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Imagine having an extra thumb that could help you grab objects and carry things more easily.
That's exactly what this incredible AI third thumb robot device can do. It was created by scientist Tamar Makin and her team.
The revolutionary Third Thumb robotic device was tested by Cambridge researchers with a diverse range of participants to ensure it works for everyone.
This emerging area of future technology, called motor augmentation, involves using motorised wearable devices like exoskeletons or additional robotic body parts to enhance motor capabilities beyond the biological limits of humans.
The AI Third Thumb is controlled by sensors placed under the user's feet.
According to reports, nearly 600 people of all ages, backgrounds, and disabilities were able to use it to perform tasks like moving pegs or picking up oddly shaped objects.
In this project, collaborator Dani Clode stated that the Third Thumb was developed to increase the wearer’s range of movement, enhancing grasping capability and expanding hand-carrying capacity.
It allows users to complete challenging tasks with one hand or perform complex multi-handed tasks without help.
How Does It Work?
To use this device, it needs to be worn opposite your biological thumb. The Third Thumb is controlled by pressure sensors placed under each big toe or foot.
Pressure from the right toe moves the Thumb across the hand, while pressure from the left toe moves it up toward the fingers.
The Thumb's movement corresponds to the pressure applied, returning to its original position when pressure is released.
👍🏽 How easily could you get to grips with a Third Thumb?
— Cambridge University (@Cambridge_Uni) May 30, 2024
The @plasticity_lab @mrccbu team tested a new device by @daniclode at the @RoyalSociety Summer Science Exhibition, and found that the public took to it fairly easily.
Explore more 👉🏽 https://t.co/SNHfbZi5bD pic.twitter.com/xyyUoJT3ED
Professor Tamar Makin from the University of Cambridge's Medical Research Council (MRC) Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit stated, "Technology is changing what it means to be human, with machines becoming part of our everyday lives, even our minds and bodies."
While some people on social media made jokes about the device, as the creator of the device, Makin believes these innovations are reshaping humanity by integrating machines into daily life and even our bodies.
Some individuals on social media expressed concerns that such technology might become a part of human daily life, gradually turning people into 'cyborgs'.
