VIDEO: Accessibility by design
Here’s how an advanced manufacturing sciences student is using 3D printing to assist patients at Craig Hospital.
When Craig Hospital’s rehabilitation engineers and occupational therapists had an idea for an adaptive technology device that would help patient Ganine Quinones, they turned to Metropolitan State University of Denver advanced manufacturing sciences student Raj Ball.
Ball earned an internship at the renowned Englewood hospital and has become their 3D printing expert, designing solutions for patients’ unique needs as they undergo rehabilitation and treatment for spinal cord or brain injuries. His expertise is valuable to the hospital and its patients because when it comes to the individual needs of its patients, the ability to prototype and test quickly is critical, said Patrick Wagner, a rehabilitation engineer at Craig Hospital.
“Additive manufacturing is a very good tool to do that,” Wagner said.
Ball credits his 3D printing classwork at MSU Denver for providing the knowledge required to take on the challenge.
“It’s a great thing to be able to help somebody using your skills and making improvements and products for somebody who really needs them,” he said.
