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CU gloved artificial hand holding glass ZOOM OUT to model of body with artificial upper limbs.
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CU man removing glove from artificial hand.
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CU removal of plastic covers over electronic components of artificial arm.
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CU artificial hand opening fingers
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CU microphone attached to neck band around neck of man controlling movement of artificial limb.
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CU memory bank storing different pattern of movement.
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CU pocket high-capacity battery
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CU ZOOM OUT FROM artificial arm control at shoulder of model TO fingers moving on hand
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CU artificial hand holding hair brush and brushing man's hair.
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Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: A computer-controlled artificial arm which offer revolutionary help to handicapped people has been development in Japan. A team of doctors, mechanics and students from Japan's leading university began intensive research on the development of the limb five year ago -- now it won't be long before it goes into mass production.

SYNOPSIS: Reaching for a glass of water, gripping it and raising it to the mouth are simple movements for most people. But for those who have injured or lost one or both upper limbs, they can be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to do.

The micro-computer controlled arm - which is activated by the human voice - is modular in design. The basic finger mechanism was first developed in France twelve years ago and has been refined by the Japanese team.

The user simply hums a four-note melody through a tiny microphone fitted at the memory bank of the pocket sized computer which then sends electrical impulses to small battery-operated motors fitted at the shoulder, elbow and wrist.

Nearly every movement of the human arm can be simulated - it's said to be the first artificial arm which can be raised above shoulder level. Many handicapped people will soon enjoy physical freedom to an extent that has never been possible -- just be humming a few little tunes.