Asymmetric shape of distal phalanx of human finger improves precision grasping.

ABSTRACT: In morphology field, the functions of an asymmetric-shaped distal phalanx in human finger have only been inferred. In this study, we used an engineering approach to empirically examine the effects of the shape of distal phalanx on the ability of precision grasping. Hence, we developed artificial fingertips consisting of four parts, namely bones, nails, skin, and subcutaneous tissue, that substitute the actual human fingertips. Furthermore, we proposed a method to evaluate the grasping ability of artificial fingers. When a cylindrical object was grasped by an artificial fingertip, a pull-out experiment was conducted. Thus, the asymmetric type was found to be superior in terms of drawing force, holding time, and work of friction than the symmetric type. Our results clearly demonstrate that t

SUBMITTER: Kumagai A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8128879 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature