PROSTHETIC ARM

The accessibility of prosthetic limbs remains a significant challenge in the global healthcare landscape, particularly in developing nations where high costs prohibit widespread adoption. This paper presents the design, fabrication, and control of a low-cost, 3D-printed prosthetic arm actuated by servo motors and controlled via an Arduino UNO microcontroller. The primary objective is to replicate the essential grasping function of the human hand—specifically the flexion and extension of fingers—using a simplified HumanMachine Interface (HMI) consisting of a tactile push-button switch. The mechanical structure was fabricated using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology with Polylactic Acid (PLA) filament, significantly reducing the weight and material cost compared to traditional manufacturing methods. The control system employs an Arduino UNO to process digital input signals and modulate Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals to drive high-torque servo motors. The system successfully demonstrates a reliable open-close mechanism with a response time suitable for basic object manipulation. This research validates the feasibility of combining additive manufacturing with open-source electronics to create functional, affordable assistive devices, laying the groundwork for future integration with advanced myoelectric sensors.