Hand and Wrist Motion Simulator for the Evaluation of Robotic Training Gloves Aimed at Children

Loss of motor function in the upper extremities of children due to injuries or medical conditions requires effective and specialized therapeutic solutions. Hand and wrist rehabilitation is complex because of the smaller anatomical structure of children, as well as ethical considerations that restrict the use of invasive treatments or tests. Therefore, it is necessary to verify the efficacy and safety of rehabilitation devices in improving motor function. A 3D-printed hand and wrist simulator was developed to validate robotic gloves for 8- to 9-year-old children. This simulator effectively replicates the intricate biomechanical movements of the human hand and emulates the weight and structure of a natural hand, ensuring a realistic testing platform. The results confirm that the simulator’s range of motion aligns with human ranges, demonstrating its ability to simulate natural biomechanics. This advancement serves as a starting point for the evaluation of rehabilitation devices and research in pediatric biomechanics, while also being relevant for the design of these devices to improve the quality of life of young patients.