Custom mechatronic components developed for prosthetic hand

Reliance Precision Mechatronics has worked closely with RSL Steeper in the development of the RSL Steeper bebionic prosthetic hand, which will feature on the Reliance stand at Medtec 2011. This product demonstrates Reliance's expertise and adaptability in providing customised mechatronic components and integrated assemblies.

Reliance has worked with RSL Steeper specifically in the design and manufacture of the finger and thumb actuators. The bebionic hand is fully articulating, with multiple grip patterns, so the challenge has been to achieve the optimum efficiency between speed, power and noise for the necessary hand flexibility, as well as meeting the weight and size constraints. A thorough technical understanding of the relationship between these requirements has been fundamental to the successful result.

Reliance's design and manufacturing expertise has been called upon to industrialise RSL Steeper's design concept, with rapid manufacturing of development samples to validate the design process. The building blocks have been taken from Reliance's catalogue of mechatronic components, providing the essential gears, lead screw and nut. These have been adapted to suit the specific requirements of this project, with design engineering to integrate the components and provide a custom assembly.

Steve Parker, the Technical Director at RSL Steeper, is complimentary of the teamwork achieved on the project: "Reliance have a depth of engineering skill and practical knowledge which has really complemented our own design team. We faced extremely demanding timescales for this development programme and I have been impressed by the responsiveness and adaptability of the Reliance team."

Reliance Precision Mechatronics (a division of Reliance Precision Limited) provides standard and customised precision motion control components and small electromechanical assemblies. Products are available from stock or on short deliveries, with comprehensive technical support. Small quantities can be provided at stock prices to assist design engineers working to develop prototypes. Larger quantities can be supplied for full production requirements and for cost-effective modifications. A product integration service provides a full assembly service.

Follow the link for more information about Reliance's product customisation and integration services.