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Section 2: Upper Limb
possible only if there is sufficient an­choring of the elbow lock strap. To ac­complish this, a strap is fashioned that travels across the user’s midsection, between the inferior ribs and superior to the iliac crest. The elbow lock cable runs proximally through cable housing mounted to the anterior socket wall at axillary height and then reflects distal­ly where it connects, through a control strap, to the waist strap (Figure 38).
The Use of Pulleys
Pulleys have been used in a variety of applications to create a mechanical ad­vantage for a given action, and the same concepts of leverage can be applied in body-powered harnessing. For force amplification, the control cable runs through a pulley that is connected to the terminal device. This configuration
doubles the required amount of excur­sion of the control cable to create the same overall movement but reduces the force required. This configuration is used when ample excursion is available and the chosen action requires substan­tial force.
When excursion amplification is needed, the control cable runs through a pulley that is connected to the harness. This configuration doubles the required amount of force at the control cable to create the same overall movement, but reduces the excursion required. This pulley configuration is used when there is sufficient force present but a limited amount of excursion is avail­able. The latter is more commonly used (Figure 39).
For example, when using biscapular abduction as a control motion with a
shoulder disarticulation prosthesis, the motion generates good power but has limited excursion. Using a pulley, the configuration allows the user to gener­ate approximately double the amount of
Figure 38
a distal waist strap as an anchor point for the elbow lock cable, routed through a retainer positioned at axillary height. This approach allows scapular elevation as a control motion
Figure 37
body-powered transhumeral harnessing. (Courtesy of David B. Rotter, CPO, Scheck and Siress, Chi­cago, IL.)
Figure 39
when ample e xcursion is available. B, An excursi on amplier is used when amp le force is available. (Reprodu ced with permission fro m Below and Above Elbow Harness and Control System. Evanston, IL, Northwestern University Prosthetic-Orthotic Center, 1966.)
Anterior (A) and posterior (B) photographs of a patient demonstrate bilateral
Illustrations of the use of pulleys to create force and excursion ampliers in body-powered harnessing. A, A force amplier is used
for elbow locking and unlocking for a shoulder disarticulation prosthesis. (Courtesy of David B. Rotter, CPO, Scheck and Siress, Chicago, IL.)
Photograph of a patient using
Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deciencies, Fourth Edition © 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
172
Figure 40
sion amplier in the harnessing of a body-pow­ered shoulder disarticulation prosthesis. (Courtesy of David B. Rotter, CPO, Scheck and Siress, Chicago, IL.)
Photograph show ing an excur-
Chapter 12: Harnessing and Controls for Upper Limb Body-Powered Prostheses
components when fitting a patient with bilateral shoulder disarticulation. There are, however, some instances in which some individuals with bilateral shoul­der disarticulation do not have access or resources to be fit with externally powered components. In such cases, the prosthetists should creatively use the body-powered resources that are available. An example of such a device is shown in Figure 42, A. Two excur-
Figure 41
that is used when a control motion cannot be provided through a harness. (Courtesy of Hos­mer Fillauer, Chattanooga, TN.)
Photograph of a nudge switch
sion amplifiers are mounted opposing each other on the posterior aspect of the sockets. This split-socket design max­imizes the individual’s ability to use maximum biscapular abduction and chest expansion. This control motion enables movement of the elbows and terminal devices. It should be noted that the elbow must be locked on one side or this configuration will cause both elbows to flex simultaneously. The practical application of such de­vices uses one side as the prime mover of the system, with the other side pri­marily used in positional assistance. Many switches and nudge controls are necessary to activate the many elements of these types of body-powered devices (Figure 42, B).
Harnessing and Externally Powered Switches
The same motions available to an in­dividual for activating a body-pow­ered prosthesis can be used to activate
Figure 42
lation prostheses. The bilateral excursion ampliers control elbow exion and terminal device pre ­hension. B, Photograph showing a nudge switch and series of mouth pull switches that are used to control the shoulder lock, ve -function wrist lock, elbow lock, and elbow turntable lock . (Courtesy of David B. Rotter, CPO, Scheck and Siress, Chicago, IL.)
A, Photograph of a patient wearing a bilateral body-powered shoulder disarticu-
switch controls responsible for activat­ing electric components. For example, biscapular abduction and glenohumeral flexion are frequently used to pull a linear potentiometer rather than using a body-powered cable to operate an
electric elbow (Figure 43, A). The ad- cable travel per the amount of biscapular abduction and chest expansion exerted (Figure 40).
