Medical Device or Fashion Accessory? A Case Study of a Redesigned Child's Prosthetic Upper Limb Applying Principles of Perception and Semantics to Reframe Social Acceptance

Abstract

This paper explores the value of the visual features of assistive products for a positive psychological impact on users. The research focuses on upper limb prosthetic devices and their aesthetic impact on the user. Within the presented study, these products are identified not only as assistive products but also as fashion accessories. A case study is presented that applies an understanding of human behaviour, motivation, and perception of semantic cues within the cultural context of a given society to deliver a more socially acceptable child's upper limb prosthetic.