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Advanced Myoelectric Prosthetic Arm With Integrated Sensory Feedback And Motor Controlled Joints

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a myoelectric prosthetic arm comprising a socket adapted to fit over a residual limb, including integrated myoelectric sensors configured to detect neuromuscular activity; a frame constructed from a composite material, providing structural support to an elbow joint, a wrist joint, and multiple finger actuators; the elbow joint connected to the frame, including a motor-driven mechanism for bending; the wrist joint connected to the elbow joint, enabling rotational and flexing movements; the multiple finger actuators connected to the wrist joint, each equipped with an independent motor to facilitate complex gripping actions; a control unit embedded within the frame, programmed to process signals from the myoelectric sensors and control the motors based on these inputs; a power supply integrated into the frame, configured to supply electrical power to the motors and the control unit; a user interface for adjusting operational parameters of the prosthetic arm; and feedback mechanisms designed to provide sensory feedback to the user concerning grip strength and prosthetic limb position.

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Notices, Deadlines & Correspondence

Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
26 April 2024
Publication Number
32/2024
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
BIO-MEDICAL ENGINEERING
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

MARWADI UNIVERSITY
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
PROF. AKSHAY RANPARIYA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
DR. MADHU SHUKLA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
KUSHAGRA PANDYA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
MOKSH SHAH
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
SELAM WUJIRA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
NETSANET DEREJE
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
SWETA GOSWAMI
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA

Inventors

1. PROF. AKSHAY RANPARIYA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
2. DR. MADHU SHUKLA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
3. KUSHAGRA PANDYA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
4. MOKSH SHAH
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
5. SELAM WUJIRA
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
6. NETSANET DEREJE
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA
7. SWETA GOSWAMI
MARWADI UNIVERSITY, RAJKOT- MORBI HIGHWAY, AT GAURIDAD, RAJKOT – 360003, GUJARAT, INDIA

Specification

Description:Brief Description of the Drawings

Generally, the present disclosure relates to prosthetic devices. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a myoelectric prosthetic arm comprising integrated sensors and motor-driven joints for enhanced mobility and control.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
Prosthetic arms have been developed to replace limbs lost due to injury, disease, or congenital conditions. The primary goal of these devices is to restore a level of normalcy and functionality to the lives of individuals with amputations. Early prosthetic devices were simple in design and function, offering limited movement and strength. With advancements in technology, particularly in the fields of biomechanics and electronics, more sophisticated prosthetics have been introduced. These include myoelectric prosthetics, which operate using electrical signals generated by the user's muscle movements. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in the development of prosthetic arms that closely mimic the functionality and feedback of natural limbs.
One well-known approach to enhancing prosthetic functionality involves the use of myoelectric sensors. These sensors detect neuromuscular activity in the residual limb and convert these signals into commands that control the prosthetic's movements. While myoelectric sensors have significantly improved the responsiveness of prosthetic arms, their effectiveness can be limited by signal interference and the quality of the sensor-skin interface. Users often face difficulties in consistently generating the precise signals needed for accurate prosthetic control.
Furthermore, the structural design of prosthetic arms is crucial for their performance and durability. Traditionally, prosthetics have been constructed from materials such as metals and plastics, which provide a compromise between strength and weight. However, these materials do not always offer the optimal combination of lightweight and high strength that is beneficial for ease of use and comfort. Composite materials have emerged as a promising alternative, offering superior strength-to-weight ratios, but their integration into prosthetic design requires careful consideration of the prosthetic's architecture and the functional integration of joints and actuators.
Another significant aspect of prosthetic arm development is the design of joints and actuators. The elbow and wrist joints, along with finger actuators, are critical for performing a wide range of tasks. Conventional designs often rely on simple hinge mechanisms or limited actuation capabilities, which can restrict the prosthetic's range of motion and the user's ability to perform complex tasks. Developing motor-driven mechanisms that allow for more natural and versatile movements represents a considerable challenge in prosthetic design.
Additionally, the control systems of prosthetic arms play a pivotal role in their functionality. These systems must process input signals from myoelectric sensors accurately and translate them into precise motor commands. The complexity of human limb movements requires sophisticated algorithms and hardware capable of handling the nuances of muscle signal interpretation. Achieving a balance between responsiveness and ease of use in these control systems is a significant hurdle.
Moreover, the integration of power supplies into prosthetic arms without compromising their weight or design is another area of concern. Prosthetics require reliable and long-lasting power sources to operate their electronic components, including sensors, control units, and motors. The challenge lies in incorporating these power supplies in a way that maintains the prosthetic's overall functionality and user comfort.
Additionally, providing users with feedback on their prosthetic's status and interaction with objects is a relatively new area of development. Traditional prosthetics offer limited, if any, sensory feedback, leaving users to rely on visual cues. Introducing feedback mechanisms that can convey information about grip strength, limb position, and other sensory inputs could significantly enhance the user experience and functionality of the prosthetic.
In light of the above discussion, there exists an urgent need for solutions that overcome the challenges associated with conventional prosthetic arms. These solutions should focus on integrating advanced myoelectric sensors, composite materials, motor-driven joint mechanisms, sophisticated control systems, compact power supplies, and sensory feedback mechanisms to provide users with a prosthetic arm that closely mimics the functionality and feedback of a natural limb.

Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a myoelectric prosthetic arm comprising a socket adapted to fit over a residual limb with integrated myoelectric sensors for detecting neuromuscular activity, a frame constructed from a composite material providing structural support to an elbow joint, a wrist joint, and multiple finger actuators. The elbow joint, equipped with a motor-driven mechanism for bending, is connected to the frame. The wrist joint, enabling rotational and flexing movements, connects to the elbow joint. Multiple finger actuators, each with an independent motor, facilitate complex gripping actions. A control unit embedded within the frame processes signals from the myoelectric sensors to control the motors. An integrated power supply provides electrical power to the motors and the control unit. A user interface allows for the adjustment of operational parameters, and feedback mechanisms are designed to provide sensory feedback concerning grip strength and limb position.
Furthermore, enhancements such as a skin-compatible silicone lining in the socket, a locking mechanism for the elbow joint, vibratory feedback units for sensory feedback, micro-textured surfaces on finger actuators, damper systems in the elbow and wrist joints, ultrasonic sensors on the fingertips, and a temperature regulation system within the socket significantly augment the functionality and user experience of the prosthetic arm. These features aim to provide a more natural and intuitive control over the prosthetic limb, improve grip and handling of objects, offer sensory feedback to the user, and enhance the comfort and usability of the prosthetic arm through advanced technological integration.

