Mechanical testing methods for body-powered upper-limb prostheses: A review

Renato Mio, Midori Sánchez, Quino Valverde

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

New manufacturing and rapid prototyping technologies have fueled the creation of affordable and easy to replicate upper-limb prostheses. In this matter, many types and designs of 3D-printed upper-limb prostheses have been created over the last years. However, there is no consensus in the testing methodology for these devices regarding their mechanical capabilities and the comparisons authors can make are limited to their own metrics, which could be considered as a subjective approach. In order to tackle this issue, this work revises the existing methods for testing both the mechanical resistance and the mechanical performance or efficiency of upper-limb prostheses; specifically, the ones that are relevant for 3D-printed body-powered prostheses. Then, the adaptations needed to apply these methods to 3D-printed prostheses are discussed. Finally, recommendations are given for prosthetists and researchers in order to execute reliable tests that can be compared across different hand prosthesis designs.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings - 2018 IEEE 18th International Conference on Bioinformatics and Bioengineering, BIBE 2018
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages170-176
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9781538662168
DOIs
StatePublished - 6 Dec 2018
Event18th IEEE International Conference on Bioinformatics and Bioengineering, BIBE 2018 - Taichung, Taiwan, Province of China
Duration: 29 Oct 201831 Oct 2018

Publication series

NameProceedings - 2018 IEEE 18th International Conference on Bioinformatics and Bioengineering, BIBE 2018

Conference

Conference18th IEEE International Conference on Bioinformatics and Bioengineering, BIBE 2018
Country/TerritoryTaiwan, Province of China
CityTaichung
Period29/10/1831/10/18

Keywords

  • 3d-printing
  • Benchmark testing
  • Body-powered prostheses
  • Material testing
  • Upper-limb prosthetics

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