Design of a non-anthropomorphic passive adjustable upper limb 3D printed prosthesis for playing acoustic guitar
J.P. Alvarez Romero (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
G Smit – Mentor (TU Delft - Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology)
T Horeman – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology)
J.D.D. Rukundo – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology)
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Abstract
Background: Commercially available upper limb prostheses for playing guitar require professional assistance for proper fitting and usage. For people who lack this opportunity, alternatives are offered as research models or open-source models. However, adjustable models still require fitting assistance while parameter adjustment is extremely limited. This limits the user’s ability to play more complex music.
Goal: This project proposes the design of a low-cost passive adjustable 3D printed upper limb prosthesis for people with no access to professional prosthetic assistance.
Methods: Both design and evaluation methods were applied. Regarding design, early concepts were designed and selected using a Morphological table and Harris profile, applying rapid prototyping for initial comparison. Regarding evaluation, a parameter measurement and a device functionality test with users with and without upper limb differences were performed.
Results: The final model was successfully printed using Fused Deposition Modeling. The model was evaluated via parameters measurements and a user device functionality test. Results showed that the device allowed the user to put the elbow as a reference point to aid mental mapping of the prosthesis. Speed and accuracy measured during the test suggest a positive outcome for end users.
Conclusion: This design presents an accessible and reliable solution for users with upper limb differences who want to improve their guitar playing skills without the need of professional assistance.