Principal Investigator: Wendy M. Murray, PhD Co-Principal Investigator: Richard F. Weir, PhD Objective: The specific aim of this work is to embed a musculoskeletal model of the upper extremity in the controller of a multifunction prosthetic hand. Research Plan: In this development project, we propose to use a biomechanical model of the upper extremity to provide a link between individual forearm muscle activity and the motors of an artificial hand. We will use myoelectric (EMG) signals of the extrinsic muscles of the hand as inputs to a forward dynamic simulation of natural hand and wrist motions. The output of the simulations (joint angles, velocities, accelerations, and muscle forces at the wrist, thumb, and fingers) will, in turn, be used to control the associated joints in a multi-function hand prosthesis. Work Accomplished: Funding was initiated in April 2006. Since that time we have evaluated model parameters of the muscles of the hand and we have explored a new computer simulation environment in which to perform the simulations. Initial data collection of EMG and hand movements has also begun. Expected Outcome: We aim to develop a novel control algorithm for multifunction artificial hands based on forward dynamic simulation of the intact biomechanical system. Presentation Velisar, A., Murray, W. M. (2006) Passive joint coupling in the upper limb: multiarticular muscle function in the forearm and hand. Podium presentation at the BMES 2006 Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL. October 11-October 14th. Funding Source: Department of Veterans Affairs - Merit Review (Anticipated)
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