"Temperature-Sensitive Prosthetic Limb Enhances Sensory Experience and Human Connection"

Researchers have developed a prosthetic limb device called MiniTouch that allows users to sense temperature differences, enabling them to perceive warmth or coolness in their missing limb. The device, which does not require surgery, uses a temperature sensor and readily available electronics to reproduce thermal sensations on the skin of the amputee. Testing on a patient showed improved accuracy in distinguishing between objects and materials, indicating the potential for enhancing sensory feedback in artificial limbs. The team aims to create a single wearable system that can provide various sensations, such as pressure, texture, position, temperature, and wetness, through prostheses.