Students at the University of Warwick will be able to 3D-print personalized objects to suit their individual needs. Geared towards students with disabilities, this program will enable people to use this technology to overcome their daily obstacles.
Hereward College in Coventry, located near the University of Warwick, has started using additive layer manufacturing (commonly known as 3D printing) and adaptive systems so students can create assistive equipment.
A group of disabled Hereward students have learned how to use computer-design technology to create and 3D-print their desired products. Such printed objects can create solutions for students with limited physical mobility, making each of their actions easier. Challenges for the physically disabled include eating and drinking. Printed objects include a straw-holder designed by Ollie Baskaran, a student with muscular dystrophy, that holds a straw in place when he drinks from a bottle. This drinking assistant is shaped like a cork with a hole in the middle. The versatility of the invention’s shape allows Ollie to consume beverages from various types of bottles.
Straw holder image via Phys.org
In an interview with Phys.org, Ollie stated, “I have limited strength and need to use a straw, but when you lift and tip the bottle at an angle, the straw moves around, making drinking difficult. I wanted to design something that would hold the straw in place and this was my brainwave. To be honest, I'm quite surprised nobody has come up with the idea before.”
After taking all necessary measurements for the gadget, the design for the straw holder was virtually created. The 3D printer then took 20 minutes to print the finished product.
This 3D-printing endeavor has been up-and-running since September 2013, and has received funding from the University of Warwick. The project has been titled “Engaging Young People with Assistive Technologies,” and strives to involve the students on many levels. The 3D printer that is used by the students was donated to Hereward College by 3D Systems.
Wine glass straw holder via Phys.org
The University of Warwick said that “this group of learners is currently under-represented in science and technology subjects at degree level, so we also hope that by inspiring them to create their own products, they might consider studying one of the STEM subjects at university.”
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