Trials imminent for implantable thought-controlled robotic arm

‘Our technology helps amputees to control an artificial limb, in much the same way as their own biological hand or arm, via the person’s own nerves and remaining muscles. This is a huge benefit for both the individual and to society,’ said Max Ortiz Catalan, industrial doctoral student at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden.

According to a statement, amputees have been able to use prostheses controlled by electrical impulses in the muscles but the technology for controlling these prostheses has not evolved to any great extent since they appeared in the 1960s.

‘All movements must be pre-programmed’, said Catalan. ‘It’s like having a Ferrari without a steering wheel. Therefore, we have developed a new bidirectional interface with the human body, together with a natural and intuitive control system.’

Today’s standard socket prostheses, which are attached to the body using a socket tightly fitted on the amputated stump, are said to be so uncomfortable and limiting that only 50 per cent of arm amputees are willing to use one.