SBIR Phase I: Novel Control Paradigm for Upper Extremity Prosthetics

Elkins Innovations, Inc., Grand Rapids MI

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes the development of a novel class of prosthetic devices and the means to control them to provide more human-like capabilities then currently available. The device will provide up to eight channels of control as compared to the limited two channels currently on the market. This will provide a new standard paradigm in the control of such devices and allow an easier, user-friendly approach to the prosthetic hand market. The goal of this research is to bring to market the first true advance in upper-limb prosthetics to come about in the last fifty years. It responds to the fundamental desire of its target market by providing greater functionality than any other hand prosthesis available.