Robohand | Open Source Hand Prosthetic

In my house I have a little woodshop where I do some woodworking as a hobby. Fortunately I’ve been able to not hurt myself too badly while working. Because even some of the most experienced woodworkers have had accidents where fingers (or more!) have been lost. I’m sure many of us had or heard of a woodshop teacher with missing fingers. In 2011 Richard Van, a woodworker in South Africa, had an accident where he lost four fingers on his right hand. Finding that existing finger prosthetics to be outrageously expensive, he sought to make his own. To help him, he came into contact with Ivan Owen, a prop maker from Bellingham, Washington. Together they have developed a hand prosthetic from readily available and affordable parts.

Across the Globe Collaboration
Beginning in early 2012, the two worked and communicated thousands of miles apart. The prosthetic they worked on basically was an index finger extender. The first prototype had an aluminum piece strapped to the hand and what was left of Van’s index finger. Van was able to move and curl the aluminum piece via cables and springs. Further prototypes were slimmer and had better movement. The latest prototype is cam-driven and made of brass. Below is a video of Van using the prosthetic to type on a keyboard.

For Liam
In November of 2012, Owen flew to South Africa to meet Owen in person to further their design. While there the two also worked to design a hand prosthetic for a young boy named Liam, whose fingers on his right hand never developed. With the input of some local engineers, the two were successful and Liam was able to pick up objects with his right hand for the first time. To which I say, job well done!

Conclusion
What’s great about this Robohand project by Van and Owen is that they’re sharing the technology so that others can create their own affordable prosthetic. Visit this link to get some of the open source info. Also visit www.ComingUpShortHanded.com to learn more about the project and everyone involved. You can also make a donation to help them continue their development. Watch the videos below to see the development process and Liam using his Robohand.