Embedded Files
The Principal Investigators
The Principal Investigators
Dr. Jessica Sparks, Ph.D.
Dr. Jessica Sparks, Ph.D.
Dr. Jessica Sparks, as a Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemical, Paper, and Biomedical Engineering at Miami University, has a unique background in biomechanics, soft tissue mechanics, and biomaterials. Her experiences will guide the design of prosthetic components that mimic the mechanical behavior of human tissue.
Dominik Konkolewicz, Ph.D.
Dominik Konkolewicz, Ph.D.
As a John W. Steube Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Miami University, Dr. Konkolewicz's expertise in smart polymers and biomaterials will support our project by helping us develop responsive materials for improved grip and functionality of our prosthetic hand's fingertips. His guidance will be crucial for any material changes.
The Researchers
The Researchers
Tim Archibald
Biomedical Engineering
Class of 2025
Ruby Davis
Biomedical Engineering
Class of 2027
Dru Frazier
Computer Engineering
Class of 2027
Eva Goorskey
Chemical Engineering
Class of 2027
Background
Background
Figure 1. Pie chart showing costs for 3D printed prosthetic hands (Murphy, 2020).
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
Globally, thousands of individuals lose limbs and struggle to access affordable, effective, and reliable prosthetics. Commercial myoelectric prosthetic hands are often priced between $20,000 and $60,000 (Delano, 2019). Current low-cost 3D-printed models lack finger mobility and grip precision, inhibiting users' independence and quality of life. This project aims to solve this issue by creating a reproducible, low-cost, and semi-myoelectric hand that is functional and affordable.
Image Source: Rutgers
Figure 2. A representation of the Kapandji Test
Objectives
Objectives
Our primary goal is to design a compact and affordable 3D-printed prosthetic hand with optimized thumb mobility and grip capability. We plan to accomplish this through:
Integrating an EMG-controlled thumb joint for rotational motion.
Developing pressure-sensitive polymer grips for the fingertips.
Ensuring the product cost is less than $100
Testing the functionality of the hand through the Kapandji's Test, grip tests, and mechanical testing.
Impact
Impact
We envision a prosthetic hand that restores agency for victims of war, workplace injuries, and low-income populations without access to traditional healthcare systems. Beyond this device, future iterations may have full-EMG integration, waterproofing systems, and neural feedback systems.
Page updated
Report abuse