Enhancing control of advanced hand prostheses using a tongue control system

Abstract

This paper presents a novel control scheme for new advanced hand prostheses implementing multiple grasps and pinches. The control scheme implements myoelectric signals combined with signals generated through an inductive interface with a mouth piece. A pilot study using three healthy able-bodied subjects was performed to compare the new control scheme to a standard prosthesis control scheme based solely on myoelectric signals. Comparisons were made on the time used to activate a specific grasp or pinch pattern. From first to last (third) training session results showed a significant decrease in the time needed to activate a specific grasp or pinch. Also results suggest that amputees using pros-theses with more than three functions could benefit from using the new control scheme. This research is being continued in healthy subjects with the intention to translate the results to patients. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.