Some of the greatest change EAST students create happens when they work with like-minded clients and community partners, especially when that client is an EAST alum. Two students from Pottsville Junior High School experienced this when working with Wade Ivy, an Occupational Therapist with Pediatrics Plus in Russellville. 

Pediatrics Plus works heavily with children without full control over their limbs, creating a need for technology to bridge the gap between these patients and performing routine tasks like brushing their teeth. By using Fusion 360, a 3D design software, EAST students Grant Keys and Kyle Gullett  created a variety of products virtually and brought them to life by using their program’s 3D printer.

After attending an EAST student training covering Fusion 360, the duo designed and printed several prototypes and took them to Pediatrics Plus to be tested. Some of the prototypes included adaptive grips for items like toothbrushes, pencils and bottle openers.

“Writing and brushing your teeth are things you should be doing every day,” Grant said. “If you’re not able to do those things, you’re going to have some problems in your life. So these prints make it not a problem.”

Finding the appropriate sizing for each adaptive tool was the biggest hurdle to overcome according to Kyle, as the duo went through numerous prototypes in search of the perfect fit. By visiting Pediatrics Plus in-person multiple times throughout the school year, the students were able to present prototypes to Wade and receive immediate feedback.

Grant and Kyle left a sizable impression on Wade, as he was impressed with their creativity and tenacity, constantly learning how to make the correct adjustments in the face of failed prototypes.

“I really don’t even understand how all of the 3D printing works,” Wade said with a laugh. “So to see them tackle a project like this at their age and be so passionate about helping people with their skills is incredibly impressive.”

EAST was built on the principles of learning through failure and creating solutions which improve the lives of those in local communities like Pottsville and Russellville, and Kyle says without EAST, he would have never discovered his passion for 3D printing and design.

“This project has helped me become a lot better at using Fusion 360 and introduced me to other programs like Creality,” Kyle said. “Before EAST I didn’t even know technology like 3D printers existed, and now I know I love working with them.”