3D continuous monitoring system for localization of upper limb based on optical fiber

A system to monitor continually the position of the hand in the space, taking as a reference the xiphoid apophysis of the sternum was developed. The resulting vector is formed by the sum of the vectors from the arm and the forearm. The authors employed fiber optic sensors to measure angular movement, that were mounted over a polychloreprene suit, worn by the subject under study. The signal from the sensor was processed in a microcontroller and transmitted via RF to a PC where it was received and stored. This system is applicable for feedback in powered prosthesis where the position of the terminal device is very important.