Development Of 3D Printable Prosthetic Arm For Amputees Using Computer Aided Design And Fused Deposition Modelling

In this paper, a 3D printable upper limb prosthetics was designed, printed and assembled. The arm model was created using computer-aided design software (SOLIDWORKS). Stress simulation programs were used to analyse the various arm parts before they were printed in 3D using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) process. Structural analysis and cost comparison with other commercial prosthetics were also carried out. From result of the structural analysis, it is shown that the 3D printed arm can withstand external impact of about 250 N from its user in the event of a fall. Also, reliable and effective embedded electronics like Microcontrollers, Sensors, DC servo motors and a solar battery charger module were integrated into the design. The overall prototype arm weighs about 2.2kg, including the motors, major electronics and control system. And its cost of production is approximately 300 dollars, which is low when compared to the weight and cost of most commercial prosthetics. It also mimics the functions of the human upper arm as best as possible, controlled to some extent by muscular contractions and runs continuously without battery run-out, as a result of the solar battery charging technique. Finally, this paper sheds light on the specifics of 3D prosthetics design using FDM and may serve as a guide for those intending to produce a similar prosthetic device.

Keywords:

3D Printing , Computer Aided Design , Fused Deposition Modelling , SOLIDWORKS