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The second project focused on redesigning a common hand tool to have a more ergonomic grip . Using structural foam, wood, adhesives, painting and finishing techniques, we were to remove or adapt the grips of real tools to improve their ergonomics.
The tool I focused on improving the grip for was the can opener. The way in which I aimed to improve the design of its grip was to add concavities for a user's left hand to a wooden handle.
Original can opener with flat surfaced plastic handles.
Concept sketch of a more ergonomic handle for a can opener. The addition of finger grooves and a pocket for the user's palm guide them to grip the opener in a manner that is comfortable and conducive to operation.
After creating concept sketches and getting my idea approved, I created a wooden prototype using a handheld Dremel, hand files, and coats of polyurethane as a sealant. I then removed the handles from the can opener, replacing them with my wooden prototype.
Final product with ergonomic wooden grips, in closed position.
Final product with ergonomic wooden grips, in the open position.
Wooden grips, held loosely to show the added grooves for fingers, thumb, and theminar eminence (the muscles at the base of the thumb).
Wooden grips, held together as would be during use.
Top view of the modified can opener.
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