Advancing prosthetic limb technology with robotics
From: Electronic Products - 08/01/2011 - page 40
By: Therese Philippi and Philip Troyk

The key is taking into account how and where to place the sensors

Advanced electronic sensors and circuitry combined with computer modeling and
simulation are two of the leading technologies driving developments in
robotic control technology for bringing specialized enhancements to
prosthetic limbs. Currently, Alion Science and Technology and Sigenics
engineers are concentrating on limb replacement for the upper extremities,
but that work is applicable to all limb prostheses.  

The team is enhancing technology for Implantable MyoElectric Sensors (IMES),
as well as using modeling and simulation, to improve the affordability and
functionality of robotically controlled prosthetic limbs. IMES, placed within
the amputee’s residual limb, senses small muscle movements to control the
prosthetic limb.  

The implantable electric sensor wirelessly sends out muscle control signals
used to operate the prosthetic limb. The implantable devices contain
electronics within a 1-cm-long ceramic capsule and can be non-surgically
placed within the residual limb via a hypodermic needle.  

Read the entire article at:
http://www2.electronicproducts.com/Advancing_prosthetic_limb_technology_with_robotics-article-fabd_alion_aug2011-html.aspx

Links:
Alion Awarded $1.4M Army Contract to Help Enhance Prosthetic Limb Technology
  for Military Amputees
http://www.alionscience.com/Top-Menu-Items/News-Room/Press-Releases/2010/Alion-Awarded-Army-Contract-to-Help-Enhance-Prosthetic-Limb-Technology-for-Military-Amputees

Sigenics
http://www.sigenics.com