Field of the Invention

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a myoelectric prosthetic arm (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart depicting the operational sequence of a myoelectric prosthetic arm, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
The term "myoelectric prosthetic arm" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to an artificial limb designed to replace a missing arm, which operates based on electrical signals generated by the user's muscle movements. The myoelectric prosthetic arm is comprised of several integral components that work in harmony to replicate the functionality of a natural arm, providing the user with the ability to perform a wide range of movements and tasks.
The term "socket" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the part of the prosthetic arm that interfaces directly with the user's residual limb. The socket is adapted to fit over the residual limb securely and comfortably. It includes integrated myoelectric sensors that are configured to detect neuromuscular activity from the residual limb. These sensors play a critical role in translating the user's intended movements into actual movements of the prosthetic arm.
The term "frame" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the structural component of the myoelectric prosthetic arm, constructed from a composite material. The frame provides essential structural support to the elbow joint, the wrist joint, and multiple finger actuators. The use of composite materials ensures that the frame is both lightweight and strong, offering the necessary support without unduly burdening the user.
The term "elbow joint" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the component of the prosthetic arm that replicates the functionality of a human elbow. The elbow joint is connected to the frame and comprises a motor-driven mechanism for bending. This feature allows the user to bend the prosthetic arm in a manner similar to a natural arm, enhancing the prosthetic arm's utility and versatility.
The term "wrist joint" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the component that allows for rotational and flexing movements of the prosthetic arm. Connected to the elbow joint, the wrist joint enables the user to rotate and flex the prosthetic hand, thereby allowing for a more natural range of movements and the ability to perform complex tasks.
The term "finger actuators" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the components connected to the wrist joint. Each finger actuator is equipped with an independent motor to facilitate complex gripping actions. This feature enables the prosthetic hand to grasp and manipulate objects with precision, closely mimicking the functionality of a natural hand.
The term "control unit" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the electronic component embedded within the frame. The control unit is programmed to process signals from the myoelectric sensors and control the motors based on these inputs. It serves as the brain of the prosthetic arm, translating the user's intentions into precise movements of the prosthetic limbs.
The term "power supply" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the component integrated into the frame, configured to supply electrical power to the motors and the control unit. The power supply ensures that all electronic components of the prosthetic arm have the necessary power to function effectively, thereby enabling continuous and reliable operation of the prosthetic arm.
The term "user interface" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the interface through which the user can adjust operational parameters of the prosthetic arm. The user interface allows the user to customize the functionality of the prosthetic arm according to their preferences and needs, enhancing the user experience and satisfaction.
The term "feedback mechanisms" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the systems designed to provide sensory feedback to the user concerning grip strength and prosthetic limb position. These mechanisms are crucial for giving the user a sense of touch and spatial awareness, thereby improving the usability and effectiveness of the prosthetic arm.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a myoelectric prosthetic arm (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. Said diagram displays various components that constitute the prosthetic arm. The socket (102) is adapted to fit over a user's residual limb and includes integrated myoelectric sensors beneath a lining, which maintain contact with the user's skin to detect neuromuscular activity. A frame (104) constructed from a composite material provides structural support to the prosthetic arm, housing an elbow joint (106), a wrist joint (108), and multiple finger actuators (110). Said elbow joint (106) comprises a motor-driven mechanism for bending and is operatively connected to the frame (104). Said wrist joint (108) is enabled for rotational and flexing movements and is connected to the elbow joint (106). Said multiple finger actuators (110), each equipped with an independent motor, facilitate complex gripping actions and are connected to the wrist joint (108). Integrated within the frame (104) is a control unit (112), programmed to process signals from the myoelectric sensors and to control the motors based on said inputs. A power supply (114) is integrated into the frame (104), configured to supply electrical power to the motors and the control unit (112). A user interface (116) allows for the adjustment of operational parameters of the prosthetic arm. Additionally, feedback mechanisms (118) are designed to provide sensory feedback to the user, concerning grip strength and prosthetic limb position, thus enhancing the functionality of the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100).
In an embodiment, the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) includes a socket (102) featuring a lining made from skin-compatible silicone. This lining is strategically designed to incorporate myoelectric sensors beneath it, ensuring that these sensors maintain constant contact with the user’s skin. The integration of skin-compatible silicone serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it enhances the comfort for the user by providing a soft interface between the prosthetic device and the residual limb. This is crucial for long-term wearability and reduces the risk of skin irritation. Secondly, the placement of myoelectric sensors beneath the lining ensures that the sensors are adequately protected while still being able to accurately detect neuromuscular activity. This setup is instrumental in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of the prosthetic arm’s control system. The constant contact between the sensors and the skin ensures that the signals generated by the user’s muscle movements are consistently captured, thereby facilitating precise control over the prosthetic arm's movements.
In another embodiment, the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) incorporates a locking mechanism within the elbow joint (106). This locking mechanism is controlled via the control unit (112) and can be engaged or disengaged to maintain or change the bend of the elbow. This feature adds a significant level of functionality to the prosthetic arm, allowing the user to lock the elbow joint in a desired position. This capability is especially beneficial for activities that require sustained use of the arm in a fixed position, reducing fatigue and providing stability. The ability to control the locking mechanism through the control unit (112) ensures that the user can easily adjust the position of the arm as needed, offering flexibility and enhanced control in the use of the prosthetic arm.
