e-NABLE

What is the challenge ?

Traditional prostheses cost an average of US$8,000. (10) The amputation of one or more upper limbs can result from, amongst other causes, congenital abnormalities, road injuries, self-injury, or interpersonal violence. These are ranked in the top 25 causes on the list of causes of the global burden of disease. (3)

Is it innovative ?

The e-NABLE community stands apart from traditional prostheses manufacturers by connecting volunteers who design 3D-printed upper limbs with people who need them. Models are created using a collaborative approach where printing plans are made available at no cost. Prostheses are printed free of charge from anywhere in the world and delivered directly to the user.

How does it work ?

• e-NABLE designs created by volunteers are open-source and shared on Thingiverse, a site dedicated to the sharing of digital design files created by its users. It also connects volunteers with people wishing to try 3D-printed prostheses. (10, 12)
• The prostheses are mechanical, do not need electricity, are customizable, and easy to assemble. (10)
• The e-NABLE prostheses work particularly well for people with a full or partial palm and 30-degree wrist motion. They cannot be used in manual labour-intensive environments (10)
• Children can easily use the prostheses because the latter can perform simple tasks, such as holding a ball, pressing buttons, and turning pages. (11)
• Between July 2013 and June 2015, e-NABLE volunteers made approximately 1,500 prostheses for children and adults in over 40 countries. (12)

How much does it cost ?

• The prostheses created and printed by e-NABLE volunteers are free. (10)

What is the environmental impact ?

• e-NABLE prostheses are 3D-printed from all over the world and there are more than 100 models. The environmental impact is therefore difficult to estimate and varies according to the model. (10, 12)

What is the approval status ?

• e-NABLE prostheses have been evaluated by clinical studies but have not been approved by organizations such as the Food and Drug Administration. (11)