Nudge Control
If sufficient excursion or force is unavail­able using harnessing options, a nudge control device allows the individual to
use his or her chin to push down on a lever to create an action (Figure 41).
Harnessing a Bilateral Shoulder Disarticulation
It should be noted that, when possible, it is preferable to use a combination of body-powered and externally powered
vantage of this control strategy is that
it gives the user positional feedback as
he or she initiates the movement to pull
the switch. It also requires substantial-
ly less force to initiate the movement.
The same principles can be applied in
more elaborate harnessing schemes
(Figure 43, B).
© 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deciencies, Fourth Edition
173
Section 2: Upper Limb
Figure 43
electric components. A, A linear potentiometer is used to control the position of an electric elbow using glenohum eral extension and bis capular abduction. (Cour tesy of David B. Rotter, CPO, Scheck and Siress, Chicago, IL.) B, In this hybrid setup with a triple control harness, the anterior suspensor strap controls a ma nual elbow lock, the mid dle strap controls an elec tric switch regulating the p osi­tion of an elec tric hook, and the distal strap provides body-powered control of the elbow position. (Courtesy of Ryan Spill, CP, Philadelphia, PA.)
Summary
Body-powered devices continue to be effective tools for patients with upper limb amputations. As further advances are made in externally powered con­trol, it is critical that continued develop­ment of body-powered components and strategies are not overlooked or aban­doned. There will always be a need for body-powered devices in the develop­ing world, and these devices continue to prove their merit in the industrialized world.
References
1. Pursley RJ: Harness patterns for up­per-extremity prostheses. Artif Limbs 1955;2(3):26-60. Medline
2. Williams III TW: Review: Control of Upper-Limb Powered Prostheses. e Academy Today 2014;10(1).
Photographs show ing the application of b ody-powered co ntrol motions to control
3. Simpson DC: e choice of control system for the multi-movement prosthesis: Extended physiological proprioception (EPP), in Herberts P, Kadefors R, Magnusson R, Peterson I, eds: e Control of Upper Extremity Prostheses and Orthoses. Springeld, IL, omas, 1974, pp 146-150.
4. Garber M: e Perfect 3,000-year-old Toe: A Brief History of Prosthetic Limbs. e Atlantic 2013;Nov 21. Available at http://www.theatlantic.
com/technology/archive/2013/11/the­perfect-3-000-year-old-toe-a-brief­history-of-prosthetic-limbs/281653/.
Accessed September 14, 2015.
5. Kuniholm J: Prosthetic history: e body-powered arm and William Selpho. Available at: ht tp://
openprosthetics.ning.com/proles/ blogs/prosthetic-history-the.
Accessed September 1, 2015.
6. William S: inventor. US patent US18021 A. August 18, 1857. Available at: http://www.google.
com/patents/US18021. Accessed
September 15, 2015.
7. Dorrance DW: inventor. Articial hand. US patent US1042413 A. Octo­ber 29, 1912. Available at: http://www.
google.com/patents/US1042413.
Accessed September 15, 2015.
8. Hosmer products: Hooks. Available at: http://hosmer.com/products/
hooks/index.html. Accessed Septem-
ber 15, 2015.
9. Johnson K, Musicus M, Davis AJ: Upper extremity prosthetic sockets, suspension systems, and component option to fulll prescription criteria, in Spires MC, Kelly BM, Davis AJ, eds: Prosthetic Restoration and
Rehabilitation of the Upper and Lower Extremity. New York, NY, Demos
Medical Publishing, 2014, pp 179-194.
10. Below and Above Elbow Harness and Control System. Evanston, IL, Northwestern University Prosthetic­Orthotic Center, 1966.
11. BAHA: Better Performance for BP Prosthesis Wearers. Available at:
http://www.oandp.com/articles/ NEWS_2006-11-27_02.asp. Accessed
September 15, 2015.
Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deciencies, Fourth Edition © 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
174
Chapter 13
Upper Limb Externally Powered Components
M. David Beachler, CP LeRoy H. Oddie, CP
Abstract
Externally powered prosthetic components are a viable solution for individuals with upper limb amputation. Because there are many possible component combinations, selection of an optimal combination can be challenging. Factors to consider in the selection of powered upper limb components include availability, weight, cost, cosmesis, power requirements, noise, durability, repairability, and compatibility, along with the patient’s limb length, gadget tolerance, hand dominance, and the anticipated environments where the prosthesis will be used. Upper limb powered prehensors, wrists, elbows, and shoulders can be char­acterized by the mechanical joint type, degree(s) of freedom, joint impedance, and power requirements. By comparing these characteristics with the lost anatomic function and unique requirements of the user, an appropriate combination of externally powered and/ or body-powered prosthetic components may be prescribed.
Keywords: externally powered prostheses; hybrid prostheses; myoelectric prostheses; prosthetic hand; prosthetic elbow; prosthetic wrist; upper limb prosthetics
Introduction
There have been steady advancements in the field of externally powered upper limb prosthetic components. In large part, the field of prosthetics has benefit­ed from technological developments of other industries in areas of electronics, software, communication standards, batteries, actuators, manufacturing methods, material science, and mobile communication devices. Consequently, current externally powered upper limb prostheses offer increased hand dex­terity, longer battery life, more intuitive
Neither of the following authors nor any immediate family member has received anything of value from or has stock or stock options held in a commercial company or institution related directly or indirectly to the subject of this chapter: Mr. Beachler and Mr. Oddie. e views expressed in this chapter are those of the authors and do not reect the ocial policy or position of the Departments of the Army, Navy, or Defense, or the US Government. e identication of specic products or scientic instrumentation does not constitute endorsement or implied endorsement on the part of the authors, the Department of Defense, or any component agency. Although references to products, companies, manufacturers, organizations, etc. are generally excised in government-produced works, the abstracts produced and other similarly situated research presents a special circumstance when such product inclusions become an integral part of the scientic endeavor.
control, increased function, and new methods of user interaction.
1
The intact upper limb effortless­ly performs both fine and gross mo­tor tasks and even subtly contributes to communication.
2,3
It should be re­membered that the intact upper limb is marvelously capable of a minimum of 28 simultaneous degrees of freedom,4 with sightless proprioception (including position, heat, moisture, and pressure), with substantial strength for gross motor tasks and delicate dexterity for fine mo­tor tasks, all with seemingly unlimited
energy and unconscious control in an visually appealing, lightweight, wa­terproof package with self-healing properties.
In contrast, the upper limb prosthe­sis is primarily restricted to a support­ive role, is often underactuated, and is generally limited to performing gross motor functions. All upper limb pros­thetic components are engineering ex­ercises in compromise, with limitations in power, size, aesthetics, strength, cost, and durability. As prosthetic function­ality is increased, the cost, weight, and complexity of the components are also increased.5 In addition, media reports often highlight outcomes of new pros­thetic technologies, with no inclusion of important limitations; therefore, older prosthetic technology, which may not only be appropriate but may represent the best solution, is often ignored.6 Thus, the expectations of individuals with upper limb amputations and their families may be greater than a prosthe­tist is capable of providing. The clinical team and the prosthetist, in particular, must carefully inculcate realistic func­tional and aesthetic expectations as early in the rehabilitation process as possible.
Because upper limb prosthetic com­ponents are modular and highly com­patible, a large number of component combinations are possible. In addition, these components are often complex in design and function, requiring prosthe­tists to remain abreast of technological developments and consult with pros­thetic manufacturers and other pros­thetists who specialize in upper limb components. Prosthetists who are in­experienced in treating patients with complex upper limb amputations should
© 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deciencies, Fourth Edition
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Section 2: Upper Limb
consider referral to a prosthetist who specializes in upper limb care. Many manufacturers of upper limb prostheses employ prosthetists and/or occupa tional therapists with upper limb expertise who can serve as valuable resources.
Factors to Consider in Component Selection
Selecting the ideal combination of com­ponents is arguably the most difficult aspect in the provision of prostheses for upper limb amputees. Factors to con­sider in the selection of powered upper limb components include availability, weight, cost, cosmesis, noise, durability, repairability, and component compati­bility, as well as patient-related factors such as limb length, gadget tolerance, and the environments where the pros­thesis will be used.
Availability
Because the market for powered upper limb components is small, there are sub­stantial product gaps such as the lack of powered wrists with multiple degrees of freedom. With knowledge of both what is and what is not commercially available, prosthetists and occupation­al therapists specializing in the care of individuals with upper limb amputa­tion can serve as excellent resources for recommending appropriate prosthetic components.
