Not all embedded computers just compute or move data. Embedded computing devices such as those from Otto Bock Healthcare, Germany, and other companies can significantly improve the lives of people with disabilities. Embedded computing electronics can monitor, control, navigate, and communicate with devices from artificial prosthetics to various types of transportation.
Embedded prosthetics
Embedded systems may be embedded in technical equipment as well as in and on the human body. An artificial elbow joint called DynamicArm (Figure 1, right) from Otto Bock Healthcare is the world’s first completely microprocessor-controlled, orthobionic autoadaptive dynamic arm that can lift up to 6 kg (more than 12 pounds), about six times its own weight. Nerve actions sensed through muscular vibrations on the living arm translate into computer-controlled arm movements. Essentially, the DynamicArm becomes an integral part of a human body.
This embedded system is based on a commercial microcontroller using the Time Triggered Protocol (TTP/A) on an Axon bus (often used on aircraft) for communication among the sensors, microprocessor, and infinitely variable drive motors. It automatically adapts in real time to various loads on the arm. The DynamicArm, which Otto Bock Healthcare jointly developed with their Austrian research subsidiary and the Technical University of Vienna, gets its individual parameters through a Bluetooth-based BionicLink.
The C-Leg pictured in Figure 2 (see the Embedded Technology in Europe column in the May 2005 issue of Embedded Computing Design) has been upgraded in the last year. A wireless remote control that allows switching between activity modes has been added. The C-Leg wearer can use remote control to quickly and inconspicuously switch from first mode to second mode when bicycling, inline skating, ice skating, and so on. A standing mode can be activated for additional safety. This standing mode stabilizes the C-Leg at any flexion angle, in spite of dynamic alignment, without the wearer having to use muscular strength to ensure steadiness.
Figure 2
Individual adjustment of the swing phase control has also been added to the C-Leg, which users can easily adjust by remote control without compromising safety. A knee angle sensor measures step length and frequency, and transmits this information for dynamic control of the swing phase. For safe standing, a load sensor measures the heel strike and forefoot load through strain gauges (for more on the C-leg, see the May 2005 column, "Embedded World review and an embedded human body system").
“The Paragolfer lifts the user’s body to an upright position so he or she can freely move their shoulders to hit the golf ball right at the target.”
Embedded assistance vehicles
Otto Bock Healthcare also has developed a motor-powered wheelchair that can be used off-road like a jeep. The Superfour resembles a quad all-terrain vehicle and is powered by batteries and a diesel engine. It has a GPS system, sensors, and embedded computers that monitor the geographic location, inclination angle, diesel fuel supply, battery status, and other parameters of the vehicle as well as heart beat, oxygen in the blood, and other medical data of the wheelchair occupant. The electronic supervision in a central base station can monitor a whole fleet of wheelchairs. It automatically generates alarms if the wheelchair starts to tip over or the user’s heart rate increases to a dangerous level. The seat automatically adjusts to a horizontal position in rough terrain. Four independent drive motors enable the Superfour to accelerate even in terrain with a 40 percent incline. The Superfour can drive a world record distance of up to 200 km (120 miles) without refueling or battery charging.
Another vehicle from Otto Bock Healthcare, the Paragolfer (Figure 3), can drive in uneven terrain and help people with disabilities, including paraplegics, play golf outdoors. It lifts the user’s body to an upright position so he or she can freely move their shoulders to hit the golf ball right at the target. Some airlines carry the Paragolfer onboard their aircraft free of charge. Christian Nachtwey, a German golf professional and Anthony Netto, the trainer of the German National Golf Team, helped develop the Paragolfer.
Figure 3
Recognition
Otto Bock Healthcare’s DynamicArm was runner-up for this year’s Hermes Award, which was presented at the International Hannover Fair in April with the German chancellor in attendance. Otto Bock Healthcare is one of 50 members of Germany’s all-time innovation hall of fame, which covers the last 500 years. The hall of fame includes companies and individuals such Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the printing press, Rudolf Diesel, inventor of the diesel engine, and Gottlieb Daimler, inventor of the motorcycle in 1885 and coinventor of the automobile with Carl Benz (DaimlerBenz, now DaimlerChrysler).
Hermann Strass is an analyst and consultant for new technologies, including industrial automation, computer bus architectures, mass storage technologies, and industrial networking. He is the author of several books and trade magazine articles, and an active member of several international standardization committees.
Embedded prosthetics 
