After losing his fingers in a work-related accident, and not being satisfied with digital prosthetics, maker Ian Davis has created his very own mechanical prosthetic fingers which are capable of gripping and splaying. Unfortunately, Davis was not eligible for a prosthetic from his insurance, but instead started building his very own. The finger prosthetic is still under development and Davis has plenty of other features he would like to add. Watch the video below to see the amazing self-made prosthetic hand in action.
“Another video to share the progress I’ve made on designing and prototyping my hybrid myo mechanical partial hand prosthetic. This video documents the addition of the splay function.”
The Journey of Innovation
Ian Davis’s journey into creating his own mechanical prosthetic fingers is a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. After his unfortunate accident, Davis found himself dissatisfied with the available digital prosthetics. These devices, while advanced, did not meet his specific needs for functionality and comfort. This dissatisfaction sparked a journey of innovation, leading him to design and build his own mechanical prosthetic fingers.
Davis’s prosthetic fingers are not just simple replacements; they are capable of complex movements such as gripping and splaying. This functionality is crucial for performing everyday tasks that many take for granted. The ability to grip objects securely and splay fingers for balance and dexterity are essential for tasks ranging from typing on a keyboard to holding a cup of coffee.
Challenges and Future Developments
Creating a mechanical prosthetic from scratch is no small feat. Davis faced numerous challenges, from sourcing materials to fine-tuning the mechanics of the fingers. One of the significant hurdles was ensuring that the prosthetic could mimic the natural movement of human fingers. This required a deep understanding of biomechanics and a lot of trial and error.
Despite these challenges, Davis has made remarkable progress. His prosthetic fingers are already functional, but he has plans to add even more features. For instance, he is exploring ways to integrate sensory feedback into the prosthetic. This would allow the user to feel pressure and texture, making the prosthetic even more lifelike and functional.
Another area of development is improving the durability and comfort of the prosthetic. Davis is experimenting with different materials and designs to ensure that the prosthetic can withstand daily wear and tear while remaining comfortable for the user.
Source : Ian Davis : IE : Adafruit
Davis’s work has not gone unnoticed. His YouTube channel, where he documents his progress, has garnered a significant following. Viewers are not only impressed by his technical skills but also inspired by his determination and creativity. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that with enough determination and ingenuity, individuals can overcome significant obstacles and create solutions that improve their quality of life.
In conclusion, Ian Davis’s mechanical prosthetic fingers are a remarkable achievement. They highlight the potential for personalized, user-driven innovation in the field of prosthetics. As Davis continues to refine and enhance his design, he is paving the way for more accessible and functional prosthetic solutions for individuals who may not have access to traditional options. His work is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of human creativity and resilience.
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