3D printing for accessibility: 15 innovative tools to 3D print to enhance daily living

In a world where accessibility is becoming increasingly important, 3D printing technology has emerged as a powerful tool to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. This innovative approach allows for the creation of customized, low-cost devices that can significantly improve daily tasks and increase independence. From simple bottle openers to specialized wheelchair accessories, the possibilities are vast and impactful. In this article, we explore 15 ingenious 3D-printed tools that cater to various needs, offering practical solutions that make everyday activities more manageable for those with physical challenges.

1. Bottle opener

The bottle opener can help people with arthritis or limited finger dexterity open standard water bottle caps (⌀ 30mm or 1.18”). It provides a large gripping surface and clamps onto the caps with a small squeeze, allowing users to remove or screw on water bottle caps.

2. Easy Zipper

With EasyZipper you can use your teeth or some other means, to open your zippers. This EasyZipper is a generic design that will let you fit most of standard zippers. Just use a cable tie and you are done.

3. Wheelchair ramps

Wheelchair-users often need to overcome a step in front of a building, a shop, cafe or bar. This small ramp can be a handy solution, it can be easily carried in a bag.

4. Water bottle holder for wheelchairs

Easy access to hydration: with the help of this water bottle holder wheelchair users can serve themselves with water independently and conveniently.

5. Ring pull can opener

This is a support for people with less ability to open ring pull cans. Suitable for users with either arthritis or a weak grip. Extremely easy to use, just hook the end under the ring, fold forwards and then roll back.

6. Allow physical touch ring

This “Hug me” ring could be worn by people who suffer from Asperger’s or Autism Spectrum Disorder to non-verbally signal that they’re open to be hugged and they feel that they can tolerate physical contact.

7. Bag carrier

The bag carrier is a handheld tool that distributes the weight of bags carried. Plastic bag handles easily loop around the two curved hooks and handle divots allows users to comfortably grip the carrier.

8. Sock helper mobility aid

Doing simple things that many able-bodied people take for granted can be a source of anxiety and depression for the elderly or disabled. This design very simply helps to putting socks on: while seated, load a sock from the top and slide it down and then place it on the ground and slide your foot into the supported sock.

9. Key turner

This design is an open assistive technology device which allows people with missing digits and/or reduced digital dexterity or grip strength to insert and turn keys in locks. The device can fit comfortably in a pocket and with the fluorescent color it lends itself to easy identification even in low light settings.

10. Nail clipper holder

The nail clipper holder is a low-cost, 3D-printed handheld tool that makes clipping nails a less strenuous task for people with limited finger dexterity. It features a large force applicator so users can clip their nails by pushing down on it with their palm or hand.

11. Finger pen holder – Vertical

The finger pencil holder is a small accessory that snaps onto a finger digit that holds a writing utensil. It is useful for those with gripping issues and still have movement in their wrist or hand.. This vertical style can be used on the index, middle, ring, and pinky fingers.

12. Finger pen holder – Horizontal

This is the horizontal version of the previous design. It can be used on the thumb or index fingers.

13. Pen ball

Modeled after the tennis ball and pen hack, the pen ball holder is a writing aid that provides an extra large surface grip for writing utensils. The tool gently rests on the palm and the resting finger curl position secures it in place, requiring minimal effort and wrist movement to write and draw.

14. Palm pen holder

The palm pen holder is a writing splint that slips onto the palm. Users can gently curl their fingers around the handle to hold it securely or hook their thumb around the writing utensil. It has a large hole that can accommodate various writing tools width.

15. Enlarged handle with hilt

This enlarged handle for cutlery include, in one assistive device, grasping help and hilt for people challenged by grasping. Equipped with a large but thin aperture, printed in flexible material, this enlarged handle with hilt accept all kind of cutlery.