EnableUC Body Powered Hook Assistive Devices

Authors: Jackson Romelli, Lillie Orians, Anna King, and Gregory Macke

     These assistive devices were developed to attach in the grip of the J-hook of the EnableUC Body Powered Hook Version 2, were they could hold common objects to accomplish basic tasks. The assistive devices were made to hold a spoon, pencil, and toothbrush to support below elbow upper limb amputees in eating, writing, and brushing their teeth during their everyday life.

Link to the EnableUC Body Powered Hook Version 2:
https://www.printables.com/model/295390-enableuc-body-powered-hook-version-2

Link to instructions:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13281-W6-YRYGgkORF4zv3KMnJTb92k0P/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=100673832100116241344&rtpof=true&sd=true

Link to bill of materials:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1by01Mh6XaCK4AFNxpAwo9bxICZA4PbFz/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=100673832100116241344&rtpof=true&sd=true

Print Settings:

• Printer: Original Prusa i3 MK3
• Supports: Yes
• Resolution: 0.15mm
• Infill: 30% 
• Filament brand: Generic
• Filament color: User desired
• Filament material: PETG

Post-Printing
     Please see the attached or linked instructions document to find the step by step assembly instructions for each part and how to properly put the device together. Within these instructions, you will find tips and tricks to put the device together easier and assembly points to avoid common pitfalls.

How We Designed This
     This body powered hook was developed around the patient case of an adolescent boy who lives in a remote village in the mountains of Bolivia. Our patient had both of his arms amputated below the elbow following a dynamite accident and leaving him without upper limb functionality and the ability to do everyday tasks we take for granted. Our team sought to return his independence and bring him a higher quality of life by building a resilient and functional prosthetic. Over the course of a year, our volunteers designed the parts on chalk boards and brought them to life in solidworks, testing, and eventually building two versions of the device dialing in the physical design, print settings, and usability to optimally serve the user. The result was a durable, functional, and comfortable prosthetic that allowed the user to not only perform the basic tasks as intended but amaze us all allowing him to contribute to his community and bring his hobbies in ways we could not foresee. We believe that this device can be used across the world to help more people in need of a functional and low cost below the elbow prosthetic option and hope it can be built upon and improved in the future. A special thanks to our team of volunteers that worked tirelessly to make the project a success and continue to improve it's capabilities for those in need!