Fabrication of Assistive Technology: Hardware

Foot Rest

This is a foot rest used for individuals to prop their feet up when seated. This device can help provide stability so users can use proper posture or relieve pressure when sitting.

The footrest was constructed using cardboard, wooden dowels, glue, and tape. Then the edges were sealed using tape, and the footrest was coated in primer and paint before being sealed with polyurethane.

There are 6 pieces of cardboard that make up the outer shell of the footrest. Internally there is another slice of cardboard used for structural support.

Wooden dowels were used to secure the top face to the sides and support piece. As constructed, the footrest is intended to be used with the largest face on the top and bottom due to the direction of the grain.

Tape was used to seal all exposed edges and sides to prevent any water getting in. Once taped, the footrest was coated in primer and left to dry. Once dry, the footrest was painted white to finish.

Once the paint was dry, the footrest was sealed using polyurethane.

Seat Wedge

This is a seat wedge designed to tilt the user forward when sitting. This better aligns the spine which will improve posture and reduce strain on the body. This device could be dually used as a writing desk wedge. Using a sloped desk allows for more natural wrist and hand positioning that reduces strain.

This device was made using cardboard, wooden dowels, glue, and tape.

The main body of the wedge is made from one continuous piece of cardboard that has been folded to create a triangular shape. Three additional triangles were cut to be the sides and interior support.

The triangle pieces were glued into place, and the continuous sheet of cardboard was folded into position and glued together.

Prone Standing Frame

This is a prone standing frame which is useful for building upper body strength including the neck and back. These devices are most commonly used by individuals with neuromuscular conditions.

This device was made using cardboard, wooden dowels, glue, and tape.

The sides are double layered with alternating grain directions to increase strength. The front, back, and top piece are made of one continuous sheet of cardboard that was partially cut and folded.

The holes for the straps and feet were cut using a knife. A layer of the base was chiseled so that the frame could sit within the base to improve strength. After the glue dried, the edging tape was added to seal the cardboard from any water infiltration occurring.

Rocking Perch

This is a rocking perch that is used by individuals with sensory processing disorders to help regulate the nervous system through subconscious movement. This device can improve focus and attention span.

This device was made using cardboard, wooden dowels, glue, and tape.

The sides are double-layered with cardboard to improve strength. The bottom of the side piece was cut into a curve at the bottom to allow for a slight rocking motion when used.

The back, top, and front were made using one continuous piece of cardboard that was folded around the side pieces. Wooden dowels were added to reinforce the sides. A single layer of cardboard was added to the circular edges to reduce wear over time.

Edging tape was added around the rocking perch to prevent any water infiltration.

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