The Dexios hand: towards affordable and functional prosthetics

Abstract

Individuals who have experienced upper-limb loss often face significant challenges in regaining functional independence. The absence of a fully functional limb impairs their ability to perform daily tasks, diminishing both their physical capability and overall quality of life. According to global estimates, approximately 20 million people live with upper-limb loss related to traumatic events [1]. Functional prosthetic devices currently available in the market are prohibitively ex-pensive, and lack utility outside of basic grasping actions. This presents a considerable demand for affordable prosthetic solutions that are capable of restoring lost hand function. With this in mind, a research group from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at University of Moratuwa have developed an upper-limb prosthetic device capable of adaptive grasping, employing a novel mechanism to improve dexterity. The device thus developed, named the Dexios Hand, is a prototype electric hand prosthesis with motorised actuation, which is a more user-friendly alternative to body-powered and cosmetic prostheses. The key characteristics of this functional prosthetic hand are its dexterity and shape-adaptive grasping ability. Dexterity refers to the prosthetic hand’s ability to perform skilful movements, while shape-adaptive grasping allows the prosthetic hand to conform to the contours of various objects for a more secure grip. These features are favoured for restoring natural hand functionality in prosthetics since they widen the range of grasps that the device is capable of.