Flexible & Stretchable EMG Sensor for Lower Extremity Amputee.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Wearable Sensors

Background:

• Electromyography (EMG) sensors are crucial for muscle activity monitoring and prosthetic control.
• Existing EMG sensors face limitations in prosthetic sockets due to pressure, friction, and durability issues.
• Amputees require robust and comfortable EMG solutions for effective prosthetic limb function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel flexible and stretchable EMG sensor for amputee applications.
• To assess the sensor's mechanical and electrical performance under simulated prosthetic socket conditions.
• To investigate the efficacy of the sensor in capturing muscle signals during various physical activities.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a flexible and stretchable EMG sensor using soft adhesive materials.
• Mechanical testing to evaluate durability under pressure and friction.
• Electrical performance assessment of signal acquisition.
• EMG signal recording from participants during static and dynamic movements (gait, jumping).
• Comparison of signal selectivity with commercial electrodes.

Main Results:

• The developed EMG sensor exhibits excellent mechanical flexibility and stretchability, withstanding harsh socket conditions.
• High-quality muscle signals were recorded during both static and dynamic activities.
• The sensor demonstrated superior signal selectivity during dorsiflexion and plantar flexion compared to commercial electrodes.
• The flexible and stretchable design ensures repeated use and comfort for amputees.

Conclusions:

• The flexible and stretchable EMG sensor is a promising technology for improving prosthetic control in amputees.
• Its enhanced durability and signal quality address key limitations of current EMG systems.
• This innovation holds potential for advanced robotic leg control and clinical research in prosthetics.