UBC Bionics is an engineering student design team that competes in biomedical competitions, such as Cybathlon hosted by ETH Zurich. GRASP is our pilot project, a smart prosthetic arm integrating electromyography (EMG), computer vision, and 3D printing techniques, designed for a trans-radial forearm amputee.
Our current design features a variety of functionalities including the following features:
- Analysis of EMG data to control the hands (Analytics)
- Grip optimization that utilizes a camera on-board the arm for object recognition (Analytics)
- Integration with machine learning (Analytics)
- Translation of EMG signals into mechanical motion (Embedded)
- Design core framework that interfaces with outputs provided by electrical and analytical subteams (Embedded)
- Implementation of signal processing (Rust and Python)
- Improved finger actuation to optimize physical grips (Mechanical)
- Use of ergonomic shoulder brace for minimized load (Mechanical)
- Integration of wrist rotation and passive locking mechanism (Mechanical)
I would like to introduce the electrical/embedded subteam as I am part of the team.
I joined UBC Bionics near the Cybathlon 2024 competition period. As a new electrical engineer to the team, I’ve been involved in making a new, improved approach to preparing our next competition. Since October 2024, my work has mostly been research-based. I’ve been in charge of deciding and building a new motor system for our bionic arm to demonstrate high performance.
My new role in 2025 is focused on haptics while dealing with sensors of the arm. (Haptics is a technology that transmits tactile information using sensations such as vibration, touch, and force feedback.) To efficiently perform the tasks, I act as a main bridge member between mechanical and electrical/embedded subteams. I recently started working on embedded programming with Rust to translate EMG signals into mechanical motion. Additionally, PCB designs will be done for the general practice during my time on the electrical subteam.