3D printed limb to be the more cost-effective future of prosthetics

A new 3D printed prosthetic hand that could make prosthetics both light and affordable has been designed by Australian researchers at the University of Melbourne.

The team developed a prosthetic hand called ‘X-limb’ which is capable of three grasp types including a pinch, tripod, and power grasp, allowing the user to perform tasks such as grasping a mobile phone, tying a shoelace, zipping a jacket, or using scissors.

The hands weigh only 253 grams and are operated by sensors placed on the surface of the skin, or by buttons located on the wrist.

They are expected to last for at least 12 months and cost as little as $200USD in materials to produce.

Register FREE & join 22,000+ industry professionals in reading the latest industry news & engaging content from Health Industry Hub, the ONLY one-stop-hub connecting Australia’s Pharma, MedTech and Biotech industry professionals.

In alignment with the Federal Government’s mental health initiative the #SelfcareInHealthcare campaign has been launched to encourage Pharma, Biotech and MedTech industry professionals to take action on mental health during COVID-19. LinkedIn post.