Universal Grip Assistive Device for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients in Phase Two

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide and has an impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it.

The second phase of rheumatoid arthritis is a crucial moment in the development of the disease. It can be a turning point in the treatment and management of symptoms. During this phase, patients may experience increased pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can limit their mobility and ability to carry out daily activities. 

Therefore, addressing the problem of arthritis in the second phase is essential to provide efficient assistive devices that improve the quality of life for patients and assist them in using various common accessories in their daily lives. That is the reason our design helps the user to carry out different activities such as brushing their hair, brushing their teeth, and eating with all types of cutlery.

Due to the patient's mobility condition, we opted for a mechanism that allows the user to use universal utensils, such as a toothbrush and comb, within a single mechanism.

Supplies

• 3D printer (any brand)
• TPU filament (termoplastic polyurethane)
• PLA filament (Polylactic acid)
• Eva rubber (foam)
• Neodymium magnets ( 5mm ,3mm , 7mm)
• Velcro tape
• Straps
• Eating cutlery (spoon, fork)
• Toothbrush
• Comb
• Screws
• Nut

Our initial concept had various ways to start, we didn't define a simple mechanism to use for the person with arthritis, we opted for various options (from a worm screw, hinges, etc.) however we chose high-quality magnets to seal the system that will enter established channels with foam on the sides to apply pressure.

Figure 1 and 2 show:

1. Toothbrush holder accessory** (snap-fits) implements an extension for incorporating a magnetic strap to hold the piece
2. Comb holder accessory** (snap-fits) implements an extension for incorporating a magnetic strap to hold the piece
3. Cutlery holder accessory** (spoon and fork)

Figure 3 shows:

• Comb safety strap holder

Figure 4 shows:

• Toothbrush strap holder with magnet

Figure 5 shows:

• Dorsal base of the wrist and tthe arrows indicate the entrance of the screw

Figure 6 shows

• Dorsal base of the hand

Figure 7 shows:

• The arrows indicate the entrance of the screw

The parts were printed with PLA because it provides the following benefits that assist us in achieving better user adaptation for our technical aid:

•  It is a synthetic rubber that is much more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
•  It is a flexible material that is easier to work with and can be molded into a variety of shapes.
•  It is a water-resistant material and is not affected by most chemicals.

Check the prints

Check that the prints come out correctly with :

• Dimensional accuracy:Make sure that the printed part matches the intended dimensions of the design.
• Surface finish:The surface of the part should be smooth and free of defects such as bumps, ridges, or holes.
• Mechanical strength:The part should be strong enough to withstand the intended use.
• Flexibility:The part should be flexible enough to conform to the shape of the object it is intended to fit.
• Durability:The part should be able to withstand repeated use without breaking or wearing out.

Later, the various pieces will be assembled to generate the orthosis with the mechanism.

• Wrist straps, Velcro, and magnets were integrated into the established holes for wrist fastening and for securing the cutlery, comb, and dental floss.
• Finally after all the material are integrated on the assembly , the person can try it.

The user in question is a 50-year-old with phase two rheumatoid arthritis, with deformation in their hands and wrists.