Robotic Prosthetics : The Rising Use of Robotic Prosthetics Worldwide
A Brief History of Robotic Prosthetics
Prosthetics, or artificial limbs, have been around for thousands of years, dating back to at least ancient Egypt and ancient Greece. However, early prosthetics were quite primitive, usually consisting of wood or leather. It wasn't until the Industrial Revolution that prosthetics began incorporating new materials like vulcanized rubber and aluminum. During both World Wars, there was a demand for more advanced prosthetics to help wounded soldiers. This led to innovations like myoelectric prosthetics, which can be controlled via muscle signals from the remaining limb.
The Development of Modern Robotic Prosthetics
In more recent decades, the fields of robotics and bionics have enabled entirely new generations of Robotic Prosthetics. Where early myoelectric limbs provided basic grip functions, modern robotic prosthetics can perform highly dexterous and delicate motions. They are designed to mimic the precise and coordinated movements of natural human hands and arms. State-of-the-art prosthetics utilize advanced sensors, actuators, microprocessors and other technologies to provide proportional and intuitive control. Some even integrate neural interfaces that read signals directly from nerves or muscles.
The i-LIMB Ultra Revolution from Touch Bionics is an example of a highly advanced prosthetic hand. It features articulating finger joints and an opposable thumb for grasping varied objects. Sensors in the hand and wiring in the inner forearm allow the wearer to control individual finger movements through subtle muscle contractions. The bebionic3 from Ottobock relies on pattern recognition software to differentiate gestures like pinching or pointing. It provides proportional grip control as well as wrist and elbow functions. Such advanced prosthetics restore a high degree of independence and quality of life to amputees.
Increasing Global Adoption and Accessibility
As robotic prosthetics become more sophisticated, their adoption is also growing worldwide. Developed nations in North America, Europe and parts of Asia have the highest rates of usage. However, accessibility in developing countries remains limited due to high costs. The average myoelectric prosthetic hand costs $10,000-$15,000, putting them out of reach for many. To address this, non-profits and startups are working on low-cost solutions.
For example, the organization e-NABLE develops affordable 3D printed prosthetics and shares open-source designs online. Their basic myoelectric hands can be assembled for under $100. Other projects include the robotic Jaipur Foot from India, which provides a basic prosthetic ankle and foot assembly for as little as $45. Increasingly, researchers are exploring the potential of plant-derived materials or recycled electronic components that could drive costs down further. Non-governmental organizations also help fund prosthetics for children and civilians of war-torn regions. Overall usage is growing, with an estimated 300,000 new upper limb amputees adopting prosthetics each year globally.
Government Funding and Insurance Coverage
Access to advanced prosthetic technology varies greatly depending on national healthcare systems, medical insurance coverage and government disability assistance programs. Countries with universal healthcare like Canada, United Kingdom and Scandinavian nations provide substantial coverage and reimbursements for qualifying amputees. Meanwhile in the United States, coverage depends on private insurance plans or programs like Medicare and Medicaid. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also covers prosthetic needs for military veterans.
Some nations have taken initiative through targeted funding programs. For example, India's Department of Science & Technology initiated the National Centre for Assistive Robotics to develop low-cost robotic prosthetics. In Germany, statutory health insurance covers up to 80% of average prosthetic costs. Japan's universal healthcare even covers myoelectric prosthetic fittings and regular servicing. However, coverage remains insufficient or nonexistent in lower-income nations. Overall public investment and partnership with aid organizations will be key to expanding global access to life-enhancing bionic technology.
The Future of Prosthetics
Robotic prosthetics continue to rapidly evolve through ongoing research and development. Areas of focus include miniaturized electronics, more sophisticated control interfaces, artificial sensory feedback and advanced materials. Integration of 3D bioprinting could someday enable customized prosthetics tailored to individual amputees. Brain-computer interfaces may allow direct thought control of bionic limbs without residual muscle signals. Exoskeletons and powered prosthetics could provide enhanced strength and endurance beyond natural human capabilities.
Implanted devices may seamlessly interface severed nerves for restoring fine touch perception. Targeted muscle reinnervation surgery redirects remaining nerve endings to provide intuitive control signals. Breakthroughs in neuroplasticity research may help the brain better incorporate prosthetic devices. As costs fall due to technologies like 3D printing, robotic prosthetics could become widely accessible global necessities. With steady progress, scientists envision a future where bionic augmentation even surpasses and expands human biological capacities. Overall, robotics and AI will continue transforming how we conceptualize and experience the human body and realities of physical ability.
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Author Bio:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
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