Project Details

[Return to Previous Page]

Assistive Device for Closing a Winter Coat

Company: Function Focused PMR Care+

Major(s):
Primary: ME
Secondary: BME
Optional: IE

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Overview: The goal of this project is to design and build an easy-to-use assistive device that permits a one-handed person to independently zip up/down a heavy winter coat or hunting jacket. Background: There is no device commercially available that enables a person with only one functional hand to easily and consistently zip up a jacket independently. The need for this device is relevant for individuals who live in cold climates and are unable to close their winter coats without holding the loose ends with their only functioning hand. Key Design Components: For this device to be useful, it would be helpful to have the following features. 1. Anchoring mechanism for keeping zipper taut 2. Guiding device to bring together the two ends of the zipper 3. Variability and sturdiness for coats of different sizes and/or weight 4. Retractability to reduce size of device after each use for putting in a pocket Deliverables: The capstone team is expected to work closely with the client and sponsor to design, build, and field test a fully functioning assistive device incorporating the above components.