Multiplexed Prosthetic Devices

thingiverse

Humans Offloading Neuromechanical Interface Control to Multiplexed Prosthetic Devices using Interactive RFID Enabled Micro-controllers. Offloading Neuromechanical Control to Multiplexed Prosthetic Devices using Interactive RFID enabled, Embedded Microcontrollers for Complex Object Manipulation and Globally Assistive Applications is the main focus of this research. Currently, prosthetic devices use non-computer enabled mechanical components. However, advanced prototype systems under development are creating neuro-mechanical interfaces relying on primary human control. But complex movements are often unconscious or "zombie" programs running in different brain parts. We Don't Have to Think About Them In other words, we don't have to think about them. This project enables the environment to allow a prosthetic device to control itself, thereby offloading enormous amounts of neural control processing while permitting the device to autonomously perform complex movements and tasks. This Experiment Multiplexes an RFID Sensor and Servo Actuators within a 3-D Printed Prosthetic Hand The approach places an RFID antenna in the palm of a 3D-printed prosthetic hand, connecting it to an embedded Arduino-Uno. This allows the prosthetic device to read different RFID tags on objects in the environment. Each tag may be associated with a different set of functions which would determine the movement of individual servo motors. This could give the prosthetic device the ability to execute different complex movements depending on which RFID tag is read by the antenna. The Project May Include a Broad Range of Sensors It may be possible to include a broad range of sensors within the 3-D printed prosthetic hand to expand innate human capabilities. This might even include data loggers to "remember" the life experience of the prosthetic device and a broad range of unique sensors. Background The field of prosthetics has experienced major advances over the centuries, unfortunately many of these advances have been associated with human conflict (for example, injured war fighters). For the most part, smart prosthetic devices have only recently become available, however they are often very expensive and rarely customized to an individual's preferences or needs. Background Fortunately, the development of truly affordable embedded electronics, inexpensive 3-D scanning software, and low-cost 3D printing platforms in an open access environment has revealed new possibilities at an unprecedented pace of development and practical application. Experimental Design Step 1: Configure an Arduino-Uno board with RFID reader capabilities. Step 2: Program the RFID reader to communicate with a servo motor controller via a serial data stream. Step 3: Integrate an array of servos in the prosthetic hand. Step 4: Mount and secure the RFID reader in the palm of the prosthetic hand. Step 5: Develop a program that identifies unique RFID signals corresponding to different tasks, such as "grasp," "pinch," or "count." Conclusion This project demonstrates that it is possible to offload neuromechanical control for complex movements to an RFID enabled prosthetic device. An embedded microcontroller correctly identifies several unique RFID tags. Each RFID tag, when identified by the embedded microcontroller, triggers a specific function in the Arduino script which controls the movement of 5 separate servo motors in the prostatic hand. Conclusion Complex Movements are Easily and Reliably Achievable This project demonstrates that complex movements corresponding to tasks such as "grasp," "pinch," and "count" are easily and reliably achievable. Embedding "Capsule RFID tags" in the tips of each prosthetic finger, would allow an interactive workstation to identify at least 5 different, unique RFID signals. Future Applied Research and Development 1. Implement a temperature sensor in the prosthetic hand to detect subtle temperature changes that can signal a range of biological events. 2. Use Hall Effect sensors to measure magnetic fields around the device, indicating proximity to metal objects or magnetic sources. 3. Scan an individual's human body and print prosthetics for precise anatomical compatibility. Infra Red Proximity Sensor 1. Implement Infra-Red proximity sensors in the prostatic hand to detect the distance between two devices. 2. Add a 2D position sensing servos to determine speed and direction, facilitating more realistic interactions. Wi-Fi and Remote Control Capabilities 1. Equip the prosthetic with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing remote interaction between individuals via an App or webpage. 2. Implement NFC near-field communication to interact with other limbs while walking, adding new levels of independence.