Innovation

Innovation: introduction of a novel “idea, method or device”; an integral and inspirational aspect of orthotics & prosthetics rehabilitation.1  From my experience in this field,  innovation is celebrated amongst engineers and clinicians for not only does it spur research and catapult emerging technology,  it serves the consumer which is our ultimate goal.  How can technology augment function? How can we push the limits of what is available and invent newer, more effective devices? 

Image by ar130405 from Pixabay

Tech Talk from The O&P PT

Tech Talk is a special feature designed to recognize and salute the valued pursuits and many talents of O&P innovators.  I encourage you to explore the presented links.  May you applaud their successes,  share their stories and allow their creativity to inspire your own.  As a community our collaboration can have a broad and effective reach.  

Image by ThisIsEngineering from Pexels

  • Doctoral candidate, Dennis Yeung, and his research group examined algorithms for prosthetic myoelectric interfaces to improve use/control and offset signal barriers (e.g., sweat).2  Their designs were successfully trialed both virtually and with an upper extremity prosthetic user.2 Improving compatibility between the user and the device promotes efficiency and function.  
  • Engineering students at John Hopkins University developed a gaming controller for individuals with transradial amputations.3  A group of undergraduate students participated in a 3-week Prosthesis Instrumentation Course exploring the role of electronics for those with upper extremity limb loss.3  Their dive into myoelectric prosthetic activation yielded a controller for MineCraft ®.3
  • High school student, Benjamin Choi, designed an upper extremity prosthesis  operated by head gestures and brain waves in his home.4,5,6 Inspired by his passion for robotics & engineering and a TV feature of mind-controlled prostheses, he aspired to create an accessible version that was both affordable and non-invasive.4,5  From initial use of his sister’s 3D printer progressing to engineering-grade materials with an AI-driven algorithm and EEG, his persistence has led to design advancements, well-deserved awards and a world of potential for prosthetic users.5
Mind Controlled Prosthetic Arm! by Benjamin Choi

Feel free to share other stories that have inspired you in the comment section below. I look forward to sharing future Tech Talk features. Cheers to all the innovators!

References

  1. “Innovation.” Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/innovation#:~:text=1,the%20introduction%20of%20something%20new.  Accessed July 13, 2023
  2.  “A New Type of Hand Prosthesis Learns From the User, and the User Learns From the Prosthesis.” Neuroscience News, March 20, 2022, https://neurosciencenews.com/learning-arm-prosthetics-20225/.
  3. “Johns Hopkins Engineering Students Develop Gaming Prostheses for Amputees.” John Hopkins University, February 6, 2023, https://hub.jhu.edu/2023/02/06/intersession-prosthesis-instrumentation/.
  4. “17-year-old kid genius built a mind-controlled prosthetic arm in his spare time.” Upworthy, May 7, 2022, https://www.upworthy.com/17-year-old-built-mind-controlled-prosthetic-arm.
  5. “This High Schooler Invented a Low-Cost, Mind-Controlled Prosthetic Arm.” Smithsonian Magazine, May 2, 2022, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/this-high-schooler-invented-a-low-cost-mind-controlled-prosthetic-arm-180979984/.
  6. “Mind-Controlled Prosthetic Arm!” YouTube, uploaded by Benjamin Choi, February 7, 2022, https://youtu.be/0dbc3DD2Nb4.
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