Bionic Arm Using Muscle Sensor

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper, we have presented design and implementation of a 3D printed electromyography based bionic arm, having potential to be used by an upper limb amputee. The user flexes his or her muscles to electronically activate and control the arm. Our main goal was to obtain the fundamental control of the hand at a cost which makes bionic arm accessible to amputees with economic constraints. Although this technology is employed in a number of commercially available prosthetic arms in the global market, but they are not budget-friendly. We have analysed and investigated the several actuation techniques and design parameters used in the commercially available prosthetic hands. Electromyography (EMG) controlled Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) technique has been used for the actuation of servomotors using the microcontroller. The finished 3D model was created using PLA (polylactic acid), and the findings about the mechanical parameters have been briefly mentioned in the paper. This work includes elements from various engineering fields, including Biomechatronics, sensors, transducers, feedback, and control system. A creative mechanical design for a 3D printed prosthetic arm is the system's basis. Modern electronic actuators and microelectronic circuitry is responsible for desired motion and enables complex control architectures. It is intended that a broad readership would find value in this work.