Weig h t
Weight is an important factor in select­ing an upper limb prosthesis. Multiple surveys have indicated that excessive weight is a cause for prosthesis aban­donment. ponents inherently have more mass than other upper limb components because the source of actuation (mo­tors) and power (batteries) are usually contained within the prosthesis. How­ever, this increased weight often results in increased function, which may be a priority for some users. Because weight tolerance is dependent on the strength of
7,8
Powered upper limb com-
the individual amputee, weight is more likely to affect smaller individuals. De­creases in component mass are seldom proportional to decreases in component size.
Importantly, not all weight is equal. Static weight (component weight mea­sured on a scale)9 does not equate to functional weight (the weight of the de­vice perceived by the amputee during use). The more proximal the placement of the weight, the less the user perceives it. Depending on the length of the re­sidual limb and component selection, the prosthetist can strategically decrease functional weight. For example, in a patient with a short transhumeral am­putation, the prosthetist may place the battery proximal to the prosthetic elbow or on the posterior side of the socket, rather than within the forearm where the additional weight would decrease elbow capacity and increase perceived weight with humeral flexion. The over­all functional and static weight must be considered when selecting a suspension method because heavier components may eliminate the preferred methods from consideration. Generally, less weight is preferable, because less weight is often perceived as increased comfort.
Cost
The costs of powered prosthetic com­ponents are substantially greater than body-powered alternatives. Often, the end user does not pay for the prosthesis because the prosthetist is reimbursed by a third-party payer such as Medicare, private insurance, or workers’ compen­sation. However, third-party payers may provide only one prosthesis during the lifetime of an amputee or may not cover the cost of powered prosthetic components because such technologies are considered experimental or inves­tigational.10 In addition, the amputee’s medical coverage may change and the future costs of replacements and/or re­pairs must be considered. Because cost is not always reflective of function, more
expensive components should not be selected unless they provide a better solution for the user’s needs. Similar­ly, costs should not be a limiting fac­tor unless available financial resources are exceeded. A long-term perspective should be used when considering costs because higher initial costs may provide justification for reduced future costs.11 Knowledge of local and state laws and insurance regulations and the amputee’s financial situation should be understood before a prosthesis is prescribed because some component costs may exceed available funding.
11,12
Cosmesis
The importance of cosmesis (lifelike appearance) is highly personal and of­ten culturally influenced.13 Some am­putees want prostheses with a lifelike appearance, preferring detailed custom silicone prostheses, even to the point of sacrificing essential function.13 Other individuals concede that those around them will realize that the limb is a pros
­thetic device and prefer anything but prostheses with a lifelike appearance. Other amputees adopt an intermediate position in which lifelike appearance is appreciated, but a device that does not draw the attention of a casual observer is also acceptable.
14
Cosmesis can be further differenti­ated into static and dynamic cosmesis. Static cosmesis, which is the appear­ance of the prosthesis when not in mo­tion, may be convincing to the casual observer. However, dynamic cosmesis considers the visual normalcy of both movement and appearance.15 Dynamic cosmesis is not limited to the appearance of prosthetic components, but also con­siders how naturally the residual ana­tomic movement appears, such as the lack or minimization of compensatory movements.
16,17
Dynamic cosmesis of­ten supersedes static cosmesis in impor­tance because unnatural movement will alert the casual observer that the pros­thesis is not a natural limb. Dynamic
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Chapter 13: Upper Limb Externally Powered Components
cosmesis may also refer to the motion of a powered prosthetic component, such as direct synchronous supination movement of a wrist rotator in contrast to the smooth motion of the anatomic forearm.
18
Noise
For some individuals, noise can be just as important as cosmesis. Noise can draw undesirable attention to the pros­thesis, diminishing realism.19 For such individuals, demonstration of powered components before prescription can identify if actuator volumes are tolerable.
Durability
The importance of durability varies by individual needs. Individuals with upper limb amputations who work in occupations involving manual labor re­quire durable prosthetic components. Unlike the anatomic arm, all prosthetic components lack self-healing proper­ties and have a limited useful life that necessitates eventual replacement. In general, powered upper limb compo­nents are less durable than body-pow­ered components. In some instances, it may be challenging to pay for or to obtain reimbursement by third-party payers for the repair and replacement of powered components. The amputee should be encouraged to take personal responsibility in caring for his or her prosthesis to reduce both the cost and inconvenience of repairs.
