Italian Scientists Develop Artificial Hand with Temperature Sensing Capability
Scientists have developed an artificial hand for individuals with disabilities that incorporates sensors capable of providing wearers with a sense of the real temperature of objects.
According to media reports, researchers in Italy conducted an experiment with the artificial limb on a person named Fabrizio, who lost his right hand in an accident several years ago.
Through the assistance of this artificial hand, Fabrizio was able to differentiate between objects of varying temperatures and manipulate them accordingly. Researchers have stated that this marks the first instance of integrating the sense of natural temperature into a functional artificial hand.
The artificial hand, named MiniTouch, utilizes commonly available electronics, eliminating the need for any surgical procedure to restore temperature sensation for patients.
Senior co-author of the study and Professor of BioRobotics Research at the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies in Italy, Silvestro Massaro, remarked that achieving the sensation of temperature along with touch in artificial hands was the final hurdle, which has now been nearly overcome.