Design and Implementation of a Physical Simulator for Hand and Wrist Joint Range of Motion Validation for Rehabilitation Devices

In upper limb rehabilitation, streamlining the device validation process is essential to convert designs into successful products and thus significantly improve the quality of life and independence in the daily activities of people with disabilities. In this context, the methodology used and the detailed process to develop a physical simulator designed in CAD and manufactured by 3D printing to validate the articular range of motion of the hand and wrist are presented. This simulator consists of a prosthetic hand, a wrist base, and two supports, one for assembly and the other for mounting a stepper motor. Its customization and precision ensure accurate imitation of the anatomical and functional conditions of the human hand. Healthcare professionals can use this simulator both in the design validation phase and in the evaluation of final products, facilitating the product development and evaluation process. The results of this study show both simulations and testing of a pneumatic glove-type device to evaluate its joint range in different cycles. Thus, a significant contribution is made to rehabilitation by providing and establishing a precedent for research in the physical simulation of joint motion in other body parts, which could drive future innovations in this field.