ABSTRACT
The EXOSHOULDER project aims the application of a general product development methodology based on advanced manufacturing processes, namely 3D scanning, geometric modelling and additive manufacturing, to the production of an articulated upper limb passive exoskeleton. The validation of the methodology involves its application in the development of a physical prototype for the case study of a child without the humeral diaphysis of the right arm, as a consequence of osteomyelitis. The methodology was applied in the production of a proof of concept for a healthy subject with no history of upper limb disorders. Functional and long-term tests were conducted for assessment of its function and comfort. The obtained results were analyzed and fed into the product development cycle for improvement of the initial concept. Obtained results prove that the implementation of the proposed methodology enables the development of highly customized and functional orthotic solutions swiftly and economically.
