Hardware implementation of surface electromyogram signal processing: A survey

This paper surveys the previous and ongoing research on surface electromyogram (sEMG) signal processing implementation through various hardware platforms. The development of system that incorporates sEMG analysis capability is essential in rehabilitation devices, prosthesis arm/limb and pervasive healthcare in general. Most advanced EMG signal processing algorithms rely heavily on computational resource of a PC that negates the elements of portability, size and power dissipation of a pervasive healthcare system. Signal processing techniques applicable to sEMG are discussed with aim for proper execution in platform other than full-fledge PC. Performance and design parameters issues in some hardware implementation are also being pointed up. The paper also outlines the trends and alternatives solutions in developing portable and efficient EMG signal processing hardware.