In our world, we keep manufacturing many different kinds of products that may not be used for important reasons. What if we take 3D printing to the next level? It can be used for the greater good. I designed a 3D printed prosthetic finger that can be placed over an existing finger.
Prosthetics are used every day around the globe. Prosthetics help people with limb amputations and help them get around easier. They have improved the quality of life in many ways by providing movement and independence for people. 1.7 million people in the US have a prosthetic limb. Globally, it is estimated that 35–40 million people worldwide require prosthetics.
Normal manufactured prosthetics also have a downside. When prosthetics are discarded, they endanger the ecosystems where the extraction takes place. They are also non-biodegradible which means they can harm ecosystems that dispose of prosthetics. Prosthetics provide less comfort for the patient and are more expensive to build.
DESIGNING + PRINTING
I replicated a 3D printed prosthetic finger from Thingiverse.com but I made a few adjustments so that it would fit my finger. I designed my print so that it can fit over a real finger because I do not have a missing finger, yet. I used Ultimaker Cura to slice my print and printed my design on the LABISTS mini desktop printer. The design took 10 hours to print because there were three parts to the object.
Key takeaways:
- Build/create things for the greater good. It will make you feel better about yourself because you are helping people.
- Do not give up! I almost gave up while designing my print because it was complicated, but I ended up pushing through and finishing!
- 3D printing, like everything else, takes time! Do not rush your work, but at the same time, Done > Perfect.
Here is the link to my video! https://youtu.be/HyWwoP1frMA
