Miyako's Adjustable Easel

The challenge

Miyako is a 9-year-old girl with muscular dystrophy who recently had a surgery which has improved her posture but limits her head movement. As a result, she struggles with viewing books and papers on flat surfaces.

Who it helps

Children with limited upper body mobility

How it works

Miyako likes to recline her wheelchair to rest her back while doing homework. The adjustability allows for her to recline and also see her papers. Additionally, she can move the easel to be able to see cookbooks and enjoy her favorite hobby— baking.

Our team designed an adjustable, magnetic easel that can adjust angularly and vertically so that Miyako can move the easel to a comfortable viewing position. It can also be attached to her wheelchair's tray to ensure security.

Project details

• Stage: Concept
• Built by the Vanderbilt University community, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
• Team: Miyako
• Category: Hobbies, Daily Living

The build files for Miyako's Adjustable Easel are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

Related projects

• Adjustable Cardboard Easel
• Miyako's Switch
• Adjustable Toddler Chair
• Adjustable Music Station
• Grocery Vest
• Adjustable Chair

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