PSYONIC THE ABILITY HAND User manual
1 Introduction
The Ability Hand is an affordable, durable, and accessible bionic hand operated by your
own muscles. Powered by long-lasting batteries, the Ability Hand provides users with unique
bionic abilities and superior technology. Using sensors embedded in the fingertips, the
Ability Hand provides users with sensory or touch feedback. All of these features are offered
at a price point that makes advanced activity accessible to more people than ever. We are excited
to provide you with an exceptional bionic hand and truly redefine “human”.
This document contains information on the usage and care of the Ability Hand. This user
manual should be fully reviewed before fitting the Ability Hand.
1.1 Purpose of the Ability Hand
The Ability Hand is an advanced, multi-articulated, prosthetic hand designed to replace
missing or lost limbs for congenital or acquired amputees. The Ability Hand allows users to
regain missing or lost functionality and complete activities of daily living (ADLs).
Additionally, the Ability Hand has added functionality that enhances user experience by
detecting the pressure with which the user is gripping an object. The pressure sensation is
transferred to the user via a small vibration motor embedded in their prosthesis.
The Ability Hand is designed to operate seamlessly with most reputable prosthetic devices
as an easy plug-and-play prosthetic hand. Please see the External Devices section for a list
of compatible components.
1.2 Description of the Device
The Ability Hand Prosthesis System is an advanced, multi-articulated, prosthetic hand
designed to replace missing or lost limbs for congenital or acquired amputees.
The Ability Hand is connected to the user’s prosthesis via an industry standard quick
disconnect interface. Power supply and control signals are passed through a coaxial plug
via connectable interface cables.
There is no physiological, electrical, or mechanical control system supplied with the Ability
Hand Prosthesis System. Users will consult with their certified prosthetist to determine which
control systems are ideal for their needs and physiological presentation.
Power is supplied via the PSYONIC Battery Pack, which is a high capacity, high throughput,
7.4VDC lithium polymer battery.
PSYONIC Battery Pack charging and charge indication is provided via the PSYONIC Power
Switch, which contains a plug for USB-C charging, a multi-color status indicator, and a
power ON/OFF button.
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Finally, the PSYONIC Vibration Unit allows for grip pressure to be fed back to the user via a
small vibration motor. The intensity of the vibrational feedback is proportional to the grip
pressure applied at the fingertips of the Ability Hand.
The Ability Hand Prosthesis System contains the following components:
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1. Ability Hand
2. Coaxial Plug with 6 rings
3. PSYONIC Power Switch
4. PSYONIC Vibration Unit
5. PSYONIC Battery Pack
6. USB-C 30W Wall Charger (image not included)
7. USB-C Charging Cable (image not included)
Accessories to the Ability Hand include the following:
A. PSYONIC Power Switch Fabrication Aide (1:1 scale disposable model for use in
prosthesis fabrication)
B. Prosthesis socket cut-out template for the PSYONIC Power Switch
C. Battery Fabrication Aide
D. Ability Software User Interface Mobile Application (image not included)
For more information, visit the Fabrication Guide on our website.
1.3 Technical Specifications
Specifications
Weight
490g - 500g
Dimensions (Large)
200mm L x 110mm W x 55mm D
Dimensions (Small)
189mm L x 110mm W x 55mm D
Max Grip Force (Power Grasp)
66N
Max Grip Force (Pinch Grasp)
6N
Max Grip Speed (Power Grasp)
*finger + thumb speed (375 degrees/sec)
*max thumb rotator speed (550 degrees/sec)
Maximum Lifting Force Axially
50 lbs recommended (79 lbs max)
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Device Operation
Voltage
7.4VDC
Max Current
14A
Battery Capacity
2200mAh
Battery Size
95mm L x 32mm W x 7mm H
Time to full charge
1 hour
Charger
18W, 3A
Environmental Limits
Water (IEC 60529 IP64)
Protected against water splashes from all directions*
Dust (IEC 60529 IP64)
Full Protection against dust and other particulates
Operating (temperature)
-20˚C to 45˚C
Storage (temperature)
-20˚C to 45˚C
*Caution: Do not place the wrist in water at any time as this may cause damage to the
batteries or other components.
