A Biomechatronic EPP upper-limb prosthesis controller and its performance comparison to other topologies.

Abstract

Historically, Classic Extended Physiological Proprioception (EPP) as an upper-limb prosthesis control topology has been outperforming functionally all other topologies of the past. A novel Biomechatronic EPP controller has been designed to overcome shortcomings of the classic EPP control topology, and has been hypothesized to be functionally equivalent to the classic EPP topology. Using the dSpace realtime hardware platform and other mechanical and electronic components, the following were developed in the lab: (a) A Biomechatronic EPP controller, (b) a classic EPP controller, (c) an "unconnected" controller and (d) an EMG controller. All four topologies were tested in the lab using the target experiments methodology. Initial results of one subject show that performance of (a) is superior or comparable to (b) and superior to (c) and (d).