Let's Watch the 3D Printed Hand Movement Grow
It is incredible to watch the growth of how people use 3D printing for good. I’ve talked about how cool it is in the past, but I wanted to make sure Born Just Right families know about a new movement that is making it possible for many more kids and adults with hand differences use 3D printing technology.
The Lucky Fin Project and a number of other organization are teaming up to get the word out about a growing number of opportunities to produce 3D hands for kids and adults with hand differences. It’s important to note that 3D printers have not produced full prosthetic YET. But don’t worry, my family is already talking about the possibility with a 3D inventor in my area. (I promise to let you more on that once we start to figure it out.)
But if you think you or your child may benefit from trying a robotic hand, check out Born Just Right friend, Kate, is working with a 3D hand thanks to an engineering group in Alabama. Our friend Sam from My Special Hand is just getting started on one. I can’t wait to follow his experiences. Here’s the story behind Robohand and the movement that is growing rapidly to help people who have palms and the ability to rotate a wrist. I also LOVE a report about Robohand that was produced for NPR. Check out this video that tells the story behind Robohand:
You can also follow the hashtag, #maketheworld, on Facebook, Twitter or Google+.
If you want to meet a Robohand builders, you can join the e-NABLE community onGoogle+. Be sure to introduce yourself and post in the “Receive A Robohand” sub-section. There’s also a Robohand Open Source Community on Facebook where you can learn more.
I can’t wait to follow even more kids and adults as they have this awesome opportunity. I’m even more excited to see the use of 3D printing for all kids of prosthetics and orthotics. It’s going to save money and benefit so many people as this technology becomes even more mainstream.
[The photo used in this post comes from Makerbot’s website]
Oh wow I would do anything for my daughter to try one of these. This is so awesome she would love it.
You should certainly touch base with the organizers, Stephanie!
Jen, how early do you think these might be a good match? I’m thinking probably 3-4 years. I can’t imagine a 2 year old doing well with something like this. Thought I’d also guess that with the 3D printers they could make up a simple static hand/arm…..Also, I’ve got connections to a VERY creative group in St. Louis that has a printer and loves to be community involved.
How do I find out where to get one of these hands for my daughter?
If you want to meet a Robohand builders, you can join the e-NABLE community on Google+. Be sure to introduce yourself and post in the “Receive A Robohand” sub-section. There’s also a Robohand Open Source Community on Facebook where you can learn more.
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