Artificial limbs, also known as prosthetics, are typically made using plastic manufacturing methods to create strong yet lightweight devices.
Here's a breakdown:
Prosthetic limbs are crafted from durable plastic polymers. According to research, the fabrication process heavily relies on two plastic manufacturing methods: injection molding and vacuum forming. These methods are used to create the various components of the limb which bond fabric-based layers together to create the final product.
Here's a summary of the key steps and materials involved in manufacturing an artificial limb:
- Materials: Plastic polymers are the primary materials. These plastics are selected for their strength, lightweight properties, and ability to be molded into complex shapes.
- Manufacturing Methods:
- Injection Molding: This process is used to create detailed and complex parts of the prosthetic. Molten plastic is injected into a mold cavity, where it cools and hardens into the desired shape.
- Vacuum Forming: Vacuum forming shapes the plastic over a mold using heat and vacuum pressure. This method is suitable for creating larger, less intricate parts.
- Fabric-Based Layers: Layers of fabric are bonded with the plastic polymers to enhance the strength and durability while keeping the prosthesis lightweight.
