The trend is to make dynamic and adaptable toys that kids can fashion any way they want. Ironically, the purest example of the modern build-your-own trend is the venerable Lego building block. For Lego, build-your-own is not fad but DNA. And now Lego has extended the approach to the field of prosthetics.
It began a few years ago, when Lego Future Lab, the company’s R&D arm, teamed with Colombian physical rehabilitation foundation Centro Integral de Rehabilitacion de Colombia to develop a special prosthetic arm for children. Called Iko, the arm has a detachable, articulated hand that incorporates Lego robotics technology. The arm and finger tips are fitted with tubes to which Lego parts can be attached. Result: Kids can use Iko not only to build Lego constructions but the arm itself.