One of the biggest challenges we have as a Repair Club is helping folks identify the high-frequency, low-friction (HFLF) problems they face. These are often problems that don’t seem to merit help, precisely because they’re manageable. But HFLF problems can significantly lower someone’s day to day resilience and happiness.
In this case, after several visits with Paul, we learned that he was frustrated by how often his grabber tool (sometimes called a “reacher”) slid off the side of his recliner. We offered to make something to help prevent his grabber from falling over. After brainstorming with Paul, we landed on a simple bracket that would screw into his side table. As the render below shows, the bracket provides a simple ‘U’-shaped resting spot for the grabber. It’s mounted using 2 countersunk wood screws.
We 3D printed a prototype of the bracket in gray PLA and tested it with Paul in his recliner. It sits within reach of his remotes and notebook. We’ll check in with him in a week and get his feedback (knowing that there are always improvements to be made, even with simple devices like this).
If you’re interested in receiving a copy of the STL file (“Offset Pole Resting Bracket”), send us an email. Comments and suggestions are always welcome.