Prosthetic hands have long struggled to replicate the dexterity and functionality of natural hands, often limiting users to one grasping function at a time.
This limitation has made everyday tasks, such as typing on a keyboard or braiding hair, challenging for those who rely on prosthetics.
However, a groundbreaking study from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) offers promising improvements that could change the experience of prosthetic hand users.
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A man wears a wearable soft robotic wristband (Florida Atlantic University)
The new technology allows users to grab two objects at once
Researchers at Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Computing of FAUin collaboration with the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, conducted an innovative study that combined tactile feedback, electromyogram control, and a wearable soft robotic armband. This research aimed to investigate whether users can control grip forces applied to two different objects simultaneously using a skilled artificial hand.
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The findings of the study, published in Scientific Reports, showed that multiple channels tactile feedback allowed participants to successfully grasp and transfer two objects at once without dropping them, even when visual feedback was obstructed.
For example, participants were able to squeeze a card between their fingers while simultaneously unscrewing the cap of a water bottle or turning on a light switch with their little finger.
Prosthetic robotic arm (Florida Atlantic University)
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Multi-channel soft robotic armband
The key innovation in this research was the development of multi-channel software robotic wristband designed to convey artificial sensations of touch. This wristband included soft actuators that provided proportional contact force feedback and vibrotactile stimulators that alerted users if they were about to drop or break an object. The design of the wristband enabled the delivery of tactile feedback at three critical points corresponding to the thumb, index finger and little finger, effectively improving the user’s ability to control multiple objects simultaneously.
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Participants in the study reported that tactile feedback was significantly more important than visual feedback, especially because visual cues often did not indicate when the object would be lost. This insight highlights the necessity of integrating tactile sensations into prosthetic technology.
Prosthetic robotic arm (Florida Atlantic University)
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Implications for future prosthetic design
The implications of this study go beyond the immediate benefits to the user; suggest a paradigm shift in how prosthetic hands might be controlled in the future. By enabling refined dexterous control through enhanced sensory feedback, this research opens new avenues for individuals with upper limb loss to engage in complex tasks traditionally considered impossible with current prosthetics. This includes activities such as playing musical instruments or performing complex surgical procedures.
In addition, researchers observed that participants with limb loss performed as well as able-bodied subjects on key performance indicators during the tasks. This finding is particularly encouraging for clinical applications and indicates that advances in technology can bridge functionality gaps for users.
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Prosthetic robotic arm (Florida Atlantic University)
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As researchers continue to refine these prosthetic technology systems, we may soon see prosthetic hands that not only mimic natural hands, but exceed capabilities, empowering users to regain their independence and fully engage in everyday activities and specialized tasks. This innovative approach not only addresses existing limitations, but also paves the way for the future development of assistive technologies for people with disabilities.
What personal experiences or stories do you have regarding the use of prosthetic or assistive devices? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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