Product Design, Thesis Writing, Academic Research
2025
PROSWING
Prosthetic Arm for Golfers
Overview
PROSWING is a prosthesis designed for golfers with arm amputations. It provides a steady connection between the club and the residual limb while maintaining flexibility for performing the swing and striking the ball.
Background
According to a study conducted by National Center on Accessibility at Indiana University, twenty-two percent of people with disabilities played golf before incurring their disability but cannot play now. Thirty-five percent of people with disabilities are interested in playing golf but are not able to due to lack of assistance with equipment, staff, and the lessons specific to their disabilities . This shows a significant need for more inclusive solutions in golf.
Adaptive Design Solutions for Golfers with Arm Impairment
by
Samuel Hao-Yu Wang
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Master of Fine Arts in Industrial Design
In the College of Art & Design
at the Rochester Institute of Technology
December 2025
Thesis Paper
Abstract
Golf is a game of precision, focus, and enjoyment for everyone, regardless of age, physical condition, or experience. However, for many people with disabilities, full participation in the game can be challenging.
This project created an inclusive golfing experience for players with physical disabilities by assisting them with specific actions required in golf. The goal was to design solutions that reduce limitations caused by impairments, enabling players to enjoy the game with greater freedom.
The United States Disabled Golf Association recognizes 14 sport classes of physical impairments, categorizing competitors by different types and levels of disability. This project focused on the Arm Impairment class, where competitors are permitted to use assistance for gripping the club and executing the swing.
By addressing the unique needs of this group, the project sought to improve accessibility and participation in golf. It emphasized innovation in design to create equipment or tools that support players in achieving a level of independence and confidence on the course.
Project Overview
Spiral Form Factor
The project introduces a unique spiral form in the main body design, crafted from carbon fiber to provide both strength and elasticity. This structure is flexible in all directions, helping to reduce the impact from striking the ball and lowering the risk of injury to the residual limb.
Compressing and Releasing
To help users enjoy the game even more, the device can be compressed and locked to store kinetic energy, which can be released during the shot for an extra boost.
Arm Socket
This project was developed with a simple socket shape that suggested fitting over residual arm and showed elbow movements.
Terminal Parts
The extension piece on terminal part allows for length adjustment to accommodate a longer or shorter reach and is bound to the main structure with bent carbon fiber parts to ensure strength and flexibility.
User Mock-up
Helped understanding human factors and ergonomics.
Exploded View
Toggle Labels
OFF
THE MAKING
Mini Prototypes
The experiment on spiral structure was performed by making several 3D printed models. Prototypes were built to check the feasibility of compressing, locking, and releasing motion in a smaller scale.
Carbon Fiber
3D printed parts was used as base to lay carbon fiber cloth over. Epoxy resin was brushed on to strengthen the structure. Repeated with 3-4 layers of cloths.
Detailing
Trimmed off excessed material and polished the surface.
Components
Parts include various materials: Carbon fiber, 3D printed plastics, Aluminum, Rubber, PVC tube.
Assembly
It took about 10 minutes to put together the 21 parts of the prototype + screws and nuts.
Finished
A rack was built for exhibition purpose.
Photo Records
More work
Earlier project