Prosthetic hands have long struggled to mimic the dexterity and functionality of natural hands, often restricting users to one grasping function at a time.
This limitation has made everyday tasks, such as typing on a keyboard or braiding hair, a challenge for those who rely on prosthetics.
However, a groundbreaking study from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) offers promising developments that could change the experience of prosthetic hand users.
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Athletic man wearing a soft wearable robotic armband (Florida Atlantic University)
The new technology enables users to hold two objects at once
Researchers in FAU College of Engineering and Computer ScienceIn collaboration with the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, she conducted an innovative study that combined haptic feedback, EMG control, and a soft, wearable robotic arm strap. This study aims to find out whether users can control grip forces applied to two different objects simultaneously using a dexterous prosthetic hand.
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The results of the study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, showed that multiple channels of Haptic feedback It allowed participants to successfully grasp and move two objects simultaneously without dropping them, even when visual feedback was impaired.
For example, participants were able to pinch the card between their fingers while simultaneously unscrewing the cap of a water bottle or toggling a light switch with their little finger.
Artificial robotic hand (Florida Atlantic University)
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Multi-channel soft robotic armband
One of the major innovations in this research was the development of multichannel software Robotic badge Designed to transmit synthetic tactile sensations. This armband includes soft actuators that provide feedback proportional to the force of contact and vibrating triggers that alert users if they are about to drop or break an object. The design of the armband allows for haptic feedback at three critical points corresponding to the thumb, index finger and little finger, effectively enhancing the user's ability to control multiple objects simultaneously.
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Study participants reported that tactile feedback was much more important than visual feedback, especially since visual cues often fail to indicate when something is missing. This vision emphasizes the necessity of integrating tactile sensations into prosthetic technology.
Artificial robotic hand (Florida Atlantic University)
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Implications for future artificial design
The implications of this study extend beyond direct user benefits; They suggest a paradigm shift in how prosthetic hands will be controlled in the future. By enabling skillful control through enhanced sensory feedback, this research opens new pathways 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 surgeries.
In addition, Researchers He noted that participants with limb loss performed as well as healthy people on key performance measures during the tasks. This result is particularly encouraging for clinical applications and suggests that advances in technology can fill gaps in functionality for users.
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Artificial robotic hand (Florida Atlantic University)
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As researchers continue to improve prosthetic technology systems, we may soon see prosthetic hands that not only mimic the capabilities of natural hands, but exceed them, enabling users to regain their independence and participate fully in both daily activities and specialized tasks. This innovative approach not only addresses current limitations, but also paves the way for future developments in assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities.
What are your personal experiences or stories related to the use of prosthetics or assistive devices? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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