LOW COST MYO-ELECTRIC PROSTHETIC LIMB

A Project Phase 1 Report

Submitted to the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University

in partial fulfillment of requirements for the award of degree

Bachelor of Technology

in

Applied Electronics And Instrumentation

by

Fayas Mohammed S. TVE21AE036

Steeve Simon TVE21AE065

Ashiq Babu U. P. LTVE21AE071

Meghna G TVE20AE039

Department of Electronics & Communication Engineering

College of Engineering Trivandrum
695016
November 2024
 DECLARATION

We, the undersigned, declare that the project report LOW COST MYO-
ELECTRIC PROSTHETIC LIMB submitted for partial fulfillment of the re-
quirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Technology of the APJ Abdul
Kalam Technological University, Kerala, is a bonafide work done by us under su-
pervision of Prof.Rencymol M V. This submission represents my ideas in our own
words and where ideas or words of others have been included, we have adequately
and accurately cited and referenced the sources. We also declare we have adhered
to the ethics of academic honesty and integrity and have not misrepresented or fab-
ricated any data or idea or fact or source in our submission. We understand that
any violation of the above will be a cause for disciplinary action by the institute
and/or the University and can also evoke penal action from the sources that have
thus not been properly cited or from whom proper permission has not been ob-
tained. This report has not been previously formed the basis for the award of any
degree, diploma, or similar title of any other University.

Name of student : Fayas Mohammed S. Name of student : Steeve Simon

Signature of student : .......................... Signature of student : ..........................
. Name of student : Ashiq Babu U. P. Name of student : Meghna G
Signature of student : .......................... Signature of student : ..........................

Place : ..........................
Date : November 10, 2024

2
 DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATION
ENGINEERING
College of Engineering Trivandrum
Thiruvananthapuram
695016

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the report entitled LOW COST MYO-ELECTRIC

PROSTHETIC LIMB submitted by Fayas Mohammed S., Steeve Simon,
Ashiq Babu U. P., Meghna G to the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University
in partial fulfillment of the B.Tech. degree in Applied Electronics and Instrumen-
tation Engineering is a bonafide record of the phase 1 project work carried out by
them under our guidance and supervision. This report in any form has not been
submitted to any other University or Institute for any purpose.

Internal Supervisor Project Coordinator

Name : Prof.Rencymol M V Name : Dr. Reshmi S Bhooshan
Signature : ....................... Signature : .......................

Project Coordinator Head of Department

Name : Prof.Sindhu N Name : Dr. Haris P.A
Signature : ....................... Signature : .......................
 Chapter 1
ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We take this opportunity to express our deepest sense of gratitude and sincere
thanks to everyone who helped us to complete this work successfully. We express
our sincere thanks to Dr. Haris P.A, Head of Department,Electronics and Commu-
nication Engineering, College of Engineering Trivandrum, for providing us with all
the necessary facilities and support.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Prof.Sindhu N, de-
partment of Electronics and Communication Engineering, College of Engineering
Trivandrum for the support and co-operation.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Dr. Reshmi S Bhooshan
, department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, College of Engineer-
ing Trivandrum for the support and co-operation.
We would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to our project guide
Prof.Rencymol M V, Assistant Professor, Electronics and Communication En-
gineering, College of Engineering Trivandrum for the guidance and mentorship
throughout this work.
Finally we thank our family, and friends who contributed to the successful
fulfillment of this seminar work.

Fayas Mohammed S.
Steeve Simon
Ashiq Babu
Meghana G

i
 ABSTRACT

Prosthetic hands are artificial devices designed for people with upper ex-
tremity amputations to provide them some functions of natural hands . The number
of amputation loss cases in the developing countries are significantly higher than in
western countries due to lack of medical knowledge and the prevalence of illnesses
that have been defeated in the developed world . For an amputee, upper limbs loss
has many different consequences not only in terms of physically but also socially,
economically and psychologically. In order to minimize these consequences and
assist the amputee to adapt to normal life, artificial hands and wrists are used to
perform daily activities such as dressing, writing and grabbing different objects.
Nowadays, several commercial prosthetics devices are available. These de-
vices’ range varies from passive cosmetic hands to body harness power split-hooks,
myoelectric hooks and hands. Despite all the different in their mechanical designs,
control signal types and power sources, most of them are extremely expensive at
hundreds or thousands of euros. Even cosmesses, prothesthetics made only for
aesthetics, although less expensive, are still hundreds of euros. Therefore, in the
developing countries only 5 percent of the amputees own a prosthesis not only be-
cause there are pricey, but also due to distribution and maintenance problems. One
of the main purposes of this project is to develop a low-cost 3D printed prosthetic
hand for patients in developing countries.

