Switch Guide Case - SI-01

For (With Whom)

People who have difficulty operating a switch because of tremor.

Why

Due to the progression of multiple system atrophy, in addition to speech and language impairment, the person's tremor became strong and using a letter board was also difficult, causing difficulty in communicating with family and supporters. Because the hands and fingers shook so much that it was hard to communicate by pointing at things, we were consulted about whether digital devices could reduce the communication burden on both sides.

How

We made a prototype with a bordered switch on a 3D printer and, using it as a starting point, went through a prototyping process together with the people involved, getting feedback from the person and revising the design, and made a switch mouse. By connecting a connector to an iPad and enabling pointer operation as a mouse, the person became able to compose text with an on-screen keyboard and enter stamps.

Outcome

The need to regain the ability to operate digital devices, which had become difficult as the illness progressed, and to use SNS for communication, grew from then on. The person, who at first was reluctant and said "I don't know," gradually changed to saying "I won't know unless I try," and the situations in which the switch was used expanded not only to the wheelchair but also to the bed.

Materials Used

PLA

Approximate 3D Print Weight

57g (lid and base set)

Print Settings Overview

Body: Nozzle diameter = 0.4mm, Layer height = 0.2mm, Infill = 30%, Temp = 200°C, Speed = 50mm/s, Supports = No

Accessory Information

None