A prototype of a bionic human hand has been developed in Perm.

The research was conducted as part of the strategic academic leadership program "Priority 2030".

Individuals who have lost a limb can opt for either a cosmetic prosthesis, which merely mimics the outer appearance, or a mechanical one, which has limited functionality and is controlled through the user's own efforts.

In contrast, bionic prostheses are governed by electronics and the body's bio-signals. The signals generated by muscle contractions are transmitted to a microprocessor, enabling the prosthesis to perform specific movements or grips. Only a few foreign and Russian companies are currently engaged in their development. The widespread adoption of such devices is constrained by the high labor intensity and cost of materials and production.

Thanks to additive technologies, it is now possible to recreate products of any complexity in a short time and at a significantly lower cost. 3D printing involves layer-by-layer deposition of metal or polymer based on a pre-designed model. This technology is now widely used in machine engineering and other industrial sectors, but it has only recently shown its potential in the field of prosthetics.

A student from Perm Polytechnic University is working on the development of a bionic hand prosthesis using a hardware-software platform and a 3D printer. The finished prototype is printed from plastic and includes light actuators that move the fingers, buttons, and a bracelet with a vibration motor to simulate tactile sensations, as well as electromyography sensors that detect electrical impulses from muscle contractions.

The Arduino platform enables the creation of various electronic devices in the fields of robotics and automation. At its core is a microcontroller—a miniature computer with its own processor, memory, and peripherals that manages all device actions by receiving data from sensors. According to the developer, this platform was chosen due to its prevalence, availability of components, and the variety of software.

“Wires with electrodes extend from the electromyogram sensors housed in a separate case, which are attached to the user's arm. After processing the received impulses, the microcontroller activates the servos that move the prosthetic fingers. The buttons installed in the fingers activate the vibration in the bracelet when pressed, signaling contact with an object. Additionally, a button in the case allows switching between two operating modes: the first moves the entire hand, while the second activates only the index and thumb,” explains Andrey Syrvachev, a student from the Department of Information Technology and Automated Systems at PNIPU.

“The developed prototype meets the set objectives: it partially restores the functions of a human hand and simulates tactile sensations. Further refinement of the prosthesis and its realization as a ready-to-use product is of undeniable interest, both in terms of creating and implementing bionic technologies and expanding the capabilities of 3D printing,” shared Elena Krotova, an associate professor at the Department of Higher Mathematics at PNIPU and a candidate of physical and mathematical sciences.

“In the future, I would like to improve the prosthesis casing, making its design more ergonomic. I also plan to replace the electromyography sensors with a neural interface to receive more accurate signals directly from the brain. I envision the final version of the prosthesis as a fully functional, lightweight, and autonomous product ready for use after production, which will enhance the lives of many people,” says Andrey Syrvachev.

The work of the Perm Polytechnic University student demonstrates significant potential for the growth of domestic prosthetics. This simple and accessible technology for creating functional prostheses will allow people with disabilities to return to a full life, including in the workforce.