Computer simulation tool for upper-limb prosthesis design

Prosthetic fittings, especially those for higher level or bilateral arm amputation, take considerable time and effort to achieve. A computer-based Prosthetic Arm Design and Simulation System (PADSS) is under development in an effort to improve the efficiency and cost of this process. Graphical simulations of the client and alternative prostheses would allow the prosthetist to determine the most likely configuration to successfully satisfy the client before committing to fabrication, While providing time and cost benefits to the prosthetist, the PADSS could also improve the communication between the prosthetist and client through the visual representation of proposed designs. The system might also be used to evaluate new or hypothetical devices and prosthesis configurations.