A Novel Prosthetic Design Utilizing a Unique, Integrated Sensory Control Platform, Brushless Motor Drive System, and Worm Gear Mechanism through Rapid Prototyping

Overview

Prostheses are currently inhibited by the utilizing of costly apparatuses and inefficient technology. The design of this prosthetic hand looks to integrate cost-efficient devices to create a novel apparatus that utilizes a force-sensitive resistor (FSR) to control the system, a capacitor integrated into a 555 timer and 311 circuit with a potentiometer to monitor the pressure the hand exerts, a brushless motor system coupled with a worm gear mechanism to increase torque output and make the hand non-backdrivable, and formation through rapid prototyping techniques to allow for easy customizability. The replacement of commonly used, unreliable sensors with the FSR, which works through a way of passive electrical transport, minimizes the detection of background noise, enabling the movement of the system to be controlled with a high degree of accuracy. The substitution of commonly utilized, costly pressure sensors for the use of a durable capacitor coupled with a 555 timer, 311 circuit, and potentiometer enables for the hand to monitor the amount of force it exerts on objects in a novel, inexpensive manner. This is done by having the capacitor line the hand and a 555 timer continuously charge and discharge the capacitor. The monitoring of the amount of time it takes to do this allows for the creation of a new type of pressure sensor that is marked by a substantially higher degree of cost-efficiency and durability, therefore minimizing need for repair. The integration of these devices into a single apparatus allows for the creation of a low cost, reliable, prosthesis that is geared to meet the utilitarian needs of the common worker.

Awards (1)

Fourth Award of $500 $500

Competition history

ISEF 2016 Category not listed · Entry ENMC005

Resources

ISEF abstract page

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