Abstract
This paper describes a research project at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial
Science and Technology (AIST) to develop a myoelectric controller. The myoelectric
controller interprets control intentions from the operator by recognizing myoelectric
signals. This kind of controller has typically been applied to control electric-powered
prostheses. The most notable advantage of using the myoelectric controller is its
capacity to utilize the residual muscular functions of physically-impaired persons.
For example, in the case of a hand prosthesis, the myoelectric controller enables
the amputee to utilize the residual functions of remnant muscles at their stump.
Within the project, we initially designed a pattern classification LSI (Large Scale
Integration) in 1998 [1], and as one central application of the LSI, we have subsequently
been developing compact controllers for multi-functional prosthetic-hands. Employing
this pattern classification LSI, the controller can adapt itself to the unique characteristics
of a myoelectric signal distribution for a given individual user [1].
Moreover, in order to realize hand-prostheses that could become widely accepted, we
started developing a basic functional hand prosthesis in 2002. This prosthesis has
undergone some clinical evaluations, and the technology has already been transferred
to a private company for commercialization.
This paper outlines the development of the multi-function and basic function controller,
as well as a basic functional mechanical hand.
Citation
Proceedings of the MEC’05 conference, UNB; 2005.
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