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Challenge:  One Arm Grabber
Challenger:  Adam Keys, Army Veteran
University Partner:  United States Naval Academy
Student Team:  Matthew Gillcrist, Laurel Jaunich, Zach Nygaard, Michelle Garavito, Jesse Scott
Faculty Advisor:  LCDR A.M. Jones, USN, Advisor
QL+ Program Manager:  Jon Monett

Project Summary:

US Army SGT Adam Keys (Ret.) deployed to Afghanistan in early 2010. He was traveling in a mine-resistant, ambush-protected (MRAP) convoy vehicle when it ran over an improvised explosive device (IED). Due to an infection in his bloodstream, he ultimately lost both legs and his left arm. Adam lives a very active lifestyle. He is very independent and gets frustrated sometimes when he is unable to perform simple tasks, like turning his water sprinkler system valve and other knobs or changing light bulbs above his head. He also has difficulty trying to pick up certain objects off the ground, like sticks/small logs on his property.

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To goal of this project is to design and build a capable mechanical reacher that can perform small daily tasks, such as turning valves, changing light bulbs, and lifting objects. This will increase the buyer’s independence and reduce self-reliance on friends and family
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