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The Claw

The Claw

A motorized tool designed to help individuals with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) pick up objects with greater ease. Inspired by a peer’s needs, the device can bend and rotate to provide added reach and independence in daily tasks.

Project Invent

Ethan, Ezekiel, Paula, Melanie, Kensielyn

2025

Global goals

SDG 3 Good Health and Well-Being

Our project

"Our product is a claw-like tool designed for individuals with SMA, similar to elderly grabbers. It features two buttons for opening and closing, and one for folding it in half. Our initial concept was quite basic, mainly distinguished by the technology used. The model featured a claw that could be opened and closed via a button located on an armrest. Our next model had an added feature. It had two buttons, one to open and close, and the other one made it fold in half, as well as a joystick." - Student Team

Our inspiration

"This team's Community Partner has SMA, which causes their muscles to not be strong enough so that he can walk. He also has some trouble lifting his arms more that half way up. Also because of this disease he communicates by sign language and some words that he is able to say." - Student Team

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