ii
 CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGMENT i

Chapter 1. ACKNOWLEDGMENT i

ABSTRACT ii

LIST OF TABLES iv

LIST OF FIGURES iv

Chapter 2. INTRODUCTION TO THE PROJECT 1

Chapter 3. LITERATURE REVIEW 3

Chapter 4. METHODOLOGY 6
4.1 System Design and Component Selection . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.2 Signal Acquisition and Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.3 Control System Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4.4 Mechanical Design and Fabrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.5 User Interface Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.6 Testing and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Chapter 5. HARDWARE/ SOFTWARE TOOLS USED 13

5.1 HARDWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2 SOFTWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Chapter 6. RESULTS & DISCUSSION 16

iii
Chapter 7. SCOPE FOR FUTURE APPLICATIONS 18
7.1 Advanced Machine Learning for Better Signal Processing . . 18
7.2 Integration with Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) . . 19
7.3 Brain Computer Interface(BCI) Directly to Myoelectric Pros-
thetic Arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
7.4 Health Monitoring Integration In Myo-Electric Prosthetic . . 20

Chapter 8. CONCLUSION 22

REFERENCES 23

iv
 LIST OF FIGURES

4.1 PROSTHETIC ARM CIRCUIT DIAGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

5.1 Arduino Nano V3 Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

5.2 Robodo TowerPro MG995 Servo Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.3 RC-A-056 DIY EMG Muscle Signal Sensor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4 HC05 Bluetooth Transceiver Module with TTL Outputs . . . . . . . 14
5.5 ARDUINO IDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.6 FUSION 360 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

6.1 3D MODELS OF DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE PROSTHETIC

ARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

v
 Chapter 2

INTRODUCTION TO THE PROJECT

A prosthetic limb is an artificial body part that replaces a missing part lost
due to injury, illness, or congenital conditions. Such a limb has significant impacts
in the lives of amputees. These people are managed and guided by professional
prosthetists who are respected healthcare professionals with expertise in prosthetic
limbs. Today, such a prosthetic limb can be modernly designed, such as the myo-
electric prosthetic. Such a prosthetic uses electrical signals produced by the user’s
muscles in controlling the artificial limb. The innovation lies in the fact that it is
more direct access to the natural electrical activities within the body, hence mak-
ing control over prosthetic limbs more intuitive and natural for amputees, giving it
more enhanced functions and dexterity with quality as well, resulting in a full life
and active lifestyle for people with limb loss.
Myoelectric prosthetics function based on a principle that detects the electri-
cal signals which are generated by muscle contractions. Then, processing is done
by the microprocessor, which translates these signals into commands to control
motors or hydraulic systems in the prosthetic limb. This way, users can complete a
wide range of tasks, from simple tasks such as eating and dressing up to much more
complex tasks such as playing sports and using tools.
Advantages of myoelectric prosthetics over traditional prosthetics include:
Improved function and dexterity: Myoelectric prosthetics offer an increased
ability for high precision and control, allowing for greater ease and accuracy in the
performance of tasks. More quality of life: Restoring function and enabling the
ability to gain greater independence, myoelectric prosthetics can improve the qual-
ity of life for the amputee. More natural movement: Myoelectric control allows for
more natural and intuitive movements that, to a good extent, feel like they belong to
the body. Advances in technology are making myoelectric prosthetics increasingly
more sophisticated and less expensive. This means many more amputees have an
opportunity to enjoy the impact-changing benefit of this technology.

2
 Chapter 3

LITERATURE REVIEW

The survey provides an overview of recent advancements in affordable my-

oelectric prosthetic arms, emphasizing the use of cost-effective materials, stream-
lined control systems, and user-focused design for improved accessibility.

