What began as a simple idea to print a 3D hand has blossomed into an inspiring passion project for 13-year-old Lois Agnello and her classmates 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, Lloyd Godson, with a proposal to use the school’s 3D printer for creating a prosthetic hand.
“Being born without a hand doesn’t really stop me,” Lois shared. “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. Her initiative to print a new hand sparked interest among her peers after she presented a video about her condition. “It really struck a chord with a bunch of her peers,” Mr. Godson noted.
Innovating with Open-Source Designs
The students accessed an open-source design from the Australian charity Free 3D Hands and embarked on their project. Over three months, they dedicated their lunchtimes to meetings and experiments with various materials, culminating in the successful printing and assembly of their first 3D-printed hand.
“We were all super excited about it,” Mr. Godson said, highlighting the students’ enthusiasm and the significant learning curve they faced. “Most of them had never used a 3D printer before.”
The initial prototype, though basic, was functional. Triggered by upper-arm activity, it could pick up objects and move. Lois expressed her delight, saying, “I was like, ‘Oh my god this is crazy,’ like, I didn’t even know if it would work.”
Refining the Design
Since their first success, the students have collaborated with Free 3D Hands to refine their design, producing three more advanced versions. Their current focus is on improving the comfort of the prosthetic.
Mat Bowtell, founder of Free 3D Hands, praised the students’ involvement, stating, “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.”
Student Wren McDowell shared her excitement about the design process, saying, “It makes me feel pretty good, because we are designing loads of different styles.” Fellow student Joel Banwell expressed his motivation to enhance the hand further, adding, “I felt fairly good that Lois was able to get a hand that worked and it made me want to make one that was even better.”
Global Recognition
The project has gained international attention, being selected to represent Australia at the Be the Change Summit in Japan. This summit is part of a global initiative where young leaders present projects addressing challenges like climate change, mental health, and inequality.
Mr. Godson expressed his excitement for Lois’s opportunity to share her story with a global audience, saying, “To see her in Tokyo talking about her limb difference and how Mr. Bowtell’s work had helped her and others would be incredible.”
Lois hopes her story will inspire others to create 3D hands worldwide. “Other kids will be like, ‘Woah, that’s cool — like, can I try that?'” she said.
Looking Ahead
This project not only highlights the power of technology in education but also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and innovation. As Lois and her peers continue to refine their designs, they are setting an example of how young minds can contribute to meaningful change.
Their journey underscores the potential of 3D printing technology in creating affordable prosthetics, offering a glimpse into a future where custom solutions are accessible to all. The Nature School’s initiative is a testament to the impact of combining education with real-world applications, inspiring a new generation of problem solvers.
