With a modular setup, this device can be used as multiple tools in one. Main applications could be for people from third world countries where there is minimal automation. A shovel helper grip attachment could save a lot of effort by transferring some of the load from the user's back to the well gripped other hand. This in-turn results into lesser fatigue and more productivity.
Also, the Leaf Claws attachment can function as a big sized leaf collector hand or as even a shovel for damp yards. These type of attachments could also be used to reach certain areas (eg: for maintenance purposes in sanitation) where use of bare hands could have caused infections. The stl files can be downloaded from here: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1183651
Images[edit | edit source]
Fully assembled hand held shovel grip
Example of application of Shovel Helper - Backsaver
Example of application of a Leaf Claw application - Backsaver
Modular handle arm with three fixture holes
One of the two shovel helper that fits into the modular handle arm
Leaf Claw that fits into the modular handle arm
Bill of Materials[edit | edit source]
- 3 bolts: 5/16 inch diameter with approx 5 cm length: 38 cents x 3 = USD 1.14
- 3 Nuts that fit into those bolts: 21 cents x 3 = USD 0.63
- Hair band / Rubber band: Free?
- PLA filament: Approx 50 x 3 grams = USD 3.2
Tools needed[edit | edit source]
- MOST Delta RepRap or similar RepRap 3-D printer
Skills and knowledge needed[edit | edit source]
- Knowledge of FreeCAD and Cura
Technical Specifications and Assembly Instructions[edit | edit source]
To Assemble:
- Download the part files provided above in the bill of materials
- Convert stl files to gcode using software like Cura
- Print all of the Parts
- Attach a hair band / rubber band with the handle arm to make it a comfortable grip on the user's wrist
- Connect the interlocking jaws of whichever tool you want to use
- Secure with nut and bolt
Time:
- Total print time estimate: 5 hours
- Total assembly time estimate: 3 minutes
Common Problems and Solutions[edit | edit source]
- One must be careful of your printer radius and calibration as a couple of those parts only just fit into my Delta: check how thw first couple of layers print and shrink the models if needed (all be same amount)
- Sticking to the bed could be a common problem in case of such large prints: Use high quantities of washable glue on bed before printing
Cost savings[edit | edit source]
- Cost Estimate: USD 5 for two tools
- Equivalent products in market cost: USD 33 (Backsaver grip: USD 13 and Leaf claw: USD 20)
- Net savings achieved: USD 28 (Atleast)
- Similar products online:
- http://www.amazon.com/Leaf-Claws/dp/B00D910KTI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1449613392&sr=8-7&keywords=leaf+hand
- http://www.amazon.com/Leaf-Claws/dp/B00D910KTI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1449613392&sr=8-7&keywords=leaf+hand
- http://www.amazon.com/Stout-Backsaver-Attachment-Garden-Assorted/dp/B000DEN57S/ref=lp_128061011_1_24?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1448856619&sr=1-24
References[edit | edit source]
- www.amazon.com
- www.walmart.com