Onbyz’s bionic hand holds benefits for users

The bionic hand works through electrodes that transmit signal over wires from the intact nerves and muscles in the elbow to a microprocessor that directs the digits to move

Thiruvananthapuram-based startup Onbyz, recently displayed its bionic hand, that can help forearm amputees regain a measure of their prior grasping and holding capabilities, at ‘Disrupt Kerala 2017’ conference in the city. The 3-D printed device is expected to eventually be priced at a fraction of its competitors’ costs.

“When it hits the market, our creation will probably fetch between Rs 1-1.25 lakh whereas existing bionic hands cost in excess of Rs 10 lakh. The reason we are able to pass on the savings to the customer is due to the cost-effective and custom-built tech that has gone into our hand,” said Sanju Mathew, CEO, Onbyz – the city-based startup that has developed the device.

Onbyz’s bionic hand works through electrodes that transmit signal over wires from the intact nerves and muscles in the elbow to a microprocessor that directs the digits to move. This set-up allows the user to manipulate the hand to grip objects. While the movement isn’t real-time just yet, the lag between signal input and output is expected to decrease further along the development process. The device features sophisticated new architecture that marries custom adaptable platform-based internal hardware to an operating system that facilitates the use of community-developed software.

“Our device comes with a graphical interface that allows users to access a web-based marketplace from where they can pick and choose add-ons – like say making a thumbs-up or okay sign – to download and install on their hands to improve functionality for free,” Mathew said.

The third generation device is also expected to make the move to wireless use and charging and include removable batteries that can function for three to four hours at a go without an external power source.