What began as a personal endeavor for 13-year-old Lois Agnello to create a 3D-printed hand has blossomed into a collaborative passion project at The Nature School in Port Macquarie, New South Wales. Born with only part of her left hand, Lois approached her science and technology teacher to explore the possibility of using the school’s 3D printer for this ambitious project.
“Being born without a hand doesn’t really stop me,” Lois expressed with determination. “I wanted to create my own hand with my friends so I could show them what it’s like.”
Lois had been using a prosthetic hand since she was eight years old. However, the idea of crafting a personalized hand with the help of her peers sparked a new wave of enthusiasm among her classmates.
From Idea to Reality
Her teacher, Lloyd Godson, noted the students’ excitement when Lois introduced them to a video about her journey. “It really struck a chord with a bunch of her peers,” he commented.
The group embarked on their project by accessing an open-source design from Free 3D Hands, an Australia-based charity. Over three months, they dedicated their lunchtimes to experimenting with various materials and refining their design.
“It was a big learning curve — most of them had never used a 3D printer before,” Mr. Godson said.
Their efforts culminated in a functional prototype, a hand that could grasp objects and move, triggered by upper-arm activity. Lois was thrilled with the result, exclaiming, “I was like, ‘Oh my god this is crazy,’ like, I didn’t even know if it would work.”
Enhancing the Design
Building on their initial success, the students have collaborated with Free 3D Hands to refine and improve their design. They have since produced three more versions of the hand, each iteration more advanced than the last. The current focus is on enhancing the comfort of the prosthetic.
Mat Bowtell, founder of Free 3D Hands, praised the students’ enthusiasm and involvement in the design process. “They were very enthusiastic in being a part of the brainstorming process in regard to what we might be able to improve in the next design,” he said.
Student Wren McDowell shared her enjoyment of the project, saying, “It makes me feel pretty good, because we are designing loads of different styles.” Meanwhile, Joel Banwell expressed his satisfaction in contributing to a functional hand for Lois, adding, “It made me want to make one that was even better.”
Global Recognition
The project has garnered international attention, earning a place at the Be the Change Summit in Japan. This summit is a global platform for young leaders to present projects addressing challenges such as climate change, mental health, and inequality.
Mr. Godson highlighted the significance of Lois sharing her story on a global stage, saying it would be incredible to see her in Tokyo discussing her limb difference and the impact of Mr. Bowtell’s work.
Lois hopes her story will inspire others worldwide. “Other kids will be like, ‘Woah, that’s cool — like, can I try that?'” she said, envisioning a ripple effect of innovation and empathy.
Looking Forward
This initiative not only showcases the power of technology in transforming lives but also highlights the importance of community and collaboration in driving innovation. As Lois and her classmates continue to refine their designs, they set a precedent for how young minds can contribute meaningfully to society.
Their journey underscores a broader narrative of empowerment and possibility, suggesting that with creativity and determination, boundaries can be transcended, one 3D-printed hand at a time.
