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We are excited to share our latest development in prosthetic technology: an underactuated prosthetic hand that provides a cost-effective, functional, and human-like solution for individuals with upper limb amputations. Our design focuses on mimicking the size, weight, and appearance of a human hand to enhance user acceptance and comfort.

This innovative prosthetic hand features ten degrees of freedom (DoF), with four of them being actuated. Among these, three degrees of actuation (DoA) are controlled by electric motors and a tendon transmission system, while the remaining DoA is manually actuated by the user through a spring plunger. The underactuated design includes compliant hinges and a decoupling mechanism for the motors, which allows for more natural movements and better adaptability to various objects.

Key features of our prosthetic hand include:

• A realistic human-like size, weight, and appearance.
• Ten DoF with four actuated DoA.
• Three motor-controlled DoA and one manually actuated DoA via a spring plunger.
• Compliant hinges and a tendon transmission system for natural movements.
• Cost-effective components and widespread use of additive manufacturing.

To evaluate its performance, we have created a virtual prototype of the hand and tested it in various grasping scenarios. This assessment has allowed us to refine the design and ensure the prosthetic hand can effectively perform basic grasping tasks without relying on complex control systems.

Our goal is to improve the affordability and accessibility of prosthetic hands for a wider range of users, making advanced prosthetic technology available to those who need it most.

👉Read the full article
https://asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/SMASIS/proceedings-abstract/SMASIS2023/87523/V001T03A001/1171077

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