Robo Bionics Bridges Prosthetic Access in India
Robo Bionics produces Grippy, a prosthetic hand utilizing proprietary MMG (mechanomyography) technology that detects muscle pressure instead of electrical signals.
Prosthetic Accessibility Challenges in India
A 2023 review in the World Journal of Clinical Cases highlights that amputation causes significant disability in India, yet only around 5% of amputees have access to prosthetic devices.
- High costs limit affordability.
- Rehabilitation facilities are scarce.
- Availability is low in underserved regions.
Founders’ Inspiration from Personal Experience
Two IIT Patna alumni, Llewellyn D’sa and Priyanka D’sa, encountered a peer born without a hand who chose not to use a prosthetic, struggling with daily tasks.
“He would need someone else's help to wear them, leaving him dependent,” says Priyanka.
The founders identified that beyond cost, many prosthetics are bulky and uncomfortable to wear for long hours. Their complexity demands extensive training for effective use.
Limitations of Existing Prosthetic Technologies
Myoelectric prosthetics rely on muscle-signal sensors but are often unreliable due to factors like sweat, humidity, skin movement, and muscle fatigue.
“They can also be unreliable; myoelectric prosthetics often stop responding properly because of sweat, humidity, skin movement, or muscle fatigue.”
Author’s Summary
Robo Bionics’ innovative prosthetic hand tackles India’s access gap with affordable, user-friendly, and climate-resilient technology.