Akshit Jalli

Project

Theraprints

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Theraprints wheelchair cane mount prototype view one
Primary prototype mounted for accessibility and retention testing.
Theraprints wheelchair cane mount prototype view two
Adjusted geometry iteration for fit and one-hand usability.
Theraprints prototype detail view
Snap-fit interface detail used for secure cane locking.
Theraprints prototype usage view
In-context positioning on wheelchair frame for transition workflow.
Theraprints final iteration view
Final lightweight iteration emphasizing stability and ease of use.

What is the project

I designed and prototyped a lightweight 3D-printed wheelchair-mounted cane adapter that improves transfer safety and independence for seniors and users with mobility challenges.

  • I identified a practical assistive-device gap: users often struggle to safely manage a cane while maneuvering a wheelchair, creating fall risk and reducing independence.
  • My solution was a frame-mounted adapter that secures the cane directly on the wheelchair without obstructing wheel motion or everyday mobility tasks.
  • I engineered a snap-fit locking interface that supports stable retention during movement while still allowing quick one-hand insertion and removal.
  • The CAD geometry was parameterized for fit flexibility so the design can adapt to different cane diameters and wheelchair frame variations.
  • I used iterative prototyping and user-centered refinements to improve mount angle, access ergonomics, and retention reliability across repeated use.
  • The final design prioritized lightweight durability, simple operation, and safer transition flow from wheelchair use to cane-assisted movement.

What I learned

  • Assistive hardware succeeds when biomechanics and workflow are treated as first-class engineering constraints, not just form-factor considerations.
  • Snap-fit performance depends on balancing material elasticity, engagement depth, and tolerances to avoid either loose retention or excessive insertion force.
  • Parametric CAD accelerates iterative design by allowing rapid adjustment of core dimensions for user-specific fit without rebuilding the model from scratch.
  • User testing is essential for uncovering practical issues, especially one-hand accessibility, reach comfort, and reliability under real daily motion.
  • In low-cost medical-adjacent prototyping, manufacturability and repeatability are as important as concept novelty for real-world adoption.

Skills Learned

  • Human-Centered Assistive Device Design
  • Parametric CAD Modeling
  • 3D Printing for Functional Prototypes
  • Snap-Fit Mechanism Design
  • Tolerance and Fit Optimization
  • Iterative Hardware Prototyping
  • User Testing and Design Validation
  • Biomechanics-Informed Product Design