Global Health Medical Device Compendium/Upper Limb Prosthesis for Developing Countries
| Health topic | Physical disabilities |
|---|---|
| Classification | Treatment |
| Manufacturer location |
Genova, Italy |
Several high technology prostheses are available worldwide however these are often too expensive. The high cost is a barrier to access in developing countries.
Detailed description of the solution
[edit | edit source]The hand can exert approximately 14 N of force with a powerful and precise grasp. The palm is made out of a wood plate, and the fingers are light, robust, and resemble human fingers. The device also takes advantage of using of one-way tendons so that complex dexterity is not required.
Relevance to developing country settings
[edit | edit source]This device is designed for developing countries because it can be built without special technical skills or machines. Although it does not provide fine manipulation, it is a cheap tool that could aid in farming and other daily tasks.
Designed by
[edit | edit source]- Designed by: Enrico Ullmann
- Manufacturer: PMARlab Robot Design Research Group of the University of Genova
- Manufacturer location: Genova, Italy
Funding Source
[edit | edit source]This device receives academic funding from the University of Genova.
References
[edit | edit source]Internally generated reports
[edit | edit source]Ullmann, E., Cepolina, F., and Zoppi, M. (2004, July 1-2). Upper limb prosthesis for developing countires. Proc. of IEEE International Conference on Intelligent Manipulation and Grasping. PDF available here.
| Authors | Lonny Grafman, Chris Waterguy, Emilio, Kathleen Sienko, Amir Sabet Sarvestani |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-3.0 |
| Cite as | Evashiu (2012–2026). "Global Health Medical Device Compendium/Upper Limb Prosthesis for Developing Countries". Appropedia. Retrieved September 10, 2026. |