The Application of Additive Manufacturing in Developing 3D Printed Prostethics and Orthotic Devices

Abstract

This paper covers the advanced Additive Manufacturing (AM) techniques used to fabricate prostethic and orthotic devices. It reviews the available literature and summarizes the advances in medicine, computing and engineering that have led to the development of currently available prostheses. Some of the open-source bionic hands and other available prosthesis are shown, as well as the technologies and materials which are used to manufacture the parts. Since prototyping, combined with the possibility for easy maintenance and repair, is very attractive for prosthesis design, as a conclusion we summarize and discuss some of the key areas that could lead to improvements in bionic limb functionality and use.