Bionics Changing Lives

A Scottish company called Touch Bionics has been releasing robotic prosthetic limbs such as the i-Limb bionic hand and ProDigits. The i-Limb device was the first robotic hand in which all of the fingers could be controlled individually, and which also has an opposable thumb. The hand was released in 2007 and has already helped over 1,200 patients across the globe. It can open, close, and grab objects. ProDigits are bionic fingers which can be “slipped on like a glove,” and which can replace “any or all fingers on a hand.” Located at the base of each replacement finger is a tiny motor and gear box, and a computer chip controls all movement. The need for individual fingers is greater than that of full hands, but the mechanisms behind the ProDigit invention were actually more challenging. ProDigits cost somewhere from $60,000-75,000 including the price of fittings. They are powered by a switch on the side, and can be charged overnight, similar to a cell phone. Sensors are built into these fingers to pick up the signals sent by the muscles, and then send the message to the computer chip which controls the motor. Pads at the base of the fingers detect pressure, and this pressure can send signals which will cause the fingers to open and close. I think it is very awesome and inspiring that we have gotten to the advanced technology today which allows us to not only replace complete limbs, but individual digits. The ability to incorporate electrical signals and computer technology in place of our biological sensors is intellectually stimulating and really makes you want to learn more about how the body works, and how we can engineer the same stimulants.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/11/business/11novel.html

Amanda Rose