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FIN

A writing tool for adolescents with arthritis

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Fin allows the user to write effortlessly with all fingers relaxed, in their neutral position. Inspired by organic curves, its symmetrical design is suited for both dextral and sinistral use.

Its friendly form hopes to boost confidence in adolescents to provide them with an equal platform to thrive without hindrance from physical challenges.
 

TYPE
Medical Product Design / Branding /
Packaging

TIMELINE
6 weeks

TEAM
Nihaarika, Ohad, Domenic

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IDENTIFIED PROBLEMS
After interviewing doctors and parents of adolescents with arthritis, the most common problems were joint pains in fingers. This usually occurred when adolescents would be in school and hold a pen for too long. As an opportunity, we focused on designing a writing tool that would keep the hand in a neutral position and prevent fingers from gripping and pinching.
 
 

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Initial form

Stiff material test

Adjustments of form

Additional finger holder

Adjustments of holder

Added more space
for fingers

The initial model was 
too wide and did
not stay on

Grooves were added for stability, but the finger did not feel comfortable

Tested with pencil to determine the position of its placement

Modified the curves of the prototype to fit the hand

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
We started with simple ideations and created clay, wooden, and PLA models to further conduct user testing. This helped us consider varying hand sizes and grips to arrive at a universal design with two different tool sizes.

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PACKAGING CONCEPT
We developed a style guide and logo. The product was packaged using a PLA vacuum closure on printed cardstock.

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USER TESTING
I tested the product on an eight-year-old girl who suffers from juvenile arthritis. She had a successful experience while writing with FIN and was fascinated with the tool being her personal accessory.

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