A new technique developed by Kansas State University students allows individuals to personalize their prosthetic with new "skins." The covers are made from flexible resins and plastics.
The product design students began by interviewing their clients about preferences for the prosthetic add-on. Each client also had his or her leg scanned so that students could mirror the geometry in their limb skin designs.
To create and develop their visions for their clients, the students used computers to learn new digital design techniques. The KSU team also had to consider how their designs would be manufactured, and how they could attach their covers to the prosthetics in a way that was not invasive and would not impede their functionality. An obtrusive connection attaches to the prosthetic's pylon and clamps the cover in pace.
Dustin Headley, an assistant professor of interior architecture & product design in the College of Architecture, Planning & Design, acted as engineer and used 3D printing to bring the designs to reality.
