A review on hybrid myoelectric control systems for upper limb prosthesis

Abstract

Prosthesis is a device extension which is used to replace a missing body part. Amputees who lost all or part of the upper limb may use a prosthesis depending on their requirement. Externally powered prosthesis holds an importance since it is capable of imitating natural limb motions. However, the way they are controlled stand way back from the natural limb. Myoelectric control systems which uses electromyographic signals holds an important role in controlling prosthesis. This paper reviews the myoelectric control systems for upper limb prosthesis. At first control methods based only on myoelectric signals are briefly reviewed. The main focus is given to review hybrid myoelectric control systems. Hybrid myoelectric control methods are categorized and each category is compared and reviewed. Finally feasibility of using vision as an added sensor was discussed with examples from literature.