Tech tools for persons with disabilities

CEBU, Philippines - The emerging 3D printing technology has drawn interest in its applications in the medical field – particularly in the development of advanced prosthetics.

From studies looking into the development of advanced robotic hands to research on the possible applications of the technology in the making of prosthetic legs, various researchers and healthcare firms have been looking into how it can be useful for persons with disabilities.

But as studies on the possible integration of 3D technology in advanced prosthetics are currently underway, there have been ongoing advances in the area without the 3D.

Octopus bionic gripper

A global firm recently developed a bionic gripper that mimics the movements and versatility of an octopus’ tentacle. Named the “Octopusgripper,” the device was developed by Festo and is made of a soft silicone-based material that can be controlled through advanced pneumatics. Like an octopus’ tentacle, it has suction cups that can be controlled to “hold on” or “let go” of what it is holding.

Two variants of the bionic gripper have been developed so far, the “BionicMotionRobot” and the “BionicCobot.” The models are geared towards exploring their potential uses in the area of safe human-robot interactions or situations –l ike in factories that utilize robots in product fabrication.

Though the “Octopusgripper” wasn’t exactly envisioned as a form of prosthesis, it has sparked questions on the matter, given its potential in being a functional hand prosthesis.

Exoskeletal frame

Since 2014, versions of an exoskeletal frame designed for the hand have been used in hospitals abroad for patients recovering from neurological/musculoskeletal injuries.

An updated exoskeletal frame was recently released in overseas markets for physical rehabilitation sessions at home. The device runs by the “gamification-as-theraphy” premise.

Developed by Neofect, the “Rapael Smart Glove” is a device designed to ‘measure’ its wearer’s physical hand motions through exercises that are based on applicable therapy modules. The device works by guiding its wearers through rehabilitation-intended games which can be accessed via a companion app. The wearers then can better move their hand sand fingers through simulations that includes chopping of food, ball games and the like.