ARM / Arm Prosthesis Race

Daidalonic UPV

SpainSpain

About the Team

Daidalonic is a group belonging to the Spontaneous Generation program at the Polytechnic University of Valencia, dedicated to developing a myoelectric arm prosthesis for patients who are amputees or born with a congenital malformation. The device is produced through 3D printing using materials such as PLA or TPU, making it customizable, recyclable, and low-cost. Additionally, it includes artificial intelligence software that allows the prosthesis to learn from the patient, rather than the patient having to invest time learning how to use the device. The device also features an EMG sensor, designed by team members, that reads the patient’s electrical impulses. Daidalonic is a group entirely composed of students from various university degrees, such as Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Telecommunications, Product Design, and Graphic Design, among others, who dedicate their time to developing a device that improves people's lives.

About the Pilot

Our pilot, Silvia, is a professor in the Department of Business and Economics at our university. Born with a congenital malformation, she has never had the opportunity to use a prosthesis until now. Experiencing our device for the first time has been transformative for her, allowing her to embrace new possibilities and independence. Silvia’s journey not only informs our design but also inspires our team to improve the prosthesis to meet the unique needs of users like her. Her story exemplifies the profound impact that accessible technology can have on individuals, motivating us to continue our mission to enhance lives.

About the Device

Our device 'Upper 2' is a highly innovative prosthesis that integrates advanced technology with sustainable and customizable design principles. It features a custom-designed EMG (electromyography) sensor that was developed, printed, and soldered by your team. This sensor captures the electrical signals generated by the user's muscles, allowing the prosthesis to detect when the user intends to perform a specific action. This data is then processed by AI software that continuously learns from the user, adapting to their specific needs and making the prosthesis more intuitive and easier to control over time. The adaptive AI reduces the learning curve for the user, offering a more natural and seamless experience.

The prosthesis is 3D-printed using recycled PLA materials, which not only makes it affordable but also promotes environmental sustainability. The modular design allows users to easily adjust or replace parts, ensuring a high degree of personalization. This makes the device suitable for a wide range of users, as it can be tailored to individual requirements. Additionally, the thumb and wrist components are mechanical, allowing manual adjustments for comfort, while the pinch movement is motorized and controlled through EMG signals.

Looking ahead, the vision for the prosthesis includes making it even more accessible, with plans for users to print their own parts at home using open-source designs. This would empower users with greater independence and foster a sense of ownership. The team also plans to simplify the electronics for easier assembly and aims to adapt the device for pediatric use, with adjustable features to accommodate growth.

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