Design and Optimization of Ergonomic Forceps for Skin Closure

Gray, Hannah; Erb, Jenna M.; Bushe, Benjamin V.; Macaulay, Patrick K.

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Design and Optimization of Ergonomic Forceps for Skin Closure

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The goal of this project was to design surgical forceps for skin closure that are ergonomically and haptically optimized. To achieve this, the design must enhance pincer movement, have ideal dimensions and springiness, and reduce slip. The team achieved these goals by using 3D printed material and existing industry-standard Adson forceps to create prototypes with more ergonomic grips and more haptically effective textures. The grip dimensions consisted of two extrusions with a trough in the middle, which effectively enhanced pincer movement. After consulting with a surgeon, the team found a ratio of width to length for each section of the grip which was most ideal. The texture surface used on these grips was a checkered knurl at a 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0mm offset, which reduced slip on the fingers with surgical gloves on. It was decided through user experience surveys and mechanical testing that the larger of the two dimensions and the 0.75mm offset texture were the ideal specifications for this application.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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