The Point Powered: A Robust Actuated Prosthetic Finger for Partial Hand Amputation

ABSTRACT Approximately 600,000 people live with partial hand limb loss (PHLL) in the United States, with an estimated 14,500 new cases occurring each year. Despite the advances in miniaturized electronics and motors, there has been very little advancement in mechatronic prosthetic digits for this underserved patient population. In fact, to date, there is only one myoelectric prosthetic option for individuals with PHLL in the US. This option is fragile, often limited to light-duty tasks, and is too large to use on most partial hand loss cases. Considering this, it is no surprise that less than half of the individuals with partial hand absence are able to return to their previous employment, and those who do must often make considerable changes to their work-related tasks. Thus, there is a substantial need to deliver a robust, low-profile myoelectric prosthetic digit system. To address this need, we have formed a collaborative development team that has successfully launched eleven devices, which have been fit on over 5,500 patients with upper limb loss and has significant regulatory experience, having received two 510(k) approvals and nine CE marks for upper limb prosthetic devices. Our funded Phase I project was focused on engineering development of a frame, transmission, and motor driver. All eight Phase I milestones were successfully met, and we went further to complete a User Needs Analysis. Based on these results, we now propose a Phase II effort focused on two highly focused engineering aims: 1) To develop, implement and optimize a novel clutch design; and 2) To develop, implement, and optimize a modular power system for partial hand myoelectric prostheses. Aim #1 is important since it will enable the finger to tolerate a 10-fold increase in passive load transmission versus during active use. Aim #2 is important because no currently existing power system meets the requirements determined by the User Needs Analysis, including: 1) low profile design; 2) allows users to replace the battery units themselves; and 3) compatible with single- handed use. The mission of Point Designs is to help individuals with PHLL regain the abilities that they had previously lost. We develop products that provide prosthetists and patients with solutions to meet the unique needs of each patient in this dynamic and challenging healthcare setting. To date, Point Designs has served over 1,100 individuals with partial hand limb loss (and our collaborative group has served an even greater number as noted previously). The work proposed in this proposal is critical to our efforts to develop a myoelectric partial hand prosthesis called Point Powered. We believe that this technology will provide an effective and durable solution for many people with finger loss and ensure their ability to enjoy their work, family, and life to the fullest.