FistHand

thingiverse

FistHand is a revolutionary prosthetic hand designed by Mike Li of the Hong Kong Maker Club. This innovative device is a remix of the Gripper Thumb Terminal Device originally designed by Skip Meetze. The primary goal of FistHand's design is to create highly functional 3D printed prosthetics for amputees without a palm or partial lower forearm. FistHand operates on a traditional body-powered mechanism, utilizing cables to link the movement of the user's body to the prosthesis and control it. When the user moves their body in a specific way, the cable is pulled, causing the hand to open and close. This functionality makes FistHand an effective tool for amputees to perform daily tasks. The advantages of 3D printed design include low production costs, rapid design iteration for fitting different amputees, and a "hand" shape appearance that enhances acceptance among amputees. FistHand is designed with functionality as its top priority. The prosthetic hand aims to help amputees work in their environment and increase their employment rate. The palm is interchangeable, catering to various scenarios. For everyday life, FistHand allows users to grasp objects of different sizes firmly, such as opening cans or bottles, wearing clothes, cutting food, holding tools, etc. In farming environments, FistHand can be used as a sickle to harvest rice. In factory settings, it serves as heavy-duty pliers for handling machinery. The device is designed to handle specific functions tailored to meet user needs. Currently, FistHand is undergoing testing with amputees in Hong Kong and collaborating with Social Enterprise e-NABLE Sierra Leone for printing and assembling prosthetic hands for needy individuals. Hong Kong Maker Club promotes 3D printed prosthetics through STEM education, involving students, teachers, and family members in the project to assemble prosthetic hands for those in need. FistHand is still in its testing phase, with plans to continually improve its design. The current software used is Blender3D. Ultimately, the goal is to create low-cost, easy-to-assemble, and functional prosthetic hands for amputees. Hong Kong Maker Club