Chiroplast (plural: chiroplasts) refers to a type of prosthetic or artificial hand that is designed and tailored to replace or enhance the functionality of a missing or impaired biological hand. This term combines the Greek words "cheir" meaning "hand" and "plastos" meaning "formed" or "molded," indicating its purpose as a hand-formed or hand-molded device.
A chiroplast is typically made of various materials such as silicone, plastic, metal, or a combination, and its main objective is to imitate the appearance, dexterity, and movement capabilities of a real hand. It is custom-made to fit the specific needs of each individual, considering aspects like size, shape, and level of impairment. The modern development of chiroplasts has been greatly influenced by advancements in technology, including robotics, sensors, and artificial intelligence, allowing for more sophisticated and functional prosthetic hands.
Chiroplasts offer numerous benefits to individuals with upper limb disabilities, enabling them to perform daily activities, interact with their environment, and improve their overall quality of life. Depending on the complexity of the device, a chiroplast can be controlled via muscle signals, nerve stimulation, or even through the use of the brain-computer interface.
Overall, a chiroplast represents an innovative solution that aims to replicate the lost functionality of a hand, providing individuals with opportunities to regain independence, enhance mobility, and restore confidence in their daily lives.
