The Future is Now: Bionic Hands That Sync With Your Nervous System
Recent advancements in bionic technology are revolutionizing prosthetics, offering amputees not just functional limbs but also a significant improvement in their quality of life. Researchers and engineers are working diligently to create bionic hands that are highly integrated with the user’s nervous and skeletal systems. This article delves into the science behind these innovations, their real-world applications, and the impact they have on users’ lives.
The Science Behind the Technology
A multidisciplinary team led by Professor Max Ortiz Catalan at Australia’s Bionics Institute has been at the forefront of these advancements. Their groundbreaking bionic hand connects directly to the user’s nervous and skeletal systems through a human-machine interface.
This interface uses a process called osseointegration to attach the prosthesis to the user’s skeleton securely. Additionally, electrodes implanted in the nerves and muscles facilitate electrical communication with the nervous system.
The technology has been successfully tested on a Swedish amputee named Karin, who has been using the prosthesis comfortably for over three years.
Real-world Applications
In Leeds, England, a company named Covvi has developed a bionic hand that can be updated remotely via an app. Australian swimmer Jessica Smith, who was born without a left hand, has been fitted with Covvi’s Nexus hand.
This hand converts electrical impulses from the upper arm muscles into movements, allowing her to perform daily tasks effortlessly. The technology is not only changing her life but also positively impacting her children, who find the technology fascinating.
Quality of Life Improvements
One of the most significant benefits of these advanced bionic hands is the improvement in the users’ quality of life.
For instance, Karin, who lost her arm in a farming accident, reported a significant reduction in phantom limb pain after using the new bionic hand. Similarly, Jessica Smith found the Nexus hand to be emotionally empowering, allowing her to expand her identity rather than hide it.
Challenges and Future Directions
While the results are promising, challenges remain in ensuring reliable control and mechanical attachment. However, the multidisciplinary teams working on these projects are optimistic about overcoming these hurdles. The technology is continuously improving, and the level of functionality achieved marks an important milestone in the field of advanced extremity reconstructions.
Source: Eureka