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The i-LIMB Hand relies on some of the most advanced control software yet seen in the prosthetics industry.
This software provides speed and grip-strength control to the device while patients generate signals to control the device in a way that does not differ from how traditional devices operated in the past. Two small metal electrode plates, which detect the minute electrical signals generated by the remaining muscles in the limb stump, are placed against the skin to pick up signals. Traditionally one electrode is placed on the top of the forearm and the other on the bottom.
Patients usually have a sensation that their hand still exists despite it being amputated, something often referred to as ‘phantom’ feelings. When encouraged to generate a strong signal, the patient is often asked to move and flex their severed hand to generate a strong control signal. Before too long, these reflexes become intuitive.
Feedback from early patient studies identified that software adjustments can allow patients to perform simple tasks and improve functionality. An example of this is thumb parking, instructing the thumb to close down against the side of the hand to allow a jacket to be out on. Another is a completely new grip function for prosthetic hands, the index point, whereby the hand grasps into a fist whilst leaving the index finger extended. Patients have found this very useful for operating computer keyboards, telephone dial pads, ATM cash machines and a host of other everyday requirements.
With its first commercially available i-LIMB Hand, Touch Bionics is utilizing the myoelectric principles used in existing devices while taking advantage of the mechanical advance of five fully-articulating powered digits. The inclusion of a thumb that can, like the human thumb, be rotated into different positions enables important grip configurations, many of which have not been available to amputees before. The grasp of the hand is much more like that of a human hand with the articulating fingers able to close tightly around objects. Built-in detection tells each individual finger when it has sufficient grip on an object and, therefore, when to stop powering. Individual fingers lock into position until the patient triggers an open signal through a simple muscle flex.
Whereas previous myoelectric hands could only be opened and closed, the i-LIMB Hand offers numerous different grip patterns. These new grip options enhance dexterity and support almost all daily living activities, giving doctors, prosthetists and occupational therapists completely new options for enhanced patient rehabilitation and quality of life. For example, patients are now able to point the index finger to operate a PC keyboard, or to rotate the thumb to meet the side of the index finger to hold a plate or turn a key in a lock. None of these functions have been possible before.
The i-LIMB Hand is anatomically correct both when resting and in motion. This is a key innovation that has been very much appreciated by patients – many of whom simply wish to blend back into society without others noticing their amputation.
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