Exoskeleton for hand rehabilitation

• Main Authors: Martínez Conde, Sergio, Pérez Luque, Estela
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: Högskolan i Skövde, Institutionen för ingenjörsvetenskap 2018
• Subjects: exoskeleton; design; hand rehabilitation; prototype; 3d printing; Other Mechanical Engineering; Annan maskinteknik
• Online Access: http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:his:diva-15820

This document presents the development of a first proposal prototype of a rehabilitation exoskeleton hand. The idea was to create a lighter, less complex and cheaper exoskeleton than the existing models in the market but efficient enough to carry out rehabilitation therapies.The methodology implemented consists of an initial literature review followed by data collection resulting in a pre-design in two dimensions using two different software packages, MUMSA and WinmecC. First, MUMSA provides the parameters data of the movement of the hand to be done accurately. With these parameters, the mechanisms of each finger are designed using WinmecC. Once the errors were solved and the mechanism was achieved, the 3D model was designed.The final result is presented in two printed 3D models with different materials. The models perform a great accurate level on the motion replica of the fingers by using rotary servos. The properties of the model can change depending on the used material. ABS material gives a flexible prototype, and PLA material does not achieve it. The use of distinct methods to print has a high importance on the difficulties of development throughout the entire process of production. Despite found difficulties in the production, the model was printed successfully, obtaining a compact, strong, lightweight and eco-friendly with the environment prototype.