Powered finger with locking rack mechanism

Abstract

This disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and devices for a powered prosthetic digit. The disclosed devices restore prehension in a person with missing fingers or thumb by providing motor-driven extension and flexion, and opposition to forces in the extension direction via a pawl and locking rack ratchet mechanism, thereby allowing an individual to manipulate or stabilize objects. In one embodiment, a digit comprises a base configured to be removably couplable to an anchor, a first segment pivotably coupled to the base, and a second segment removably coupled to the first segment. The first segment comprises a rack with a plurality of rack teeth and a pawl with a nose configured to engage with the rack to prevent pivoting of the first segment in a rotational direction corresponding to extension of the prosthetic digit. The second segment comprises a drive gear operable to pivot the first segment with respect to the base.