Open Bionics’ Hero Pro has a higher payload than other bionic arms. (Image Credit: Open Bionics)
Bristol-based robotics company Open Bionics developed and launched Hero Pro, the world’s first wireless bionic arm for amputees. The company spent four years and $2.5 million in R&D to create this product, relying on feedback from 1,000 users. The company claims the Hero Pro has double the strength and speed of current bionic arms on the market today. For nearly ten years, social media influencer Tilly Lockey, who had her hands amputated due to meningitis, has used Open Bionics’ bionic arms.
This wireless bionic arm is lightweight, waterproof, and features a wrist that rotates 360 degrees. Wearers also gain better control and movement without relying on chip implants or invasive surgery. Lockey provided feedback to help design the Hero Pro, which can move across a table and back to the wearer.
Wireless electromyography (EMG) electrodes called MyoPods, placed at the top of the user’s amputated limb, enable this functionality. These detect muscles signals to allow control and movement of the hands and wrists. Users also gain more flexibility, ease of use, a better grip, and rotation with the Hero Pro, as it’s entirely muscle-operated.
(Image Credit: Open Bionics)
It also has a higher payload compared to previous models, carrying up to 57 pounds. The bionic arm comes with seven grip modes for various tasks, such as carrying bags, zipping a jacket, lifting a coffee mug, and washing dishes. These grips are customizable via the Sidekick app. Open Bionics plans to provide more gripping options via an over-the-air update. Charging the battery in the hand takes four hours via the USB-C port.
The Hero Pro is 3D-printed from Nylon PA12---similar to other Open Bionics arms. Additionally, when the hand is separated from the arm, it can crawl atop surfaces, precisely grabbing objects. The index finger has a touchscreen fingertip that enables on-the-go control with a smartphone.
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