Shoelace tie helper

thingiverse

Most everyday practical shoes feature laces, yet securing them is an extremely difficult task for individuals with limited hand mobility. This innovative device simplifies the process of tying shoes by employing a screwing technique. The device enables users to thread their shoelaces and tighten a bolt to secure their shoes by inserting the lace into a large ring attached to the bolt sleeve, looping it over, and placing the aglet onto the top of the bolt. Users can then screw the bolt in place to achieve a secure knot. Designed to be compact, this device minimizes visual impact when worn on the shoe. The design incorporates textured bumps on the bolt for improved grip and features a small, streamlined shape. This device offers significant assistance to individuals with limited hand mobility, particularly those who struggle to fully open their hands, by making the everyday task of tying shoes more manageable. Many modern shoes come equipped with laces, although alternatives like slip-in shoes are less common due to higher costs and reduced durability compared to lace-equipped shoes like sneakers that conform closely to the user's foot. Project: Laces Objectives: * Develop innovative design methods to improve the lives of individuals with limited hand mobility * Create a new method for tying shoes, an essential everyday activity that people often struggle with Audiences: * Individuals with a basic understanding of limited hand mobility and beginner-level knowledge of design software Preparation: * Any design software (I used 123d) * A basic understanding of what it means to have limited hand mobility Steps: 1. Open your chosen design software 2. Design a novel method for tying shoes 3. Use the provided design as a starting point and refine your creation 4. Print your result 5. Continuously prototype until you develop a solution that genuinely benefits individuals with limited hand mobility Results: A new shoe-tying technique that significantly aids those with limited hand mobility.