Development of low cost prosthetic limb using EMG signals for amputees

Abstract

The work presented in this paper is the first step in development of a prosthetic leg based on EMG signals for above knee amputees. The surface EMG signals picked up from the calf Muscles of healthy leg during the muscle activity are interfaced with a microcontroller using EMG acquisition system. These signals are processed, analyzed and used to actuate the knee joint of the prosthetic leg. During the course of the present work, it was possible to control the rotation of a motor of prosthetic knee joint using EMG signals from healthy leg. The Complete designed prosthesis will allow users to walk with a better pace. The main intention of this work is to develop the low cost prosthetic limb for amputees. EMG Signals were detected by sensors or electrodes. The amplitude of the surface EMG signal (SEMG) varies from the V to the few mV range. Based on the EMG signals a Microcontroller was programmed to perform toward and forward motion in steps depending on the dc voltage level. The levels of the dc voltage corresponding to the EMG signal were taken.