A Novel Wearable Interface for Robotic Hand Prostheses

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental investigation on a novel interface for high level control of hand prostheses, based on selected foot movements. A prototype has been developed that integrates four sensitive areas, battery, and electronics for data acquisition and wireless transmission into a wearable insole. The prototype foot interface has been experimentally validated in the control of a robotic hand prosthesis. Comparative experimental trials were conducted with 10 able-bodied subjects, with both the foot interface and an electromyographic (EMG)-based control. The results confirmed the effectiveness of the foot interface in the control of the hand prosthesis and showed a significant decrease in required adaptation and learning from the user's side.