Transcutaneous Magnet Localizer for a Self-Contained Myokinetic Prosthetic Hand

The search for a physiologically appropriate interface for the control of dexterous hand prostheses is an ongoing challenge in bioengineering. In this context, we proposed an interface, named myokinetic control interface, based on the localization of magnets implanted in the residual limb muscles, to monitor their contractions and send appropriate commands to the artificial hand. As part of such concept, this interface requires a transcutaneous magnet localizer that can be integrated in a self-contained limb prosthesis, a feature yet to be realized within the current state of the art.

In an attempt to cover this gap, here we present a modular embedded system consisting of a computation unit able to acquire synchronized samples captured by up to eight acquisition units, so to localize multiple magnets.

The system exhibits short computation times (<60ms) and power consumption (0.6-1.2W) which are suitable for use in a clinically viable prosthetic arm. The system proved able to localize magnets while moving at speeds in the range of physiological movements (<0.24m/s), with high accuracy (<1mm) and precision (<0.5mm).

We demonstrated a system suitable for the implementation of a self-contained myokinetic prosthetic hand.

These results pave the way towards the clinical implementation of the myokinetic interface, with amputees controlling an artificial arm by means of implanted magnets.