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EMG-Controlled Prosthetic Arm for Pancake Flipping

For patients with above-elbow amputations due to trauma, congenital limb differences, or medical conditions requiring surgical amputation, performing daily tasks like food preparation can be challenging and often requires assistance. This project develops an intuitive, muscle-controlled prosthetic arm that restores independence in the kitchen by enabling users to flip pancakes through natural bicep muscle contractions.

3D CAD design of the four-bar linkage mechanism for pancake flipping
EMG-controlled prosthetic arm prototype with Arduino, servo motor, and 3D-printed components

Biomedical Impact

This technology addresses the critical gap in functional prosthetics for upper-limb amputees, where traditional prosthetics often lack the dexterity and intuitive control needed for complex daily activities. By utilizing residual muscle signals, the system promotes neuroplasticity and maintains muscle memory pathways, potentially improving long-term rehabilitation outcomes.

"The design prioritizes user dignity and psychological well-being by restoring the ability to perform basic cooking tasks independently, promoting autonomy and self-sufficiency in daily life."

Technical Implementation

EMG Signal Processing & Control System

Signal Processing

  • Custom circuit processes EMG signals from bicep contractions
  • Converts muscle signals into binary on/off DC signals
  • Arduino Uno microcontroller for signal processing

Mechanical System

  • Servo motor drives four-bar linkage mechanism
  • Generates precise circular motion for pancake flipping
  • Custom-designed in SolidWorks and 3D printed

System Architecture

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EMG Signal Acquisition

Captures bicep muscle contractions through surface electrodes, converting biological signals into electrical control inputs

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Signal Processing

Custom circuit and Arduino Uno process EMG signals, filtering noise and converting to binary control signals

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Servo Control

Arduino drives servo motor with precise timing and positioning for controlled pancake flipping motion

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Four-Bar Linkage

Mechanical linkage system designed in SolidWorks, fabricated using 3D printing and traditional machining

Technical Implementation

Hardware

Arduino UnoServo MotorEMG ElectrodesCustom Circuit Board3D Printed Components

Software & Design

Arduino ProgrammingSolidWorks CADEMG Signal ProcessingCircuit Design

Manufacturing

3D PrintingTraditional MachiningElectronics AssemblyPrototype Testing

Biomedical Engineering

EMG Signal AnalysisProsthetic DesignRehabilitation EngineeringUser Interface Design

Impact & Innovation

This prototype demonstrates how biomedical engineering can restore specific functionality for amputee patients, showcasing an interdisciplinary approach to assistive technology that prioritizes patient autonomy, rehabilitation outcomes, and quality of life.

Restored Independence

Enables amputee patients to perform basic cooking tasks independently, promoting dignity and self-sufficiency

Rehabilitation Benefits

Promotes neuroplasticity and maintains muscle memory pathways for improved long-term outcomes