1. PonPriya in Design and Control of Prosthetic Hand Using Myoelectric Sig-

nal P. describes the development of a myoelectric prosthetic hand, which uses
surface electromyogram (sEMG) signals to control the movement of each
finger. These signals, representing neuro-muscular activity, are acquired non-
invasively through electrodes placed on the forearm muscles. The sEMG
signals are filtered, amplified, and then converted into digital signals that are
processed by a microcontroller, which subsequently drives DC motors at-
tached to each finger of the prosthetic hand. By setting threshold values for
each finger based on the signal amplitude, the prosthesis can replicate natural
hand movements, such as flexion and extension. The current model, wired
for testing, demonstrates effective hand functionality. Future enhancements
include transitioning to a wireless design for more convenient, unrestricted
use by the wearer, enabling greater freedom and ease of movement.

2. Ashik Ali Abdhul, Deepika Subramani, Janarthanan Ganesan in Design and

Development of EMG-Based Prosthetic Arm explores EMG-based prosthetic
arms use electromyographic signals from residual muscles to control pros-
thetic movements, offering a more intuitive interface for users. These systems
rely on advanced signal processing techniques and pattern recognition algo-
 rithms to translate muscle signals into coordinated movements of the pros-
thesis. Recent developments have enhanced the precision and functionality
of these devices, allowing for more complex motions, such as finger and wrist
movements. Despite these advancements, challenges such as signal variabil-
ity, noise, and the need for real-time processing remain, which can affect
performance and usability. Ongoing research is focused on improving the
adaptability of these systems, integrating sensory feedback, and developing
more user-friendly control methods to enhance the overall user experience.

3. Nazmus Sakib, Md Kafiul Islam in Design and Implementation of an EMG-

Controlled 3D Printed Prosthetic Arm presents a cost-effective, locally made
3D-printed myoelectric prosthetic arm for individuals in Bangladesh, where
commercial prosthetics are often prohibitively expensive. The arm is con-
trolled by an EMG (electromyography) recorder circuit designed to capture
muscle signals, which are then amplified, filtered, and processed by an Ar-
duino microcontroller to enable basic tasks like gripping and releasing ob-
jects. The prosthetic uses individual servos for finger movement, based on
an open-source design modified to suit local needs, with components sourced
and assembled for under 4,000 BDT. Successfully tested on an amputee with
an average accuracy of 87 percentage, this design demonstrates the potential
of accessible prosthetics in developing regions. Beyond prosthetics, the EMG
recorder holds potential for local diagnostic applications, offering a broader
impact on healthcare accessibility.

4. MD Raju Ahhmed, Rupayan Halder, Muslim Uddin, Palash ch. Monda,

Ashish Kumar Karmaker in Prosthetic Arm Control Using Electromyogra-
phy(EMG)Signal provides an insight into Electromyography (EMG)-controlled
prosthetic arms use electrical signals from residual muscles to control pros-
thetic movements, offering users an intuitive and natural way to operate the

4
device. Electrodes placed on the skin detect muscle contractions, which are
processed and decoded by algorithms to drive the prosthetic’s movements.
Challenges like signal variability, real-time processing, and the complexity
of translating EMG signals into coordinated, multi-joint actions remain key
hurdles in the development of EMG-controlled prosthetics. Advances in ma-
chine learning and pattern recognition are improving the accuracy and adapt-
ability of these systems, enabling more complex and precise movements. Fu-
ture prosthetics are likely to incorporate sensory feedback and integration
with other bioelectrical signals, further enhancing their functionality and user
experience

5
 Chapter 4

METHODOLOGY

The methodology for developing a low-cost, myoelectric-controlled pros-

thetic arm encompasses several key stages, each essential for creating an effective,
affordable, and user-friendly device. These stages are outlined below:

4.1 SYSTEM DESIGN AND COMPONENT SELECTION

• Microcontroller Selection: A cost-effective microcontroller is chosen for the

ability to run control algorithms and perform signal processing tasks at lower
costs, such as an Arduino Nano. The Arduino Nano offers enough processing
capacity to carry out necessary tasks. This makes it very appropriate for
applications that emphasize cheap alternatives without compromising on the
functionality. Its compactness also allows it to fit various sensors and modules
making it perfect for small-scale wearable systems, such as a myoelectric
prosthetic arm.

