Explore Zeus Hand's Advanced Grip Technology

A New Era of Grip Technology in Prosthetics

Living with an upper limb difference isn’t just about finding strength; it’s about having the right kind of control. Whether it’s carrying groceries, typing at work, or holding something as delicate as a wine glass, what people need from a prosthetic device is adaptability. 

That’s exactly what Zeus' hand’s advanced grip technology delivers. The inclusion of an opposable thumb enhances dexterity and allows users to perform a wider range of daily tasks with more natural movement.

The Zeus bionic hand is a multi-articulating myoelectric hand built to give people options. With 14 ready-to-use grip patterns and 3 more that can be tailored by a clinician, it provides upper limb patients with the flexibility to perform everyday tasks confidently.

Let’s explore how Zeus prosthetic hand grips work, how they can be personalized, and why this technology is making a real difference in the daily lives of prosthetic users.

Why Advanced Grip Technology Matters

A prosthetic hand that simply opens and closes can only take someone so far. What sets Zeus apart is its ability to handle fragile objects, heavy objects like shopping bags, or even a computer mouse, without the user worrying about unintentionally breaking fragile objects or losing a secure grip. Zeus' hand’s advanced grip technology enables users to lift objects of various sizes and weights securely and efficiently.

Here’s why multiple grip types matter:

• Daily variety of tasks: Life involves everything from cooking to working on a computer keyboard. Different grip patterns mean fewer limitations.
• Confidence with delicate items: Thanks to proportional control and the soft-grip feature, patients can pick up small objects or thin objects without crushing them.
• Better rehabilitation outcomes: A wider grip range helps people relearn finger positions in a more natural way, supporting smoother prosthetic rehabilitation.

The World Health Organization highlights that prosthetic limbs enabling versatile grip patterns boost independence and participation in everyday tasks. Zeus was designed with that principle in mind.

Comprehensive Grip Range

Zeus' hand comes with 14 predefined grip patterns and 3 customizable slots. These grips work with two thumb positions: the opposed position (thumb against the fingers) and the non-opposed position (thumb alongside the fingers). Switching between these positions opens up a wide range of grip types.

• Opposed thumb: Great for powerful and versatile grips like power grip, tripod grip, and trigger grip.
• Non-opposed grips: Useful for functional grips like key grip, finger point grip, or open palm.

The Zeus hand also supports specialized grips such as the column grip, which is useful for pressing buttons, calling lifts, or operating light switches.

This dual-position system means that whether someone is holding car keys, signing a document, or trying to securely hold objects, the hand adapts.

Grip Highlights

Power Grip

The everyday hero. Delivering up to 152N of grip force in Zeus V1 and 120N in Zeus S, it’s reliable for tasks like opening doors, lifting heavy objects, or carrying shopping bags. This strong grip gives patients a stable grip they can count on.

Hook Grip

The hook grip is a standout feature of the Zeus bionic hand, designed specifically for carrying heavy objects with minimal effort. By utilizing the self-locking mechanism of the bionic hand, the fingers wrap securely around items like shopping bags, gym equipment, or a briefcase, maintaining a firm hold without the need for continuous motor power. 

This grip offers a static grip capacity of up to 77 lbs (35 kg). In Zeus V1. & for Zeus S, it's 44lbs (20kg), making it ideal for tasks that require strength and stability.

Beyond just lifting, the hook grip with impact and resistance features provides practical support in daily routines, such as helping users rise from a seated position by allowing them to grip a sturdy surface with confidence. 

This added functionality gives users greater peace of mind and independence, knowing their Zeus bionic hand can handle the demands of everyday life. Whether it’s carrying groceries or supporting body weight momentarily, the hook grip ensures a reliable and secure hold every time.

Trigger Grip

Perfect for using spray bottles or appliances with trigger mechanisms. The index finger and middle fingers move proportionally, giving just the right amount of control to operate trigger mechanisms safely.

Precision Open Grip and Precision Closed Grip

Great for picking up coins, thin flat objects, or any small objects that require accuracy. The thumb moves to a mid-point, and the index finger can be used with other fingers adjusted as needed. 

The Zeus hand allows fingers to stall individually, enabling the hand to conform to the shape of objects for precise gripping. Individual finger stalling is a key aspect of the hand’s advanced design, allowing for secure handling and delicate tasks by letting each finger adapt to the object’s shape. 

The precision closed grip helps pick up small objects from a table, while the precision open grip allows for tasks where other fingers remain open.

Tripod Open Grip and Tripod Closed Grip

Useful for writing with a pen, holding car keys, or carrying medium-sized objects like an egg. This grip mimics common finger positions for reliability in daily routines. In a tripod open grip, the little finger and ring finger remain open, while in a tripod closed grip, all four fingers work with the thumb to create a secure grip.

Mouse Grip and Key Grip

The Zeus bionic hand’s mouse grip and key grip are engineered to make everyday tasks seamless and intuitive. With the mouse grip, the hand naturally assumes the shape of a computer mouse, allowing users to operate a computer with ease. 

The index and ring fingers are positioned to control the left and right mouse buttons, while the thumb and other fingers provide a stable, secure grip. This design ensures that navigating digital environments is both comfortable and efficient, making the Zeus bionic hand an excellent companion for work or leisure.

