An initial prototype for a robotic arm for use in prosthetics

Abstract

This report details the process of developing a prototype of a prosthetic hand which aims to reduce the cost of upper limb prosthetics by using rapid prototyping techniques. The report analyses the anatomy and functions of the human hand and looks at the different ways that actuation is achieved in the human body as well as in other robotic hands. A prototype is then designed after a conceptual design phase and fabricated using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) 3D printing and assigned 4 tasks to do. The 4 tasks given are to pick and place a can, small cylindrical, a ceramic mug, and an egg. The hand succeeded in 2 of the tasks, partially succeeded in the 3rd, and failed in the 4th. Further improvements and future work of the design and fabrication required are then detailed.