Open Bionics
Open Bionics is a UK-based enterprise dedicated to producing affordable, 3D printed bionic arms tailored for below-elbow amputees. Their myoelectric prosthetic devices incorporate advanced features such as illumination, biofeedback through vibrations, and a variety of grip options. The company’s headquarters are located in Bristol's Future Space, adjacent to the Bristol Robotics Laboratory. Established in 2014 by entrepreneurs Joel Gibbard MBE (CEO) and Samantha Payne MBE (COO), both have been acknowledged for their visionary leadership and pioneering contributions to engineering and technology.
History
The origins of Open Bionics trace back to Joel Gibbard’s Open Hand initiative at the University of Plymouth, which aimed to utilize 3D printing technology to create accessible prosthetic hands. Together with Samantha Payne, he co-founded Open Bionics to advance social impact through innovative prosthetic solutions. The founders received accolades as Europe's Hottest Startup Founders at the 2018 Europa Awards and were awarded MBEs in 2020 for their significant achievements in innovation.
By the end of 2023, Open Bionics had broadened its international footprint by establishing clinical facilities in major U.S. cities such as Denver, Los Angeles, Orlando, Austin, Chicago, and New York City, thereby enhancing its position and growth within the medical device sector.
Products
The company’s premier offering, the Hero Arm, is distinguished by its cost-effectiveness and bold design that celebrates its synthetic nature instead of imitating a biological limb. Each prosthetic is custom-fabricated using 3D printing based on individual user requirements and incorporates muscle sensor technology to control servo-driven finger movements. Notable capabilities include six distinct grip patterns, full 180-degree wrist rotation, magnetically detachable covers for customization, an adjustable fit accommodating limb changes, and a breathable liner for comfort. Users can personalize and train their prosthesis through the Sidekick App developed by Calvium.
In 2025, Open Bionics introduced additional models—the Hero Pro and Hero RGD—offering wireless, waterproof prosthetics designed to function autonomously when disconnected.
Partnerships
Strategic collaborations have played a key role in expanding Open Bionics’ market reach and fostering innovation. In 2015, a partnership with Disney led to the creation of superhero-themed prosthetics aimed at young amputees, increasing brand exposure within consumer markets. That same year, the company was honored with the James Dyson Award and Tech4Good's Accessibility Award for its engineering excellence and social impact initiatives. Additionally, it received recognition from Bloomberg Business Innovators in 2016.
In 2019, Open Bionics joined forces with filmmaker James Cameron and 20th Century Fox to deliver Alita-inspired Hero Arms to double amputee Tilly Lockey during the Alita: Battle Angel premiere event, leveraging popular culture to enhance brand influence.
Further expanding its collaborative efforts, the company partnered with gaming leader Konami in 2020 to develop 'Venom Snake' Hero Arm covers inspired by Metal Gear Solid V, targeting gaming enthusiasts through product design.
In 2023, Open Bionics extended its global engagement by collaborating with Ukraine’s Superhumans Center to provide Hero Arms to soldiers wounded during the Russian conflict, exemplifying corporate social responsibility while entering emerging markets.
Funding
In January 2019, Open Bionics raised $5.9 million through a Series A financing round. The round was spearheaded by Foresight Williams Technology EIS Fund, Ananda Impact Ventures, and Downing Ventures, with additional backing from Williams Advanced Engineering Group. This capital injection facilitated the company's expansion in producing cost-effective 3D-printed bionic prosthetics, strengthening its product innovation and competitive standing.
References
External links
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