Fusion of Sensory and Motor Performance Toward a Sophisticated Prosthetic Hand

Humans have exceptional manipulation dexterity due to their ability to independently control each of their fingers through intuitive motor-sensory performance. Improving hand prostheses for upper limb amputees require integrating finger motion recognition and sensory feedback for natural motor control and better daily function. To this end, first, a novel mechanomyography sensor has been developed to enhance the motor functionality of hand prostheses for amputees. This innovative technology utilizes multi-mode features to accurately detect the movement of each finger through a single sensor, thereby improving the precision and naturalness of finger control. This breakthrough development in prosthetic technology can enhance motor dexterity in hand prostheses, enabling amputees to carry out daily tasks with greater ease. Second, amputees may discontinue using hand prostheses due to their inability to establish a psychological connection and limitations in perceiving sensory feedback (e.g., temperature ranges). A non-intrusive approach utilizing psychophysics substitution and Leitner training has been recommended to alleviate it. Recalling temperature ranges become effortless, achieving a psychological connection with the prosthesis, reducing energy consumption, and improving embodiment and sense of body ownership are all possible benefits. Third, implementing a closed-loop control system involves using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to reproduce both proprioceptive and tactile perception. Furthermore, a hybrid controller is employed to dynamically regulate feedback intensity in real-time, according to the electromyogram signal, applied force, and finger position factors. This results in enhanced embodiment and dexterity control of hand prostheses. The outcomes of this study have great clinical potential to improve amputees’ daily routines.