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2 Operation
Ability Hand is to be purchased and fitted by a certified prosthetist. Contact your certified
prosthetist if you have any difficulty operating your Ability Hand or any of its associated
components. You may also contact PSYONIC directly at 1-888-PSYONIC (779-6642).
2.1 Powering on
The Ability Hand contains a PSYONIC Power Switch located towards the middle of the socket.
The following instructions demonstrate how to properly power on and off the Ability Hand.
1) Press the button on the PSYONIC Power Switch once for a couple seconds to turn on
the Ability Hand. The light on the PSYONIC Power Switch will flash white three times
rapidly and then display the color of the grip your hand was left in after powering it
off. If the hand was charged in between the times of powering the hand off and
turning it back on, the hand may calibrate, moving each individual finger to its
resting position. Make sure each finger is clear of any obstructions to ensure
accurate calibration of each finger.
2) To turn off the Ability Hand, hold down the power button for a couple of seconds. The
light will flash white three times and then will disappear. After the light is gone, the
hand is now powered off.
2.2 Charging the Battery
When charging the Ability Hand, use only the charging unit provided to you by PSYONIC.
Follow the instructions below to properly charge the Ability Hand.
1) Before charging the Ability Hand, remove the socket from your residual limb.
2) Place the socket with the Ability Hand on a stable surface and plug the charging
cord into the USB-C charging port located on the PSYONIC Power Switch.
3) Connect the wall adapter to an appropriate wall socket. Charging will begin once
the wall adapter is connected. The LED on the PSYONIC Power Switch will illuminate
during the charging process. When the hand is charging, the LED will continue to
flash a color correlated to the charge level.
a. For red, the battery charge is between 0% and 25%.
b. For orange, the battery charge is between 25% - 50%.
c. For yellow, the battery charge is between 50-75%.
d. For green, the battery charge is between 75 - 99%.
e. For solid green, the battery is fully charged.
To completely charge the battery after the battery is depleted, approximately one hour of
charging time is needed.
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The battery life* for the Ability Hand is dependent on the activity level of the individual user.
It is recommended that you charge the battery overnight to avoid any possible power
issues during normal use. Some odd movements of the hand may be due to lack of battery.
*Note: Only batteries provided by PSYONIC should be used for powering the Ability Hand.
The use of any other battery when operating the Ability Hand is not recommended or
permitted under the warranty. In addition, the use of other batteries may prevent full
performance of the Ability Hand, making it slower and weaker. For external battery use
such as an elbow, PSYONIC recommends the use of a PSYONIC Button. More information
can be found on the website. To preserve dependable activity of the Ability Hand, the
batteries need to be replaced every 12 months.
2.3 Checking Battery Status
To check the battery status when the hand is in use or not charging, quickly tap the button
on the power switch either one time, two times, or three times (Note: the number of times to
tap on the button depends on the setup in the app. See App Setup Guide for more
information. The color displayed in the LED correlates to the charge level.
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3 Usage
3.1 Grips
The Ability Hand is designed to provide users with up to 32 grip patterns. Some examples
can be found below. We offer 32 grip patterns - currently, 19 are pre-defined and available
for use.
Additional customized grips are coming soon.
Power
Key
Pincer
Pinch
Relax
Trigger
Cylinder
Hand-Shake
Sleeve
Point
Hang Loose
Rock
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Power/Key
Tripod (Closed)
Tripod
(Opened)
Rude
Hook
Mouse
Peace
Finger Wave
As you become more familiar with the Ability Hand, you may find yourself seeking in-depth
instruction on how to fully integrate the Ability Hand in your daily life. We have also included
thorough instruction on the use of our mobile application.
You can visit our website (www.psyonic.io) to view instructional videos and more
information on complete control within our mobile application.
