Researchers based at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed the world’s first thought-controlled, fully implantable robotic arm, which uses an amputee’s own nerves and remaining muscles to afford a much more intuitive level of control than previously possible. Initial operations on patients are scheduled to take place during the Northern Hemisphere’s upcoming winter.
Prosthetic limbs which are controlled by electrical impulses in the muscles have been available to amputees since the 1960’s, but they tend to be limited in function and difficult to control. Additionally, many amputees find the standard method of using a tightly fitted socket to attach the prosthetic limb to the body so uncomfortable, that they choose to simply forgo using one altogether.
via gizmag
Continue reading
Related
Nearly eight years ago, DARPA, the US Defense Department's advanced research agency, set out to find a better solution for amputees than the metal hooks still widely used today. Now, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted its approval to one of the projects that came from that effort:…
Prosthetic legs have gotten smarter and smarter thanks to advanced sensors and lightweight motors, but this week they're getting their biggest overhaul yet: the latest bionic leg can be controlled entirely by its wearer's mind. Though the mind-controlled prosthetic leg has been in the works for four years now, the…
The science fiction fantasy of Steve Austin, The Six Million Dollar Man, just took a huge leap toward reality thanks to the work of the researchers behind a new thought-controlled modular prosthetic limb. via Dvice Continue reading
