(via i-LIMB)
Building on being the first in the world to release a prosthetic finger solution with articulating digits in 2009, Touch Bionics has announced a new i-limb digits technology available to partial hand amputees. Historically, it is more common for people to lose one or multiple fingers rather than a whole hand. Despite the level of disability associated with losing dominant fingers, there has never been a reasonable option available for these amputees. I-limb technologies is here to change that, and according to the company there are more than 1.2 million people world wide who could benefit from the technology.
Since every person's situation is unique, i-limb digits begins with a custom made solution for each individual. The new product features shorter and lighter prosthetic fingers, along with a wrist band unit which holds a processor and batteries to power the system. The batteries are fully rechargeable and replaceable and the positioning of them depends upon the depth of the amputation. The batteries are carefully positioned to be as unobtrusive as possible and will usually be placed by the forearm or integrated into the palm of the device.
Furthermore, the processor runs on a control software called biosim-pro. It allows the system to communicate wirelessly through Bluetooth and one can easily gather statistical information in real time. In addition, features can be enabled or disabled, control strategies can be adjusted, and input signals can be be changed through gain and threshold levels. The control of the system is largely due to force sensing resistors(FSRs), which sense muscle contraction through the skin. The signal from the muscle contraction is filtered and amplified before being sent to the processor, which then determines whether the fingers should open or close.
Touch Bionics is helping amputees gain their independence once again through increasing function of their products. Their developments have increased dexterity and comfort of prosthetic products along with making them more anatomically correct. Additionally, people can gain a sense of self-confidence and possibly return to their usual work and hobbies. There is no word on the pricing, however the company insists on contacting them if you would like to find out more.
Cabe