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Open Bionics is a Leading Prosthetics Company Developing Affordable, Assistive Devices that Enhance the Human Body

The company is on a mission to make beautiful bionic limbs more accessible.

By SBR
July 30, 2024 1:51 AM
Joel Gibbard MBE, CEO, Open Bionics Photo by SBR

Joel Gibbard MBE, CEO, Open Bionics


Open Bionics, a pioneering prosthetics company, is dedicated to enhancing the human body through affordable assistive devices. At its core is the mission to democratize access to beautifully designed bionic limbs. Central to this mission is the Hero Arm, an innovative multi-grip bionic arm that represents a significant leap forward in prosthetic technology.

Before the Hero Arm, options for upper limb prostheses were limited to hooks, grippers, or prohibitively expensive bionic hands. Open Bionics sought to change that paradigm. The company's journey began when Joel Gibbard, at the age of 17, delved into the world of robotic hands. Enthralled by the intricate movements of humanoid hands, Joel embarked on a quest to create something transformative.

Years of dedication and countless iterations culminated in 2014 with the founding of Open Bionics by Joel Gibbard and Samantha Payne. Their vision was clear: to harness cutting-edge technology and create bionic limbs inspired by the realms of science fiction. With a passionate team and the unwavering support of the limb different community, Open Bionics embarked on a mission to redefine what prosthetic limbs could achieve.

The Hero Arm stands as the embodiment of this vision. It is not just a prosthetic limb; it is a testament to innovation and inclusivity. Unlike its predecessors, the Hero Arm is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It marks a departure from the clinical and impersonal designs of traditional prosthetics, offering users a limb that reflects their personality and style.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Hero Arm is its affordability. Priced at less than half the cost of comparable bionic arms, the Hero Arm makes advanced prosthetic technology accessible to a wider audience. Each arm is custom-built to fit the individual needs of the wearer, ensuring optimal comfort and functionality.

Moreover, Open Bionics has shattered age barriers with the Hero Arm. For the first time, children as young as nine years old can benefit from this groundbreaking technology. This inclusivity is a testament to the company's commitment to empowering individuals of all ages to embrace their potential and live life to the fullest.

Beyond the technological advancements, the impact of the Hero Arm extends to the emotional and psychological well-being of its users. By providing a limb that not only restores functionality but also enhances self-esteem, Open Bionics has redefined the narrative around prosthetic limbs. Users of the Hero Arm report increased confidence and a renewed sense of independence, reaffirming the transformative power of technology when designed with empathy and purpose.

Looking forward, Open Bionics continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in prosthetic innovation. The company remains dedicated to refining its technology, expanding its reach, and advocating for greater accessibility in healthcare. By combining cutting-edge engineering with a deep understanding of user needs, Open Bionics is paving the way for a future where bionic limbs are not just tools but seamless extensions of the human experience.

Simply put, the Hero Arm by Open Bionics represents more than just a technological breakthrough. It embodies a paradigm shift in prosthetic design, where functionality meets beauty and inclusivity. As Open Bionics continues to evolve and innovate, it stands as a beacon of hope for individuals worldwide, proving that with determination and ingenuity, we can create a world where disabilities are no longer limitations, but opportunities for empowerment and advancement.

Joel Gibbard MBE: CEO

Joel Gibbard MBE, CEO of Open Bionics, is a visionary leader at the forefront of prosthetic innovation. From a young age, Joel displayed a keen interest in robotics and prosthetics, which ultimately led him to co-found Open Bionics in 2014. His relentless pursuit of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing bionic limbs has earned him international recognition and acclaim. Joel's leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to advancing accessibility in healthcare and empowering individuals with limb differences. Under his guidance, Open Bionics has revolutionized the field, making significant strides in enhancing the lives of amputees worldwide through groundbreaking technology and compassionate design.

The Hero Arm is Open Bionics'​ first commercially available bionic limb. The Hero Arm is the most affordable multi-grip bionic arm ever, less than half the price of its nearest competitor. Each Hero Arm is custom-built, and for the first time ever is available for upper limb amputees as young as nine.

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