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Bearable Prosthesis

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In addition to outlining a design methodology, it is also important to establish the criteria to assess the ‘bearability’ of the prosthesis. For this study, a bearable prosthesis is defined as the successful coupling between a patient and their device, allowing the user to wear it continuously over a prolonged period of time, projected to be 3-5 years until it requires replacement. Once the prosthetic device and the body have formed a successful coupling, which in turn affects the users’ cognitive process, creating a new form of behavior where the mind forms a seamless connection to the prosthesis. The more the user is unaware of the device and feels a sense of control over it, the more comfortable the user feels. To assess the outcome of the relationship formed, a …show more content…

These criteria were determined in conjunction to the outcome of patient case studies presented in section 3.1. Invisibility is reliant on both the materiality and physical fit of the device in order for the user to be unaware of the presence of the device. Materiality is important in that the design needs to be strong and stable yet still provide a comfortable and soft transition to the body. As such, a comfortable fit facilitates the user’s ability to quickly become accustomed to the presence of the device. A sense of control over the device also contributes to successful coupling. By developing a reactive design that moves in response to the body and operates in a predictable and visual manner, the resultant output allows the user to learn new behaviors. It allows the user to feel that they have control over the device, allowing reliable coupling to form at a faster rate. Additionally, the results of the success of the coupling

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