e-Nable Prosthetics Research Project

Co-leading a team of M.S. student researchers through the development of a 3D-printed prosthetic as part of the e-NABLE Digital Humanitarian Community.

This research aims to investigate the transformative potential of 3D printing technology in providing accessible and tailored prosthetic solutions to individuals in need, focusing on the pioneering efforts of the e-NABLE program. e-NABLE is a global network of volunteers, established in 2013, dedicated to designing, creating, and distributing 3D-printed prosthetic hands and arms to recipients worldwide, with many international recipients. Through its open-source approach, the program has enabled collaboration among makers, designers, engineers, and individuals in need, fostering continuous improvements in prosthetic design and distribution.

The study will utilize a single-case design to follow the journey of an individual in need of a prosthetic device, identified in partnership with e-NABLE and relevant organizations. The research will document the process of customizing the 3D-printed prosthetic based on the recipient’s specifications and conducting remote fitting and functionality assessments through video conferencing. The iterative design process will be employed to refine the prosthetic based on the recipient’s feedback, ensuring a better fit and enhanced functionality.

Employing a mixed-methods approach, qualitative data will be collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and feedback sessions, while quantitative data will be gathered through structured surveys measuring user satisfaction, comfort, and task performance metrics. By analyzing the recipient’s experience and the effectiveness of the prosthetic, this research will contribute to the existing knowledge on 3D-printed prosthetics and provide valuable insights for e-NABLE’s ongoing efforts to make prosthetic devices more accessible, affordable, and beneficial for individuals in need. Furthermore, the study’s findings will serve as a foundation for positioning WesternU as a partner in this worldwide collaboration effort, raising increased awareness about the e-NABLE program and inspire others to contribute to this impactful initiative, while addressing future challenges and opportunities for expanding prosthetic accessibility globally.