A 3D-Printed Hand Exoskeleton for Affordable and Accessible Upper Limb Rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology

Background:

• Traditional orthoses present challenges in balancing functionality, adaptability, and cost, particularly for pediatric users needing frequent adjustments.
• There is a need for affordable and accessible rehabilitation solutions, especially for finger injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, fabricate, and analyze a novel 3D-printed finger orthosis.
• To leverage compliant mechanisms for adaptable and functional orthotic devices.
• To provide a low-cost, customizable solution for finger rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a compliant mechanism design with a repeating sinusoidal pattern for natural finger bending and force assistance.
• Employing common 3D printing technology for one-piece fabrication without support material.
• Conducting finite element modeling (FEM) to simulate mechanical properties and optimize design parameters (thickness, width, pattern spacing).

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed orthosis can be manufactured affordably and in one piece.
• The compliant design allows natural finger movement while providing flexion and extension assistance.
• Parametric studies through FEM optimized design parameters for stiffness and actuator sizing.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing and compliant mechanisms offer a viable approach for creating low-cost, customizable orthotic devices.
• This novel finger orthosis has the potential to significantly improve accessibility and rehabilitation outcomes.
• Further research can optimize actuator sizing for user-specific applications, enhancing personalized rehabilitation.