Assistive Technology Devices
Designed one-handed assistive devices with accessibility and manufacturing constraints.
Overview
Through ASME and the Illinois Assistive Technology Program, I designed devices for users with limited use of one hand. Each device had to be safe, lightweight, simple to use, and printable with minimal assembly.
Devices
Vegetable slicer — Holds produce in place for one-handed cutting.
Ziplock bag closer — Helps a user open and seal ziplock bags with one hand.
iPad holder — Supports an iPad with a one-handed insertion and release mechanism.
Design Constraints
The main challenge was making each device work within tight constraints:
- Single-hand operation — every interaction must be completable with one hand
- Single-print fabrication — no multi-part assemblies or fasteners
- Short print time — practical for production
- Lightweight — users may have limited grip strength
- Safety — no pinch points, sharp edges, or unstable positions
These constraints shaped the geometry, tolerances, and user interaction of each design.
What I Learned
I worked with the ASME team and the IATP project manager to meet functional and safety requirements. This project taught me to treat user needs as core engineering constraints.