Delft spin-off develops child-friendly prosthetic hand

Delft Prosthetics, a new spin-off company from TU Delft, has just launched its first new product: the child-friendly prosthetic hand “Tweezer”.

Rehabilitation

At the Delft Institute of Prosthetics and Orthotics from TU Delft, Dr Dick Plettenburg is leading research into improving prosthetic hands for children. This institute has now started the spin-off company Delft Prosthetics to market these prostheses.

Infants

The latest product to be launched is the Tweezer: a colourful hand prosthesis specially designed for children and infants. The prosthesis stands out by being sturdy yet good-looking.

The Tweezer has the practical points of a hook, yet the use of brightly coloured protective covers means it looks great, too. ‘This really appeals to children,’ says Gerwin Smit of Delft Prosthetics. ‘They often choose a combination of bright colours and order their prosthetic socket in trendy matching colours.’

Craft activities, cycling and gymnastics

The Tweezer allows children to play without concern, according to Smit. The hand prosthesis is also ideal in the sandpit, for craft activities and gymnastics. ‘The Tweezer is easy to clean and requires little effort to control. So it can be used to perform a wide range of activities quickly and accurately, such as tying shoelaces in a matter of seconds. And the Tweezer also makes it possible to cycle safely.’

Non-electric

Smit: ‘We are convinced that our prostheses have many advantages compared to electric prostheses. They are lighter, can be controlled more accurately, and are also more reliable. So electrical breakdowns and long repair times are a thing of the past.’