Researchers trialling robotic 'third' thumb that can be controlled with your toes

Researchers say the additional digit can help people with the use of one arm a chance to complete tasks more easily.

04:43, Thu, May 30, 2024 | UPDATED: 04:43, Thu, May 30, 2024

Scientists are trialling a robotic thumb (Image: University of Cambridge )

Scientists are testing a robotic "third" thumb that can be controlled using toes.

The additional digit is designed to make everyday tasks easier for people who only have the use of one arm.

It is strapped onto the hand on the opposite side of the user's current thumb, essentially meaning they have an opposable thumb on each side.

It is then connected to a battery pack that is strapped onto the user's arm, which is then connected to the controls under the big toes.

The prosthetic is designed to help people complete tasks more easily. (Image: University of Cambridge)

One toe is designed to control the thumb in an inward and outward motion and the other moves it up and down.

This means people using the thumb will be able to pickup items small or large.

University of Cambridge researchers have found the additional thumb means people can one-handedly complete tasks where they would ordinarily need two.

Researchers tested the thumb with 596 people who attended a Royal Society exhibition. They found 98 percent of people were able to get to grips with the thumb.

Only 13 people were unable to use it.

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Volunteers testing the prothetic were given two tasks, one where they had to pick up pegs from a pegboard and the other saw them pick up six different foam objects of different shapes and sizes and move them into a basket.

Men and women showed an equal level of success with the device. While children found it more difficult.

Researchers said: "Our extensive testing of people from a wide demographic range allowed us to confirm that almost anyone can use the device straight away. We found that 98 per cent of participants were able to successfully manipulate objects using the foot-controlled thumb during the first minute of use, with a median of four seconds per object across tasks.”

Previous tests found 20 people trained to use the thumb quickly became profficient.

Dani Clode, who works with the Medical Research Council Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit at Cambridge and developed the device, said:

“Given the diversity of bodies, it’s crucial that the design stage of wearable technology is as inclusive as possible. It’s equally important that these devices are accessible and functional for a wide range of users. Additionally, they should be easy for people to learn and use quickly.”