My Final Project example

My final project idea consists of creating an assistive device for people with Brachial Plexus Paralysis, controlled by voice or a button. The purpose of this device is to help people with arm paralysis rehabilitate the muscles in their hand, using the device to restore mobility and strength in the affected arm. At the moment, my sketch includes some initial ideas, but I am confident it will take shape and evolve throughout the FAB ACADEMY, ultimately resulting in a functional prototype.

Functionality and Mechanism

The device will function as a robotic glove or exoskeleton worn on the affected hand, designed to assist in movement and rehabilitation. It will use motorized actuators to mimic natural finger motion.

Hand Anatomy and Movement

The following images show the bones and movements of the hand:

Hand Anatomy Image 1 Hand Anatomy Image 2 Hand Anatomy Image 3 Hand Anatomy Image 3

Control Methods:

  • Voice commands: The user can control the device using simple commands like "open" and "close"
  • Button interface: A push-button will be available for users who prefer manual operation.

Key Features:

  • Grip Assistance
  • Rehabilitation Exercises
  • Wearable & Lightweight

Possible Materials & Components

Component Purpose Possible Options
Frame Support structure of the glove/device 3D-printed PLA, carbon fiber, flexible TPU
Actuators Provides movement for fingers Servo motors (SG90, MG995)
Sensors Detects user intent & movement Force sensors (FSR), flex sensors

Benchmark: Existing Solutions & Inspiration

Project Timeline

This timeline outlines the weekly tasks and milestones to complete the assistive exoskeleton for three fingers (thumb, index, and middle) using voice control and servomotors.

Date Task Goal
May 13 – May 19 Finalize design sketches, 3D model phalanges in SolidWorks Have all CAD designs ready for printing
May 20 – May 26 3D print all components and test joint fit Have functional mechanical finger structures
May 27 – June 2 Assemble the system with servos, mount cables Have a full working prototype structure
June 3 – June 5 Integrate voice control and finalize code Device responds to commands like "open" and "close"
June 6 – June 9 Testing, adjustments, and final documentation Prepare for final presentation and review

Electronic Board Design

As part of Week 6 of the Fab Academy, I designed a custom PCB specifically for my final project. The board is compact and allows control of three servomotors for the fingers of the assistive device. It also supports voice or button inputs and provides stable power handling for wearable use.

Electronic board design

Design Highlights

  • Microcontroller: ATtiny1614, chosen for its small footprint and sufficient I/O.
  • Servo Control: Three PWM outputs dedicated to the index, middle, and thumb fingers.
  • Power Management: Includes voltage regulation to separate logic and servo power.
  • Programming Access: UPDI and debugging pads for easy programming and testing.

You can find the full design files, schematic, and milling process on my documentation page for Week 06 - Electronics Design.

Next Steps

  • Refine the design using 3D modeling
  • Prototype different control mechanisms
  • Test different actuators and materials