Repairability, Warranty, and Service
In some instances, powered upper limb prosthetic components may re­quire repair by the manufacturer. In such cases, consideration must be given to how the amputee will perform es­sential activities of daily living (ADLs) while repairs are made. Solutions may include loaner components from the manufacturer for the duration of the repair, or the provision of a secondary spare prosthesis.
Compatibility
Because upper limb prostheses are as­sembled from various components, the patient’s outcome will only be as suc­cessful as the compatibility of such com­ponents. Because there is only a limited number of manufacturers making upper limb prosthetic components,20 the avail­able selection of components is limited, and compatibility between components from different manufacturers cannot be assumed. Some manufacturers only en­sure compatibility between components in their own product lines, whereas other manufacturers develop products with the specific purpose of overcoming the incompatibility problem.
Compatibility can manifest itself in several forms. The most obvious is mechanical compatibility. The quick­disconnect–type wrists made by several manufacturers allow interchangeability with most externally powered termi­nal devices, although a formal industry standard has not been established. Al­though most upper limb components have mechanical compatibility, they may not be electrically compatible. Components may operate at different voltages or the connecting cables may not be compatible. Some manufacturers offer adapter cables to enable electrical compatibility. Given the complexity of upper limb components and potential compatibility issues, a prosthetist with upper limb expertise is valuable in un­derstanding appropriate component combinations.
Limb Length
The length of the residual limb can have a substantial effect on the selec­tion of appropriate components and, subsequently, available functions. In general, the restored prosthetic limb segments should be matched as close­ly as possible in function and cosmesis to the contralateral limb in those with unilateral upper limb loss.21 In patients with bilateral upper limb amputation, anthropomorphic ratios serve as a guide,
and left/right limb segment symmetry should be restored if possible.21 In elec­tive amputations or revision surgeries, the clinical team should consider po­tential components when planning the amputation length.
For transradial amputations, there is a trade-off between a longer limb that preserves physiologic supination and pronation and a shorter limb that al­lows space for wrist components with flexion features or powered pronation and supination. For transhumeral pro­cedures, a length 12 cm (4.72 inches) shorter than an elbow disarticulation is ideal to permit selection of any elbow components. Although powered elbows can accommodate amputations as long as 5 cm (1.97 inches) short of elbow disarticulation, longer lengths are less desirable because the humeral segment may be longer than ideal.22 Elbow dis­articulations and transhumeral amputa tions that are less than 5 cm shorter than elbow disarticulations will require a body-powered elbow or outside hinges.
Gadget Tolerance
An amputee may have a physical or cognitive limitation (referred to as gad­get tolerance) that prevents the use of a prosthesis, or possibly a particular prosthetic component. Each individual’s ability to adjust emotionally to wearing and using a prosthesis is unique and dependent on his or her personality and psychological stage of loss.23 As prosthetic components become more complex, a higher gadget tolerance is needed. Modern upper limb powered prosthetic components have many fea­tures, which makes them highly adjust­able; however, such components may require interaction with mobile phones, computers, or other devices to access all the possible features. For example, a prosthetic hand may offer several dozen possible grip patterns, but may require the user to interact with an external de­vice such as a mobile phone to access a certain grip pattern. In addition, all
-
© 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deciencies, Fourth Edition
177
Section 2: Upper Limb
Figure 1
tool and anthropomorphic multiple- degrees­of-freedom bebionic hand. Prosthesis manu­facturers can provide clinicians with prosthetic components so that function can be demon­strated to a pati ent before compone nt prescrip­tion. (Courtesy of Steeper, San Antonio, TX.)
Photograph of a demonstration
powered prosthetic components cur­rently require battery power, often re quiring daily or intraday charging with frequent use. Some amputees may not have the cognitive or physical ability to access the desired features and/or may not be willing or responsible enough to charge batteries daily. For such individ­uals, simpler externally powered and/ or body-powered components may be more appropriate.
Environmental Factors
Powered components have environment limitations preventing their use in cer­tain situations. Batteries and electronic components can be damaged or com­promised by temperature extremes and water exposure. Although some com­ponents may be water resistant, most components are not waterproof, and wet environments should be avoided. Sand, dirt, or particle exposure also may compromise function or increase
wear rates.24 If an amputee frequently encounters such adverse environments, the manufacturer’s specifications for the selected component should be consulted to ensure component warranties will not be voided with normal use.
