3D printing is becoming more accessible, as 3D printers are getting more common within the home, workplace and in public libraries. There is also the option of 3D design printing from a printing service such as 3Dhubs or 3D Printing Ireland. Below is a range of assistive technology 3D printed solutions.
There are lots of designs already online so you don’t necessarily have to design your 3D AT
Thingiverse is a website dedicated to the sharing of user-created digital design files. Providing primarily free, open-source hardware designs. Thingiverse is widely used in DIY technology and Maker communities. Numerous technical projects use Thingiverse as a repository for shared innovation and dissemination of source materials to the public.
For switch mounting
Positioning switches is critical for individuals that require switches to operate their device. In order to reduce fatigue and increases accuracy mounting is usually essential. AT makers have produced adaptor designs for common AT Switches. The adaptors enable common AT Switches to be mounted to any camera mount. Camera mounts use standard 1/4″-20 thread screws to mount cameras. Using a 1/4″-20 T-Nut inserted into the 3-D printed adaptor you can then mount a common AT switch using a camera mount.
Nowadays camera mounts are quite inexpensive and come in a wide variation of styles.
See AT Makers collection of AT Switch Adapters on Thingiverse. There, you’ll find a set of adapters for common AT Switches.
Mobile phone mounting
Here is a sample of what can be found on the site for mobile phone mounts
Phone Mount with G-Clamp
This is a Phone Mount with a G-Clamp for attaching to a table surface. As can be seen, it has many adjustable sections including full rotation.
There are no screws required. The quality of the print found on Thingiverse will vary considerable and may seem poor compared to their metal counterparts. However 3D printing can be inexpensive, it light and you can design exactly to your needs.
Mobile Phone Tripod
This is a Mobile Phone Tripod with a ball and socket adjustment. There are also no screws required for this mount.
Print time 13hrs 44 mins
Handy
Handy is multipurpose tool to open doors, press buttons and interact with objects in the public space. It is an open-source response to COVID-19 outbreaks. https://www.matteozallio.com/handy
Print time 4 hrs 26mins
Makersmakingchange
makersmakingchange have a range of assistive technology solutions ranging from pen holders to mouth-operated sip-and-puff joystick, see some examples below.
Key Turner
This is an open assistive technology device which allows people reduced dexterity or grip strength to insert and turn keys in locks.
For people with arthritis this device can be operated with little to no grip strength.
Print time 58 minutes
Signature Guide
A signature guide is a low cost, 3D printed assistive writing aid that helps people with low vision, hand tremors, dyslexia or other disabilities to write on a specific spot for purposes such as writing a name, signature, or initials.
Print time 1hr 3 mins
Lever Knob
This lever knob is designed to replace knobs on typical appliances like space heaters, humidifiers, stereos etc.that use a standard D Shaft. The original knobs are easily removed and replaced with these lever ones.
Print time 46 mins
Palm Pen Holder
The palm pen holder is a writing splint that slips onto the palm. Users can gently curl their fingers around the handle to hold it securely or hook their thumb around the writing utensil. It has a large hole that can accommodate various writing tools width.
Print time 3hrs 42 mins
Bottle Opener
The bottle opener can help people with arthritis or limited finger dexterity open standard water bottle caps (⌀ 30mm or 1.18”). It provides a large gripping surface and clamps onto the caps with a small squeeze, allowing users to remove or screw on water bottle caps.
Print time 3hrs 18 mins
LipSync
The LipSync is an assistive technology that allows quadriplegics and other people with limited hand mobility to use touchscreen devices by manipulating a mouth-operated sip-and-puff joystick.
The unit allows users to control an on-screen cursor with minimal head movement, enabling them to independently send text messages, make phone calls, and browse the web. It can be used with most Android and Windows phones & tablets, and all laptops/desktops.
It will take about 10hrs to print these 3D parts.
If you have found any other useful designs please let us know in the post or send email to sloughran@enableireland.ie