The purpose of this device is to find a way for Hugh to be able to independently feed himself through his feeding tube when he grows up. His short arms and deformed hands limit his ability to grasp things, as well as the amount of force he can exert while he pushes. Therefore, when he grows up, he will have difficulty maneuvering the feeding tube and obtaining the force needed to push the thick solution through the tube. This device should allow him to learn how to feed himself, requiring the least amount of effort needed.
The device made is a board where Hugh can simply place his filled feeding tube, and spin a lever that would push down on the syringe. The board has two tubes in the back, so that he can put them between his thighs as it lies flat on his lap. There are three small grasps that will hold the syringe in place, and a lever on the bottom. The lever maneuvers the lead screw, that brings down a small wooden board pushing against the syringe. This lever should not require much effort and is easy to use for Hugh.
Hugh, a four year old boy with vacterl association, congenital limb deformities, and a feeding tube. HIs clubbed hands and inability to move certain fingers makes it especially difficult for him to grab things. His physical disability limits the amount of force he can exert; therefore, he will not be able to feed himself with the syringe when he grows up.Though he is only four, his father wants for him to be as independent as possible despite his disability.
Hugh, a four year old boy, and his dad Matt, a professor at Vanderbilt, have come to help Hugh find new ways to be independent as he grows up.
The build files for Feeding are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.
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