Improved Prosthesis Control with Voice Recognition
Abstract
It is generally agreed that only about half of those with upper limb loss wear a prosthesis, and this is often because the prosthesis does not return enough function for the burdens of weight, discomfort, uncosmetic appearance, lack of durability, etc. One primary reason for lack of prosthesis acceptance is the lack of ability to control the device effectively. Difficulties with control result because multiple prosthetic joints are being controlled with a limited number of input options. Upper limb prosthesis users are looking for solutions that allow them to regain the function they lost after their amputation. Human speech is the most natural and highest bandwidth form of human communication. Therefore, LTI and its partners propose to develop the Voice Activated Prosthesis Interface (VAPI), which will add the ability for the user to use their voices to generate control signals for their prosthesis. The proposed project addresses FY21 PRORP CTRA focus area of Prosthetic and Orthotic Devices by aiming to develop a high-performance novel prosthetic device designed to enhance functional performance and decrease pain from long-term overuse injuries in patients with amputation. The VAPI will provide the ability to control movements that were previously inaccessible due to the lack of control inputs as well as the ability to fluidly perform tasks that require coordinated sequential movements, such as opening a door. The VAPI will likely improve the ability and ease to control multiple prosthetic joints and/or hand grasp patterns for upper limb prosthesis users. This improved control will likely lead to improved functional outcomes, improved ability to complete activities of daily living (ADLs) and increased prosthetic use. These factors are important as a large majority of those with upper limb loss are under the age of 65 and still have a long life ahead.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 28, 2022
- Source ID
- W81XWH2210896
Entities
People
- Benjamin Mcdonald
Organizations
- Liberating Technologies (United States)
- United States Army