Daniel Paulsen's Page

4-16-09

Phase 3: Design Phase

In phase 3 I modeled my ideas in SolidWorks analyzed my ideas in Microsoft Excel and then used my final model to make a rapid prototype. Here are the results of my many hours and late nights:

… Continue

4-14-09

It appears that my blog has fallen quite behind. I have already graduated and got my masters degree, but here is a retrospective update on what happened.

Phase 2: Concept Development

In phase 2 I compiled the information I obtained in phase 1 and came up with goals to shoot for with my design. Here are the goals that I came up with in no particular order:

1. Firm grip
2. Narrow well-mating tip
3. Efficient linkage
4. Multiple prehension patterns
5. Slender fingers for reaching into p… Continue

2/18/08

Phase 1: Idea Collection

Idea collection Phase is in full swing! Here are some of the hook ideas I have collected so far

1) Adjustable or Selectable Prehension. This is an old idea where the user can adjust the pinch force on a VC device. This would allow users to handle both heavy and delicate objects.

2) Detachable third finger. This would allow different modules to attach directly to the device such as a knife holder or different tools.

3) Non-preportional Spring Action. I… Continue

The first post on blog entries is so awkward. Well, anyways, here is a little background about me: I am a Mechanical Engineering student at San Jose State who is working on my Masters Thesis project. When I was looking for a project I knew I wanted to work on a product that was challenging, and also helpful to people that are often overlooked. Then when I factored in my contacts at Hosmer Dorrance, it was a no-brainer to choose a prosthics project.

My main goals is to provide a prosthetic hook… Continue