Electronic below elbow prosthesis for hand prehension

Hand prosthesis in India is exclusively of Mechanical type. Design of a myoelectrically controlled hand prosthesis is described here capable of prehension. A myoelectric amplifier samples the EMG picked up through surface electrodes and this amplified signal is made to control a dc micro-motor. A three pronged grip is provided by moving the thumb and two fore-finger mechanisms against each other. The opening and closing of the fingers depend upon the EMG level. This electronic prosthesis is useful for bilateral amputees and for amputees with shoulder disarticulation. Clinical trials are under way for optimizing this unit to the patient's requirements.