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FFLS: an accurate linear device for measuring synergistic finger contractions
Risto Kõiva1, Barbara Hilsenbeck, Claudio Castellini
1Neuroinformatics Group, Center of Excellence Cognitive Interaction Technology, Bielefeld University, D-33615 Bielefeld, Germany. risto.koiva@uni-bielefeld.de
Summary
Researchers developed a novel Finger-Force Linear Sensor (FFLS) to precisely measure fingertip forces. This device aids in controlling advanced prosthetic hands by analyzing muscle synergies for human-like grasping and force application.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Robotics
- Biomechanics
- Neuroprosthetics
Background:
- Muscle synergies are theoretically studied for human movement control.
- Applying muscle synergies to control multi-degree-of-freedom (DoF) robotic systems, like prosthetic hands, is a key research area.
- Accurate measurement of fingertip forces is crucial for developing effective prosthetic control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and validate a novel device for simultaneous and accurate measurement of fingertip forces.
- To support the investigation of muscle synergies in grasping and graded-force tasks for prosthetic hand control.
- To provide a tool for advancing human-like control of dexterous hand prostheses.
Main Methods:
- Development of the Finger-Force Linear Sensor (FFLS) device.
- The FFLS measures forces in flexion/extension for four fingers and rotation/abduction/adduction for the thumb.
- The device is designed for adaptability to various hand sizes, ensuring high accuracy and linearity up to 100N per finger.
Main Results:
- The FFLS accurately and simultaneously measures fingertip forces across multiple DoF.
- The sensor exhibits a linear signal output over a wide force range (100N).
- The device provides six analog voltage outputs (±10V) suitable for data acquisition card processing.
Conclusions:
- The FFLS is a validated tool for precise fingertip force measurement.
- This sensor technology can significantly advance research in muscle synergies for prosthetic hand control.
- The FFLS facilitates the development of more intuitive and effective human-like robotic hand prostheses.
