Evaluation of the Vector Projection Algorithm for Transhumeral Amputation Cases

Abstract

Improving the controllability of a prosthetic limb for high-level amputation cases has always been a challenging problem for researchers and clinicians. This complex problem arises, in part, due to the limited number of input sources available from the user to control multiple degrees of freedom in a prosthesis.  Further problems can occur as a result of the control system’s sensitivity to the overall adjustment and tailoring of the socket and sensors.

The work presented in this paper extends a previous implementation of the vector projection algorithm to include transhumeral amputation cases. It is shown that a short data collection enables the system to adapt to several user and input sensor variables to produce robust and repeatable control signals based on both shoulder and humeral motions.