Testing a Wearable 3D-Printed Prosthetic Arm
Summary
We are doing a study to test a lightweight, 3D-printed prosthetic hand. The goal is to understand how easy, comfortable, and natural the prosthetic hand feels to use during everyday tasks. Participants will wear the prosthetic hand and perform simple movements such as opening and closing the hand, holding objects, and completing basic tasks, such as pulling a zipper or opening a door. Small sensors placed on the skin will measure muscle signals from the arm (called electromyography, or EMG). These signals are used to help the prosthetic hand move in response to the participant’s intended motion. After completing the tasks, participants will be asked to share their feedback about comfort, ease of use, and how well the prosthetic responded to their movements. This information will help improve future prosthetic designs so they feel more natural and easier to control.
Eligibility
Eligible ages: 18 to 50
Accepts healthy participants: Yes
Inclusion criteria:
You may be able to join this study if you:
1. Are 18 years of age or older
2. Have a partial or complete upper-limb difference (below-elbow amputation or congenital limb difference)
3. Are in good general health
4. Are able to comfortably try on and briefly wear a lightweight prosthetic arm
5. Can move your residual limb enough to test simple motions
6. Can speak and understand English
7. Are willing to share your honest feedback about comfort and usability
Exclusion criteria:
You are not eligible to participate if:
1. You are under 18
2, You have recent surgeries, open wounds, or skin conditions on the residual limb
3. You have pain or medical conditions that make wearing a test socket uncomfortable
4. You are unable to safely wear the prosthetic for short periods
5. You cannot provide informed consent
6. You do not speak or understand English well enough to follow instructions or provide feedback
Participate
Fill out the following form if you want to participate in this research
Collection of personal information
Your personal information is collected under
the authority of section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. If
you have any questions about the collection or use of this information, please visit our
Access to Information page.
Additional information
Contact information
Gaayathri Ganesh
Principal investigator:
Junho Park
Clinical trial:
No
REB-ID:
REB25-1803