• Sensor Selection: Surface EMG sensors allow the recording of muscle sig-
nals with high accuracy and compatibility for acquiring signals from the
residual limb. They are very well matched for myoelectric prosthetic limbs
because they use a non-invasive and highly reliable method for information
acquisition regarding muscle activity. This sensitivity toward surface muscle
activities helps to effectively control the prosthetic so that it can easily be op-
erated through natural and intuitive movements of muscles. Here RC-A-056
DIY EMG Muscle Signal Sensor Kit is used.
 • Actuator Selection: The choice of actuators such as servo or DC motors
would depend on the desired range of motion and load capacity because
they are essential components of effectiveness in accomplishing routine tasks.
These actuators provide the force and precision in movement similar to those
found in natural limbs, allowing users to manipulate a wide range of objects
in a controlled and stable manner. Proper selection of actuators ensures that
the prosthetic can work efficiently, with both power and fluid motion in a
style that best meets the needs of the user. Here Robodo TowerPro MG995
Servo Motor is used.

• Power Supply Selection: A battery or power source is chosen to consis-

tently power the system, balancing power capacity with weight to ensure the
prosthetic remains lightweight and functional. This selection is crucial, as a
reliable power source provides continuous operation throughout daily activi-
ties without frequent recharging. By optimizing the balance between energy
density and weight, the power source contributes to a comfortable user expe-
rience, allowing the prosthetic to perform effectively without adding unnec-
essary bulk.

4.2 SIGNAL ACQUISITION AND PROCESSING

Signal acquisition is the process of capturing and collecting signals from

sensors or other sources to be analyzed and processed. In the context of a myoelec-
tric prosthetic arm, signal acquisition involves detecting electrical signals generated
by muscle activity. These signals, known as electromyographic (EMG) signals, are
produced when muscles contract and generate electrical impulses.

• Electrode Placement: Electrodes are strategically positioned on the residual

limb to capture EMG signals associated with specific muscle movements, en-

7
 suring accurate signal acquisition. Correct placement is essential, as it maxi-
mizes the quality of the detected signals, enabling precise control of the pros-
thetic. By aligning the electrodes with key muscle groups, the system can
better interpret the user’s intended movements, enhancing the responsiveness
and functionality of the prosthetic.

• Signal Amplification: Since muscle signals are inherently weak, they are
amplified to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, ensuring that the control sys-
tem receives a clear and usable signal. Amplification is essential in minimiz-
ing interference and isolating the relevant EMG data, allowing for accurate
interpretation of muscle activity. By boosting the signal strength, the pros-
thetic’s responsiveness improves, enabling smoother and more precise con-
trol for the user.

• Signal Filtering: Filters are applied to the amplified signals to remove back-
ground noise and isolate the frequency band most relevant to muscle activity,
ensuring that only meaningful data is used for control. This filtering process
is crucial for eliminating interference, enhancing the quality and reliability of
the detected EMG signals. By focusing on the specific frequencies associated
with muscle contractions, the system achieves a higher degree of accuracy,
leading to improved control and responsiveness of the prosthetic.

4.3 CONTROL SYSTEM DESIGN

• Microcontroller Programming: Pattern recognition and processing of EMG

signals through software developed on the microcontroller to make an accu-
rate movement control by means of signal processing algorithms over actua-
tors. This would thus enable a reliable response by the device to the muscle
commands by the user; through this, the patterns recognition algorithm is

8
 integrated so that different muscle commands may be distinguished.

• Control Algorithm Development: Algorithms are designed to interpret the

processed signals and to transform user movement intentions into the actua-
tors’ specific instructions. That is, such algorithms analyze EMG signals to
recognize the pattern of different muscle activities and convert these muscles
into actionable instructions that are sent to the prosthetic. This guarantees
correct signal interpretation, ensuring actuators are operated by the system to
allow prosthetics to perform tasks such as grasping or rotating in fluid and
natural movements.

• Real-Time Control: The real-time control strategies are utilized so that when
the user is making his or her muscle movements, the prosthetic would react
smoothly and promptly. Thus, real-time responsiveness is necessarily impor-
tant to use fluid natural motions in order to accomplish the tasks to allow the
prosthetic to make adequate quick adjustments and honed accuracy regard-
ing the user’s intentions. Thus, the process of EMG signals being processed
into immediate actions on the prosthetic allows for seamless operation and
effectiveness.

