Project Occupational Therapy was created to address a need for affordable, customizable tools that support individuals with limited mobility and fine motor challenges. Many occupational therapy tools can be expensive or lack personalization, making it difficult for therapists to meet the specific needs of each patient. This project focuses on using 3D printing technology to design and produce adaptive tools that improve accessibility and independence.
Trinity Gaskins led this project by working closely with an occupational therapy professional to better understand real-world needs. One of the key developments within this project is a one-handed wallet, designed for individuals who have limited use of one hand. This wallet allows users to access cards and cash more easily, promoting independence in everyday tasks. In addition to the wallet, Trinity has designed and printed a variety of occupational therapy tools aimed at improving fine motor skills, giving therapists more options for customized patient care.
Technology plays a critical role in this project. Trinity uses 3D design software to create models and 3D printers to produce functional prototypes. This allows for rapid adjustments and customization based on feedback from the occupational therapy professional. The ability to design, test, and improve tools quickly is what makes this project both effective and sustainable.
This project strongly aligns with the EAST CART framework. Through Critical Thinking, Trinity identified a gap in available assistive tools and developed practical solutions through iterative design. In Advance, she has demonstrated growth by learning advanced design skills and taking full ownership of the project. The work is clearly Real-World, as it serves an occupational therapy professional and has direct applications for patients. Through Teamwork, Trinity collaborates with her community partner to ensure the tools meet real needs and function as intended.
What makes Project Occupational Therapy unique is its focus on customization and accessibility. Rather than relying on mass-produced tools, this project creates solutions tailored to individual users. The combination of technology and healthcare allows for meaningful, real-world impact while giving patients greater independence in their daily lives.
The primary community partner for this project is McBryde Therapy OPS, where Trinity works with an occupational therapist to guide design decisions and provide feedback on usability. This partnership ensures that each tool is practical, functional, and beneficial to those who will use it.
Project Occupational Therapy has been developed over the course of the school year and continues to evolve as new tools are designed and tested. The long-term goal is to expand the number of available designs and continue improving accessibility for individuals with physical challenges.
Overall, this project demonstrates how technology can be used to solve real problems in healthcare. By combining 3D printing, collaboration, and purposeful design, Trinity Gaskins has created a project that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.