Michelangelo Hand

The Michelangelo Hand and AXON-Bus® prosthetic system from Otto Bock is a product that is currently under development.  Advanced Arm Dynamics has been involved in research, development and beta testing for this promising new breakthrough in electric hand technology. Michelangelo features multiple grip functions that allow users to master everyday tasks like opening a tube of toothpaste, gripping a key, holding a credit card, and using a clothes iron. The thumb can also open up to create a natural palm shape that can hold a plate or bowl, and the flexible-positional wrist joint offers a more natural shape and movement.

Army Sgt. Ethan Payton (RET) and John Miguelez, CP, assess the function of the Michelangelo Hand.

The hand offers unprecedented speed, strength and a natural, anthropomorphic look.  Grip patterns include pinch, oppositional and lateral. In addition, the sealed, mechatronic main drive of the hand is used to power the upcoming newly designed shoulder and humeral rotator components. Grip force and reliability have both been increased without compromising speed.