Vulcan Augmetics was founded in response to a pressing need in Vietnam, where more than two million people are living with limb loss, yet the majority cannot access modern prosthetic solutions due to high costs and a lack of local support services. Imported products often cost upwards of USD 2,500, while similar devices manufactured in the U.S. or Europe offer no after-sales services in Vietnam, leaving users unable to repair or replace them.
With a mission to build independence for people with disabilities, Vulcan Augmetics develops sensor-equipped, modular electronic prosthetics that enable users to grasp and perform everyday functions. The products are designed to strike a balance between performance, durability, and affordability, allowing users to re-engage in daily life and work like anyone else.
The research and development journey began with a 3D-printed prototype using Arduino microcontrollers and myo sensors. By the sixth iteration, the company had introduced versatile servo motors and a simplified mechanical transmission system that halved the production cost while improving efficiency and compactness. The seventh version reached mass production standards, with a design optimized for maintenance and modular components that can be easily detached and replaced—whether the gripping part, computing unit, or specialized functions.
What sets Vulcan Augmetics apart is its strong community-oriented model. The company raised three funding rounds prior to appearing on the reality show Shark Tank Vietnam, securing a total of approximately USD 180,000. On Season 4 of Shark Tank Vietnam, the startup successfully convinced Shark Liên to invest VND 5 billion (~USD 215,000) in exchange for a 23% equity stake, to support production and expand both domestic and international markets.
Notable accolades include being in the Top 10 of TECHFEST Vietnam’s National Technopreneur Contest 2018, winning the Blue Venture Award for Social Enterprises in 2018, and placing in the Top 10 of The Venture competition in Europe in 2019. Most recently, Singapore-based investment fund Quest Ventures supported Vulcan in a seed round, collaborating with raiSE to strengthen technical capabilities and broaden the application of wearable technologies in diagnostics and AR/VR control systems.
The core technology behind the product integrates lightweight hardware, 3D-printed exteriors, and precision CNC machining, alongside high-performance servo control circuits. The device supports both Bluetooth and USB connectivity to enable functional upgrades. Integrated machine learning systems optimize grip strength and release based on specific tasks. The software is designed to be user-friendly, easy to update, and simple to maintain. Compared to imported prosthetics, Vulcan’s devices are significantly more affordable, priced between VND 23 to 25 million (approximately USD 900–1,000).
The business model targets orthopedic hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations, allowing direct access to end-users. In 2019, a crowdfunding initiative enabled the donation of prosthetic devices to individuals with limb loss, granting them a chance to reintegrate into society with dignity and independence.
