Lecture Notes: Johnny Matheny's Journey with Prosthetics

Introduction

• Johnny Matheny shares his personal story.
• Experience with the State Police due to unique prosthetic.
• Highlights the importance of prosthetics in improving life quality.

Background

• Former Salesman diagnosed with cancer in left forearm in 2005.
• Aggressive cancer led to amputation above the elbow in 2008.
• Describes the joy of having a second chance at life, fueling motivation.

Experimental Prosthetics

• Johnny is testing an advanced prosthetic at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.
• Development funded by military—over $120 million.
• Focus on mind-controlled prosthetics that connect to skeletal implants.

Key Features of the Prosthetic

• First prosthetic attached directly to the skeleton.
• Avoids traditional issues like skin breakdown and suction problems.
• Johnny's implant increases strength and mobility.

Mind-Controlled Technology

• Johnny can control the prosthetic arm using thoughts.
• Required surgery to rearrange nerves from the missing arm.
• Uses wireless bio bands to transmit muscle activity.
• Demonstrates various functions:
  • Elbow flexion
  • Hand opening
  • Wrist rotation

Challenges and Training

• Emphasizes the extensive mental exercises needed for control.
• Overcomes difficulties in communicating with the arm.
• Importance of patience and time in training.

Future of Prosthetics

• Goal: Develop a prosthetic that can provide sensory feedback (e.g., texture, temperature).
• Vision of robotics becoming an integral part of human capabilities.
• Johnny describes himself as a pioneer in this field:
  • Compares to early automobiles and airplanes.
  • Aspires for future advancements, likening them to luxury cars and supersonic jets.

Conclusion

• Johnny's journey symbolizes the potential of prosthetic technology.
• Represents a shift towards more natural, integrated robotic systems.
• Encourages hope and innovation in the field of prosthetics.