The key grip, on the other hand, is perfect for handling thin objects such as keys, credit cards, or even turning the pages of a book. In this grip, the four fingers form a flat platform, while the thumb moves proportionally to open and close around the object. This allows for a firm grasp and secure grip on items that require precision and control.

Both the mouse grip and key grip highlight the versatility of the Zeus bionic hand, enabling users to perform everyday tasks, from unlocking doors to using a computer mouse, with confidence and independence. The thoughtful design of these grips ensures that users can securely hold objects of various shapes and sizes, making daily activities more accessible and manageable.

Other Specialized Grip Types

• Key Grip: Securely holds thin flat objects like a key or credit card, with a flat platform created by the other fingers.
• Counting Grip: Handy for finger counting or simple gestures, letting patients show numbers with four fingers or fewer.
• Finger Point Grip & Active Index Grip: For pressing light switches, pushing buttons, or using a touchscreen with the index finger in a pointing position.
• Open Palm: The hand opens with a slight curvature and a rubberized palm to support plates, bowls, and books, making it easier to securely hold objects.

Personalized and Customizable

No two people use a bionic hand in the same way. Zeus recognizes this with customizable grip patterns.

• Clinicians can create up to three custom grip patterns.
• Each finger’s movement can be tuned, ensuring finger positions are tailored to individual needs.
• Adjustments can be made in the clinic or remotely through the Aether Digital Platform, a web-based software solution.

This level of personalization means a grip can be designed to match an individual’s hobbies, work, or lifestyle. It’s about giving clinicians the tools to fine-tune what matters most to each patient.

Control That Feels Natural

EMG Signal Grip Control

Zeus actively measures EMG signals to interpret open, close, and co-contraction commands. These translate into grip switching, giving patients seamless control over different grip patterns.

• Sequential mode: Grips cycle in a loop for straightforward access.
• Pairing mode: Groups grips in a hierarchy for faster navigation.

Proportional Control

The harder someone flexes their muscles, the stronger and faster the grip. The soft-grip feature ensures a light touch when holding fragile objects like a wine glass or thin objects.

Freeze Mode

Once an object is held, freeze mode keeps the grip locked in place, creating a secure grip until released. This is especially useful for holding plates, books, or light switches.

Digital Support with Aether Digital Platform

One of the most innovative aspects of Zeus is its link to the Aether Digital Platform (ADP).

For Clinicians

• Adjust grip types, EMG thresholds, and create new custom grip patterns.
• Monitor EMG signals in real time.
• Review usage statistics for evidence-based prosthetic rehabilitation.

For Patients

• Use the mobile app to share data and accept configuration updates.
• Participate in remote sessions with clinicians.
• Track progress and set goals related to grip usage.

This ensures giving clinicians and patients a direct connection for better care.

Reliable by Design

Life doesn’t stop for repairs, and the Zeus bionic hand is built with a modular, robust design to minimize downtime.

• Zeus V1: Repairable in under 30 minutes.
• Zeus S: Repairable in under 10 minutes.

Its impact resistance mechanism and modularity mean patients experience greater peace of mind knowing issues can be resolved quickly.

Safe Use First

Zeus hands are designed for mild-to-moderate activities, not extreme sports or hazardous situations. Safety guidelines include:

• Avoid lifting heavy objects beyond the recommended lift capacity.
• Stay within grip force limits (35 kg static for Zeus V1, 20 kg for Zeus S).
• Keep the prosthetic hand dry; moisture can cause damage.
• Use the touchscreen capability only with the index finger of Zeus S.

These steps ensure a strong grip, a stable grip, and long-lasting performance.

FAQs

What is Zeus Hand’s advanced grip technology?
A combination of 14 predefined and 3 customizable grip patterns, powered by EMG signal control, designed to help users perform everyday tasks confidently.

How many grip patterns does it have?
Seventeen total: 14 predefined plus 3 customizable.

What’s the difference between opposed and non-opposed grips?
Opposed grips place the thumb against the fingers, while non-opposed grips position the thumb alongside them.

Can patients have custom grip patterns designed?
Yes, grip types can be tailored through the Aether Digital Platform.

When is the Trigger Grip useful?
It’s ideal for spray bottles or appliances with trigger mechanisms.

How does EMG control work?
By detecting muscle contractions and converting them into commands for grip switching and control.

How do clinicians adjust grip settings remotely?
Through ADP, a web-based software platform.

How quickly can Zeus be repaired?
Zeus S in under 10 minutes, Zeus V1 in under 30 minutes.

Is it built for heavy-duty tasks or sports?
No, it’s designed for safe everyday use. Zeus V1, however, can hold and lift heavy objects.

Does it allow touchscreen use?
Yes, the index finger of Zeus S can operate touchscreens.

Conclusion

Zeus' hand’s advanced grip technology is more than a prosthetic hand; it’s a partner in independence. From power grip strength to precision closed grip accuracy, from customizable grip patterns to web-based software support, Zeus gives patients the tools to confidently perform everyday tasks.

For patients, this means independence and freedom. For clinicians, it means having a robust design with adaptable grip types to provide greater peace and a light touch where it’s needed most. The Zeus bionic hand delivers both strength and subtlety, helping people live life with fewer limitations.