'Luke Skywalker' AI hand lets amputee play the piano

A remarkable new type of prosthetic inspired by Luke Skywalker's bionic hand has allowed an amputee musician to play piano once again. Jason Barnes, who lost part of his right arm in a work accident five years ago, has been fitted with a prosthetic arm designed by Georgia Tech researchers to give the wearer individual control of each finger. Distinguishing it from other prosthetics on the market, the new device is powered by ultrasound signals to detect what movements a person wants to carry out. Most high-tech prosthetics – including Barnes' everyday prosthesis – are controlled by electromyogram (EMG) sensors, the researchers explain. While these allow for certain movements, they have some limitations.