3.2 Mobile Application
The PSYONIC App is available on Android and iOS (iPhones, iPads) devices for free. The app
allows for users and clinicians to alter:
●EMG responsiveness
●Touch Sensor responsiveness
●Grip Sets
Scan the QR code below or visit your device’s app store (via Google Play or Apple App
store).
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4 Care
4.1 Cleaning
To lengthen the lifespan of the Ability Hand, careful maintenance is required.
Rinsing the Ability Hand with water as needed will prevent dirt and dust from collecting on
the hand. Soap and water may be used to clean the Ability Hand. Preventing dirt and dust
build-up will help the Ability Hand operate as intended. The Ability Hand is water-resistant
up to the wrist and should be pointed downwards when washing it to prevent damage.
Please note that the Ability Hand is rated to IP64, which allows for the hand to be protected
in any direction of water spray (see Safety section 5 under Precautions for more
information).
Caution: Cleaning agents such as detergent or bleach may harm the Ability Hand. You
should avoid using anything other than soap and water when cleaning the hand.
4.2 Storage and Maintenance
The Ability Hand should be stored in a dry area at room temperature (70°F or 21°C). If the
Ability Hand is stored at a temperature outside of the range -4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C),
significant damage may occur. We recommend that you do not perform any modifications
or maintenance on the Ability Hand. If you believe the Ability Hand is not functioning
properly or if the hand has been damaged, please contact your prosthetist to arrange for
repair or replacement.
4.3 Troubleshooting
If a finger isn’t moving properly, troubleshoot the hand by calibrating it. This can be done
one of two ways:
1.) With the PSYONIC Power Switch
a.) Turn off the hand by pressing Power Switch button
b.) Press the button on the Power Switch down for 7 seconds. The light will dim
out.
c.) Release the button on the Power Switch. The light should flicker white 3 times.
d.) Turn the hand back on.
e.) All of the fingers should move, signifying that the hand has recalibrated.
2.) With a USB-C charging cable
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a.) While the hand is turned on, plug the hand into its USB-C charging cable.
b.) The hand will turn off and begin charging. Charging is signified by the light
on the PSYONIC Power Switch fading in and out in red, yellow, or green.
c.) Unplug the cable and turn the hand back on. Each finger should recalibrate.
If the hand is not functioning or is not responding to the control system, contact PSYONIC.
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5 Safety
5.1 Indications for Use
The Ability Hand is to be used exclusively for people with congenital or acquired limb
difference.
5.2 Contraindications
None Known.
5.3 Safety Instructions
The entire contents of this manual must be reviewed before using the Ability Hand. Failure
to do so could result in suboptimal performance, injury to the user or the device itself.
Definitions:
1. A Warning is intended to alert you to possible risk of severe injury or accidents.
2. A Precaution is intended to alert you to possible risk of injury or accidents.
3. A Notice is intended to alert you to possible problems associated with the use or
misuse causing damage to the product or its equipment.
Using the Ability Hand in a manner that is in violation of the provided Warnings, Precautions,
or Notices may result in damage to the Ability Hand, injury to yourself or others, and could
void any or all warranty coverage for your Ability Hand.
Warnings
●Do not operate heavy equipment, industrial machines, motor-driven equipment, or
machinery while using the Ability Hand, as unexpected actions may cause injury.
●Do not handle power tools while using the Ability Hand, as unexpected actions may
cause injury.
●Do not operate a motor vehicle while using the Ability Hand, as unexpected actions
may cause an accident, serious injury, or death.
●Do not bring the Ability Hand into the immediate proximity of any active implanted
devices (e.g. pacemakers, defibrillators) without written assurance from a qualified
healthcare professional that the systems will not interfere. Interference between the
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Ability Hand and any implanted devices could cause the implanted device to
malfunction.
●Do not at any time handle or operate a firearm while using the Ability Hand, as
unexpected actions during firearm operation could result in serious injury or death.
