Abstract Biomedical engineering has significantly contributed to the development of smart prosthetic limbs designed to improve mobility, functional independence, and quality of life for individuals with limb loss. These advanced systems integrate mechanical engineering, electronics, biosignal processing, and artificial intelligence to provide more responsive and adaptable assistive devices. This article reviews the fundamental components of smart prostheses, the technologies used for motion control, the potential applications of artificial intelligence, and the major engineering and clinical challenges associated with their implementation in rehabilitation. 1. Introduction Prosthetic limbs represent an important application of biomedical engineering because they help compensate for lost limb function resulting from trauma, disease, or surgical amputation. Traditional prosthetic devices primarily rely on passive mechanical structures, whereas modern systems increasingly incorporate electronic sensors, microprocessors, and powered actuators. These technological developments aim to improve gait performance, balance, and the user’s ability to perform daily activities. Biomedical engineers contribute to the entire development process, including device design, material selection, biomechanical analysis, signal acquisition, and performance evaluation. Collaboration between engineers, prosthetists, physicians, and rehabilitation specialists is essential to ensure that prosthetic devices meet users’ functional and clinical requirements. 2. Technical Components of Smart Prosthetic Limbs A smart prosthetic limb generally consists of several integrated subsystems. The mechanical structure provides support and transmits loads, while powered actuators or specialized mechanical components facilitate movement when required. Sensors measure important parameters, including joint angles, pressure, force, acceleration, and changes in limb position. One important control technology is electromyography (EMG), which records the electrical activity associated with muscle contraction. After signal acquisition, filtering, and feature extraction, the resulting information can be translated into commands that control prosthetic movement. Embedded microcontrollers and computational algorithms process sensor data and determine appropriate responses to the user’s intended actions. Brain–computer interfaces are another emerging research direction. These systems investigate the possibility of controlling prosthetic devices using brain activity. Electroencephalography (EEG), for example, records electrical signals from the scalp, while functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) measures changes associated with cerebral blood oxygenation. Although these technologies offer promising possibilities, challenges remain in signal reliability, processing complexity, response time, and practical usability. 3. The Role of Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence and machine learning can improve prosthetic control by identifying movement patterns and adapting device responses to changing conditions. For example, algorithms can analyze information from multiple sensors to distinguish between walking on level ground, ascending stairs, and descending stairs. The control system can then adjust the behavior of a powered knee or ankle joint to support the required movement. Adaptive control may improve gait stability and reduce the likelihood of stumbling. However, these benefits depend on reliable sensor measurements, robust algorithms, and appropriate validation under real-world conditions. In addition, collected movement data can help rehabilitation professionals assess functional progress, identify problems, and personalize training programs. 4. Engineering and Clinical Challenges Despite considerable technological progress, smart prosthetic limbs face several limitations. These include high manufacturing costs, device weight, energy consumption, battery capacity, and difficulties maintaining reliable performance across different environments. Poor socket fit may also cause discomfort, skin irritation, and reduced control. To address these issues, engineers must prioritize user-centered design, biocompatible materials, mechanical durability, electrical safety, and efficient power management. Prosthetic systems should undergo engineering verification and clinical evaluation to assess comfort, gait performance, balance, reliability, and functional independence. Accessibility and affordability are equally important because advanced technology provides limited benefit if intended users cannot obtain or maintain the device. 5. Conclusion Smart prosthetic limbs demonstrate the interdisciplinary nature of biomedical engineering by combining biomechanics, electronics, biosignal processing, and artificial intelligence. These technologies have the potential to improve mobility and functional independence for people with limb loss. Future progress will depend on more accurate sensors, lightweight materials, adaptive control algorithms, and improved energy efficiency. Nevertheless, technological innovation must be accompanied by clinical validation, affordability, safety, and consideration of individual user needs. Through continued collaboration between engineers and healthcare professionals, smart prosthetics may become increasingly effective and accessible rehabilitation solutions.