3D PRINTED MYOELECTRIC PROSTHETIC HAND

Dates: 4-week class, April 2017 – May 2017

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Groups involved: Robotics Class at Washington and Lee University

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Background: 

Prosthetic devices are usually custom made to fit an individual using a lengthy process of molding in order to make a socket. 3D-printing can create a custom socket quicker than the typical casting process; however, most 3D-printed hands rely on a wrist movement to create tension to close fingers. My design explored how to adapt an existing 3D printed could be powered electronically from muscle contractions (myoelectric impulses).

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Project Details:

Constructed a Raptor Reloaded 3D printed hand with individualized connected finger connection to 5 servo motors. Programmed the servo motors in C++ using an Arduino Motor for synchronous grasp/ release from myoelectric arm impulse as well as specialized closure cycles.

A myoelectric impulse is generated EKG sensors on a muscle constriction. The developed design utilized muscle tension from creating a fist. The 3D printing was completed using ABS material on an uPrint 3D printer.