Public Lends a 3D-Printed Hand to Disabled Children

Aug. 17, 2015
More than 3600 e-Nable volunteers are helping to 3D print prosthetic hands for children that need them.

Over 3600 e-Nable members have taken up the cause to provide 3D-printed, low-cost prosthetic hands to children with depleted grasping function. Parents, engineers, physical-therapists, and even grade-school kids are stepping up to the plate, printing custom hands within a few hours for less than $50. The volunteer network is open to new hand designs and ideas, and continually looks for members that own 3D printers to offer their services. Users can find local 3D printers by messaging e-Nable on Facebook or emailing [email protected]).

In this gallery, we take a look at several available designs. Instructions and files for building the hands can be found at www.enablingthefuture.org, and most designs are highly customizable. The website also features several tutorial videos, and it offers lists of required parts for specific hands, along with part-order URLs and suppliers. 

About the Author

Leah Scully | Associate Content Producer

Leah Scully is a graduate of The College of New Jersey. She has a BS degree in Biomedical Engineering with a mechanical specialization.  Leah is responsible for Machine Design’s news items that cover industry trends, research, and applied science and engineering, along with product galleries. Visit her on Facebook, or view her profile on LinkedIn

Sponsored Recommendations

Sept. 16, 2025
From robotic arms to high-speed conveyors, accuracy matters. Discover how encoders transform motor control by turning motion into real-time datadelivering tighter speed control...
Sept. 16, 2025
Keep high-torque gearboxes running efficiently with external lubrication and cooling systems delivered fast. Flexible configurations, sensor-ready monitoring, and stocked options...
Sept. 16, 2025
Now assembled in the U.S., compact P2.e planetary gear units combine maximum torque, thermal efficiency, and flexible configurations for heavy-duty applicationsavailable faster...
Sept. 16, 2025
Safety in automation goes beyond fences and emergency stops. Learn how functional safety actively monitors and controls motiondelivering smarter protection, greater flexibility...

Voice your opinion!

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