Multi-Grip Ulu Knife Reducing Joint Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional knives with handles at one end of the blade are difficult for individuals with mobility impairments to use, as they require significant force and can cause strain on the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held knife with a multi-grip handle and a blade positioned directly beneath the handle, allowing for direct transfer of cutting force through the arm and hand, reducing stress on joints and enabling efficient cutting for users with mobility impairments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional knife with handle at one end of the blade is used, then the cutting tool structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it causes strain on the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder and is difficult for individuals with mobility impairments to use
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into multiple grip sections with different orientations and textures, allowing users to select the most comfortable grip position for their specific mobility needs. This segmentation enables the same knife to accommodate various hand positions and reduce strain on different joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The knife is designed with multiple grip positions and a balanced center of gravity that works for both traditional cutting motions and modified motions suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. The blade can be positioned at different angles relative to the handle, providing versatility in cutting techniques.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional knife design with blade protruding beyond the handle is used, then the cutting edge is accessible, but it causes excess strain to the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder
Solution Approach 1:
The knife introduces a vertical dimension to the cutting motion by allowing the blade to be positioned perpendicular to the handle, in addition to the traditional horizontal extension. This enables cutting motions that occur in multiple planes, reducing the need for repetitive wrist and arm movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The center of gravity is repositioned closer to the handle, and the blade length relative to handle length is modified. These parameter changes reduce the moment arm and decrease the torque required during cutting motions, thereby reducing strain on joints while maintaining cutting effectiveness.
3Ease of operation
If a multi-grip handle with blade directly beneath the handle is used, then cutting force transfer is improved and joint strain is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle and blade are designed as an integrated unit with the blade extending directly beneath the handle, creating a unified structure that naturally guides force transfer. This merging eliminates the need for separate mounting mechanisms while maintaining the ergonomic benefits of the configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A cutting tool as a hand-held knife having a multi-grip handle with an end grip surface and other grip surfaces. The cutting tool includes a connecting region having an end cutting edge, where the other grip surfaces are positioned between the end grip surface and the end cutting edge. The cutting tool includes a blade connected to the multi-grip handle via the connecting region, and the blade has a cutting edge.