Ancillary Equipment
Unlike body-powered prostheses, which require only the power of the amputee, externally powered prostheses require additional equipment for setup, mainte­nance, and use. Prosthetists and occupa­tional therapists need testing equipment to determine if viable myosites are avail­able, to refine electrode placement with­in a prosthetic socket, and to provide muscle training. A computer, tablet, or mobile phone with appropriate software may be necessary for programming the features of microprocessor components. Demonstration tools are available for actuating prehensor devices to demon­strate component function to the am­putee before component prescription (Figure 1). Amputees may also need a smartphone or other mobile device to actuate additional programmable
-
modes. Although the patient’s access to software typically does not incur addi­tional costs, hardware costs should be considered when providing powered components.
Preparatory Fitting
Because of the many factors involved in component selection and the pos­sibility of prosthesis abandonment, a preparatory fitting can be a highly effective tool to ensure the amputee is capable of using the selected com­ponents and that their functions are suited to his or her needs. A diagnostic socket (test or check socket) not only ensures appropriate socket fit, it also allows component alignment, lengths, and electrode placement to be adjust­ed.25 After powered components have been prescribed, component manufac­turers should be consulted to deter­mine if demonstration components or
no-obligation trial periods are avail­able to permit flexibility in selecting the final components.
Hybrid Configurations
Upper limb prostheses can be classi fied into the three broad categories of cosmetic, body-powered, or externally powered; however, hybrid designs, with body-powered, passive, and/or exter­nally powered components, are com­monly prescribed for patients. Hybrid prostheses combine the advantages of both body-powered and externally pow­ered designs, particularly for individuals with high-level and/or bilateral upper limb amputations.26 Hybrid prostheses may reduce weight, provide simulta­neous control of multiple degrees of freedom, reduce costs, increase grasp­ing force and lifting capacities, and/or permit finer control.26 However, hybrid prostheses also may compromise work­ing envelopes and increase harnessing requirements.
In higher-level upper limb amputa­tions, the critical deciding factor is of­ten the choice of whether to power the elbow or the prehensor. Although both configurations are feasible, powering the prehensor seems to be the most advan­tageous choice.27 Because the number of possible hybrid configurations is vast, an in-depth discussion is beyond the scope of this chapter. However, some hybrid upper limb components are dis­cussed as appropriate.
Characteristics of Externally Powered Components
Joint Types
Joints are essential for functional move­ment. To understand how prosthetic components mimic the anatomic up­per limb, it is helpful to describe the function of the anatomic joints from the perspective of simple mechanical joints (Figure 2). Anatomic upper limb joints may be revolute with one degree of freedom, universal with two degrees of freedom, or spherical with three
-
Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deciencies, Fourth Edition © 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
178
Chapter 13: Upper Limb Externally Powered Components
Figure 2
of freedo m and can be arranged as rot ator (A) or exor (B) joints. C, A prismatic j oint has one degree of freedom and is capable of linear motion. D, A universal joint has two degrees of freedom. E, A spherical joint has three degrees of freedom. (Reproduced with permission from Bajaj N, Spiers A, Dollar A: State of the art in prosthetic wrists: Commercial and research devices. Presented at IEEE International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics (ICARR), 2015. Available at: . Accessed November 23, 2015.)
degrees of freedom. ious joints can be combined in series or in parallel to increase the degrees of freedom.
Photographs of various types of mechanical joints. Revolute joints have one degree
28
In addition, var-
force is removed. To prevent actuator damage, some components have clutch mechanisms to allow low impedance
29
(break-away) after a predetermined force is exceeded.
Joint Impedance (Compliance)
In the anatomic limb, joint impedance (resistance to external force) is variable depending on the task. Although vari­able impedance is feasible for powered prosthetic components, it is very inef­ficient. Consider the elbow holding a book while reading. The impedance of the arm equals the force of the gravity acting on the book and forearm. In a me­chanical system with continuously vari­able impedance, continual energy would be required to maintain elbow joint po­sition. To conserve energy resources, prosthetic components typically adopt a dual-state impedance control with low impedance (free motion) to move the joint to a desired position and high im­pedance to lock a joint into position.30
Movement Quality
Movement quality can refer to the extent to which the movement of powered ac­tuators replicates lifelike motion. Many upper limb component actuators have crude singular velocity movements, which fall substantially short of the natural rapid accelerations and decel­erations of normal human movement. In addition, it is common for amputees to overshoot the desired joint position, which increases task time and cognitive load and ultimately leads to frustration. As technology advances, the quality of movement of prosthetic components may receive more attention, improving functional outcomes and behavioral
appearance. Other prosthetic components, such as the multiaxial wrist, have a spring­loaded impedance, returning the joint to a neutral position after an external
External Power Source
Although unusual power sources, in-
cluding compressed gas, rocket fuel,
Figure 3
a exible lithium-ion polymer battery for use in upper limb pro stheses. (Courtesy of I nnite Bio­medical Technologies, Baltimore, MD.)
