The optimum size of pet prosthetic for additive manufacturing

Some animals adapt well to losing limbs, which may be due to an accident or amputation that was necessitated by a birth-defect or a cancerous growth. Others suffer greatly from having less limbs, negatively affecting their quality of life. Current advancements capacitate us to provide plastic prosthetic limbs by using additive manufacturing. However, modelling and printing proves challenging. This article describes the three steps taken to design an eco-friendly prosthetic for a disabled donkey, made out of plastic parts and belts. First, we sought to gain a better understanding of eco-design to increase durability of the prosthetic. Second, using computer aided design and optimisation, we explored optimal models in order to achieve a lightweight structure to sustain the weight of the animal. Third, the materials Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene and Polyethylene Terephthalate were considered to reduce environmental impact and maximise quality of life for the donkey. The product will be printed and fitted to a disabled donkey. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Second International Conference on Aspects of Materials Science and Engineering (ICAMSE 2021).