●Do not handle sharp objects or tools (e.g. blades or knives) with the Ability Hand, as
unexpected actions during handling of sharp objects could result in serious injury or
death.
●Do not use the Ability Hand while the system battery is charging (i.e. connected to a
charger that is plugged into AC Mains supply) without written assurance from a
qualified healthcare professional that it is safe to do so. Use of the Ability Hand while
charging could result in injury.
●Do not puncture, bend, crush, or strain PSYONIC battery packs or their associated
components. Mishandling of battery components can result in catastrophic failure
or fire and/or chemical outbreak leading to serious injury or death.
Precautions
●Do not submerge the Ability Hand in water past the base of the thumb. The Ability
Hand is rated to IP64, which allows for the hand to be protected in any direction of
water spray (https://www.dsmt.com/resources/ip-rating-chart/). Exposure outside
these limits could result in irreparable damage to the device and lead to device
malfunction.
●Do not expose the Ability Hand to extreme temperatures. Keep the device in
environments above -20ºC and below 45ºC at all times. Exposure to either extreme
could cause short or long-term damage to the device and lead to device
malfunction.
●Do not expose the Ability Hand to excessive moisture, vibration, dust, or shock.
Exposure to excessive environmental conditions could cause short or long-term
damage to the device and lead to device malfunction.
●Do not expose the Ability Hand to excessive amounts of corrosive substances (e.g.
sweat, salt water). Exposure to corrosive substances could cause short or long-term
damage to the device and lead to device malfunction.
●Do not clean the Ability Hand with strong chemicals (e.g. acetone, benzene) or
similar solutions. Exposure to strong chemicals could cause short or long-term
damage to the device and lead to device malfunction.
●Do not use the Ability Hand near sources of high energy radio frequency (RF)
systems (e.g. large antennae, satellite dishes). Exposure to high energy RF systems
could cause unexpected actions and lead to device malfunction.
●Use care when operating the Ability Hand near an open flame and never allow the
device to remain directly over an open flame for any amount of time. Exposure to an
open flame could cause the Ability Hand to exceed safe operating temperatures
and lead to device malfunction.
●Use care not to allow the Ability Hand to become crushed or smashed, as this kind of
misuse can cause irreparable damage to the device and lead to device
malfunction.
●Use care not to subject the Ability Hand to any activity or conditions that would
injure a physiologic hand
●Use care not to operate the device in areas of excessive electrostatic buildup, as
excessive electrostatic discharge into the Ability Hand can lead to device
malfunction.
●Do not disassemble or modify the Ability Hand or any associated components in any
capacity.
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Notices
●Do not attempt to repair the Ability Hand on your own. Please contact your
prosthetist or clinician regarding possible repair. Maintenance, upgrades, and
repairs shall be performed by PSYONIC only. Mishandling during maintenance,
upgrade, or repair can cause damage to the Ability Hand and lead to device
malfunction.
●Do not engage in sporting activities while using the Ability Hand without written
assurance from a qualified healthcare professional that it is safe to do so. Use of the
Ability Hand while engaging in sporting activities can cause irreparable damage to
the device and lead to device malfunction.
Unique Conditions
It is important to note that you may or may not be able to use the Ability Hand to operate a
motor vehicle. Consult your prosthetist or clinician before operating a motor vehicle. Some
laws and regulations may prevent you from legally using the Ability Hand while driving a
motor vehicle. Vehicle modifications could be necessary. You may also need an
assessment of driving ability while using the Ability Hand.
It is your responsibility to conclude if you can drive a motor vehicle while using the Ability
Hand. If you can drive a motor vehicle while using the Ability Hand, be sure to fully charge
the Ability Hand before driving a motor vehicle. PSYONIC is not responsible for damage
caused to the user or any other individual under any circumstances while the Ability Hand is
used to drive a motor vehicle.
