Numenta (http://www.numenta.com) is working on simulating how the brain (the neocortex in particular) recognizes patterns. It's an exciting recent field of research, and has little to do with neural networks, or other supposedly brain-inspired methods that don't actually bear much resemblance to neural processes.
This TED talk by co-founder Jeff Hawkins (of Palm fame) gives an overview of what they are doing.
This TED talk by co-founder Jeff Hawkins (of Palm fame) gives an overview of what they are doing.
http://www.ted.com/talks/jeff_hawkins_on_how_brain_science_w...