Star Wars-style Robotic Hand Controlled by Muscle Vibrations

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Lewis had the option of activating two different grip modes while the prosthetic lay detached from his arm on a lab bench. The first was a three fingered pinch that could enable movements such as picking up a small object like a set of keys. The other is a power grip that could enable the prosthetic to grasp a larger object such as a glass of water.

Future refinements to the technology will include isolating the range of vibration interference that may make the hand open or close unexpectedly. The team also plan to refine the device so that it is more portable and enables the user to self-calibrate. This would remove the need for engineers in the set-up process. Adding more sensors would also expand the range of commands, so that the prosthetic can do more complex grasping tasks.

Lewis, who underwent amputation surgery following very rare and devastating infection called Strep A Toxic Shock Syndrome, said: “It is really exciting to be part of this project to test the robotic hand system. Current prosthetics can be very cumbersome and impacting the body, so any technology that can reduce the burden on users is an important step forward. I look forward to seeing this device developed further.”

In the longer term, the team predict that the sensor system could also be adapted so that it could be used to control other technologies and appliances around the home, to further benefit people living with disabilities. They are also working with Imperial Innovations, which commercialises College research, to establish a start-up company to market the sensor and motion tracking technology.

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