In addition to operating a motor vehicle, flying aircraft and operating watercraft are subject
to similar conditions. It is your responsibility to determine if you can fly aircraft or operate
watercraft. Regulations and laws may apply to said activities while using the Ability Hand.
5.4 Limitations
Individuals with brachial plexopathy or high-level (i.e. forequarter, shoulder disarticulation)
amputations may benefit from evaluation by a qualified medical professional before being
fit with the Ability Hand.
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6 Additional
Information
The remainder of this document will provide you with information on external device
compatibility, technical support, PSYONIC’s Limited Warranty, return policy, and regulatory
compliance.
6.1 External Device Compatibility
The Ability Hand is designed to be compatible with most third party prosthetic devices and
control systems.
Please contact PSYONIC for an updated list of all supported devices, as work is being done
to ensure complete and enhanced portfolio coverage.
Please note that due to its advanced, powerful motors, the Ability Hand operates best with
the PSYONIC Power Pack batteries. Third party batteries will cause the Ability Hand to
perform sub-optimally.
6.2 Technical Support
For users: If you experience any issues with your Ability Hand, please contact your
prosthetist and describe the issue in detail. Your prosthetist may be able to immediately
assist with any common issues.
For Clinician/Prosthetist: You can contact us via email at [email protected] or call us at
1-888-PSYONIC (779-6642) for further assistance. Technical support can be reached on
extension 4. Our support hours are from 9:00 AM CST to 7:00 PM CST.
6.3 PSYONIC Limited Warranty
PSYONIC provides each Ability Hand user with the most durable commercially available
bionic hand. However, problems may still arise during the use of the Ability Hand. If the
Ability Hand was delivered under a condition that fits the warranty or lost functionality that
falls within the warranty conditions, prompt response and action will be conducted.
Every Ability Hand includes a two-year limited warranty. Each Ability Hand is registered
under our limited warranty by your prosthetist as part of the fitting process.
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The warranty period begins once the Ability Hand is received and used outside of fitting
sessions with a prosthetist.
Conditions covered by the Limited Warranty
Our warranty covers:
●Errors in the assembly of the Ability Hand
●Defects in the material used to build each Ability Hand
●Accidental damage to the Ability Hand that does not exceed any operational limits
and disobey any safety guidelines or appropriate usage outlined previously in this
manual
Conditions not covered by the Limited Warranty
PSYONIC is not responsible for any defect or loss of function to the Ability Hand caused by:
●Regular wear and tear
●Loss of the Ability Hand
●Theft of the Ability Hand
●Cosmetic or minor damage to the Ability Hand that does not affect the use of the
Ability Hand
●Intentional damage to the Ability Hand
●Damage to the Ability Hand caused by neglect
●Use of the hand that does not meet the safety guidelines and appropriate use
outlined previously in this manual
●Inclement weather, lightning strike, or any acts of nature that expose the Ability Hand
to dangerous conditions
●Any event not within reasonable control or anticipation by PSYONIC
●Damage caused by animals or insects
●Use of batteries and battery chargers not specifically provided by PSYONIC
●Attempts by any individual outside of PSYONIC to repair the Ability Hand or carry out
maintenance and service to the Ability Hand
●Connection or installation of the Ability Hand to parts that are not compatible with
the Ability Hand
●Alteration or modification to any portion of the Ability Hand
6.4 Return Policy
If you experience any conditions within the boundary of the warranty during the two-year
warranty period, please contact your prosthetist for further assistance. Proof of purchase
and details describing any alleged defects or damages must be documented. Your
prosthetist will need to contact technical support for further assistance if a replacement or
repair is necessary. To accommodate the return process, a temporary Ability Hand will be
provided via overnight shipment to your prosthetist. The temporary Ability Hand will need to
be returned to PSYONIC once a replacement Ability Hand has been provided.
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6.5 Regulatory Compliance
FDA Registered
EMC Compliance
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
IEC 60529 – Ingress Protection rated to IP64
IEC 62133 - Safety Test Standard of Li-Ion Cell and Battery
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