Personalized assistive device manufactured by 3D modelling and printing techniques

Abstract

Aim: To design and manufacture a patient-specific assistive device optimized for patient function after estimating the disability status of a patient with brain injury through 3D printing technique

Materials and methods: The left hand of a man with right-side hemiparesis was scanned with a three-dimensional scanner, and the left-hand image was flipped over to the right side to design the orthosis. To change devices easily, a connector was designed to connect the devices and was easily detachable with the orthosis by using the magnetics. To enable the writing, a round-shaped ring was attached to the orthosis to fix a pen. The Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test (JHFT) and Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST) were evaluated one month after the application.

Results: The JHFT score improved after application 3D printed devices. In most QUEST items, 3D printed devices showed better results than ready-made assistive devices. The typing speed became faster in 3D printed devices than in ready-made assistive devices. The patient was satisfied with the orthosis in writing a pen, eating food and typing keyboard because of its fitness to his hand and easy-to-use.

Conclusion: We designed and manufactured a patient-specific assistive device optimized for patient function after estimating the disability status of a patient with brain injury through 3D printing techniques. We hope to provide low-cost, customized devices to disabled patients through 3D printing techniques.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• We designed and manufactured a patient-specific assistive device optimized for patient function through 3D printing technique.

• We hope to provide low-cost, customized devices to disabled patients through 3D printing techniques

Keywords:

• 3D printing
• assistive device
• hemiplegia

Disclosure statement

There was no commercial party related to this study and none of the author was related to commercial parties.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the ICT R&D program of MSIP/IIPT [Grant No. B0101–18-1081]. All the authors are currently receiving a grant [#B0101–18-1081] from the ICT R&D program.