Researchers in Italy have developed a biometric prosthetic that looks and acts similar to a human hand. It is called the “Hannes” and they claim it is able to restore 90% of functionality to the user. It is a ‘myoelectric’ system, which means that it is controlled by electric signals which are generated by the users own muscles. This sensory feedback loop mimics the way a natural hand works. When a normal uninjured person wants to perform a movement with their hand, the brain sends that message through the nerves in their arm. With Hannes, the user’s desire to move his hand stimulates the same nerves in the forearm, where an electrographic sensor detect the message and send it to Hannes. 





This prosthetic hand is designed to be worn all day, and it is fully adjustable so that it can work with different types of limb impairments. A skin-like glove covers the prosthesis so that it has a natural appearance. Specially developed software and a Bluetooth connection are used to customize the hand for each user. The Fingers of the Hannes can be flexed and positioned so that they operate like real fingers. The thumb can be oriented in three different positions: a fine grip to pick up small objects like a pencil, a lateral grip to pick up thin items, and a power grip that can move heavier items. It can fully grasp an object in less than a second, which is close to normal human performance. There is even a tactile feedback system which allows the user to actually sense about 75% of how an object feels. Amazing!