Adapted Checkers and Backgammon

The challenge

This project is needed to allow checkers to be used by people who do not have the hand dexterity to pick up pieces of checkers and backgammon with their fingers. It allows for practice of hand-eye coordination and difficult wrist mobility.

Who it helps

People with limited finger mobility and occupational therapists

How it works

This solution can help the after school program attendees independently play checkers. This also helps physical therapist Sharon Dalfen with gamifying fine motor skill practice and wrist extension and retraction.

This solution offers a customizable hand attachment with a hook that allows people to pick up checker pieces that have a hoop attachment. The hook cuff has two lengths, so the user can choose which works best for themself.

Tools needed

Prusa slicer

FDM Printer

Project details

• Stage: Prototype
• Built by the Harvey Mudd College community, Claremont, California, United States of America
• Team: Our Need-Knower is a local after school program for children and teens with disabilities through the larger AbilityFirst organization. We are also working to help a physical therapist named Sharon Dalfen.
• Category: Hobbies, Fun/Leisure

The build files for Adapted Checkers and Backgammon are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

Related projects

• Adapted Checkers and Backgammon
• Adapted Finger Loom
• Adapted Switch Controller
• Adapted Bicycle Pedal Attachments
• Switch-Adapted RC Car
• Switch-Adapted Sloth

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