fluid hand
It can hold a credit card, use a keyboard with the index finger, and lift a bag weighing up to 20 kg – the world’s first commercially available pros-thetic hand that can move each finger separately and has an astounding range of grip configurations. For the first time worldwide a patient at the Orthopedic University Hospital in Heidelberg has tested both the “i-LIMB” hand in comparison with another innovative prosthesis, the so called ”Fluidhand”. Eighteen-year-old Sören Wolf, who was born with only one hand, is enthusiastic about its capabilities.
(Found via Physorg.)
As if we needed more evidence that my mind lives in odd places. I have this article in one window, and I have a page on Guitar Hero Hacks open in the other tab… and I can’t help but wonder how long it will be until we see prosthetic hacks pre-programing units like this to be able to do repetitive bits of manual dexterity.
I give it 6 months at this rate.
Point of mention – the features described in the quote are in particular reference to the iLimb which has been kicking around in the market since the middle of last year.
The prototype of the Fluidhand attributes it’s increased functionality to a larger surface contact area and enhanced drive system, which have been said to have been able achieve a more natural feel for the user. Being a prototype however, it has however yet to be picked up for production.
via Heidelberg University
Oh shit–Slashbot is my generation’s Deep Blue, isn’t it? I can’t help but a bit gypped.
[...] ‘Fluidhand’: Each finger can be moved separately [Physorg via Futurismic via Grinding] [...]