A Comparative Review of 3D Printing and Robotics as Methods for Manufacturing Human Prosthetic Legs

This research investigates how two distinct technological approaches—3D printing and robotics—can be used to design and manufacture human prosthetic legs, evaluating their effectiveness in restoring mobility and improving user experience. It compares both methods across critical factors including rehabilitation outcomes, robustness, cost, athletic performance, and social perception. By synthesizing findings from multiple studies and existing prosthetic technologies, the paper provides a nuanced, patient-centered evaluation framework that considers not only engineering performance but also social and economic accessibility.

The paper finds that 3D printed prosthetics excel in customizability, cost efficiency, and ease of manufacturing, making them suitable for rapid, patient-specific applications. Using 3D scanning and Computer-Aided Design (CAD), prosthetics can be precisely tailored to a user’s residual limb and produced quickly using materials like ABS and titanium. In contrast, robotic prosthetic legs integrate advanced sensors, actuators, and microprocessors to mimic natural motion and adapt dynamically to terrain and movement. These robotic systems offer enhanced gait mechanics, balance, and adaptability, but come with high production costs, maintenance demands, and longer learning curves during rehabilitation.

Ultimately, the research argues that neither technology is universally superior; instead, the choice depends on user priorities—such as affordability versus biomechanical performance. The paper concludes that the future of prosthetic innovation lies in integrating the strengths of both technologies: the affordability and personalization of 3D printing with the adaptive intelligence of robotics. Such convergence could enable prosthetic solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also accessible, resilient, and empowering for individuals with lower-limb amputations.