Here’s a roundup of exciting devices that have been recently added to our Assistive Device library (new window):
Gas Cap Opener
Some people with limited grip strength/hand function have difficulty opening the gas cap on their vehicle. There are several commercial and DIY options available for opening vehicle gas caps, but most focus on grip strength issues, with limited options available for users with limited hand function. That’s where the Gas Cap Opener comes in.
To use, the cross shaped end of the Gas Cap Opener is placed over the gas cap on the car. The handle on the opener can then be turned to either tighten or loosen the cap as normal.
(We are actively seeking feedback on this design. If you find that the Gas Cap Opener does not work with your vehicle, please get in touch with us, so we can further refine this design to fit more vehicles).
Attribution: Design by Neil Squire Society/Makers Making Change; Initial prototype inspired by the Freedom Gas Cap Wrench
Learn more about the Gas Cap Opener (new window)
Milk Carton Opener
The Milk Carton Opener allows users with limited grip strength to open 2-litre milk and juice cartons.
The device is simple to use — just place the hole of the device over the lid of the carton. This will provide a larger grip for the user on the lid of the carton so less grip force is required to open the lid.
This is a simple 3D print, so the device costs less than a dollar in material.
Attribution: Design by Tony Glynn; Documentation by Neil Squire Society/Makers Making Change
Learn more about the Milk Carton Opener (new window)
Spoon Stabilizer Support
A device for those who have difficulties with tremors when eating. It uses both passive stabilization and weights to dampen the effect of hand tremors.
By cutting a utensil and putting it in a device made from 3D printed parts, screw, and bearings, it works as an inexpensive way to make eating easier.
Attribution: Design by Ian Faulkner; Documentation by Neil Squire Society/Makers Making Change
Learn more about the Spoon Stabilizer Support (new window)
Foot Pedal Switch
This device is similar to many of the other assistive switches in our library, allowing you to instead use your foot to operate a toy or a tool or other button-controlled electronics.
Using an inexpensive foot pedal – the total cost of parts will run you about $15 — this is a great device for someone who finds it easier to tap their foot than pressing a button with their hands to control a device. This can be used for computer access with a suitable switch interface, or used with for example with the Xbox Adaptive Controller for an adapted gaming setup.
Attribution: Design by John Park (new window) on the Adafruit guide for interfacing buttons and switches (new window); Documentation by Neil Squire Society/Makers Making Change
Learn more about the Foot Pedal Switch (new window)
Switch Adapted Nerf Gun
While many of the adapted toys in our library are more likely to be suited for younger audiences, this switch-adapted Nerf Gun may appeal to a larger range of ages. This adaption enables any compatible assistive switch with a 3.5 mm jack to be connected to fire the darts.
The device also has two mounting options: a Desk Stand for helping position the toy on a flat surface, and a Bolt Stand with a ¼”-20 UNC connection that is compatible with DIY and commercial mounting options.
Attribution: Switch Modification Method by Nicholas Stallings (new window); Mount Design and Documentation by Neil Squire Society/Makers Making Change
Learn more about the Switch Adapted Nerf Gun (new window)
This post originally appeared on the Makers Making Change (new window) website.