A Reliable Multi-User EMG Interface Based on A Generic-Musculoskeletal Model against Loading Weight Changes^.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Myoelectric control is crucial for prosthetic function.
• Previous research established EMG interface reliability against posture changes.
• Reliability against varying external loads, critical for daily use and therapy, remained unverified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability of a generic musculoskeletal model-based EMG interface under different loading weights.
• To assess the impact of external loads on myoelectric control performance.

Main Methods:

• A multi-user EMG interface using a generic musculoskeletal model was employed.
• Four able-bodied subjects performed virtual hand/wrist posture matching tasks.
• Tasks were conducted under three loading conditions: no weight, 1.25 lbs, and 2.5 lbs.

Main Results:

• All subjects successfully completed the assigned virtual tasks across all loading conditions.
• Online experimental results showed minimal performance differences between loading weights.
• The EMG interface demonstrated consistent reliability irrespective of the applied load.

Conclusions:

• The developed multi-user EMG interface is reliable across different loading weights.
• This finding supports the potential for enhanced myoelectric control in clinical applications.
• The interface shows promise for improving occupational therapy outcomes for prosthesis users.