In a further embodiment, the feedback mechanisms (118) of the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) include vibratory feedback units integrated within the socket (102). These units are designed to relay information about touch and pressure applied by the prosthetic fingers to the user. This form of sensory feedback is vital for users to gain better control over the gripping strength and to perform delicate tasks with the prosthetic hand. By providing vibratory feedback, the user receives real-time information regarding the contact force between the prosthetic fingers and objects, enhancing the overall functionality and usability of the prosthetic arm. This feedback mechanism thereby significantly improves the user's interaction with their environment, making the prosthetic arm more intuitive and natural to use.
In an additional embodiment, the finger actuators (110) of the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) are equipped with micro-textured surfaces. These surfaces are specifically designed to enhance the grip on smooth or slippery objects, effectively reducing the required gripping force and improving energy consumption efficiency. The micro-textures increase the surface friction between the prosthetic fingers and the objects they come into contact with, ensuring a secure grip without the need for excessive force. This innovation not only aids in the manipulation of a wide variety of objects but also contributes to the energy-efficient operation of the prosthetic arm, as less motor power is needed to maintain a firm grip. This feature is particularly beneficial in reducing the overall power consumption of the prosthetic arm, thereby extending the battery life and enhancing the user experience.
In another embodiment, the elbow and wrist joints (108) of the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) incorporate damper systems. These systems are engineered to smooth out jerky movements, thereby reducing mechanical stress on the prosthetic arm and enhancing its smooth operation. The integration of damper systems into the joints addresses a common challenge in prosthetic design, which is to replicate the fluid and natural movements of human limbs. By mitigating abrupt and jerky motions, the damper systems contribute to a more natural and controlled movement pattern for the prosthetic arm. This not only improves the user's ability to perform precise tasks but also increases the durability of the prosthetic arm by minimizing wear and tear associated with mechanical stress.
In a further embodiment, the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) comprises ultrasonic sensors on the fingertips, designed to detect object proximity and texture. These sensors provide the control unit (112) with additional data to optimize grip strength and stability without the need for direct contact. By utilizing ultrasonic sensing technology, the prosthetic arm can gauge the distance to objects and identify their surface characteristics before physical contact is made. This capability significantly enhances the prosthetic arm's functionality, allowing for a more nuanced and adaptive grip. The ability to adjust grip strength and stability based on proximity and texture data not only improves the handling of a wide range of objects but also contributes to the overall safety and effectiveness of the prosthetic arm.
In an additional embodiment, the myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of any preceding claims includes a temperature regulation system within the socket (102). This system is configured to adjust the temperature based on external conditions and user comfort, thereby preventing sweat buildup and improving sensor contact with the skin. The temperature regulation system addresses a common issue faced by prosthetic users, which is the discomfort and potential skin irritation caused by prolonged contact with a non-breathable material. By actively regulating the temperature within the socket, the system ensures that the environment between the prosthetic device and the user's skin remains comfortable and conducive to optimal sensor performance. This feature not only enhances the user's comfort but also maintains the integrity of the sensor-skin interface, crucial for the accurate detection of neuromuscular activity.
FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart depicting the operational sequence of a myoelectric prosthetic arm, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The flowchart depictes the operational sequence of a myoelectric prosthetic arm that translates electrical signals generated by muscle movements into mechanical actions, enabling users to control the prosthetic with their own neuromuscular system. At the commencement of the process, a user with an amputated limb initiates a muscle movement in their residual limb. The sensor is configured to sense electromyographic (EMG) signals i.e., electrical activity produced by the skeletal muscles. The signals are obtained via EMG sensors strategically placed on the user’s skin over the muscles that remain post-amputation. The captured signals are then analyzes to discern the user's intended movement. Because EMG signals can be noisy and complex, making challenging to distinguish between different intended actions. Once the intention is decoded, the processor converts the decoded intentions into specific commands for the prosthetic’s actuators. The control system decodes signal patterns and translates them into corresponding mechanical movements. The processor controls motors (often servo motors) to replicate human limb movements such as flexing, extending, rotating, or gripping. The actuators receive commands from the control system and physically move the prosthetic hand and fingers in a manner that corresponds to the intended muscle signals.
In an embodiment, the myoelectric prosthetic arm overcomes cost barriers associated with traditional prosthetic solutions. By leveraging advanced technologies such as 3D printing, servo motors, Arduino microcontrollers, and muscle sensors, the prosthetic arm is rendered both affordable and user-friendly. The myoelectric sensors detect muscle activity and convert into electrical signals. The signals are then processed by the Arduino microcontroller, which commands the servo motors to articulate the arm's movements, offering users intuitive control and the ability to perform tasks with ease. The myoelectric prosthetic arm enhances the quality of life for users by improving functionality and comfort but also makes the prosthetic arm accessible to a broader audience, especially those from middle-class and lower-middle-class backgrounds. In addition to the prosthetic arm, the study also highlights the design and benefits of a voice assistant integrated with advanced natural language processing (NLP) algorithms and machine learning models. Such assistant offers enhanced accuracy in voice recognition across multiple languages and dialects, contextual understanding for relevant responses, adaptability to user preferences, and multilingual support. Its integration across various devices further ensures a seamless and personalized user experience. Both innovations represent significant advancements in their respective fields, aiming to improve accessibility and convenience for users worldwide.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We Claims

A myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) comprising:
a socket (102) adapted to fit over a residual limb, including integrated myoelectric sensors configured to detect neuromuscular activity;
a frame (104) constructed from a composite material, wherein the frame (104) provides structural support to an elbow joint (106), a wrist joint (108), and multiple finger actuators (110);
the elbow joint (106) connected to the frame (104), wherein the elbow joint (106) comprising a motor-driven mechanism for bending;
the wrist joint (108) connected to the elbow joint (106), enabling rotational and flexing movements;
the multiple finger actuators (110) connected to the wrist joint (108), each actuator equipped with an independent motor to facilitate complex gripping actions;
a control unit (112) embedded within the frame (104), programmed to process signals from the myoelectric sensors and control the motors based on these inputs;
a power supply integrated (114) into the frame (104), configured to supply electrical power to the motors and the control unit (112);
a user interface (116) for adjusting operational parameters of the prosthetic arm;
feedback mechanisms (118) designed to provide sensory feedback to the user concerning grip strength and prosthetic limb position.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the socket (102) includes a lining made from skin-compatible silicone, incorporating myoelectric sensors beneath the lining to maintain contact with the user’s skin.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the elbow joint (106) includes a locking mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged via the control unit (112) to maintain or change the bend of the elbow.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the feedback mechanisms (118) include vibratory feedback units integrated within the socket (102) to relay information about touch and pressure applied by the prosthetic fingers.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the finger actuators are equipped with micro-textured surfaces to enhance grip on smooth or slippery objects, thereby reducing the required gripping force and improving energy consumption efficiency.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, where the elbow and wrist joints (108) incorporate damper systems that smooth out jerky movements, thereby reducing mechanical stress and enhancing the smooth operation of the prosthetic arm.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, comprising ultrasonic sensors on the fingertips that detect object proximity and texture, providing the control unit (112) with additional data to optimize grip strength and stability without direct contact.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of any preceding claims, including a temperature regulation system within the socket (102) that adjusts the temperature based on external conditions and user comfort, thereby preventing sweat buildup and improving sensor contact with the skin.

