114 學年度臺灣大學轉學生招生考試｜第 36 題

Limb loss affects millions worldwide, with around 1.9 million people living with amputation in the U.S. alone—a figure expected to double by 2050. These individuals rely on prosthetic limbs to regain mobility, which can range from artificial hands and arms to legs, knees, and ankles.

Traditional prostheses are primarily designed to replicate the appearance of missing limbs, but they typically offer little beyond aesthetics in terms of function. As passive devices, they do not restore natural movement, affecting the quality of life for amputees. For instance, individuals with prosthetic legs often walk with an unnatural gait, leading to reduced mobility and increased risks of falling. Additionally, the strain of overcompensating with their intact side can cause long-term shoulder and back issues.

To address these limitations, some amputees turn to bionic prostheses, which incorporate advanced technology to restore lost function. Research universities such as the University of Michigan and MIT are pioneering ways to integrate machines with the human body. These high-tech prostheses are battery-powered and controlled by neural signals, allowing users to translate thoughts into movement. Bionic limbs offer precise control over individual fingers, enable natural walking, and even support active sports such as motorcycling, skiing, and surfing. Unlike traditional prostheses, bionic versions can simulate touch through built-in sensors, relaying sensory feedback to the brain in real time. This advancement allows users to experience textures, differentiate between hot and cold, and feel as if the prosthetic is truly part of their body.

Despite these benefits, affordability remains a significant barrier. Bionic prostheses can cost tens of thousands of dollars, preventing widespread adoption among those who need them most. However, advances in 3D printing are driving down costs by enabling the production of low-cost bionic limbs using accessible materials. This breakthrough has the potential to make sophisticated prostheses more affordable, particularly for individuals from low-income backgrounds.

The development of bionic prosthetics represents a transformative step in improving mobility and quality of life for amputees. While challenges remain, innovations such as 3D printing are paving the way for accessible, functional prosthetic solutions, bringing hope to millions seeking better alternatives to traditional artificial limbs.