Get a Grip Project #3 - zpm

Made by Zack Masciopinto

Create a new grip for a commonly used object. I chose to remake the grip for a pair of pliers. The new grip allows fingers to lay in predetermined grooves with railings. The grip also features internal grooves for your fingers when using the pliers to pry something open.

Created: March 17th, 2019

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The first thing I did was create a 3D model in SolidWorks in order to have a physical tool to pack clay on to that resembles the general shape of my grip. I sliced up the 3D model and printed 2D cross sections to put the tool together.

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Once I put together all of the 2D pieces, I started packing on the clay pretty generously to most places. I wanted to have the option to remove a lot of material to get the correct design, instead of having to put more clay on later because I couldn't go deep enough or started to uncover the underlying structure. 

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After most of the clay was packed on, I started to make the indents for the fingers. My plan of attack was to place my hand in a comfortable position, then mart with a tool the outline of my fingers in those positions. Once I removed my hand, I was able to carve grooves where my fingers were placed. Once I removed enough material in those locations, I added finger guards using thin rolls of clay. This feature makes the grip more comfortable and gives your fingers a nice designated area to be. The next couple of pictures show this process.

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After I finished the outer finger holders, I wanted to create places for your fingers to be if you were to use the pliers to open something up, similar to the Jaws of Life grip. Once again, I placed my fingers in a comfortable position and used a tool to mark the areas. I then carved out a reasonable amount of material to create nice grooves for each finger. 

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Finally, I added the plastic pliers to resemble the original object, and I smoothed out the surface using a damp sponge. I took some pictures in the photo booth showing off the detail and function of the new grip. 

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Here are some of my preliminary drawings. I just sketched a few ideas to relay what kind of additions I was going to be making on my new grip. 

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24-672 Special Topics in DIY Design and Fabrication

· 22 members

Offers students hands-on experience in DIY product design and fabrication processes. Students work individually or in small groups to design customized and personalized products of their own and bu...more


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Create a new grip for a commonly used object. I chose to remake the grip for a pair of pliers. The new grip allows fingers to lay in predetermined grooves with railings. The grip also features internal grooves for your fingers when using the pliers to pry something open.