These 3D-Printed Prosthetics Lend New Abilities to Amputees
Katherine Pendrill — August 26, 2015 — Tech
References: jamesdysonaward.org & mashable
Joel Gibbard recently won the James Dyson Award for his superhero-inspired robotic hands. While there are a number of options available for amputees, these prosthetic devices can be extremely costly. Gibbard wanted to design a new set of prosthetics that would cost substantially less to produce.
Gibbard designed a pair of low-cost robotic hands that are inspired by the comic books he read as a child. He produced the futuristic set of hands by using a high-tech 3D printer. This particular production method not only means a lower cost for consumer, but also a shorter wait time. As Gibbard explains, "by using 3D scanning and 3D printing we can radically reduce this waiting time."
Thus far, Gibbard has helped design 10 pairs of the robotic hands and already has orders to produce several more.
Gibbard designed a pair of low-cost robotic hands that are inspired by the comic books he read as a child. He produced the futuristic set of hands by using a high-tech 3D printer. This particular production method not only means a lower cost for consumer, but also a shorter wait time. As Gibbard explains, "by using 3D scanning and 3D printing we can radically reduce this waiting time."
Thus far, Gibbard has helped design 10 pairs of the robotic hands and already has orders to produce several more.
Trend Themes
1. 3d-printed Prosthetics - The use of 3D printing technology in creating prosthetic devices is a disruptive innovation opportunity.
2. Low-cost Robotic Hands - Developing affordable robotic hands for amputees presents a disruptive innovation opportunity in the prosthetics industry.
3. Inspiration From Superheroes - Drawing inspiration from superheroes can lead to innovative designs in the field of prosthetics.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can leverage 3D printing technology to create more accessible and affordable prosthetic solutions.
2. Manufacturing - The manufacturing industry has the opportunity to adopt 3D printing techniques for faster and cost-effective production of robotic hands.
3. Design - The design industry can explore the integration of superhero-inspired elements in prosthetic devices, creating unique and imaginative solutions.
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