The Oar Grip team received vital information in our prototype trials. Continuing the work of past semesters projects, we were able to confirm the significance of the 3D printed piece in the overall design, concluding that the riveted model is preferable both for fitting on the oar and simulating the turning sensation used for feathering an oar.
CRI held very positive evaluations of the main elements of our design: The “weight lifting claw” locked the hand into the rowing position, holding it against slippage. The short amount of plastic at the 3D piece’s bottom allows for mobility as the rower goes to turn the oar (this is a discrepancy between our prototype and the model from an earlier class).
The challenges CRI tasked us with involve improving hand placement on the oar within the grip and accounting for the intricacies of the hand anatomy needed for a full feathering motion. They recommended that we attempt to feather on the dock, which was incredibly helpful. They also showed us a method of their current equipment that allowed an oar to feather from the side of the dock by linking two riveted parts together in the oar’s holder. We believe replicating that process, while challenging, could improve our design significantly.
Finally, it was incredible to have Joanna, one of the elite para athletes at CRI attempt to use the prototypes for carrying oars and a boat. Her perspective as the prospective client and expert helped the teams working on those designs envision future adjustments and connect with the emotion end goal for the project. At future CRI visits, we would love the opportunity to connect with an athlete with grip impairments and learn more about their suggestions for a future design.
Haha wait that is me! Hope I was able to help!