Abstract
Studies on the development of the artificial arm are gradually increasing recently, but hands closely similar to natural ones that move very skillfully have not been produced. Although artificial hands capable only of simple grip actions have been made, most of these customary artificial hands move by such external powers as electricity, gas or oil pressure. The finger-tip of these artificial limbs are hook-shaped, so they can only grasp objects, but not manipulate them skillfully.
This paper describes the development of the arm equipment that can bend the joints of each finger. The actuator of these finger-tips is made of the vinyl tube moved by gas pressure. The merits of this equipment are as follows :
1. The possibility of grasping object smoothly and naturally.,
2. The ability of changing the grasping power by the change of gas pressure.
3. It is easy to put on and well-fitting.
4. It is not heavy.
The weak points are as follows :
1. It is noticeable because of its shaped finger joints.
2. It is difficult to control accurately without development of a micro magnet valve
