The use of strings and springs connected to the leg for control is clever. This cyborg thumb design demonstrates a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals and shows empathy for users with limited hand strength.The student created clear, detailed diagrams showing movement and functionality, effectively illustrating how the mechanism works. The project has the potential to serve a broad audience, including people with disabilities and those looking for enhanced grip. However, focusing on a specific user group is recommended, as this would allow for a more targeted, detailed design that meets the unique needs of that group effectively. Leading questions for direction (to help enhance the design/concept) Concept/shape - What specific activities or tasks do you envision users accomplishing with this cyborg thumb?
- Have you considered how easy it would be for users to put on and remove the cyborg thumb? Could the shape or attachment method be adjusted to make it more user-friendly?
Functionality - Could there be a locking mechanism to hold the thumb in place once it grips something, allowing the user to rest their leg without losing the grip?
- How comfortable is it to use over long periods? Would adding padding to the attachment point on the leg improve comfort?
- Have you thought about making the thumb detachable for easy storage or transport?
- What materials are you considering for the thumb and strings if this was to be built in the future ?
- Could there be a safety release mechanism if the spring or string pulls too hard to prevent potential injury?
- Could this design eventually be adapted to work with electric motors or sensors to make it easier to operate without needing to pull with the leg?
Ideas for Prototyping |
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