Let’s face it: Not all amputees have the capacity to avail advanced prosthetic hand. This breakthrough technology, which is still in its development stage, often costs hundreds of millions to make.

Before producing an advanced prosthetic hand that can function like a real one, researchers have to pour lots of resources — materials, effort, time, and intelligence.

A particular example is the Modular Prosthetic Limb (MPL) project of Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab researchers. To help cover its expenses, the US Defense Department granted $120 million for its development.

Johnny Matheny, who lost his arm to cancer in 2005, is the first person who was given the chance to try the advanced mind-controlled robotic arm. His participation is crucial because it helped researchers determine the limits of the robotic prosthetic and the areas that still need further improvement.

But do you know that you can have your own advanced prosthetic hands without spending such a huge amount? With the help of 3D printing technology, it is possible!

Making things cheaper through 3D printing

Over the years, researchers have used 3D printing as a way to commercially-produce things at a lower price.

The same goes true in the creation of advanced prosthetic hands.

Unlike the Modular Prosthetic Limb, 3D printed advanced prosthetic hands were produced at a quarter of the cost. As a matter of fact, researchers from the University of Manchester have developed their version of prosthetic hands using the 3D printing technology for just around $433. They even believe that with continuous improvement and research, they can still reduce the production cost. Although cheaper, this version can also perform the way traditional devices do.

Once the model is complete and perfect for use, producing 3D printed advanced prosthetic hands will also become faster. Because its file is available digitally, only a few modifications are required to match the arm structure of the patient. Thus, the reason for its fast turnaround time.

This innovation can influence the lives of many amputees. It can help them live the life that they desire and do again the things that they love the most without being sullen over the price that they have to pay in order to get another arm.

Producing advanced prosthetic limbs is also possible through 3D printing. It follows an entirely similar concept as when you make prosthetic hands.

Giving hope, improving lives

The immense applications of the 3D printing technology have continued to improve the lives of many people from all over the world. Most of the time, it creates happiness. It also gives hope and chance to people like the amputees. Others just use it as an alternative way to save money or express creativity.

As long as we use its full potential in the right way, our future is bright with 3D printing.

Your go-to 3D printing shop

For your 3D printing needs, you can always tap us. As the premier one-stop shop for everything 3D printed, we guarantee you that you only receive the best service.

For more questions about 3D printing and prosthetic hands, you may contact us here.