Mobility Aids

The Mobility Aids project will introduce students to the definitions and classes of disability. Students will then be challenged to identify accessibility issues within their school, home or local area and design a solution to the issue. While the project is intended to be a single lesson with printing following the lesson, the project can be extended to a second lesson, if required, by testing the printed designs and suggesting future improvements.
Subjects
Design and TechnologyMathematicsHumanitiesScience
Years | Grades
8th Grade | 12-13 years9th Grade | 13-14 years10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Print time: Variable dependent upon model

mobility aids trailer
Play 1:00

Objectives

  • Explain what is meant by the term ‘disability’
  • Describe different types of disabilities
  • Explain how different types of disabilities can be overcome with adaptations
  • Use TinkerCAD® software to design an mobility aid.  
  • Manufacture an mobility aid using a 3D printer.
 

Tools and Equipment

  • BE3D eDee 3D printer and computer devices with CAD software
  • Set of example mobility aid models
  • A good imagination!
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
 
  • Develop their own idea for a mobility aid
  • Use TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 or Similar CAD software at a beginner/intermediate level
  • Be comfortable using DeeControl software to adjust print settings
  • Use of the BE3D eDee 3D printer

Mobility aids Walkthrough
Locked 5:52

3D models overview

  • Total print time 15.5 hours
  • Total filament 40 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
Big Gripper
  • 2.5 hours
  • 7.8 m
Bottle opener
  • 30 minutes
  • 1.6 m
Ergonomic Handle
  • 6.5 hours
  • 7.2 m
Fab key turner
  • 40 minutes
  • 2.1 m
Key Turner
  • 40 minutes
  • 2.35 m
Straw holder
  • 50 minutes
  • 1.8 m
Universal grip
  • 7 hours
  • 10.3 m
Universal mount
  • 6.5 hours
  • 8.1 m
Note: Values are calculated for one set of models.

Lesson resources

  • Lesson plan
  • Example mobility aid models
  • Worksheet
  • Walkthrough
  • Presentation
  • 3D Models
  • 3D Print instructions
  • Curriculum Alignment: ISTE standard compliant