The "Third Thumb," an additive robotic prosthesis, can be quickly mastered by the public, thereby enhancing manual dexterity.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a controllable robotic thumb that people can quickly learn to use for grasping and manipulating objects. Tests have shown that the device is accessible to a wide range of people, with 98% of participants successfully using it within a minute.
Credit: Dani Clode Design & The Plasticity Lab
During tests, a broad panel of participants proved that this technology can be mastered by almost everyone, demonstrating its potential for inclusivity. The "Third Thumb" was tested at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, where 98% of participants managed to use it within less than a minute.
Motor augmentation, which includes motorized devices such as exoskeletons or robotic prostheses, is an emerging technological domain. These devices aim to go beyond current biological limits, offering new ways to interact with our environment, both for healthy individuals and those with disabilities.
Professor Tamar Makin of the MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit at the University of Cambridge stated that the technology is redefining our perception of humanity by integrating machines into our daily lives, minds, and bodies. It is essential that these innovations are inclusive from their inception to benefit all communities.
The "Third Thumb," developed by Dani Clode, is a robotic prosthesis designed to increase the hand's movement and grip capacity. It is worn on the opposite side of the biological thumb and controlled by pressure sensors placed under the big toes.
The Third Thumb assisting a user in opening a bottle.
Credit: Dani Clode Design / The Plasticity Lab
The study revealed consistent results across genders and hand dominances. However, a decrease in performance was observed in older adults, possibly due to the deterioration of sensorimotor and cognitive abilities with age. Younger children, particularly those under 10 years old, also showed lower performance.
Lucy Dowdall, co-author of the study, emphasizes the importance of physically testing diverse groups to ensure that motor augmentation technologies harmoniously integrate with users' capabilities.