Complex electronics and five motors contained in the fingers enable every digit of the i-LIMB to be powered individually. A passive positioning of the thumb enables various grip configurations to be activated. The myoelectric signals from the stump control the prosthetic hand; muscle signals are picked up by electrodes on the skin and transferred to the control electronics in the prosthetic hand. Batteries provide the necessary power.

Just a quick update to let you know we’ve added more products to our store, and added a few sites to our links list. Check ‘em out!

Belgian researchers have developed a brainwave reading headset which requires no batteries, and no external power source, overcoming a powerful obstacle to using this type of technology for day to day assisted living for the disabled. Combine this assistive technology with a little 4G WiFi, predictive neuroscience, some useful computer software, perhaps a GPS tracking device attached to an iPhone controlled electric scooter/wheelchair or exoskeleton, and the human body is on track to become more of a simple brain house than a work horse. The possibilities are limitless.

Senior Spectrum Online introduces us to a new assistive technology site geared toward helping aging Californians stay independent longer. Consultation and assistance regarding finding and using assistive technology vendors and solutions providers is provided free of charge by AT Network.

Lervik design has a couple of stylish and slick brain and spinal related table lamps — who said these things can’t be fun?

Codenamed ‘Newton’ Microsoft is developing a wireless handheld remote for the XBox 360. Modelled on the Wiimote, the ‘Newton’ device features a planned software development API that will be of ultimate interest to people developing assistive technology for the disabled. Expect offbook usage of this device to exceed offbook usage of the Wiimote almost directly out of the gate.

As many caregivers know, planning for long term care of a patient can be stressful, both mentally and financially. MassMutual has released a template that helps tame the task into something manageable and less overwhelming, to ensure that the needs of the caregiver and their charge are well met and planned for over the course of a lifetime.

Independent Living Technologies, a firm dedicated to bringing low cost assistive technology, products, and assembly services to the market has announced that everything will ship for free via UPS ground in the continental united states. While normally we wouldn’t pander for business for a particular firm, this one is worth the nod because they provide some *extremely* heavy and bulky items.

Is going to the doctor a pain? For a lot of mobility challenged individuals, not feeling well can mean a significant effort simply to get up and get to the doctor or hospital when you already feel bad. Honeywell recently won the 2008 Medical Design Excellence Award their Genesis DM Remote Care Device, an assistive technology which allows doctors to remotely assess a patient and recommend an appropriate course of action with as little disruption to the patient’s daily routing as possible.

Let me propose something radical: The biggest advances for mobility challenged individuals won’t be coming from the medical community or the research community. They are going to come from computer gamers.