Advancements in additive manufacturing and computer-aided design (CAD) have revolutionized the field of prosthetics, making it possible to create custom, patient-specific prosthetic hands with intricate designs and enhanced functionality. Fusion 360, a powerful CAD software, provides a comprehensive platform for designing and developing prosthetic hands, empowering engineers and makers to push the boundaries of assistive technology.
The process of creating a prosthetic hand in Fusion 360 involves several distinct stages, each requiring a combination of technical expertise and artistic flair. It begins with a thorough understanding of the patient’s anatomy and the specific requirements of the hand. Using this information, designers create a 3D model of the hand, carefully crafting the dimensions, shape, and internal mechanisms to meet the patient’s unique needs and preferences. The model is then optimized for 3D printing, taking into account factors such as material selection, print orientation, and support structures.
With the 3D model finalized, the next step is to generate the necessary files for 3D printing. Fusion 360 provides tools for exporting the model in various formats, including STL and G-code, which are compatible with most 3D printers. Once the print files are prepared, the prosthetic hand can be fabricated using a variety of materials, such as plastics, metals, and composites. Post-processing techniques, such as sanding, finishing, and assembly, complete the creation of the prosthetic hand, resulting in a functional and aesthetically pleasing assistive device that empowers the user with a renewed sense of independence and ability.
Adding Joints and Constraints
Once you’ve created the individual components of your prosthetic hand, it’s time to assemble them and add joints and constraints to enable movement. Follow these steps:
1. Create Joint Origin Points
For each joint, create two origin points: one for the parent component and one for the child component. These points will define the center of rotation for the joint.
2. Insert Joints
Use the “Insert” > “Joint” menu to insert the appropriate type of joint for each connection. Common joint types for prosthetic hands include revolute joints, prismatic joints, and spherical joints.
3. Position Joints
Position the joints at the corresponding origin points created in step 1. Use the “Translate” and “Rotate” tools to align and orient the joints correctly.
4. Add Joint Constraints
After inserting the joints, you need to add constraints to limit their movement and ensure proper functionality. Consider the following types of constraints:
| Constraint Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Limit Angle | Restricts the rotation of a joint within a specified range of motion. |
| Limit Translation | Limits the linear movement of a joint along a particular axis. |
| Align | Keeps two components aligned with each other, ensuring they move in unison. |
Add appropriate constraints to each joint to define the desired range of motion and functionality for your prosthetic hand.
Exporting the Design for Manufacturing
Once your design is complete, you need to export it in a format that can be used by a manufacturer. The most common file formats for 3D printing are STL (STereoLithography) and OBJ (Wavefront Object). STL is the most widely accepted format, so it is the best choice if you are unsure which format to use.
To export your design in STL format, click on the “File” menu and select “Export.” In the “Export” dialog box, select the “STL” file format and click on the “Export” button.
You can also export your design in OBJ format. To do this, click on the “File” menu and select “Export.” In the “Export” dialog box, select the “OBJ” file format and click on the “Export” button.
Once you have exported your design in STL or OBJ format, you can send it to a manufacturer for printing. Manufacturers typically charge a fee for printing, so be sure to get a quote before submitting your design.
Additional Considerations for Manufacturing
In addition to selecting the correct file format, there are a few other things you should keep in mind when exporting your design for manufacturing:
- Make sure your design is watertight. A watertight design is one that has no holes or gaps. If your design is not watertight, it may not be able to be printed properly.
- Consider the size of your design. Most manufacturers have a maximum size limit for prints. If your design is too large, you may need to scale it down or split it into multiple parts.
- Choose the right material for your design. Different materials have different properties, such as strength, flexibility, and durability. Be sure to choose a material that is suitable for the intended use of your design.
| File Format | Description |
|---|---|
| STL | STereoLithography |
| OBJ | Wavefront Object |
How To Create A Prosthetic Hand In Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a powerful 3D modeling software that can be used to create a wide variety of objects, including prosthetic hands. In this tutorial, we will show you how to create a basic prosthetic hand in Fusion 360. We will cover the following steps:
- Creating a new project
- Setting up the coordinate system
- Creating the basic shapes
- Adding details
- Exporting the model
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to make a prosthetic hand?
The cost of making a prosthetic hand can vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design. However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for a basic prosthetic hand.
How long does it take to make a prosthetic hand?
The time it takes to make a prosthetic hand can also vary depending on the complexity of the design. However, you can expect to spend between 10 and 30 hours making a basic prosthetic hand.
What are the different types of prosthetic hands?
There are many different types of prosthetic hands available, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of prosthetic hands include:
- Body-powered hands
- Electric hands
- Hybrid hands
- Myoelectric hands
