Initial concepts for DriveFree involved recreating a prosthetic hand, but focusing on the affordability of it. Many modern prosthetics cost hundreds to thousands of dollars; if we were able to cut costs down significantly while making a still viable prototype, then we would be able to beat the market rate for a basic hand prosthetic. However, we found that although not a bad idea, that the market for something like this may be minimal, and manufacturing at a reasonable rate may not be possible to offer to a customer, as additive manufacturing such as 3D printing would be used for the majority of the hand.

Secondly, we had thought to make a prosthetic hand for motorcycle riders, as many motorcycle riders get into accidents that require the amputation of an extremity. Because the use of all 4 extremities is required for motorcycle riding between shifting, braking, and steering, we found that 1) there might be a minimal market for motorcycle riders who are only missing one or either hand and still have both lower extremities fully in tact, and 2) would prove difficult to design as an initial project, as including precise wrist flexion may prove difficult for a first attempt at a prosthetic. 

After considering how each of the main three concepts we came up with performed in various categories, we determined that focusing on a prosthetic hand solely for driving cars made the most sense. The current design plan of NEXUS is aimed to offer hand amputees the chance to drive normally again. This prosthetic hand emphasizes function over form, focusing on providing the ability to operate a standard motor vehicle without the need for any installed aids or license restrictions.