• User Feedback Mechanisms: Along with other forms of feedback mecha-

nisms including visual or haptic, the prosthesis gives users real-time updates
of the activities performed by the prosthetic. The users are thus in a better
position to inform the prosthetics about its current state, whether moving or
at rest, and are thus able to undergo any errors resulting from malfunctions in
the work of prosthetics. The use of visual cues, such as LED lights or hap-
tic signals such as vibrations, enhances the user’s confidence and control and
contributes to impressions of more intuitive, responsive interactions with the
prosthetic.

9
4.4 MECHANICAL DESIGN AND FABRICATION

• 3D Modeling: Fusion 360, is used to model the prosthetic’s socket, forearm,

wrist, and hand so that every part is well modeled with respect to functionality
and ergonomics. Such a process of design would allow accurate adjustments
according to the user’s needs for comfort, durability, and ease of use. Creating
detailed 3D models helps in optimizing the prosthetic structure and fit to be
both functional and comfortable to wear in daily life.

• Material Selection: Lightweight and durable materials, such as HYPER-

PLA, are selected to ensure the prosthetic is both functional and comfort-
able for the user to wear. HYPERPLA is known for its strength, flexibility,
and lightweight properties, making it an ideal choice for prosthetic compo-
nents. By using this material, the prosthetic can maintain structural integrity
while minimizing weight, providing users with a comfortable, long-lasting,
and practical solution for everyday use.

• Fabrication: The parts are 3D printed, providing a precise process of part

fabrication to match the anatomy of the user. 3D printing offers an advantage
in producing some complicated shapes with great accuracy and will surely
ensure a fit of the prosthetic on the anatomy of the user. This technique
enables rapid changes and modifications to be made to improve the design,
while other methods may be able to be carried out using traditional manu-
facturing techniques for those parts that have further strength or sturdiness
requirements. The prosthetic could be optimized by tailoring the fabrication
process to the user’s needs by returning maximum comfort, functionality, and
performance to the patient.

• Assembly and Integration: Mechanical parts will be combined with the

electronic devices to ensure structural strength and effectiveness of the pros-

10
 thetic. The assembly will closely align actuators, sensors, and wiring be-
tween the various frames within the prosthetic to ensure all parts are working
together as efficiently as possible. The construction is designed so that sta-
bility and durability are not compromised, yet access is still maintained for
easy maintenance and adjustments. With proper integration, the prosthetic
can then work reliably and smoothly provide flow of control to the user.

4.5 USER INTERFACE DESIGN

• User Feedback: The prosthetic uses user-friendly feedback mechanisms in-

cluding visual or haptic cues that provide the user with information on whether
or not they are in full control of the prosthetic while keeping them informed
of status. In other words, the prosthetic will give this real-time information
about the prosthetic’s operations such as which mode it is in, what level its
batteries are, movement status, etc., so that the user can feel and be more
in control and better informed. The feedback to the user is in the form of
visual feedback, by means of LED lights, and haptic feedback, by way of
vibration, which offers intuitive cues to the users to make the prosthetic more
user-friendly, mainly among novice users who have to get accustomed to the
wearing of the device. Overall, this will lead to improved control and usabil-
ity.

4.6 TESTING AND EVALUATION

• Performance Evaluation: This would be to include testing the device for

accuracy, speed and robustness against functional requirements. The assess-
ment under real conditions would be testing the prosthetic response of the
prosthetic to the user commands, movement speed as well as durability. The

11
 assessment confirmed that the prosthetic performs reliably and efficiently to
meet the user’s needs in daily tasks and confirms overall effectiveness.

• User Testing: User trials are conducted to evaluate the prosthetic’s usability,
comfort, and effectiveness in real-world scenarios. This stage provides valu-
able insights from actual users about the device’s fit, responsiveness, and ease
of control. Feedback from these trials helps identify areas for improvement,
ensuring the prosthetic meets user needs and performs well in daily activities.

• Iterative Design: Results from the testing are used iteratively to improve the
prosthetic through feedback. It forms a cycle that depends on both the input
received and data about the performance of the user, thus refining the device
to make it more reliable for better user satisfaction. Through this iterative
process, the prosthetic is actually able to develop or change as time goes by,
get rid of any possible problems that could arise, and therefore optimize its
function for even better use by the users.

