Assistive ToolAndré EdwardsSacremento, California
Body systems
- Muscular and Skeletal
Reason for assistive technology
From the age of 5, André has been using a wheelchair due to muscular dystrophy. Though André’s wheelchair enables him to get around, it limits André’s reach and makes it difficult for him to do certain tasks. Previously, André has had to rely upon his parents, younger brother, and his close friends to do things like open cupboards, or even pass the salt.
How will the AT connect/work with this body system(s)?
The extendable grabber would be controlled by André’s hands to give him the extra reach that he requires.
Criteria
- Easy to operate.
- The prototype must extend to 40 cm in length.
- Prototype must pick up a plastic bottle and hold it.
Constraints
- Time: Initial model must be built within 30/40 minutes.
- Must be no-tech or low-tech i.e., the prototype cannot involve a motor.
- First version of the prototype is limited to 5 different types of materials.
- Any additional materials to be “scavenged” from home or recycling.