Abstract
Partial hand amputation poses unique obstacles while performing regular duties, especially in the kitchen where fundamental tools are not built for people with limited dexterity. This thesis is on creating adaptable kitchen equipment for women aged 20 to 45 who have had a partial hand amputation, intending to meet ergonomic demands and increase independence. Using user-centered design concepts, the study identifies gaps in existing tools and investigates alternatives using interviews, tests, and secondary research. The study included a lengthy interview with Anita, a 42-year-old housewife with partial hand amputation, observational trials with people with similar physical characteristics, and an experiment replicating impaired dexterity by limiting the movement of certain fingers on my hand by binding it with a cloth. Insights from these methodologies were used to design a wrist cuff with modular attachments for knives, spoons, and peelers. The design is on flexibility, ergonomic placement, and material safety, including medical-grade silicone for comfort and high-density polymers for durability. The degrees of freedom of the wrist have been studied to optimize tool positioning, assuring natural motions and reducing strain. For example, the knife attachment on the wrist’s side uses radial-ulnar deviation to cut well, whilst removable palm-based accessories such as spoons increase adaptability. Challenges such as limited access to multiple users and material restrictions affected prototypes, resulting in the employment of 3D Printing, air-dry clay, and CAD modeling for idea validation. This thesis emphasizes the importance of inclusive design in increasing the quality of life for people with partial hand amputations.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Thinking, Learning, Doing: Plural Ways of Design
KEYWORDS
ACCESSIBILITY, PARTIAL HAND AMPUTATION
