The Prosthesis That Works with Your Phone

A Japanese company named Exiii has developed a robotic arm, or electric prosthesis, which works by being connected to your mobile phone. In addition, it seems to have pretty reasonable price, meaning that advanced robotics can finally be within reach of common man.

Receives and transmits muscle signals with mobile

Arm named Handiii is directed primarily for the people with amputated joints. The concept that works is that the mobile phone receives signals from an EMG sensor, i.e. a sensor that records the electrical activity in the muscles of the user.

Based on the pattern of these signals, the mobile sends these signals on to the prosthesis, which will then perform the corresponding movements. The arm has fingers with several sections, and is able to grasp and hold objects.

The arm is constructed of 3D printed parts, which means that it is both quick and inexpensive to build, and that it can be made in many different variants to suit the user. It also means that it is easy to replace parts.

Cheap prototype

The price of the prototype of the arm according to the manufacturer’s website remains $300. This rate covers only 3D printing and electronic modules, but even if one adds the costs related to the construction and other things, it will still be very low compared to other similar solutions. The manufacturer specifies that the arm is not available for commercial sale yet, but the company initially want to offer the product to businesses and professionals who would like to use the technology for research purposes.