The ProHensor and the Future of Prosthetic Embodiment
This blog was developed using an article published by Medical Press. A special thank you to Evans-Mayhew Marketing for bringing this article to our attention.
In a groundbreaking study recently published in the journal iScience, researchers have explored the concept of embodiment in prosthetic limbs through virtual reality. This study, led by cognitive neuroscientist Ottavia Maddaluno at the Sapienza University of Rome and the Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, reveals fascinating insights into how humans can feel that a prosthetic tool is part of their own body, even if it doesn't resemble a human hand. This research underscores the potential for body-powered prosthetics like the ProHensor, also known as the ProHook, to revolutionize the field.
The Study: Tweezers vs. Human Hands in Virtual Reality
Participants in the study were equipped with either a virtual human hand or a "bionic tool" resembling a large pair of tweezers grafted onto the end of their wrist. They were then asked to perform tasks in a virtual reality environment, such as popping bubbles by pinching them with their tweezers or between their index finger and thumb. The results were astonishing: participants were faster and more accurate at popping virtual bubbles when using the tweezer-hands compared to the virtual human hands.
Embodiment and the Human Brain
The researchers used a test called the "cross-modal congruency task" to delve deeper into the sense of embodiment. Participants had to identify which fingers were stimulated while simultaneously being distracted by a flickering light. The findings showed that participants felt a strong sense of embodiment with both the virtual human hand and the tweezer-hands, but the latter induced an even greater sense of embodiment. The simplicity of the tweezer-hands made it easier for the brain to compute and accept them as part of the body.
Implications for Prosthetic Design: The ProHook Advantage
These findings have significant implications for the design of prosthetics like the ProHook, also known as the ProHensor. The study suggests that non-anthropomorphic prosthetics can offer a greater sense of embodiment, which is crucial for users to feel that the tool is an integral part of their body. The ProHook’s design aligns perfectly with these insights, offering simplicity and functionality that can enhance the user's dexterity and sense of agency.
As a body-powered device, the ProHook provides a unique blend of control and ease of use. Unlike bionic devices that rely on electrical signals, body-powered prosthetics use the user’s own movements, providing a more intuitive and responsive experience. The study’s insights into embodiment further validate the ProHook’s design, emphasizing its potential to become a natural extension of the user’s body.
Moving Forward: The Future of Prosthetic Tools
The researchers are excited about the potential of their findings to inform the design of future prosthetics and robotic tools.
At Marins Med, we are committed to staying at the forefront of such innovations. The development of the ProHook are prime examples of how we are integrating cutting-edge research into practical, user-centric solutions. The ProHook is not just a prosthetic tool; it represents an era of embodiment and functionality for upper-limb amputees.
As we continue to innovate and refine our designs, studies like this reinforce our belief in the transformative power of technology when seamlessly integrated with the human body. The future is bright for prosthetics, and with tools like the ProHook, we are excited to lead the way in enhancing the lives of those who rely on them.