Hand prosthesis prototype construction with the implementation of phalanges through 3D printing technology

The principal function of the hand is the manipulation of objects, with the consequence of exposing this limb to injuries that can lead to damage or loss of this organ. When suffering a trans-radial amputation due to an accident or a congenital disease, the person is affected to continue their daily tasks, seeing the need to require a prosthesis that substitutes in both an esthetic and/or functional way. Therefore, the prosthesis application that replaces the hand is imperative to restore mobility to the user to perform their daily tasks. In the design of exo-prostheses that replace this limb, some anatomical characteristics and the kinematic solution must be considered; the above will result in a prosthesis with similarities to a five fingers hand and with theoretical foundations that support its design. This paper presents the development by flexible polymer 3D printing of an articulated prosthetic hand laboratory prototype in its five fingers with their respective phalanges for trans-radial amputations, taking into consideration the opposition of the thumb, capable of making fine and strong grips through the foundations of robotic manipulators.