Problem Statement
Individuals affected by essential tremors often struggle with simple daily tasks such as eating, writing, or using handheld tools due to involuntary hand movements. Conventional assistive utensils and adaptive equipment lack the vibration control, ergonomic design, and affordability necessary to restore independence and comfort for these users. Existing solutions often rely on complex electronics or expensive components, making them inaccessible for many patients. These limitations lead to frustration, reduced food intake, and increased dependency on caregivers. Therefore, there is a critical need for a cost-effective, user-friendly assistive dining device that minimizes hand tremors through mechanical stabilization and ergonomic design, enabling individuals to eat independently with confidence and ease.
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Adaptive Eating Device
Project Timeline
Apr 2024 - Jun-2024
OVERVIEW
This project focused on designing an assistive dining device to help individuals with essential tremors eat independently. The goal was to create a practical, low-cost solution that improved daily usability and confidence while applying structured engineering design methods to a real-world biomedical challenge.
My Role: I led CAD development and hand drafting in SolidWorks, conducted patent and background research to guide concept selection, and co-presented the final design proposal to demonstrate functionality, feasibility, and user impact.
HighlightS
Designed and modeled the EasyEater assistive utensil in SolidWorks with ergonomic and damping features.
Applied House of Quality (HOQ) and Pugh Matrix tools to translate user needs into measurable engineering requirements.
Delivered hand-drafted concept sketches and CAD assemblies demonstrating manufacturability and component integration.
Presented the final design proposal and prototype plan, emphasizing cost-effectiveness, usability, and FDA compliance.
SKILLS
SolidWorks CAD ModelingEngineering Design Analysis (HOQ & Pugh Matrix)Patent and Market ResearchPrototyping & Manufacturing PlanningHuman-Centered Product Design
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
Additional Details
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