Polymer Prosthetic Hand with Finger Copies for Persons with Congenital Defects or After Amputation Using 3D Printing Technology

TL;DR

This paper describes the creation of a 3D-printed prosthetic hand with finger copies for amputees using low-cost materials and electronics.

Contribution

A novel, low-cost 3D-printed prosthetic hand design with digit replicator for amputees using Arduino-based control.

Findings

PLA filament was found to be safe and suitable for printing prosthetic components.

Arduino-based control systems enabled effective movement of the prosthetic fingers.

The design uses accessible tools and materials, making it widely applicable for similar cases.

Abstract

The research presented in this paper focuses on the utilization of 3D printing technology in the design and manufacture of a prosthetic hand, equipped with a digit replicator. The subject of this study was a young man who had undergone the amputation of two fingers on his right hand. The electronic control of the movement of the finger copy was developed using Arduino language. A concept and outline drawings were developed in ProCreate. Three-dimensional scan of the hand and forearm was made using an EinScan PRO HD SHINING 3D scanner. Using CAD software—Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Meshmixer, the prosthesis was designed. Printing was carried out on a 3D printer of the i3 MK3 and MK3+ series using a PLA (polylactic acid) filament. It was determined that PLA is an optimal material for printing, as it is considered to be safe for future patients’ skin. Work on the electronic circuitry started in Autodesk TinkerCad simulation software, allowing the code to be verified and ensuring the safety of the control system. The prosthesis’s design demonstrates the potential to reach as many people in need as possible by using readily available, low-cost, and easy-to-use components.

Figures