What:

This project focused on developing an assistive technology device to aid patients with chronic hand muscle weakness resulting from stroke or spinal cord injury. The goal was to create a cost-effective, comfortable, and ergonomic solution for home use.

How:

The development process involved:

• Collaboration: Working with Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, AZ, leveraging their neurology and rehabilitation expertise.
• Team Leadership: Leading a multidisciplinary team of six students to innovate and execute the project.
• CAD Designs: Utilizing SolidWorks for designing various prototype components.
• Prototype Development: Spearheading the development of a novel electric stimulation pad using rapid prototyping and iterative design to address technological issues.
• 3D Printing: Initially testing fitment and comfort with PLA models, then finalizing the prototype using SLS 3D printing with metal to eliminate the need for frequent replacement.
• Integration: Ensuring seamless connectivity and user-friendly operation through the Arduino platform.
• Project Management: Effectively managing the project to win the Best Project Award and secure additional funding.
• Patent Application: Initiating a US Patent Application for the technology, emphasizing innovation and intellectual property development.

Results:

The project resulted in a lightweight, portable, and cost-effective assistive technology device. The effective design and development process led to:

• Winning the Best Project Award.
• Securing additional funding from Barrow Neurological Institute.
• Initiating a US Patent Application (Application number: 66/611,833).
• Creating a device that is accessible, comfortable, and ergonomic for home use, with ongoing refinements as we await the patent application verdict.