Since the 7th of February, students of INSA (Institut National des Sciences Appliquées) in Rennes are doing their research school project on the conception and fabrication about a body-powered prosthesis. They are divided in 7 groups of 3/4 people. They must propose solutions using standard elements and existing technology.
Hold on ! What’s the difference between the myoelectric prosthesis and …. the body-powered hand?
– The myoelectric hand is controlled by 2 muscle sensors placed on the forearm. The sensor converts the muscle contraction into electricity to control a motor, the motor open and close the hand
The body-powered hand is controlled with a cable. This cable is linked to a body harness. By moving is shoulder, the ampute open and close the hand.
So, why Mecanicohand, Bionicohand is not enough?
– A body-powered prosthesis is more robust, resists to shocks, is more durable, require less maintenance, permits more manual work in hostile environment. It is cheaper and seems to be a good solution for people with few resources and to humanitarian organization too
Body-powered hands already exist, why making another one?
– This one will be aesthetic, poly-digitale (different hand positions) and open-source.
GOOD LUCK TO THE STUDENTS AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR INVOLVMENT!!
THANK YOU TO LIONEL LEOTOING FOR HIS TRUST IN THE PROJECT.
Spaciba Aya et Tom for translating!-)
Bionicohand 