Implications of EMG channel count: enhancing pattern recognition online prosthetic testing.
Ann M Simon1,2, Keira Newkirk1, Laura A Miller1,2
1Center for Bionic Medicine, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, United States.
Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences
|March 19, 2024
Summary
Increasing electromyography (EMG) channels from 8 to 16 significantly improved control of virtual prostheses for users. This enhancement in myoelectric pattern recognition offers better prosthesis functionality.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Technology
- Prosthetics
Background:
- Myoelectric pattern recognition (MPR) systems are advancing upper limb prosthesis control.
- Current commercial systems often use up to 8 muscle sites for EMG signal acquisition.
- Previous research suggested 8 or fewer sites were optimal, but real-time control was not assessed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of increasing EMG channel count on real-time MPR control of upper limb prostheses.
- To compare the performance of 8-channel versus 16-channel EMG systems in virtual and physical prosthesis control.
Main Methods:
- Six able-bodied and four transradial amputee participants controlled a virtual upper limb prosthesis using 8 and 16 EMG channels.
- Two transradial amputees performed the Assessment for Capacity of Myoelectric Control (ACMC) with an 8- and 16-channel system.
Main Results:
- Participants demonstrated significant improvements with 16 EMG channels compared to 8, including reduced classification error, faster task completion, and enhanced path efficiency in virtual prosthesis control.
- ACMC scores in the 16-channel condition were more than three times the minimal detectable change compared to the 8-channel condition.
Conclusions:
- Increasing EMG channel count beyond the current standard of 8 channels can substantially benefit users of myoelectric pattern recognition systems.
- Higher channel counts may lead to more intuitive and effective control of advanced upper limb prostheses.
