Fabricating 3D printed assistive equipment with ChildServe

Fabricating 3D printed assistive equipment with ChildServe, 3D printing, occupational therapy, pediatrics.
Course Description
My capstone experience consists of three parts, all directed to making a pilot program successful in ChildServe in Johnston, Iowa. The first part of the program includes an instruction manual on getting started with the firmware of the 3D printer and managing difficulties and issues that may arise with the software for computer-aided design. I have made visuals and PowerPoints to clarify directions to navigate the firmware, such as setting it up upon arrival, doing the first test with the device, and setting up the software. The second part of my capstone was to build connections with the 3D printing community in Des Moines, Iowa. To accomplish this, I have reached out to multiple people, businesses, and universities. While reaching out to the nearby communities, I have shared the important roles that occupational therapists have in working together to promote the safety and independence of each child. The last part of the project included writing up several grants and an expenses list to get the program started, as the initial cost of obtaining a 3D printer, maintenance, and updating fees would be costly. I have also gotten in contact with two grant programs available, but with my time there, I was unable to see the final result of my work.