DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/5BSB-8K31
Defense Date
2012
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Biomedical Engineering
First Advisor
Peter Pidcoe
Abstract
While research shows that a patient’s success in using a myoelectric prosthetic arm is dependent on receiving effective training, current methods of training are not designed to effectively hold attention long enough for optimal training. This study focused on evaluating a novel myoelectric training device, consisting of a toy car controlled by EMG signals from the arm. Subjects’ performance with the trainer was evaluated to determine its ability to provide experience with EMG controls. Eight healthy adult subjects were taken through typical initial stages of myoelectric training, then asked to drive the car through a slalom course while the time, number of errors, and reversals required to complete the course were recorded, as well as the degree of difficulty subjects reported. The learning induced by using the trainer was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.002), with subjects demonstrating dramatic improvements (> 49%) in performance.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
August 2012