This amazing technological prosthesis restores more than 90% of lost functionality while reducing cost and improving efficiency
Robotics is indeed a science that is capable of introducing innovations in the most diverse fields, from leisure to medicine, as well as many others. When technological progress is used in the service of science, the advantages that follow can be so advanced that they provide results that were unthinkable a few years ago.
This is particularly true when we talk about robotic prosthesis control, which allows the robotic prosthetic device to replicate the functions of the limbs of the human body. And consequently, it gives the wearer the ability to once again perform both simple and complex actions that were no longer executable perhaps due to physical traumas and surgical operations.
Hannes, in this regard, is an advanced robotic hand, the result of the collaboration between the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) of Genoa and the Prosthesis Center INAIL of Budrio, in the province of Bologna. This very important Genoese scientific research center has always been a promoter of the most advanced technological experimentation, with the purpose of favoring solutions that provide significant development and advancement in the various technological fields.
Hannes, in fact, represents indisputable excellence in the field of robotics applied to prostheses, since this prosthetic device is able to restore more than 90% of lost functionality to people who have had an amputation of an upper limb.
The device uses innovative mechanics, that is entirely based on the natural functioning of the human hand and, thanks to a newly developed myoelectric control system, the wearer is able to perceive the prosthetic device as a part of themselves, and not as a foreign body.
In addition to the innovative mechanical aspects, Hannes (inspired by the name of the center’s technical director, Professor Hannes Schmidl) provides a stronger grip than traditional prostheses and is equipped with longer battery life, while maintaining reduced costs of about 30% in respect to other devices currently on the market.
Moreover, the prosthetic device can be completely customized and is able to learn the wearer’s habitual movements and behaviors. Just as customizable are the aesthetic “coverings” that can be provided for the hand, depending on if the wearer is a man or a woman. After all that has been said, there is no doubt that we are dealing with a truly innovative project, one that will most certainly improve the quality of life of many people.
Hannes, along with many other innovations concerning robotics, will be present at Maker Faire Rome – the European Edition 2019, the world-famous innovative technology fair that will take place from 18 to 20 October at Fiera di Roma.
