Hy5 - Production of a complete cost effective, reliable and functional prosthetic arm

Prosthesis hands on the market are different with regards to several parameters like grip control, mode control, grip types, grip speed, grip force, weight, finger movements and so on. Prosthetic arms (i.e. sleeve, socket) do not take the specific prosthesis hand parameters into account, making the user experience lower. Using new technology like 3D scan, 3D print, new materials and low-cost sensors and actuators, we aim to design and produce a prosthetic arm (i.e. sleeve, socket) optimal for the users. By looking at hand and arm as one system (and wrist and elbow for certain users), our ambitions are to be able to increase users’ quality of life as well as provide a one-stop shop for prosthesis users in emerging markets. A key challenge is to provide a prosthetic arm that fit the user comfortably and functionally. Each arm stump is of different length and composition from individual to individual. The size of the arm stump interfacing to the prosthetic socket may change over time, and the texture of the arm stump may change depending on physical activity, time of year and current weather. Another challenge is to produce the socket with materials that are compatible with human skin. The areas that supports the loads, the areas of the sensors as well as the actuators have different requirements but must be working as one system. The arm must be approved by regulatory bodies. 3D scanning of the arm stump will be important input to the individual tailoring. Mapping of the arm stump to define areas of control and feedback is another input. Requirements are supplied in terms of strengths and space for batteries, sensor and actuators. The process to take all these inputs, design a socket based on personal preferences and manufacture it with 3D printing and minimum of assembly. The design and manufacture process should be automatic with a minimum of human intervention and result in a cost effective and reliable product.