One of the most successful applications of 3D printing is the low-cost manufacturing of customized prostheses. However, many of these are feature-limited devices and lack active mobility. A Tunisian start-up is now seeking to overcome these limitations thanks to a much more versatile prototype that harnesses renewable power and uses artificial intelligence software to interpret signals emitted by a user’s muscles. is. This prosthetic hand features various joints that allow movement of the fingers and thumb or wrist by electrical impulses.
Designed as a support tool for users in developing countries, the Bionic Hand includes a wireless charging system and solar panel that can be used without relying on access to a power grid. This approach gives users more independence and autonomy, allowing them to charge their devices anywhere.
To date, one of the main obstacles to advanced prosthetics is their high cost, which amounts to tens of thousands of euros. Luckily, this entrepreneurial team managed to bring it down to his €2-3,000 price range.
lego hand
To reduce these costs, the development team adopted an innovative modular philosophy. technology projectIf any part becomes damaged, it can be easily replaced. Similarly, as the user grows taller, they can exchange for a larger one that fits better. This aspect is very important as the advanced prostheses on the market are not only very expensive but also have a very short service life. Over the years, the child’s body has changed so much that it is necessary to purchase a completely new one. The company became aware of this problem when one of her relatives, a member of the team, was born without a hand and her parents could not afford to purchase a short-lived prosthetic limb.
Obstacles are not games, but overcoming them can be
Losing a limb in childhood is a traumatic experience, and learning to manage without it is a arduous and often tedious process. It takes meticulous attention and persistence to practice again and again. That’s why the developers of this bionic hand rely on gamification technology. That is, they are inspired by video game mechanics to make the process more enjoyable.
So they developed a virtual reality software called VREHAB that allows children to perform actions such as climbing buildings in the style of Spider-Man. Improving your skills earns you more points in the program. In addition, rehabilitation therapists can track their activities online and monitor their progress.
It’s not just startup-developed software that’s playful. Using 3D printing, each prosthesis can be customized with designs that mimic superhero aesthetics for children, or even fashion accessories for teens and young adults.
To learn more about the possibilities of a new generation of prostheses, check out this article on 3D printing in biomedical fields.
sauce: TechExplore
