User-Centered Design and Rapid Prototyping Technologies applied to the development of transradial prosthesis socket: A case study

Abstract

The design of prosthesis for people with amputation or limb malformation is one of the applications in Assistive Technology (AT) expressively benefited by technological advances in processes, systems and materials. However, many aspects of this product still represent ergonomic problems that compromise comfort and usability, such as the interface between the stump and the socket. This study aimed to describe, through a case study, the application of User-Centered Design (UCD) associated with Rapid Prototyping Technologies (RPT) in the development of a socket for a transradial prosthesis. The process involved the participation of an adult male with congenital malformation of the left upper limb. Four socket alternatives were developed and evaluated and, after assessment with the user, a liner was developed from the last alternative, which was considered safe and comfortable by the participant. Therefore, it was observed that the integration between UCD and RPT allowed for the improvement of the ergonomic aspects of the interface design, thus showing potential to contribute to the improvement of other AT.