GripIt - Grip Assistance Tool

GripIt - Grip Assistance Tool - open-source assistive technology working model by the Abraham Accords Open Innovation Challenge community

About this project

The GripIt is a custom-fit handle connected to a magnetic mechanism that can secure any tool using Velcro. This device was designed as part of the Abraham Accords Open Innovation Challenge in 2022.

The challenge

The GripIt solution was developed during the 2022 Abraham Accords Open Innovation Challenge.

It was designed with and for Grimaldo "Grimmy" Fernadini who struggles to hold small devices and tools due to a lack of hand strength and control. This solution enables Grimmy to do the daily tasks and activities he loves such as writing, painting, cleaning, and playing on technological devices.

You can learn more about the Abraham Accords Open Innovation Challenge and browse the projects on the AAOIC community page.

The FlipPad was developed by:

Drew Wilenzick

Talia Raich

Alex Gitnik

Avi Katzen

Ryan Hirsch

Who it helps

Grimmy (20s) has issues holding small devices because of a lack of hand strength and control, making it difficult for him to write, paint, or clean. He loves participating in classes and activities that utilize those skills and needs a way to do so.

How it works

What

This solution is a custom-fit handle connected to a magnetic mechanism that can secure any tool using Velcro. This 3D printed device can secure tools of different sizes using various grooves and magnets.

Who

Our Need-Knower for this project is Grimmy. Grimmy is in his 20’s and has issues holding small devices because of a lack of hand strength and control. This makes it difficult for him to write, paint, or clean. He loves participating in classes and activities that utilize those skills and needs a way to do so.

Why

Our design provides Grimmy with the ability to use the tools that he enjoys, but cannot normally grip as he is unable to pinch devices that are smaller or larger than his fist. This affects his daily life and poses a big challenge in his classes.

How

The solution is custom-tailored to Grimmy’s hand, letting him attach tools he needs and control them finely.. This product will allow for the use of fine motor skills that are necessary in his classes and daily life.

Tools Needed

3D printer

Hot glue gun

Scissors

Bill of Materials

Please see detailed BOM and printing models in the downloadable product file.

Estimated Time to Make

9 hours of print time

2 hours of assembly time

Project details

The build files for GripIt - Grip Assistance Tool are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

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