The aim of the project was the development of a prosthetic hand with enhanced functionality (provide different grasping patterns) and enhanced anthropomorphic appearance and cosmesis, compared to conventional prosthetic hands. Patient surveys helped to clarify the needs of upper-limb prosthetic users. The combination of flexible fluidic actuators and soft passive elements reduces the required grasping force for a wide range of objects. At the same time, the enhanced actuator system allows high grasping forces if necessary. Two myoelectrodes in the socket together with the developed controller board and software enable quick selection of the most important grasping patterns. Vibrotactile force feedback and wireless programming and control options complete the characteristics of the Fluidhand.

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