EMG pattern recognition by neural networks for prosthetic fingers control

The cybernetic interface through which users can communicate with computers “as we may think” is the dream of human-computer interactions. Aiming at interfaces where machines adapt themselves to users' intention instead of users' adaptation to machines, we have been applying neural networks to realize electromyographic(EMG)-controlled prosthetic members—a historical heritage of the cybernetics. This paper proposes that EMG patterns can be analyzed and classified by neural networks. Through experiments and simulations, it is demonstrated that recognition of not only finger movement and torque but also joint angles in dynamic finger movement, based on EMG patterns, can be successfully accomplished.