VIDEO: Prosthesis That Will Have Real Hand Sensitivity

Scientists at the Cleveland Clinic in the United States have developed the first bionic arm of its kind that has real hand sensitivity. An article about the invention has been published in Science Robotics.

The lead author of the invention, Paul Marasco, explained that the core of the prosthesis connects to the user's nerves, allowing it to 'trick' the brain into thinking that the prosthesis is a real hand. The biomechanical hand sends signals to the brain through small robots. By translating thought into action, a person can control the prosthesis much like a real hand, simultaneously feeling everything that occurs during movement.

During testing, it was found that individuals with this prosthesis can pick up objects without looking at it, just like a non-disabled person. Additionally, they can feel the artificial fingers as if they were real and can sense the objects they touch. With the prosthesis, it is possible to lift a cup, write with a pen, and more.

The drawback of the device is its high cost; however, in the long run, the biomechanical hand will allow individuals to restore not only the function of the lost arm but also the connection to the brain and reflexes.