So we (Elle and Levan) made two prototypes. One is a simple brace/writing instrument holder-mitten, and the other is a more complex design that included two sensors. We made 2 prototypes because Sara has multiple needs, and we’d like to enable her to write, and also possibly communicate electronically/interact with an app. It’s easier to split the projects at this point.
So the “writing mitten” will be used to evaluate the best design for her to hold a pen, and possibly write independently.
The second, “sensor glove” is being used at this point to measure her ability to touch points and the kind of pressure she can apply. A movable pressure sensor will be included, and we’ve denoted several sites on the glove as contact points through our use of gray felt. We’ve also included a flex sensor on her forefinger, which measures movement/flexion. These sensors are attached to LEDs which will change colors depending on Sara’s movements, giving us data which we can use to design a better second version for Sara.
We came up with these designs by listening to the requests made from Sara’s family and caretakers, including Cortney. Their comments about her need to communicate and possibly write on her own resonated with us, so that was the direction we took
Unfortunately we forgot to send the Writing Mitten, so we will ship it separately if that’s OK with you.
Finally, please note that these are prototypes and are a little bit fragile. I’ve sewn them up pretty well, but the Velcro is only glued to the material, since it was too thick to sew through. So please be careful when undoing the Velcro strips, since they may want to tear away from the fabric. Maybe hold them down as you separate the two layers. Thanks! 🙂
Here’s how to use the sensor glove:
The sensors are removable and we designed the glove so that most things are adjustable.
How to put the Lilypad in the glove pocket:
Here’s how to attach the battery, put the glove on, and take the glove off:
Here’s how to apply and read the sensors:
Here’s how to use the writing mitten:
The writing ball is removable and we designed the mitten so that most things are adjustable, including the positions and placing of the pencil and stylus.
Desired Feedback:
- We want to see Sara’s touching abilities. By touching objects, her other fingers, or a flat surface in front of her she will activate the pressure sensor, changing the color of the LED/lights, and therefore giving us information to work with when we design the next prototype.
- We want to see how Sara flexes her forefinger. The flex sensor will detect movement and give us information that we can use to potentially design some sort of simple communication device for her.
- We want to see if a better-designed brace or assistive device might give her the ability to write on her own, once the brace has been placed on her hand by a caregiver. We also want to find the best design and fit for her glove/brace, whether it be either of these two designs, a combination of both, or input from someone else’s design.
Responses/Things we learned:
- We didn’t have video, so I had to ask Cortney for specifics.
- She said that Sara couldn’t flex here forefinger enough to activate our flex sensor. Do we need to sew it more firmly to fabric? Is it even sensitive enough? Is this an appropriate route to pursue?
- Cortney said that Sara cannot easily touch her forefinger and thumb together. Is flexion our best sensor hope?
- Sara loves hearts, galaxy sport fabric, and chunky, bright kid’s patterns in green and white.
- Sara’s family prefers soft, flexible, light prototypes which are easy to put on and take off.
- Be careful of the sizing and the finger length! Sara’s hands are quite small.
- Sara’s fingers are often balled into a fist, with just the forefinger extended.
- The battery is best on the side or back of the wrist.
- They loved the writing prototype, thinking it was “spot on.”
- We need to clarify the pencil/stylus operation modes, and make sure the pencil is long enough to write even when she has her palm facing down.
- We need to see if we can make it easier to write from the side with writing mitten prototype.
- We also need to use a more breathable fabric, instead of the synthetic felt (in my opinion, since the felt gets hot after awhile).