Multimodal input device with SEMG and contact force sensors

In myoelectric prostheses, movement artifacts are
known to impair control performance. This study relates to a
novel sensor which measures surface electromyograms
(SEMG) as well as contact force at the electrode-skin
interface. Its purpose is to explore the in-socket mechanical
realities of movement artifacts in order to produce control
algorithms that are more robust to said artifacts.
The new sensor includes a commercial SEMG electrode
and four surface-mounted force sensors, stacked within a
plastic housing. Preliminary experiments in an experienced
transradial user showed that sudden lack of control was
often caused by electrode lift-off or re-connection. Future
work will include algorithms for alleviating these problems.