Prompt:
Design a hand tool for IHA's gia Student Design competition.
Duration:
16 weeks, 2024
Building Your Seat at the Table
Problem Statement:
Basic hand tools are inaccessible to Quadriplegics, preventing them from doing home repairs and projects independently.
"When my wife goes out to put up the Christmas lights, it really messes me up.
"Physically doing, the majority of it - almost all of it - feels impossible to be honest."
Source: QuadLife Blog
Lauren Janke
Occupational Therapist, Adaptive Gaming Clinic
David Jeffers
Quadriplegic, Former Mechanical Engineer, DIY-er, Blogger
Research
Rotary wrist, small finger movements, and pressing buttons are required for all tools
He can't rotate or apply pressure to screwdrivers. Lack of wrist support.
What difficulties do Quadriplegics encounter using handheld devices?
"Their opportunities to engage in the same opportunity that we have are diminished."
He wants to fix things around the house (adaptive devices and kids' toys).
How does adaptive technology create opportunity?
Adaptive tech creates better quality of life and confidence for users.
He feels like he can't fulfill his role as a husband and father without them.
What are the emotional benefits of accessible products?
"Spinal cord injuries and stroke survivers would truly benefit from that."
"I definitely would like to be able to [use] it myself."
Would a set of adaptive hand tools be helpful?
Reach
Extend
How can users in wheelchairs reach farther to use the tool?
Twist
Push
How can the need for rotary wrist movement be eliminated in hand tools?
Hold
Loop
How can users with hand paralysis hold tools with stability and accuracy?
Ideation
Based on physical limitations, screwdriver has a large, ergonomic handle and utilizes a simple up-and-down pumping motion.
Hammer has forearm cuff with added comfort and stability. Extends to further the reach of wheelchair users without wrist movement.
Tape measure has large handles that stabilize pulling and locking motions by eliminating small, stiff tabs and switches.
Design Language: Next Gen Durability
Tough, yet approachable. Durable, yet comfortable.
bits magnetize to base
extruded PP
injection molded silicone
injection molded PC-ABS
machined steel alloy
machined mild steel
breathable mesh cushion
AXISibility > Competition
Designed for leading tool manufacturers to carry AXIS tools in their signature colors because accessibility goes beyond the brand.
not inspirational,
just you.
