Researchers at the University of Utah used artificial intelligence to make a commercial TASKA Prosthetics hand act more like a natural hand. They fitted custom fingertips that measured pressure and included optical proximity sensors sensitive enough to detect an effectively weightless cotton ball landing on a finger.
The team trained a neural network on the proximity data so each finger moved to the right distance for a stable grasp. Each finger has its own sensor and can "see" what is in front of it, so the digits work in parallel to form a secure hold on different objects. To avoid the user and machine fighting over control, the researchers developed a bioinspired shared-control system that balances human and AI input.
The study, led by Jacob A. George and Marshall Trout, appears in Nature Communications. The system was tested with four participants whose amputations were between the elbow and wrist. Participants completed fine motor tasks like picking up small objects and drinking from a plastic cup. The team plans to combine these sensors and intelligent control with implanted neural interfaces. Funding came from the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.
Difficult words
- artificial intelligence — computer systems that learn and make decisions
- fingertip — end part of a finger used to touchfingertips
- sensor — device that detects and measures changessensors
- neural network — computer model that learns from data
- shared-control — method dividing control between human and machine
- amputation — loss of a limb by surgical removalamputations
- neural interface — device connecting nerves to electronic systemsneural interfaces
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Related articles
Rising Digital Threats and the AUEU Summit
Digital threats and online attacks against journalists and institutions in Africa are growing fast. Leaders at the AUEU Summit in Luanda discussed cyber‑security, data protection, connectivity and the particular harms women face online.
Small pause to slow misinformation on social media
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen propose a small pause before sharing on platforms like X, Bluesky and Mastodon. A computer model shows that a short delay plus a brief learning step can reduce reshares and improve shared content quality.
AI coach helps medical students learn suturing
Researchers at Johns Hopkins developed an explainable AI tool that gives immediate text feedback to medical students practicing suturing. A small randomized study found faster learning for students with prior experience; beginners showed less benefit.
New isotope evidence on the Moon’s origin
A new study finds that the object that hit early Earth and formed the Moon—called Theia—likely formed closer to the Sun. Researchers used isotopes from Earth rocks, Apollo samples and meteorites to reach this conclusion.
Researchers Call for Clear Rules on Gene-Edited Crops in Mexico
Mexican researchers want rules that distinguish gene-edited crops from GMOs. They launched a petition asking the government for evidence-based regulation while warning a March decree banning genetically modified maize could also affect gene editing.
Lab-grown brain-like tissue without animal materials
Scientists grew functional brain-like tissue using a new synthetic scaffold instead of animal‑derived coatings. The scaffold, made from PEG, supports donor brain cells and could help test drugs and reduce animal use in research.