The LIBRA NeuroLimb: Hybrid Real-Time Control and Mechatronic Design for Affordable Prosthetics in Developing Regions

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neuroprosthetics
• Rehabilitation Technology

Background:

• Transhumeral amputations affect 2.5% of upper limb amputees globally.
• Current prosthetic control methods, like sEMG, face challenges with weakened signals and limited gesture execution.
• Existing mechanical prosthetics often necessitate compensatory movements, impacting user experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the LIBRA NeuroLimb prosthesis, a novel solution for transhumeral amputees.
• To evaluate a hybrid control system integrating sEMG and EEG signal classification for enhanced prosthetic function.
• To assess the prosthesis's potential for improving daily activity performance in users.

Main Methods:

• Development of the LIBRA NeuroLimb prosthesis with 3 active and 4 passive degrees of freedom.
• Implementation of a hybrid control system utilizing sEMG and EEG signal classification.
• Testing and validation with two volunteers using the "AM-ULA" assessment.

Main Results:

• The hybrid control system achieved high accuracy rates: 99% for sEMG and 76% for EEG classification.
• The prosthesis demonstrated rapid grip execution (0.3 s) and significant pinch force (21.26 N).
• Volunteer assessments showed promising results (AM-ULA scores of 222 and 144) for improved daily activity performance.

Conclusions:

• The LIBRA NeuroLimb prosthesis offers precise, real-time control for transhumeral amputees via a hybrid sEMG-EEG system.
• The prosthesis shows significant potential to enhance functional capabilities and daily living for users.
• Future development will focus on increasing mechanical strength, active degrees of freedom, and real-world usability.