Ergonomic Adaptive Tool Holder

pinshape

This is the design for my Ergonomic Tool Holder (ETH), an assistive technology that enables people with limited hand use to create adaptive tool usage devices. The ergonomic handle of the ETH offers a very comfortable and firm grip without requiring excessive force, also allowing it to slip into the palm for individuals who have difficulty extending their fingers. The handle is attached to the main tool gripping body using a ball pivot clamp, which allows for precise angular adjustment of the tool being used. The ball joint and tool can be secured in place using tightening bolts and an included wrench. The grips were created by laser scanning a grip I designed using modeling clay, resulting in very natural ergonomic shapes that can be reproduced in high detail using 3D printing. Photos of the 3D scanning process and iterative design research are included, including my exploration of mesostructures as flexible grips and rotary tightening methods. Early on in my design process, I was inspired by calligraphy pens, particularly their ergonomic oblique style. These pens added an ergonomic angle for using tools, significantly changing the position and comfort of the hand and wrist. This encouraged me to explore the application of 3D printing to this challenge. The tool holder is designed to hold a variety of tools, including pens, pencils, exacto knives, tablet stylus', calligraphy pens, and more. The ETH system is also modular, allowing users to attach different tool clamps to the end of the grip for using flat or wide tools. Additionally, the grip can be made larger for different users, or individuals can laser scan their own clay mold.