The purpose of this project is to explore a method to improve the dexterity of artificial hands by closely mimicking the biomechanics of a human hand. The mechanical system of the device is actuated using several stepper motors controlled by electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyograph (EMG) signals. The majority of the device’s motions are controlled using EEG, with three distinct thoughts executing three distinct grips: pinch, hook, and point. EMG signals are used for finer motor control, such as controlling the strength of each grip pattern. The completion of this project resulted in a prosthetic hand prototype capable of nine degrees of freedom as well as the creation of a control system that relies on sensory input from the mind and body.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Saint-Elme, Elina L
• Renshaw, Dylan Michael
• Larrier, Mervyn Anderson
• Kracinovich, Casey Robert

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042717-151357

Advisor

• Troy, Karen
• Popovic, Marko B.

Year

• 2017

Date created

• 2017-04-27

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering
• Robotics Engineering
• Interdisciplinary

Rights statement

• In Copyright