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The global e-NABLE community connects those missing fingers or hands with dedicated and passionate people that have the time, skills and 3D-printing equipment to create prosthetics.
Thanks to the innovation of 3D printing, these devices can be low cost, relatively easy to make and individually tailored. This is especially good news for children—for whom professionally-made prosthetics are impractical since they regularly need new devices as they grow. All devices are free for the recipients. For more information click here for e-Nable France and here for e-Nable UK.
When Eaton employees Michaël and Rudy heard about the e-NABLE movement, they enthusiastically offered their time and expertise to help. After being granted permission to use their facility’s 3D printer, Michaël and Rudy set to work on a prototype hand for validation.
They selected the most suitable model of hand from e-NABLE’s open-source database and configured the 3D printer to create each part. This took a few iterations to get right, as hollow components needed to be carefully supported during fabrication.
Michaël and Rudy then assembled the printed parts and hunted down other materials like foam, elastic and nylon thread to complete their first artificial hand.
With nylon and elastic tendons, the finished prototype is more than just cosmetic - it also enables limited movement, such as grasping items. For someone without a hand, it’s a truly life-changing device.
Photos and video of the completed hand were sent to the French chapter of e-NABLE to ensure it met their standards. With approval now granted, Michaël and Rudy are free to help community members via e-NABLE’s online platform - and are eagerly anticipating their first match with a child in need of a prosthetic hand.
