Researchers at the Wrocław University of Science and Technology (PWr) are working on a bionic prosthetic hand designed for people with unilateral or bilateral amputation at the forearm level. It can perform various grasping and manipulative movements and is controlled by bio-signals recorded on the stump of the amputated limb and analyzed using artificial intelligence. The device is almost ready.
The prosthesis, named BEEPP (Bionic, Ergonomic, Economic, Polish Prosthesis), weighs 500 g and has a maximum grip force of about 100 N. It is designed for people with unilateral or bilateral forearm amputation of the hand (so-called transradial amputation). The project assumes that it will be possible to personalize BEEPP according to the type of amputation: right/left limb, the shape of the stump and the patient’s body posture, as well as in terms of the size of the active elbow orthosis, the attachment of the bio-signal measurement system on the stump, the forearm, and the hand itself (in two or three sizes).
The project team included twelve people from PWr: computer scientists, mechanics, as well as electronics, automation and robotics specialists. Also involved in the project were surgical and rehabilitation experts from the Wroclaw Medical University, a biomechanics specialist from the Warsaw University of Technology, and the prosthetics company Ortopes, which assists in the design of prosthesis-patient interface components.
The designers are preparing for tests with patients, which are scheduled for the end of this year. Hand amputees interested in participating in the research are asked to contact project manager Andrzej Wołczowski, PhD.