Photograph of the FlexCell Mini,
methanol, spinal fluid, and implantable glucose fuel cells, have been considered, all current available powered compo­nents rely on battery power.
31,32
A user may tolerate daily battery charging but may find intraday battery replacement inconvenient, particularly if the second battery must be carried in a pocket. Typ­ical daily battery use expectancy should be considered in component prescrip­tion because the charging frequency may influence prosthesis acceptance.
Battery performance is dependent on several variables. Battery technology determines the relative power density, with lithium-ion batteries being the current standard. High power density is preferred because longer performance can be achieved with a similar weight. From a user’s perspective, it is desirable to have a battery last an entire day before requiring recharging. The capacity of various batteries can be evaluated by comparing the milliamp-hour (mAh) rating, with a higher number represent­ing increased time performance.
26
Polymer batteries are packaged in a soft pouch, which decreases weight and rigidity. These batteries are advan­tageous for prosthetic applications be­cause multiple thin flexible cells can be strategically located, such as proximally placed cells that are contoured to the socket to decrease perceived function­al weight (Figure 3). Polymer batteries are not the same as lithium-polymer liq­uid electrolyte batteries, although both
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Section 2: Upper Limb
lithium- ion and lithium-polymer chem­istries are available in flexible polymer packaging.
33
Powered prosthetic systems can op­erate at various voltages. For prostheses with multiple powered components, the voltage of one component may vary from another to maximize actuator perfor mance. For example, the elbow requires much higher torque than the thumb or fingers because of the substantially longer forearm lever. To accommodate such complexity, dual-voltage batteries are available, or (less preferably) two batteries may be used.
User convenience is affected by the type and the placement of the battery. Some batteries are internal and must be recharged using a charging port before the prosthesis is usable. Other batter­ies are external (removable) to permit a charged replacement battery to be used while the depleted battery is being re­charged. Batteries should be placed as proximally as possible to diminish per­ceived functional weight and maximize actuator capacity. Proprietary batteries may offer increased performance, but come at the expense of limited local availability. Battery charging times may become a factor if the amputee is not willing to carry a second battery when the capacity is insufficient for a full day of use.
Prehensors
The compactness of the hand and its many functions make it difficult to rep­licate in a powered prosthetic prehensor. To adequately replicate the core grasps of the human hand, a prosthetic hand­like prehensor requires three or four degrees of freedom: two for the thumb, one for the index finger, and one for the remaining three digits.6 Limited space availability restricts the size and number of motors available for use. Thus, pros­thetic hands are often underactuated, attempting to provide similar function with fewer degrees of freedom and/or actuators.
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Electrically powered prehensors were developed more than a half a century ago and remain commercially available in several forms. Anthropomorphic prehensors take the general form of an anatomic human hand (Figures 4 and
5), whereas nonanthropomorphic pre-
-
hensors may be formed in the shape of a hook or gripper (Figures 6, 7, and 8). Initially, prehensors only provided one degree of freedom, with two or three digits in opposition.35 Recent develop­ments in powered prehensor devices have focused on more anatomically influenced functional designs with the thumb and the fingers having multiple degrees of freedom (Figure 9).
Similar to other powered compo­nents, most prehensor control strategies have proportional and digital control variants and are programmable to the user’s needs, whether using a single- or dual-site control scheme. Regardless of type, all prehensors are limited to basic grasping functions, without indepen­dent control of digits. For example, al­though complex hands may offer several dozen grasps, hand function does not allow for complex behaviors such as in­dependent digit control when typing or playing an instrument.
Anthropomorphic prehensors are available in various sizes to improve cosmesis and minimize unnecessary weight. In individuals with a unilateral amputation, the width of the contra­lateral metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints is typically measured to determine the appropriate hand size.
