Jacob Key
R&D Engineer
Prosthetic
Devices
Organization:
Duke Enable - Student Organization
Position: Team Lead (oversee team of students in the production of one client's prosthetic(s)
Project Description:
In Duke Enable, teams of students work with an amputee in the Durham community to produce a low-cost prosthetic device to use in their everyday life. In my experience, I have worked with two pediatric clients (one finished and one in progress). Some of the prosthetic devices are suited for specific activities while others are for general use. The prosthetics are designed in CAD and 3D printed.
What I Learned:
I have thoroughly increased my CAD skills in this organization; however, the most important thing I have learned is the importance of patient interaction. When working on any engineering project, the user should be the first priority, and their needs should be incorporate into every part of the design process.
