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    Mechanical engineering is a very broad field because it allows for engineers to work with multiple aspects of other engineering professions. Engineers are expected to be able to solve problems using different parts of the different engineering fields. I have always been fascinated in the medical field because I like to help people. I also have been fascinated with the world of prosthetic limbs because I have never fully understood how some of them have functioned until I have conducted research in ISM. Using my knowledge of mechanical engineering and my fascination with prosthetic limbs I would like design a prosthetic limb that would be meant for children. It would be cheap because children are constantly growing so they would grow out of it quickly. It would also be easy for a kid to use because some of the technologically advanced models are hard for kids to understand how to use them. As I continue researching I will have to see what materials I will need to use while keeping into consideration the cost of the materials, would it be easier to 3D print or make using other materials? I plan to continue to research what technological advancements the prosthetic should have in order to see what would be the easiest for a kid to use. Through this extensive research I plan on creating a blueprint and eventually a prototype of the prosthetic that would be best for a child.

 

    I have already done some research on the topic of prosthetics while doing my research assessments, and plan on looking at articles and studies online that can help me understand what materials might be best. I need to find what materials will be the best fit for the product because the prosthetic must be lightweight because it will be on a kids arm. It must also be durable due to the fact that it will be used everyday for every function the kid uses their hands for. The material must also be cheap because I want my prosthetic to be an affordable option for all families because every kid deserves a normal life. My Dad is a doctor, so I would like to go to his office building and talk to medical professionals that work with prosthetics and discuss with them about which materials would be best and see if they can make any adjustments to the design. Through my research that I have already conducted I have found that it is hard for parents to find the right prosthetic because there are not a lot of options for children, plus there are not a lot of cheap options for kids with all the technological advancements. That is why I would like my prosthetic to be very simple for a child to use it.

 

    This project will allow me to use all aspects of the engineering mind. I will be solving a problem in a new, innovative, and creative way that will be improving the lives of many. I am showing my knowledge of my topic because I am designing a product that involves not only mechanical engineering, but also using aspects of other fields such as the medical field. I am conducting extensive research to find the right materials for the production of my design. Lastly, I am able to help a large number of kids who are not able to have the right prosthetic to fit their needs. It will provide an alternative for parents because its cost is low and is very easy for a child to use, giving them a normal life.