Low-Cost Myoelectric Prosthetic Arm

The development of low-cost myoelectric prosthetic arms has been a pivotal area of research, aiming to provide functional solutions for individuals with limb loss. This research presents a novel approach to a prosthetic arm controlled via Bluetooth from a mobile application, eliminating the need for traditional EMG sensors. The proposed system integrates an AVR microcontroller, HC-05 Bluetooth module, and MG996R servo motors to provide affordable, efficient, and intuitive control of the prosthetic device. The mobile application serves as a user-friendly interface, where the user can send simple commands (e.g., open and close grip) to control the prosthetic arm’s movements. The system is powered by a 7.4V Li-Po battery, ensuring sufficient operation time for daily tasks. The design employs a 3D-printed prosthetic hand with articulated fingers and a thumb, which are driven by servo motors for basic hand functions. The absence of EMG sensors reduces both cost and complexity, making the system highly accessible. User trials showed that the prosthetic arm can successfully perform tasks such as grasping and releasing objects, with the added benefit of easy setup and customization. This research demonstrates the potential for Bluetooth-controlled prosthetic systems to offer a cost-effective and accessible solution to individuals with limb loss, especially in resource-constrained settings (Englehart & Hudgins, 2003; Ten Kate et al., 2017; Salmond et al., 2020).