Kids can now create and customize their own prosthetic arm from Lego

lego_arm

Lego is something that is most often used to build models. The versatile little bricks have been keeping children (and adults) entertained for generations, and there have also been plenty of instances of the toy being used for more than just playing. Now, thanks to the work of designer Carlos Arturo Torres, children with a missing limb could build their own from Lego.

It's an idea that merges the worlds of play and entertainment with practicality. The Colombian designer has come up with a modular system which can be used by inventive kids to create elaborate arms that are as functional, as advanced, or as silly as they want.

IKO is a system that helps children to overcome a disability in a fun and creative way. The project is a collaboration between physical rehab center Cirec and the Future Lab section of Lego. Fully compatible with the Lego Mindstorms range, the arm can be programmed and personalized and controlled just like standard prosthetics.

Carlos entered the project into the Core77 Design Awards, and bagged himself a prize in the Open Design category. Going far beyond just fingers and opposable thumbs, IKO can be used to build the robotic arm of kids' dreams, complete with whatever adornments they are able to come up with. Talking about his work, Carlos says:

Using the LEGO system was part of this solution, not just because of its creative content, but most of it its social feature; this is a toy that gathers people around with a single goal: the pride of creation, but in this scenario I found that it transcends to a higher level.

Check out the video and see what you think:

Photo credit: Carlos Arturo Torres

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