Fuzzy Prosthesis

Introduction

A prosthetic limb is a device designed to replace the missing part of the human limbs. This enables the people with physical impairments or functional limitations to live a healthy, productive, independent, dignified life and to participate actively in educational, professional and social activities. The future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the field of prosthetics will enhance the life style and activities of daily living (ADL) of humans to overcome the present problems and restrictions in prosthetic devices.

The conventional prosthesis acting as a mechanical device, only provides the basic functions. The concept of biomechatronics is a branch of the mechatronics field. It is associated with the development of mechatronics systems that assist or restores the human body, providing a new direction to the concept of Prosthetics. Four units make up a biomechatronic system: Biological Sensors, Mechanical Sensors, Controllers and Actuators (Figure 1).¹

The future regarding Artificial Intelligence in prosthetics holds promise for advancements in personalized solutions, faster design iterations and improved functionality. AI algorithms can analyze biomechanical data to create customized prosthetics tailored to individual needs, enhance control interfaces for better user experience and predict potential issues before they occur, leading to more efficient maintenance and adjustments.

Additionally, AI - driven simulations can simulate real-world scenarios to optimize prosthetic designs and performance. Overall, AI integration is expected to revolutionize the field by making prosthetics more accessible, functional and comfortable for users.²

Development

Mechanical learning has been applied to the prosthetic field to recognize prostheses, train after wearing the prosthesis, detect falls, and regulate socket temperature.

The engagement of interactions between humans and different agents, including robotics, software and electrical circuitry, has had a groundbreaking effect on the field of rehabilitation by developing tools like the Exoskeletons and Bionic leg, mind or thought control prostheses. Artificial Intelligence and Robotics technology implementation has a significant impact on achieving unconstrained mobility and improving the standard of living for Persons with Disabilities/People with Determination (PwDs).²

Microprocessor knee joint

Microprocessor knee joint has control unit which receives feedback from sensors that collect data regarding Ground Reaction Forces (GRF), Single limb weight and Toe off impact. This leads to adjustments of the knee i.e., flexion, extension and speed to mimic the natural gait pattern of anatomical knee joint (Figure 2a). The knee’s internal controller regulates the mechanical mechanism, which could be pneumatic, hydraulic or single axis.

Microprocessor knee joint replaces the anatomical knee joint and provides mobility, stability, durability, comfort and cosmesis (Figure 2b). It plays a significant role in different activity modes such as standing support, adjustable flexion locks, hiking, basketball and in playing golf.

Blatchford's Intelligent Prosthesis (IP) Knee, which was used to only engage during swing phase, was the first microprocessor knee. Then in 1997, Otto Bock developed C-Leg with both control swing and stance. The features of microprocessor knee joint are mentioned in Figure 3.

The basic components of microprocessor knee joint include -

1. Microprocessor chip

2. Various electrical sensors

3. Battery

4. Servomotors

5. Fluid controlled cylinders

Microprocessor knee joint achieves motion analysis, stumbling management, gait symmetry and comfort using a variety of algorithms. Algorithms for intent detection, control logic, Fuzzy logic-based classifier and Impedance control have been utilized. Operating principle of smart leg has been described through the Figure 4.^3,4

Artificial Intelligence is applied in upper limb prostheses through various signals, sensors, controllers and algorithms to provide both direct and indirect control from the neutral network. Electromyography (EMG) (Figure 5a) and Electroencephalogram (EEG) (Figure 5b), the two forms of human contact used to operate upper extremity prostheses provide the control signals.⁵

With a specially designed Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR) socket that regulates the six Degrees of Freedom (DoF), the Otto Bock Dynamic Arm Plus combines the Myo Hand Vari Plus speed terminal device and wrist rotator. EEG signals and Artificial Neutral Networks (ANN) are used in mind or thought-controlled prostheses.⁶

Conclusion

The most sophisticated and intelligent structure ever made by God is the human body. Replication of normal function is a real day challenge for every prosthetist. Nonetheless, advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence have offered hope for millions of disabled individuals. Prosthetics application within the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are still in the early stages and not commonly being practiced. Most AI projects never see the light of actual fitting on patients, and vanish in print media. People with disabilities are unable to purchase these products due their exorbitant pricing. To ensure that a greater number of people with disabilities may access the newest and best technology at a reasonable cost, government organizations, manufacturing companies and funding organizations need to take the initiative and make investments in this area.

Conflict of Interest

Nil