Original Article

Experimental tests and numerical validation of a wrist-hand orthosis

¹ Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering (LGM), National Engineering School of Sousse, University of Sousse, RHCV+446 Sousse technological center, Sahloul, Sousse 4054, Tunisia
² Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering (LGM), National Engineering School of Monastir, University of Monastir, Rue Ibn El Jazzar, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
³ Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), 11432 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

^* email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Received: 19 August 2025
Accepted: 8 December 2025

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the mechanical behavior and performance of a 3D-printed wrist-hand orthosis using PLA material. The primary objective was to evaluate the orthosis's ability to withstand various loads during flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction movements, while ensuring optimal design through topology optimization. Both experimental and numerical analyses were conducted, employing ANSYS Workbench for finite element simulations. The results indicated that the orthosis could endure significant loads without exceeding elastic limits; however, the tests revealed critical issues related to alignment and support design that led to stress concentrations and premature failure. The findings underscore the necessity for more accurate testing protocols, focusing on alignment corrections and balanced load distributions. Future work will involve refining the numerical model to include detailed material behavior, optimizing the orthosis design further, and validating its performance through clinical experiments under real-life loading conditions. This research contributes valuable insights into the development of effective and resilient orthotic devices tailored for individual patient needs.