Case Study: University of Oxford creates an intuitive breath-powered pediatric prosthetic hand with MathWorks

University of Oxford - Customer Case Study

The University of Oxford team, led by Professor Jeroen Bergmann, faced the challenge of creating an affordable, comfortable, and intuitive upper limb prosthetic for children. Existing cable and harness systems required significant muscular strength, were tiring to use, and were often unsuitable for young users or those in humid climates. To innovate beyond this 200-year-old technology, the team utilized MathWorks products, including MATLAB and Simulink, for modeling and simulation to develop a new solution.

Using MATLAB and Simulink, the MathWorks software was essential for virtually prototyping and optimizing a unique breath-powered system featuring a Tesla turbine and gearbox. This solution resulted in the Airbender prosthetic, a functional and intuitive device successfully tested by 15 children in a clinical usability study. The MathWorks-enabled approach allowed the team to create a low-cost prototype with the potential for a mass-manufactured device that is accessible to underserved communities, aiming to improve developmental outcomes and quality of life for children with limb differences.

University of Oxford

Jhonatan Da Ponte Lopes

Postdoctoral Engineer