Prosthetic hands breakthrough presents new possibilities

A new breakthrough could prove a game changer for users of prosthetic hands by enabling new levels of dexterity. With current myoelectric prosthetic hands, users can only control one grasp function at a time even though modern artificial hands are mechanically capable of individual control of all five digits. A first-of-its-kind study has used haptic/touch sensation feedback, electromyogram (EMG) control and an innovative wearable soft robotic armband. Researchers from Florida Atlantic University's College of Engineering and Computer Science in collaboration with FAU's Charles E. Schmidt College of Science investigated whether people could precisely control the grip forces applied to two different objects grasped simultaneously with a dexterous artificial hand. They also explored the role that visual feedback played in this complex multitasking model by systematically blocking visual and haptic feedback in the experimental design.