The Atom Touch prosthetic arm is a groundbreaking innovation in the field of prosthetic technology. Developed by Atom Limbs, this prosthetic arm sets itself apart from others by offering individual finger control, a feature that is both revolutionary and non-invasive. This advancement represents a significant leap beyond current prosthetic technologies and was demonstrated to CNET journalist Lexy Savvides at the Atom Limbs headquarters in California.
The article also highlights a report by the Amputee Coalition, stating that an estimated 5.6 million people in the US alone live with limb loss or limb differences. Most prosthetic arms currently on the market are assembled from various components, with separate elbow, wrist, and hand pieces sourced from different manufacturers. In contrast, the Atom Touch is a fully integrated system with its battery and computer housed within the forearm, providing users with a seamless and sophisticated user experience.
To use the Atom Touch, the wearer places a cuff over their residual limb, which is equipped with electrodes that detect muscle activity through electromyography (EMG). This innovative technology allows the arm to respond to the wearer’s thoughts, executing movements based on the mental commands they send. While other myoelectric prostheses also use electrical muscle signals for control, none offer the individual finger control that the Atom Touch provides.
Atom Limbs plans to undergo clinical trials and seek FDA authorization for the Atom Touch, with an expected market availability in 12 to 18 months. The company anticipates that the cost of the Atom Touch will be comparable to or less than that of a traditional body-powered prosthetic hook, which currently costs around $25,000. Overall, the Atom Touch prosthetic arm is poised to revolutionize the prosthetic industry and improve the quality of life for individuals living with limb loss or differences.
