Design and Evaluation of User-Centered Extended Reality Myoelectric Prosthesis Training Tool

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Prosthetics and Orthotics

Background:

• Extended reality (XR) offers a novel platform for myoelectric training, crucial for advanced prosthesis control.
• User needs are paramount in developing effective assistive technologies for individuals with limb loss.
• Myoelectric control requires extensive training to achieve proficiency and functional independence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify user needs for an ideal myoelectric training tool.
• To develop and evaluate the Myoelectric Training in Extended Reality (MyoTrainXR) system.
• To assess the system's usability and effectiveness in improving myoelectric control skills.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews with occupational therapists to define user requirements.
• Development of the MyoTrainXR system incorporating user feedback.
• Usability evaluation with participants having intact limbs and trans-radial limb loss using specific tasks.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in task completion rates and success percentages for all participants.
• Reduced iteration completion times, indicating enhanced efficiency (p < 0.05).
• Demonstrated skill generalization to untrained tasks and excellent system usability (average SUS score of 81.9).

Conclusions:

• The user-centered MyoTrainXR system effectively enhances myoelectric control proficiency.
• XR-based training is a viable and promising approach for prosthesis users.
• The developed system shows potential for improving functional outcomes in rehabilitation.