Developing a mechanical prosthetic finger for children
Official title: A ratcheting pediatric prosthetic finger using advanced rapid manufacturing technology
Funded at Point Designs, LLC · NIH-11129572 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a special prosthetic finger for kids who are missing part of their hand, using cool 3D printing to make sure it fits just right and helps them do everyday things more easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Point Designs, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Broomfield, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $916,470 |
| NIH project number | 4R44HD113485-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11129572 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have experienced partial hand limb absence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have partial hand limb absence or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a mechanical prosthetic finger specifically designed for pediatric patients with partial hand limb absence. The prosthetic, named Point Mini, will utilize advanced metal 3D printing technology to ensure a custom fit for each child, allowing for anatomical movement and one-handed operation. The project aims to address the unique needs of children and their families by providing a personalized solution that enhances their daily activities and quality of life. By collaborating with prosthetists and occupational therapists, the research seeks to streamline the process of obtaining effective prosthetic components for young patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide children with a highly functional and personalized prosthetic finger that improves their ability to engage in everyday activities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in 3D printed prosthetics has shown promise, indicating that this approach could lead to successful outcomes for pediatric patients.
Where this research is happening
-
Point Designs, LLC
Broomfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sliker, Levin — Point Designs, LLC
- Study coordinator: Sliker, Levin
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Creating a strong, 3D printed prosthetic finger system powered by muscle signals
This study is working on a new kind of prosthetic finger for people who have lost part of their hand, using 3D printing to make it strong and light, so it can be easily controlled by muscle signals and help you with everyday tasks.
-
Developing a new prosthetic finger for people with partial hand loss
This study is working on a new, easy-to-use prosthetic finger for people who have lost part of their hand, aiming to make everyday tasks easier and improve their quality of life.
-
Creating a strong, 3D printed prosthetic finger system powered by muscle signals
This study is working on a new kind of prosthetic finger for people who have lost part of their hand, using 3D printing to make it strong and light, so you can control it with your muscle signals and get back to doing everyday tasks more easily.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.