The Power in Prosthetics
Prosthetics are a unique combination of science and engineering that help create a better quality of life for those in need of artificial limbs. Students create a functional prosthetic hand that will be useful for day-to-day tasks. The prototype will need to include moveable fingers that bend to pick up a small Styrofoam cup, a large foam die, and a whiteboard eraser. Students will be paired into groups of two to begin planning, designing, and building their prototype. Each group will then test and evaluate their prototype by using it to pick up materials as listed above. Students will improve their prototype as needed.
A student demonstrates how their prosthetic hand works.Copyright 2022 Shaci Davis, University of Florida MRET
Biomedical engineers help design prosthetics for people with various disabilities. They also work on artificial tissues and organs, implantable devices (such as a pacemaker for the heart), and orthopedic implants (materials that are used to replace bones and joints). A biomedical engineer solves problems by looking for solutions to different medical challenges. They look for ways to improve a patient’s quality of life.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Explain and demonstrate the engineering design process.
- Use a science and engineering notebook for notetaking and recording observations.
- Calculate and demonstrate sizes of measurement units using a ruler.