Identifying Users’ Needs to Design and Manufacture 3D-Printed Upper Limb Sockets: A Survey-Based Study

Abstract

The development of prosthetic arms has increased in recent years, particularly with the growth of 3D printing technologies. However, one of the main weaknesses of 3D-printed prosthetics is the prosthetic socket, which commonly presents a generic adjustable design that may produce discomfort. In fact, the socket has always been a part that has frequently caused discomfort in traditionally manufactured prosthetics and, consequently, high rejection rates. Studies about improving the socket component in traditional and 3D-printed upper limb prostheses are scarce. Advancements in 3D printing and 3D scanning will offer a high potential to improve the design and manufacturing of 3D-printed sockets. Thus, to propose better designs and manufacturing protocols, this paper presents a questionnaire to assess the needs of upper limb prosthetics users or potential users, as well as a survey-based study with 18 respondents. The results reveal that users prioritize breathability and low cost, a stable fixing system, products without the need for shape adjustments, a light weight and comfort regarding the products they require. The results of this study provide insights into the key characteristics that sockets should accomplish according to users’ needs that are applicable to 3D-printed sockets and traditionally manufactured sockets, and they contribute to improving their design and manufacturing.