at harnessing neuromuscular sensing capabilities is breathtaking,” said Jim Hunt, Partner at Lavrock Ventures. “In keeping with our focus on deep tech and companies that can find success with commercial requirements, Pison is a perfect fit.”

Joining AI and Biopotential Technology

The startup company offers a unique platform with great potential for expansion into many industries. Market research projects the global AI market to reach over $266 billion by 2027. Not only does the startup company offer solutions for those impacted by neurodegenerative diseases, but the technology from the biopotential business will likely continue to enhance control schemes for companies and partners in the rapidly developing robotics industry.

About the Author

James White

James White is a Michigan State University graduate with a BS in Environmental Biology. He is interested in reporting emerging trends in technology, especially with regard to alternative energy and environmental conservation.