Neural Bionics

Current upper limb prostheses are exorbitantly expensive, and often lack effective and intuitive control systems. As a result, while prosthesis use can significantly increase quality of life, disuse rates among upper limb amputees remain high. To address these challenges, we created an original mind-controlled prosthesis combining the cost reduction capabilities offered by 3D printing, the neural interface capabilities of electroencephalography (EEG), and the sensitive gesture-detection enabled by an inertial measurement unit (IMU). Using Microsoft Azure, a novel C++ brainwave and head gesture integration algorithm, and 3D modeling software, we developed a 3D-printed, brainwave and gesture-controlled bionic arm with a calculated manufacturing cost of less than US$300 (current commercially available prostheses cost north of US$25,000). The current model represents the fruits of over 75 design iterations and utilizes bluetooth to transmit raw brainwave data from the EEG headset to a small receiver into the arm; the payload data is then processed and translated into motion. Following testing, real-world deployment of our prosthesis is anticipated in collaboration with our corporate and institutional sponsors.

Benjamin Choi is a rising senior and aspiring engineer at the Potomac School in McLean, VA. By combining Microsoft Azure, 3D printing, and EEG technology, he hopes to create an ultra-low cost, brain-controlled prosthetic arm accessible to amputees around the world. Ben’s project has generated much recent publicity and recognition, and he is currently in talks with various corporations, university labs, and amputees to bring his novel prosthesis to fruition.