i-Limb Pulse: Bionic hand that uses wireless technology unveiled

A bionic hand which can be programmed using wireless technology was unveiled today.

Scottish company Touch Bionics said its i-Limb Pulse offers users an 'unparalleled degree of flexibility'.

The new device uses 'pulsing' technology to help provide a tighter grip on objects such as shoelaces and belts.

Users will also be able to programme the prosthetic hand via a Bluetooth connection, using specially-enabled software.

The firm launched the i-Limb Hand in 2007, which it said was the world's first commercially available bionic hand.

Comprising of five independently-controlled fingers, the prosthetic hand has now been fitted to more than 1,200 patients worldwide.

Touch Bionics said its new i-Limb Pulse represents a 'significant advance' for the product line.

Built with an aluminium chassis, it is capable of carrying up to 90kg.

Firefighter Ian Reid, from Thurso, Caithness, was the first person to be fitted with the new device.

Mr Reid, who lost his right hand in a holiday bus crash seven years ago, said: 'The i-Limb Pulse is a very exciting technology development, particularly for someone like myself, who is looking to get back to a level of duty in the fire service.

'The pulsing effect, increased robustness and range of grip features will hopefully give me the increased level of function I'm looking for.'

via i-Limb Pulse: Bionic hand that uses wireless technology unveiled | Mail Online.