Electromyography and applications based on the interpretation of the electrical activity associated with the depolarization-repolarization cycle of the muscle fiber membrane

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the implementation of a method for data acquisition, processing and interpretation of the electrical activity associated with the muscle fiber membrane, generated as a result of the ionic pumps' action. By using a biofeedback shield (EKG/EMG shield) for differential amplification and analog signal filtering, an Arduino development board for analog to digital conversion and an external processing unit, a series of experiments were carried out. These referred to medical diagnosis and research, human-machine interfaces (control of a robotic joint which could be used for prosthetic limbs or industrial robots, as well as control of the computer - for video games, virtual reality, interaction with other devices), and monitoring and increasing sports performance. Due to its noninvasive characteristics, this technique, known as surface electromyography, proves to play a significant role in areas such as medical research, rehabilitation, ergonomics, sports etc.