Single Degree of Freedom: Anthropomorphic Prehensors
Anthropomorphic prehensors with one degree of freedom (simple hands) were the first commercially available electrically powered hands. Current designs more closely mimic the shape of the human hand and have revolute joints with one degree of freedom, with simple opening and closing prehen­sion. The mechanical digits and thumb
Figure 4
Electric Hand, an anthropomorphic single­degree-of-freedom prehensor. (Courtesy of Steeper, San Antonio, TX.)
Photograph of the Select Myo
interphalangeal (IP) joints are rigid, with articulation located at the MCP joints and the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, respectively (Figures 4 and 5). Simple hands are typically construct­ed of an inner actuator mechanism, an outer hand-shaped form, and a cosmetic glove as a cover. Simple hands gener­ally have one or two motors to oppose the thumb against the first and second digits. The third and fourth digits are passive and follow the motion of the first and second digits.
As the digits and thumb of simple hands are oriented in fixed palmar op­position, they are limited to a single pal­mar prehension grasp (also referred to as three-jaw chuck or tripod prehension). To form palmar prehension, the tips of the thumb, second digit, and third dig­it oppose until they close or secure an object. This fixed configuration allows for powerful, consistent, and durable thumb and digit operation when grasp­ing. Objects may be grasped using the palmar distal aspect of the digits for a more precise-type grasp or by using a combination of the palmar aspect of the digits and palm to create a power or cy­lindrical grasp.
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Chapter 13: Upper Limb Externally Powered Components
Figure 5
(right) without hand shells. These are anthropomorphic single-degree-of-freedom prehensors. (Courtesy of Ottobock, Austin, TX.)
The functionality of simple hands has been increased with the addition of intelligent grasping. Sensors located in the thumb tip or actuator transmission can limit grasp force or detect an ob­ject slipping and rapidly respond with increased grasping force. Examples of prosthetic hands with intelligent grasp-
Photographs of the MyoHand VariPlus Speed (left) and the SensorHand Speed
basic grasping functions. Simple hands provide unsurpassed durability because of their simplicity and, when funding is limited, simple hands offer an affordable choice. The function of simple hands may be increased with the addition of passive radial ulnar deviation and/or
wrist flexion/extension units. ing are the SensorHand Speed (Otto­bock) and the Motion Control ProPlus hand with Force Limiting Auto Grasp (Fillauer). Intelligent grasping substan­tially increases user function, prevents dropping objects, and permits grasping of delicate objects. These types of hands should be considered when prescribing simple hands because amputees have substantial proprioception deficits.
Although simple hands may not be appropriate for all amputees because of their singular grasping capability, they remain an appropriate option for many individuals. Simple hands are appropri­ate for both dominant and nondominant hand loss because the prosthesis pri­marily provides a supportive role with
Single Degree of Freedom: Nonanthropomorphic Prehensors
Nonanthropomorphic powered prehen­sors (utility prehensors) were influenced by the desire to overcome functional deficits associated with simple hands. Utility prehensors, often referred to as electric hooks or grippers, are similar to simple hands because they simply open and close. Utility prehensors have one or two motors and a single-degree-of-free­dom rigid orientation of revolute joints for oppositional grasping. These prehen­sors sacrifice cosmesis for robust design, strong prehensor pinch force, and in­creased visual feedback for finer motor skills and heavy-duty work.
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Figure 6
an example of a nonanthropomorphic prehen­sor with revolute, angular opening and closing mechanisms. (Courtesy of Ottobock, Austin, TX.)
Photograph of the AxonHook,
Utility prehensors provide basic tip, lateral, and cylindrical grasping. The opening and closing configuration of these prehensor devices varies, with the Greifer (Ottobock) having a parallel opening and closing mechanism with a relatively large opening (Figure 8), whereas the AxonHook (Ottobock; Fig-
ure 6) and the ETD hook (Fillauer; Fig­ure 7) have revolute, angular opening
and closing mechanisms. Both the Greif­er and the ETD feature a safety release lever to disengage the fingers from the gear train and passively release the grip of the device. The ETD is also available with Force Limiting Auto Grasp. Utility prehensors may have additional func­tions, including passive radial/ulnar de­viation and/or wrist flexion/extension.
Multiple Degrees of Freedom: (Multiarticulate) Anthropomorphic Prehensors
Recent developments in myoelectric an­thropomorphic multiarticulating pre­hensors (complex hands) have resulted in a new generation of more anatomi­cally influenced designs with increased
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