Daniel Dugan, as a part of of E-Nable, produces 3D printed prosthetics for those in need.
Daniel Dugan is a local Ann Arbor native and frequent user of Ann Arbor Makerspace, All Hands Active. Currently a mentor for First Robotics teams and a software developer on the side, he is also part of a multi-disciplinary project aimed toward engaging and inspiring Michigan students to create innovative designs for functional hands. Daniel plays an important role as part of E-Nable, a volunteer run company whose goal is to create and give away free 3D printed arms and hands for those in need.
E-Nable has produced over 1000 of these kits and have even appeared at TedX events to discuss their effort. So far Daniel has personally worked on at least 50 of them. He is currently being asked to help lead the design for a Generally Available Practice Arm, a prosthetic designed for those that cannot use standard arms. 3D printing has dramatically sped up the process for creating the kits which are full of different components, saving time and money for all of the volunteers that contribute to the project.
Although Daniel traditionally utilizes his at home printer, a Printrbot Simple Metal, he reached out to the 3D Lab to help his process in designing these new arms. He printed some of the components at the 3D Lab using the Dimension Elites. The benefit to using the 3D Lab’s printing service? Error free parts, expert advice, and a different material. Daniel’s next step is to bring the Practice Arm to an international audience.
He and his team are working on finalizing a Michigan-based nonprofit to support E-Nable in its work. Together, they are a brilliant example of the power of 3D Printing to help in not just creating, but in aiding those in need. We are inspired by Daniel’s work and are honored to have had the chance to work with him.
Daniel was tasked with creating a practice arm for those unable to use standard arms.