DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF 3D-PRINTED LOWER LIMB ASSISTIVE DEVICE

Abstract

In recent years, the study of the lower limb assistive device has aroused great interest. The assistive device helps a paralyzed patient to walk. Currently, there is a growing demand for wearable assistive devices in medicine, which will improve and facilitate the recovery process of patients. Assistive devices help people during recovery from an accident. This will help patients to maintain a normal lifestyle. It also reduces the risk of injury to builders, soldiers, and professionals, reduces pain and stress, and helps distribute weight evenly. This study focuses on the development of a 3D-printed leg assistive device and overcomes limitations, challenges, and manufacturing capabilities. Several development methods increase the efficiency of the foot assistive device through 3D printing. The development of assistive device with 3D printing has reduced the weight, cost, and possibility of rehabilitation at an affordable price. Most existing lower limb assistive devices are made from metal, which increases their weight, the cost makes them less comfortable to wear, and applicable for hospital use only because it needs observation from the nurse or doctor. 3D printed assistive devices can provide rehabilitation and assistance while walking in cost-effective and comfortable ways, with different operation modes that can be easily utilized for in-home usage. As there is a lack of fully 3D printed leg assistive devices, this research focuses on designing and prototyping 3D printed leg assistive devices for rehabilitation and assisting purposes. The study's main aim is to create a 3D printed leg assistive device, which could support assist people in walking during rehabilitation. The basement will be developed from a 3D model, which simulates anatomic shape, and provides proper fitting. It will be made from Carbon Fiber PLA.