UNIVERSAL, LOW-COST TRANSRADIAL CHECK SOCKET FOR RAPIDLY VALIDATING MYOELECTRIC CONTROL

The validation of myoelectric prosthetic control strategies for individuals experiencing upper-limb loss is hindered by the time and cost affiliated with traditional custom-fabricated sockets. Consequently, researchers often rely on virtual reality or robotic arms to validate novel control strategies, limiting end-user involvement. Here we present a multi-user, low-cost, 3D-printed transradial socket for short-term use that can be custom-fit and donned rapidly, used in conjunction with various electromyography configurations, and adapted for use with various residual limbs and terminal devices. The check socket was fabricated prior to participants' arrival, fitted by the researchers within ten minutes, and donned in under one minute. It accommodated multiple individuals and terminal devices, and its total cost of materials was under $10 USD. Across all participants, the socket did not significantly impede functional task performance or reduce the electromyography signal-to-noise ratio. The socket was comfortable enough for at least two hours of use. The development of this universal transradial check socket constitutes an important step towards increased end-user participation in advanced myoelectric prosthetic research.