Figure 4.1: PROSTHETIC ARM CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

12
 Chapter 5

HARDWARE/ SOFTWARE TOOLS USED

5.1 HARDWARE

Figure 5.1: Arduino Nano V3 Board

Figure 5.2: Robodo TowerPro MG995 Servo Motor

 Figure 5.3: RC-A-056 DIY EMG Muscle Signal Sensor Kit

Figure 5.4: HC05 Bluetooth Transceiver Module with TTL Outputs

14
5.2 SOFTWARE

Figure 5.5: ARDUINO IDE

Figure 5.6: FUSION 360

15
 Chapter 6

RESULTS & DISCUSSION

In the first phase of our project, we have made meaningful progress toward
the creation of a cheap myoelectric prosthetic arm. In our work, we were indulged
in thorough studying and looking for the right components, designed circuits, and
3D models and designed the prototype, with keeping in mind it should be low in
cost as well as functional.

• Component Exploration: We searched for the required components of a

myoelectric prosthetic arm. This involved the analysis of EMG sensors, mi-
crocontrollers and servo motors in which such components had to have the
best balance of being effective and economical in getting and converting mus-
cle signals into movements.

• Circuit Design and Analysis: We designed and simulated the EMG circuitry
to amplify and filter the muscle signals precisely. This circuit will process
EMG signals in the prosthetic hand in order to monitor control or to generate
intuitive, reliable performance for the user.

• 3D Modeling and Printing of the Prosthetic Hand: We used software such

as Fusion 360 to create a 3D model of the prosthetic hand, balancing its er-
gonomic requirements with structural integrity. Several rounds of refined
models ensure optimal fit and functionality before proceeding to 3D printing.

• 3D printing with HyperPLA material to construct the prototype: Uti-

lizing the HyperPLA material- the extremely strong and tough material for
 building a firm but lightweight structure fit for any real application, saves on
cost and still makes sure that the prosthetic device would be strong enough to
be used in daily situations.

• Assembly of Final Prototype of 3D-Printed Prosthetic Hand: The Final

3D printed model of the prosthetic hand was fully assembled and prepared for
the testing. In this first prototype, the integrative element has already been
achieved with designed circuitry, and it is ready to be taken for functional
testing in the next phase.

This phase will set a sound foundation for what follows. We will integrate
the EMG circuitry with the 3D model, and most importantly, test the myoelectric
control system. That will suffice in proving the success of our project with its
mission of providing a cost-effective, accessible prosthetic arm for those in need.

Figure 6.1: 3D MODELS OF DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE PROSTHETIC ARM

17
 Chapter 7

SCOPE FOR FUTURE APPLICATIONS

7.1 ADVANCED MACHINE LEARNING FOR BETTER SIGNAL

PROCESSING

Advanced machine learning can significantly improve the accuracy and re-
sponsiveness of the prosthetic arm. Here is how these methods enhance the func-
tionality and adaptability of the myo-electric prosthetic.

• Deep Learning Algorithm in Movement Pattern Recognition:Conventional

myoelectric prosthetics use basic algorithms for EMG signal decoding, lim-
iting responsiveness and control accuracy. Advanced algorithms like CNNs
and RNNs can significantly improve performance. CNNs excel in recog-
nizing subtle patterns in muscle signals, making prosthetics more sensitive to
gestures for intuitive control. RNNs, ideal for sequential data, capture tempo-
ral dependencies in muscle movements, distinguishing patterns like clenching
or rotating. These techniques enhance control accuracy, enabling prosthetics
to perform more complex tasks in real-time.

• Personalised Training Models for User Adaptability: Muscle signals vary

due to physiological changes, muscle tone, and personal habits, leading to
unique signal patterns for each individual. Future prosthetic designs can
incorporate user-specific training models, allowing the device to adapt to
these unique muscle signals through a short training phase. Transfer learning
and fine-tuning can be applied to personalize the prosthetic, where a general
 movement recognition model trained on large EMG datasets can be adjusted
with individual data, helping the device quickly adapt to the user. Continuous
learning can further refine the model to accommodate changes in muscle tone
or control needs over time. This approach enhances the prosthetic’s versatil-
ity and usability, offering potential for future sensory feedback integration,
like haptic feedback, for a more immersive experience.

