An engineering student at Bob Jones University has built a modular, 3D-printed prosthetic arm for his 7-year-old sister after more than 100 hours of printing, aiming to improve comfort, usability, and affordability for pediatric users.
Project Overview
Vitaliy Bondarchuk designed and fabricated the device for his sister, Bella. The prosthetic, developed as part of his engineering work, is already integrated into her daily routine, demonstrating practical functionality beyond a prototype.
Design and Functionality
The arm features interchangeable attachments tailored to everyday tasks, allowing Bella to switch tools as needed. The modular approach supports comfort and fit adjustments, which can be critical for growing children and varied activities.
Addressing Access and Affordability
The project targets a known gap in affordable pediatric prosthetics. Traditional devices can be costly and may require frequent replacements as children grow. By leveraging consumer-grade 3D printing, modular parts, and rapid iteration, the design highlights a pathway to more accessible, user-focused solutions.
Broader Implications
While developed for a specific user, the effort underscores how low-cost manufacturing and open design principles can help meet unmet clinical and practical needs for children requiring assistive devices. It also reflects a broader trend toward personalized, adaptable prosthetics that can evolve with users over time.