MECHANICAL DESIGN OF A MODULAR ARM PROSTHESIS

摘要

This paper describes the mechanical design characteristics of an artificial arm. Design objectives are: maximum simplicity and practicality of design, minimum total weight, adequate shape and dimensions, minimum energy consumption from a light external energy resource, and adequate dynamic capability compatible with other prosthetic arms. To obtain optimal design parameters for such a system, a software program was written to simulate the behavior of the arm so that design variables could be tested. These parameters strongly influence the choice of mechanisms and components used in our design.