A Biomechatronic EPP upper-limb prosthesis controller and its performance comparison to other topologies.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Prosthetics Control

Background:

• Classic Extended Physiological Proprioception (EPP) has historically been a leading control topology for upper-limb prosthetics.
• Existing EPP control methods have limitations that a novel approach could address.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate a novel Biomechatronic EPP controller for upper-limb prosthetics.
• To test the hypothesis that the Biomechatronic EPP controller is functionally equivalent to the classic EPP topology.

Main Methods:

• Development of four controller topologies: Biomechatronic EPP, classic EPP, unconnected, and EMG controllers.
• Utilized dSpace realtime hardware and other mechanical/electronic components for controller development.
• Employed target experiments methodology for laboratory testing of all four topologies.

Main Results:

• Initial results from one subject indicate the Biomechatronic EPP controller's performance is superior or comparable to the classic EPP controller.
• The Biomechatronic EPP controller demonstrated superior performance compared to the unconnected and EMG controllers.
• Performance metrics suggest the novel controller's efficacy in prosthetic control.

Conclusions:

• The novel Biomechatronic EPP controller shows potential to overcome shortcomings of classic EPP control.
• Further research and testing are warranted to validate these initial findings across a broader subject group.
• This development could lead to improved functional outcomes for upper-limb prosthetic users.