ADVANCED MYOELECTRIC PROSTHETIC ARM WITH INTEGRATED SENSORY FEEDBACK AND MOTOR-CONTROLLED JOINTS

The present disclosure provides a myoelectric prosthetic arm comprising a socket adapted to fit over a residual limb, including integrated myoelectric sensors configured to detect neuromuscular activity; a frame constructed from a composite material, providing structural support to an elbow joint, a wrist joint, and multiple finger actuators; the elbow joint connected to the frame, including a motor-driven mechanism for bending; the wrist joint connected to the elbow joint, enabling rotational and flexing movements; the multiple finger actuators connected to the wrist joint, each equipped with an independent motor to facilitate complex gripping actions; a control unit embedded within the frame, programmed to process signals from the myoelectric sensors and control the motors based on these inputs; a power supply integrated into the frame, configured to supply electrical power to the motors and the control unit; a user interface for adjusting operational parameters of the prosthetic arm; and feedback mechanisms designed to provide sensory feedback to the user concerning grip strength and prosthetic limb position.

, Claims:I/We Claims

A myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) comprising:
a socket (102) adapted to fit over a residual limb, including integrated myoelectric sensors configured to detect neuromuscular activity;
a frame (104) constructed from a composite material, wherein the frame (104) provides structural support to an elbow joint (106), a wrist joint (108), and multiple finger actuators (110);
the elbow joint (106) connected to the frame (104), wherein the elbow joint (106) comprising a motor-driven mechanism for bending;
the wrist joint (108) connected to the elbow joint (106), enabling rotational and flexing movements;
the multiple finger actuators (110) connected to the wrist joint (108), each actuator equipped with an independent motor to facilitate complex gripping actions;
a control unit (112) embedded within the frame (104), programmed to process signals from the myoelectric sensors and control the motors based on these inputs;
a power supply integrated (114) into the frame (104), configured to supply electrical power to the motors and the control unit (112);
a user interface (116) for adjusting operational parameters of the prosthetic arm;
feedback mechanisms (118) designed to provide sensory feedback to the user concerning grip strength and prosthetic limb position.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the socket (102) includes a lining made from skin-compatible silicone, incorporating myoelectric sensors beneath the lining to maintain contact with the user’s skin.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the elbow joint (106) includes a locking mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged via the control unit (112) to maintain or change the bend of the elbow.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the feedback mechanisms (118) include vibratory feedback units integrated within the socket (102) to relay information about touch and pressure applied by the prosthetic fingers.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, wherein the finger actuators are equipped with micro-textured surfaces to enhance grip on smooth or slippery objects, thereby reducing the required gripping force and improving energy consumption efficiency.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, where the elbow and wrist joints (108) incorporate damper systems that smooth out jerky movements, thereby reducing mechanical stress and enhancing the smooth operation of the prosthetic arm.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of Claim 1, comprising ultrasonic sensors on the fingertips that detect object proximity and texture, providing the control unit (112) with additional data to optimize grip strength and stability without direct contact.
The myoelectric prosthetic arm (100) of any preceding claims, including a temperature regulation system within the socket (102) that adjusts the temperature based on external conditions and user comfort, thereby preventing sweat buildup and improving sensor contact with the skin.

ADVANCED MYOELECTRIC PROSTHETIC ARM WITH INTEGRATED SENSORY FEEDBACK AND MOTOR-CONTROLLED JOINTS

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202421033382-OTHERS [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
2 202421033382-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
3 202421033382-FORM 1 [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
4 202421033382-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
5 202421033382-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
6 202421033382-DRAWINGS [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
7 202421033382-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
8 202421033382-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [26-04-2024(online)].pdf 2024-04-26
9 202421033382-FORM-9 [07-05-2024(online)].pdf 2024-05-07
10 202421033382-FORM 18 [08-05-2024(online)].pdf 2024-05-08
11 202421033382-FORM-26 [12-05-2024(online)].pdf 2024-05-12
12 202421033382-FORM 3 [13-06-2024(online)].pdf 2024-06-13
13 202421033382-form 2.pdf 2024-08-02
14 202421033382-RELEVANT DOCUMENTS [11-06-2025(online)].pdf 2025-06-11
15 202421033382-POA [11-06-2025(online)].pdf 2025-06-11
16 202421033382-FORM 13 [11-06-2025(online)].pdf 2025-06-11