Engineering Design I, JDrill: Tasked with the problem of redesigning/modifying a power drill to accommodate a population of users with wrist and hand tendinitis. Our main concerns were reducing the need for exerting grip strength and reducing the strain on the wrist caused by the weight.
We decided to go with 2 handles to distribute the weight on both arms—rather than just one—to improve stabilization, and provide resistance to kickback. We also designed the handles to be much more ergonomic for a friendlier grip.
Speed and power controls from the trigger were replaced with a pedal (inspired by sewing machines) as a solution to removing the grip strength necessity need to pull back a trigger. A drill and chuck key mechanism was introduced at the head to aid with loosening and tightening drill bits (to rely on tool leverage rather than friction from the hand to tighten and loosen).
Brainstorming of a new ergonomic handle, with our goal being to conform to the curl of the hand, damped vibration caused by the motor and overall improve comfort. Include silicone pads for grip and cushion, made of ABS to act as a dampener. Using sketches to explore the negative space in between our palms.