Purpose
The purpose of our project is to create a tool that can aid people with limited dexterity or strength in their hands. Many people suffer from disabilities which can cause limited hand usage. Tasks that seem simple to most, like opening cans, chip bags, and twist-off bottle caps, can be very challenging for those who suffer from dexterity and strength related disabilities. By using a small, convenient, and efficient device, many of these people can regain their independence. We plan to design a tool that can open bottles, cans, twist off bottles, as well as chip bags. We also hope to embed a small magnet, allowing for convenient access and storage of the tool.
Design Considerations
We want this product to have multiple uses which involve applying a large amount of force to a small area through the use of a lever. We will likely be printing our part using PLA plastic, as it has a high strength, and is typically safe for use in food-related items. However, we will also need to consider the low ductility of PLA. We will be utilizing aspects from current designs seen on the market, and combine them into a singular device. This part should be small enough and light enough to handle easily with one hand. One significant design consideration will be the addition of a small blade to assist with the bag opener. We may need to change both our design and our manufacturing procedure to allow for the assembly and secure positioning of the blade within the product. We will also need to create an opening for a magnet to be added to the product.
Figure 1: Twist-Off soda bottle opener[1]
Figure 2: Letter opener design, used to inspire bag opening device [2]
Analysis
We plan to analyze our design by conducting our own strength and fatigue tests and comparing them to current designs. If we find that one tool within our design tends to fail more often than others, we will be able to rapidly print only the local geometry of the tool rather than re-print the entire part multiple times. We also plan on comparing different plastics, as well as infill percentage, so that our part is very durable. It is important that our design is an improvement over already available products. If the design is found to be weaker, or less convenient than other designs, we will attempt to make improvements. We may also reach out to disability groups on campus and in the Madison community, including the McBurney Disability Resource Center, or the Madison SCI group for suggestions from those with limited hand mobility. With their feedback, we can further improve the functionality of the design.
Sources:
[1] https://www.makexyz.com/3d-models/order/c7703191fe473305ad49beb3199cc791
[2] https://www.qualitylogoproducts.com/tradeshow-promotions/direct-imprint-102-letter-opener.htm