Design of a Hand Rehabilitation Exoskeleton Prototype for Patients Affected by Osteoarthritis

Hand osteoarthritis is a disease that allows the degeneration of the joints, this impairs the mobility of the hand. Motor rehabilitation allows patients with arthritic hand to resume the natural use of their hand. This research has a quantitative approach and is non-experimental, the V methodology was used for the development of the prototype. The construction of the prototype was divided into three systems: structural system, biomechanical system, and control system. Using 3D modeling and printing, it was possible to design the parts used in the final assembly of the prototype. With the use of simulations, the safety of the material used, and the resistance of the pieces were determined. The results of this investigation indicate that the present prototype can perform movements that allow the user to complete rehabilitation exercises.