Virginia Teen Creates 3D-Printed, Accessible Prosthetics for Amputees

Virginia Teen Creates Affordable 3D-Printed Prosthetics for Amputees

Arav Bhargava, an 18-year-old, has designed cost-effective 3D-printed prosthetics with a universal fit to aid amputees in developing nations.

By Jim Fields
March 4, 2024

Approximately 40 million individuals in developing nations require prosthetic devices, yet only a mere 5% have access to them. Arav Bhargava, a high-school senior at The Potomac School in McLean, Virginia, pointed out two primary obstacles: the exorbitant cost of prosthetics and limited availability of fitting and maintenance services.

“This situation is simply not viable in underdeveloped regions,” he emphasized.

In a proactive move, Bhargava created a 3D-printed universal-fit prosthetic tailored for individuals missing their lower arms. The design comes in a kit format containing all essential components required for assembly. 

“Every amputee can obtain their own kit and have a fully functional prosthetic for life,” he explained.

The aim is to ensure that each kit remains within the $40 price range.

Bhargava aims to forge partnerships to enhance the production and distribution of his kits to meet the needs of the approximately 40 million amputees worldwide. 

Other articles

Post Image
Education
Studying at MIT while thousands of miles away

During this summer, a team of students from MIT embarked on a journey to the sou …

Read More
Post Image
Education
New Hampshire Colleges Rush to Collaborate Amid Enrollment Declines and New Legislation

Post-completion of their exams and papers, students at New Hampshire’s community …

Read More
Education
U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights Settles Deal to Address Antisemitic Harassment in Carmel Unified School District in California

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) made an announc …

Read More