Using 3D Printing Technology to Build Economical Prosthetics
Board Location: #149
Discipline: Technology and Engineering
Subcategory: Physiology and Health
Session: 3
Nikafareed Papari - University of Texas at Austin
Co-Author(s): Liana Chen, University of Texas at AustinMuhammad Khan, University of Texas at Austin Lauren Weinbrecht, University of Texas at Austin
The loss of a limb can be a life-changing event. Without a hand, the independence they once had to perform simple tasks like typing, picking up objects, and cooking, is significantly impacted. Oftentimes, these individuals must rely on others to help them with basic daily functions and overcome barriers. Aside from the physical repercussions, disabilities like this can damage the individual’s self-image and mental health, leading to a dark road of more complex issues. However, a voice-controlled, fully customizable, 3D-printed prosthetic arm could be an effective solution with the ability to change the lives of many individuals. The aim of this research is to leverage 3D printing technology to build more economical prosthetic devices than are currently available. The improved affordability and accessibility of prosthetic limbs for amputees would consequently increase their independence and self-esteem. The cost of prosthetic limbs can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Insurance coverage is also limited, leaving many amputees with little to no access to these devices. With the help of 3D printing technology, prosthetic assembly kits can be developed at an affordable cost, providing easier access to prosthetic limbs. Lower costs and increased access to prosthetics can also offer a potential solution for amputees in underdeveloped countries or underserved communities who are unable to bear the high expenses of traditional prosthetic limbs. Created utilizing widely available 3D printers and materials including an Ultimaker S5 3D printer, polylactic acid (PLA) filament, Arduino electronics, servo motors, fishing line, and a variety of bolts and screws, the arm uses cost-effective materials to build a product operating on programmed commands and a 7.4-volt battery. The completed product is a fully-functional and customizable prosthetic arm with voice recording and programming capabilities. This $100 prosthetic can be sold for over 10x less than the current market alternative prosthetics. With a short assembly time of 1 to 2 hours, a customized fit, and functional hand movements, this prosthetic limb demonstrates how biomechanical engineering and technological innovation can serve the needs of a wide range of people. Future testing and research can be utilized to increase grip strength, provide a more natural appearance, systemize the process, and add additional capabilities. References: “Disability and Health Disability Barriers.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 16 Sept. 2020, www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/disability-barriers.html. “ARM Prosthetics: Types, Benefits, and Care.” Lawall, 19 Feb. 2023, www.lawall.com/blog/arm-prosthetics. McGimpsey, Grant, and Terry C. Bradford. “Limb Prosthetics Services and Devices .” National Institute of Standards and Technology, 28 Apr. 2017, www.nist.gov/system/files/documents/2017/04/28/239_limb_prosthetics_services_devices.pdf.Noh, Jin-Won, et al. “Relationship between Physical Disability and Depression by Gender: A Panel Regression Model.” PLOS ONE, 30 Nov. 2016, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0166238. S, P., & Instructables. (2017, October 21). DIY Prosthetic Hand & Forearm (voice controlled). Instructables. Retrieved November 28, 2022, from https://www.instructables.com/Voice-Controlled-Prosthetic-Hand-Forearm/
Funder Acknowledgement(s): This study was supported, in part, by an NSF Award 1742548 to the University of Texas at Austin in support of the UT Austin S-STEM Sophomore Scholars Program.
Faculty Advisor: Stuart Reichler, sreichler@mail.utexas.edu
Role: After brainstorming ideas for how I could conduct research to achieve my primary goal of helping individuals recieve the tools and resources they need at a more accessible cost, I began doing literature reviews, meeting with potential stakeholders, researching supplies, and initiating the project. I put together a small group of research collaborators to assist me in developing the project. I found the paper to base our research off of and edited the files we needed to create the components. I ordered the necessary supplies, took part in printing the individual pieces, and leading the team through weekly check-in meetings. I coded the electronic components and attached the 3D printed pieces together. I found the voice recognition module and learned how to apply it to this research. I networked and made connections for my team to present our work and expand our testing. I created the poster and wrote the abstract to present on our behalf.