3D-manufactured open-source hands improving lives

Feb. 16, 2013
For the last year and a half, designers Richard Van As and Ivan Owen have collaborated remotely on a reasonably priced prosthesis to assist people with missing fingers. Commercially available prosthetics exist, but can run $10,000 per digit or more for ...

For the last year and a half, designers Richard Van As and Ivan Owen have collaborated remotely on a reasonably priced prosthesis to assist people with missing fingers. Commercially available prosthetics exist, but can run $10,000 per digit or more for externally powered designs. The fruit of Van As and Owen's labors is now posted on Thingaverse, an online repository of downloadable open-source files that can be used to build designs with 3D printers, lasercutters, CNC, and more.

Billed the Robohand, Van As and Owen's prosthesis is a simple cable-operated assembly of 3D-printed linkages, bolts, cords, bungees, and rubber finger cots from the "Sorting Aid" section of any OfficeMax. In short, the mechanical design's cables — which travel wrist cuff to fingertips — trace a more curved arch during wrist or finger-stub curls. Therefore, the prosthesis fingers bend to grasp objects when the wearer flexes inward.

Several versions, including one built for a South-African tyke, are already in use. Watch little Liam master his prosthesis with heartwarming tenacity.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!