Advances and Challenges in Smart Prosthetics: A Review of Sensing, Actuation, and Bionic Design

Abstract

 Intelligent prosthetics signify a significant evolution from mechanical devices to advanced systems integrating mechatronics, biomedical engineering, and artificial intelligence. This review synthesizes recent technological advancements in key areas such as sensing and signal acquisition, actuation and execution, biomimetic structures and materials, feedback and perception, and energy management. Notable progress includes improving the accuracy of electromyographic signal classification through deep learning, developing hybrid actuation systems for enhanced power and efficiency, and fabricating multi-parameter electronic skins for high-fidelity tactile feedback. Despite these achievements, challenges remain in achieving stable signal acquisition, ensuring long-term usability and comfort, managing energy consumption, and, most crucially, reducing costs to improve accessibility. Future research must enhance reliability in real-world environments, improve user interaction, and make these advanced prosthetics affordable and accessible to the global amputee population.