Teen invents robotic prostetic arm

The wires in the bands would connect to sensors on the chest which, when fired by the brain, contract the muscles and contract the band associated with that muscle.

The Robotic Arm is intended for use by sufferers of muscular and neural problems including muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease, ALS and more.

Unlike a traditional robotic arm, this device fits like a sock over the existing arm of the wearer. It has retracting bands that move the wearer’s arms and hands about. The idea is to help people with their day to day activities such as eating and shopping. In case of a malfunction, the Robotic Arm is programmed to switch off and relax the wearer’s own arm.

“My mum’s friend had muscular dystrophy and when I asked her what the worst part of it was, she said it was that she couldn’t hug her daughter,” Mia said.

“I thought there should be something we could do about it.

“I had a few ideas before that but I didn’t think they were good enough, then I came up with this idea late at night.”

Mia’s robotic arm entry was chosen along with Year 7 and 8 student entries demonstrating originality, creativity, practicality, imagination and innovation.

Mia was a finalist in Origin’s littleBIGidea competition.

Adapted from: http://bit.ly/2g0Vv8g

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