Mechanisms of neuro-robotic prosthesis operation in leg amputees


Date

2021-04-21

Publication Type

Journal Article

ETH Bibliography

yes

Citations

Altmetric

Data

Abstract

Above-knee amputees suffer the lack of sensory information, even while using most advanced prostheses. Restoring intraneural sensory feedback results in functional and cognitive benefits. It is unknown how this artificial feedback, restored through a neuro-robotic leg, influences users' sensorimotor strategies and its implications for future wearable robotics. To unveil these mechanisms, we measured gait markers of a sensorized neuroprosthesis in two leg amputees during motor tasks of different difficulty. Novel sensorimotor strategies were intuitively promoted, allowing for a higher walking speed in both tasks. We objectively quantified the augmented prosthesis' confidence and observed the reshaping of the legs' kinematics toward a more physiological gait. In a possible scenario of a leg amputee driving a conventional car, we showed a finer pressure estimation from the prosthesis. Users exploited different features of the neural stimulation during tasks, suggesting that a simple prosthesis sensorization could be effective for future neuro-robotic prostheses.

Publication status

published

Editor

Book title

Volume

7 (17)

Pages / Article No.

Publisher

AAAS

Event

Edition / version

Methods

Software

Geographic location

Date collected

Date created

Subject

Organisational unit

09632 - Raspopovic, Stanisa (ehemalig) / Raspopovic, Stanisa (former) check_circle

Notes

Funding

Related publications and datasets