Brett Walter

Abstract

The e-NABLE Project has created a worldwide network of passionate volunteers who utilize 3D printing technology to provide prosthetic hands to individuals who may not otherwise be able to obtain one. Most of these recipients are children in underdeveloped countries who have suffered from Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS) and cannot seek expensive medical prosthetics. ABS occurs when fibrous bands from the amniotic sac wrap tightly around a fetus’s extremities (most commonly fingers), restricting blood flow and ultimately resulting in complete amputation. The e-NABLE Project’s prosthesis utilizes the functional wrist and fingerless palm to push against the device, contracting the mechanical fingers via a set of small pulleys and strings. A problem with the design of the printed hand soon arose: Children without fingers have underdeveloped forearm muscles that fatigue quickly when operating the device. To alleviate this strain Jade Myers, Research and Development Associate for the e-NABLE Community Foundation, is attempting to supplement the 3D printed prosthetics with a brain-computer interface, or BCI. This will allow the user’s brain activity to signal a motor output without the participation of peripheral nerves and muscles (McFarland & Wolpaw 2011). Jade’s design will also be able to help a wider range of affected individuals, as it does not require a functioning wrist or substantial palmar surface. I have partnered with Jade in this endeavor and will streamline her research into visually stimulating illustrations that will be used in future presentations to hopefully inspire generosity in potential investors and encourage fellow researchers to build off her work. This body of work will strengthen the field of biocommunication by expanding its influence on areas of the world that may not have been exposed to its benefits.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Artificial limbs--Posters--Design; Three-dimensional printing--Posters--Design; Brain-computer interfaces--Posters--Design

Publication Date

8-7-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Medical Illustration(MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

Medical Illustration (CHST)

Advisor

James Perkins

Advisor/Committee Member

Glen Hintz

Advisor/Committee Member

Jade Myers

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

ILLM-MFA

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