Single channel myoelectric control of a 3D printed transradial prosthesis

Abstract

Patients suffering from upper limb deficiency all experience a significant reduction in their ability to interact with their environment. The primary method used to restore this lost function is the implementation of a prosthesis. However, a significant proportion of users abandon their devices—citing reasons such as cost, weight, functional control and aesthetics. This paper will discuss the use of myoelectric control technology in the control of an additive manufactured myoelectric transradial prosthesis. This prosthesis should be low cost, lightweight, easily controlled and has a morphology that mimics a human hand. As a part of this study, a single channel electromyogram controlled hand model was developed using an Arduino Uno microcontroller to control a single degree of freedom. Preliminary testing and debugging has indicated that a single input channel is adequate for relatively simple open/close protocols. However, in order to allow for the more fine control desired by patients, new preprocessing boards will need to be developed for the Arduino in order to gain access to more input channels. This will allow us to truly explore the Arduino as a budget option for implementing higher complexity control structures.