Mechanical design of a modular arm prosthesis

Describes the mechanical design characteristics of an artificial arm. Design objectives to meet are: (a) maximum simplicity and practicality in design; (b) minimum total weight; (c) adequate shape and dimensions; (d) minimum energy consumption from a light external energy resource; (e) adequate dynamic capability compatible with other prosthetic arms. To obtain optimal design parameters for such a system, a software program was written to simulate the behavior of the arm so that design variables could be tested. These parameters strongly influence the choice of mechanisms and components used in the authors' design.<>