An Occupational Therapist, named Wade Ivy OT, reached out to the Pottsville Junior High EAST program to create adaptive tools for children who lack the ability to grip small objects. He plans to distribute the 3D printed prototypes to his patients for testing.
To develop these adaptive tools, EAST students received training in Fusion 360 to learn how to 3D print the designs. They attended live Fusion 360 training and watched all of the on demand videos. After making numerous changes to each prototype, the students have finally created models they are satisfied with and have sent them to the client to test with the children he works with. This project has been ongoing for three months.The types of adaptive tools the students have created include bottle openers, pencil holders, toothbrush holders and key holders.
Critical thinking and teamwork have been key components of this project, as the team, including the client, had to make collective decisions on the design and functionality of their tools. Throughout this process, the students have not only learned how to 3D print but have also developed their teamwork and collaboration skills. This project is particularly meaningful because it was initiated by a client and involves solutions for students, fulfilling the CART (Critical Thinking, Authenticity, Real-world application, and Teamwork)