7.2 INTEGRATION WITH VIRTUAL AND AUGMENTED REAL-

ITY (VR/AR)

• Training and Rehabilitation in VR/AR: Virtual reality (VR) can offer a

safe, controlled environment for users to practice movements and interac-
tions with their prosthetic. Through VR, users can simulate real-life scenar-
ios, practicing tasks like grasping and manipulating objects, with real-time
feedback to aid learning. This immersive training accelerates motor skill de-
velopment, helping users become proficient more quickly. It’s especially ben-
eficial for rehabilitation, as exercises can be tailored to individual needs and
progress tracked over time, providing valuable insights for healthcare profes-
sionals.

• Enhanced Calibration and User Education: Augmented reality (AR) can

guide users through calibration and usage of the prosthetic in a highly visual,
interactive way. Wearing AR glasses, users could see step-by-step overlays
on the prosthetic itself, making setup and adjustments more intuitive. AR can
also provide cues on advanced control techniques or troubleshooting, sim-
plifying the learning process for new users and helping them maximize the
device’s functionality. This integration not only enhances the user experience
but also makes the prosthetic more accessible and user-friendly.

19
7.3 BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACE(BCI) DIRECTLY TO MY-

OELECTRIC PROSTHETIC ARMS

BCIs can interface directly with myoelectric prosthetic arms, introducing

a revolutionary control method where users can operate their prosthetic purely
through thought. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with high-level am-
putations or those with limited residual muscle function, as it eliminates the need
for traditional muscle-based control. BCIs translate brain activity into precise com-
mands for the prosthetic, offering a more intuitive and seamless user experience.
This method not only improves control accuracy but also reduces physical exer-
tion and fatigue, as the user no longer needs to rely on muscle activity to operate
the device. Future developments in BCI technology are expected to include adap-
tive learning, where the system refines its responses based on the user’s unique
brain wave patterns. This would enable smoother and more efficient control over
time, creating an increasingly natural and accessible prosthetic solution for indi-
viduals with significant mobility impairments. As research progresses, BCIs hold
the potential to transform prosthetic use, offering a truly intuitive and empowering
experience.

7.4 HEALTH MONITORING INTEGRATION IN MYO-ELECTRIC

PROSTHETIC

Integrating health monitoring features into the myoelectric prosthetic arm

could add valuable functionality, especially for users who may benefit from real-
time health tracking.

• Oximeter:Measures blood oxygen saturation, providing insights into respi-

ratory health.

20
• Heart Rate Sensor: Tracks the user’s pulse, which can indicate cardiovas-
cular activity and stress levels.

• Body Temperature Sensor: Monitors body temperature to help detect early

signs of infection or illness.

• Data Processing and Transmission: Incorporate a Bluetooth module for

wireless data transmission to a mobile app. This enables remote monitoring
and convenient access to health data in real time. Program the microcontroller
to manage data acquisition and transmission, ensuring smooth handling of
both control and health data.

21
 Chapter 8

CONCLUSION

This phase of the low-cost myoelectric prosthetic arm project demonstrated

a viable pathway to creating affordable, functional prosthetic solutions for amputee
patients. The most obvious part of this project was the design and 3D printing
of custom prosthetic arm models that were ensured to be affordable and practical.
The saving realized through technological application in the manufacture of the
prosthetic, assisted by reduced electronic component prices, helped reduce costs
that have significant implications on the access for this prosthetic.
Thus, the control system based on EMG would therefore implement intu-
itive, muscle-driven movements so that using the arm makes it quite friendly to
other daily tasks. The system thus offers certain basic motor functions to users, such
as grasping and releasing, thus enhancing the life quality of the user and increasing
their independence. 3D customization would even ensure that the prosthetic arm
could be adapted to a specific individual’s needs, making a solution more versatile.
In general, this stage proves the viability of this low-cost, functional my-
oelectric prosthetic arm made from local resources. Further refinements to EMG
signal processing and user experience assure that this project can be an asset in the
realization of affordable prosthetic options for amputees in low-resource settings to
provide more independence and a better quality of life. file
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