Austin Seigneur
The universal cuff is commonly used by individuals with below elbow amputations to hold a fork or spoon for eating. While investigating the feasibility of 3D printing at an assistive technology center, the “U-Cuff Stabilizer” was developed in collaboration with an individual who desired more stability when holding a fork with his existing universal cuff. When used in isolation, the universal cuff rotates on the individual’s forearm and requires awkward body positions and both upper extremities to press a fork into tough foods such as meat. The initial “U-Cuff Stabilizer” was 3D printed and delivered to the individual within a few weeks of first identifying the problem. The individual reported significant improvements in comfort and efficiency when eating commonly enjoyed foods and cited no rotation or slippage of the universal cuff with the addition of the “U-Cuff Stabilizer.” The inexpensive device offers a permanent or temporary solution as an effective eating utensil holder for individuals with below elbow amputations. The “U-Cuff Stabilizer” highlights the importance of collaboration with consumers as well as demonstrates the potential of 3D printing to generate rapid and customized solutions within an assistive technology setting.
U-Cuff Stabilizer Design Brief