UNYQ 3D prints aesthetic & functional prosthetic leg sockets
UNYQ is a San Francisco-based company specialised in 3D printed medical wearables. For the last five years the company has created prosthetic and orthotic devices. Recently, it announced the launch of a 3D printed prosthetic leg socket, it is their newest addition to the range of devices they already offer. This new product was unveiled on the 15th of March at the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotists (BAPO) in the UK.
A Prosthetics Wear Line project
UNYQ aims to offer a complete range of prosthetic devices, which will all be part of their Prosthetics Wear Line. The aim is to provide a complete prosthetic leg product by the end of 2021. The Co-Founder and VP of Prosthetics at UNYQ, Manuel Boza said, “We are thrilled to announce the launch of the UNYQ Socket today. This is another step forward in being able to provide amputees with a total leg solution. A solution where it’s practically one component, rather than a mish mash of different elements bolted together. We are working hard to further develop our prosthetics wear line, as well as the other exciting medical wearables in our pipeline, to continue to support our end users.”
Indeed, 3D printing can easily ease the daily lives of people with disabilities. Several devices have now been launched for this purpose, such as the Feelobject tool for the blind, practical modular wheelchairs (wheelwear) or multiple prostheses that are less expensive but also functional. In terms of UNYQ’s products, it has also been the company’s philosophy to focus on solutions that are aesthetic as well as lightweight. In addition, the leg socket can be used in conjunction with UNYQ’s line of personalised 3D printed prosthetic leg covers.
A functional, lightweight and aesthetic solution
The 3D printed prosthetic leg socket from UNYQ is the part of the prosthesis that attaches to the residual limb. The leg socket is also equipped with sensors that record the user’s activity, for example the number of steps and potential calories burned. It is therefore easier to keep track of fitness and exercise at any given time for the user and clinicians. The 3D printed socket is also easily replicable; an amputee can possess more than one prosthetic leg.
By the end of 2019, the company expects to supply its 3D printed product to multiple clinics. You can find more information on UNYQ’s website HERE.
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