Myoelectric Hand Prosthesis for Babies
Design and manufacturing year: 2003
Client: Patients of The SARAH Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals / Brazil
Industrial Designer: Paulo Roberto Fernandes de Oliveira - EquipHos
Activities of human health care / Research and scientific development.
This project was requested by Dr. Aloysio Campos da Paz Junior, Chief Surgeon and Creator of the SARAH Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals and the EquipHos department (unity responsible for the some research and project, prototype workshop and factory of hospital equipment and rehabilitation devices of the institution).
This prosthesis was designed for babies with congenital absence of the hand, aiming to promote early proprioception and functional control, as well as promote balance when crawling.
The electromyographic signs of the stump muscles are used to flex the fingers in the prosthetic hand. Along with vision, a possible "training" or reflective learning - biofeedback - can occur when the baby tries to grab objects.
Three-dimensional modeling with 3D SolidWorks software was performed through measurements and sketches of the baby's natural hand, seeking an organic hand shape without the need for silicone or rubber cosmetic coating.
An ABS resin prototype was assembled to allow for initial testing, using a planetary reduction servo motor to move the four distal fingers of the palm together. Joints with springs on the wrist and thumb allow the baby to crawl without the risk of them cracking.
This prosthesis was designed for babies with congenital absence of the hand, aiming to promote early proprioception and functional control, as well as promote balance when crawling.
The electromyographic signs of the stump muscles are used to flex the fingers in the prosthetic hand. Along with vision, a possible "training" or reflective learning - biofeedback - can occur when the baby tries to grab objects.
Three-dimensional modeling with 3D SolidWorks software was performed through measurements and sketches of the baby's natural hand, seeking an organic hand shape without the need for silicone or rubber cosmetic coating.
An ABS resin prototype was assembled to allow for initial testing, using a planetary reduction servo motor to move the four distal fingers of the palm together. Joints with springs on the wrist and thumb allow the baby to crawl without the risk of them cracking.
