Problem being addressed
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
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
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
- Designed by: Enrico Ullmann
- Manufacturer: PMARlab Robot Design Research Group of the University of Genova
- Manufacturer location: Genova, Italy
Funding Source
This device receives academic funding from the University of Genova.
References
Internally generated reports
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.