A groundbreaking advancement in prosthetics, a robotic extra thumb, is changing the way we think about human productivity. Developed by a team of researchers at Cambridge University, this innovative device aims to expand the functionality of the human hand, offering a solution to increase manual dexterity for both everyday tasks and specialized professional activities.
The robotic thumb was first introduced to the public at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition in 2022, where it garnered significant attention. The exhibition saw over 600 participants, and the vast majority—98%—were able to successfully use the device within just one minute of trying it, completing tasks such as picking up pegs from a board or manipulating objects quickly. Only a few individuals, mainly due to issues with hand fitting or difficulty controlling the device with their feet, were unable to use it effectively.
A New Way to Boost Manual Dexterity
Tamar Makin, a professor of cognitive neuroscience at Cambridge, emphasizes the potential of this robotic thumb to enhance the work performance of individuals across various fields. “This technology is designed to help people expand the capabilities of their hands,” Makin explains. Whether it’s helping manual laborers handle complex tools or assisting surgeons with simultaneous instrument handling during surgeries, the extra thumb could redefine tasks that demand high manual dexterity.
The thumb is controlled using pressure sensors placed under each of the user’s big toes. By applying pressure with the right toe, the thumb moves across the hand, while pressure from the left toe moves it toward the fingers. The movement of the thumb is proportional to the amount of pressure exerted on the sensors, giving users intuitive control over the device. Although the concept may seem complicated, users find that they can operate the thumb with minimal training, making it accessible for various professional environments.
A Leap Beyond Human Limitations
The robotic thumb is designed for able-bodied individuals to surpass the natural limitations of their hands. As Clode, the developer of the third thumb, points out, “Any tool we use requires a bit of practice, but the thumb is surprisingly easy to master, even if it appears complex at first.” The goal is not only to enhance human capabilities but also to provide new ways of interacting with the world, enabling users to perform tasks more efficiently and effectively.
While the primary focus of the thumb has been on enhancing productivity for able-bodied individuals, the research team sees immense potential for those with disabilities. The robotic thumb could offer additional support and functionality, serving as an alternative to traditional assistive technologies. The team is actively working toward ensuring that this device can be adapted to help those in need.
Expanding Horizons
With further testing and development, the team believes the third thumb has the potential to become a game-changer, not just for skilled professionals but for anyone looking to amplify their hand’s capabilities. Whether it’s handling multiple tasks at once, improving the precision of manual work, or offering new ways of interacting with tools and equipment, the third thumb opens up a world of possibilities that could drastically change the way we work and live.
This new advancement in prosthetics represents an exciting leap toward augmenting human potential, offering a glimpse into the future where our abilities go beyond the limits of biology.
