Adaptation of 3D Printing Technology for Fabrication of Economical Upper Limb Prostheses

Fabrication of prostheses with accurate size, comfort and patient-specific shape is the desired feature. Moreover, the need to fabricate economical prostheses is also crucial, especially for children who outgrow the prostheses over time. In this regard, the type of prostheses and selection of the fabrication process plays an important role as it can critically affect the cost. 3D printing technology offers tremendous design freedom as any complex geometry can be fabricated with ease as compared with other manufacturing processes. The technology also provides customization, which is one of the unique requirements for the fabrication of prostheses. The present paper discusses the feasibility of adaptation of 3D printing technology for research and development of the prosthetic hand. Moreover, a case study is provided for designing a prosthetic hand and utilization of 3D printing for its fabrication. It can be inferred that for the fabrication of customized prosthetic hand, 3D printing can be effectively utilized. It can provide an effective route for developing an economical yet functional prosthesis.