Modeling and Simulation Process via Incremental Methods of a Production-Aimed Upper Limb Prosthesis

Christopher René Torres-Sanmiguel

doi:10.3390/app12062788

Abstract

This research presents a numerical analysis used for designing an upper limb prosthesis with seven degrees of freedom (DOF). The process was undertaken to carry out the manufacture. The detailed methodology exposes a static structural analysis with the materials for manufacturing a prototype, the components responsible for the movement of the prosthesis subject to maximum loads during simplified routines were optimized. The results show the classification of the pieces manufactured by an additive method and those made by material removal.

Highlights

According to the National Institute of Geographic Statistics and Informatics (INEGI), in the most recent census (2020), 4.9% of the population in Mexico suffers from a disability [1]
This makes sense if it is considered that the prosthetic shoulder should support the whole structure of the prosthesis through the spherical manipulator that would emulate the articular loads that the human shoulder area receives
Topological optimization was performed to increase the performance of the transhumeral prosthesis mechanism from the elbow to the shoulder

Summary

Introduction

The objective is to restore the functionality and cosmetic appearance of a human hand. Upper limb prostheses represent an ambitious goal, considering around 87 possible mechanical combinations for their restoration [2]. In [7], a synthesis of a spherical manipulator for people with an amputation below the shoulder is presented. The optimization of three critical aspects for the performance of the prosthesis is analyzed: the workspace, the prototype dexterity, and the actuators’ torque responsible for movement. Continuity of the research is found in [8], where the design of a prosthetic device with 7 degrees of freedom (DOF) is distributed as follows: 3 DOF in the shoulder, 1 DOF at the elbow, and 3 DOF at the wrist. Continuity of the research is found in [8], where the design of a prosthetic device with 7 degrees of freedom (DOF) is distributed as follows: 3 DOF in the shoulder, 1 DOF at the elbow, and 3 DOF at the wrist. the low-cost prototype used 3D printing techniques to manufacture it

Objectives

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion