Building 3D printed wheelchairs for toddlers
By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Using a 3D printer to create child-sized wheelchairs is no small feat, said Governors State University (GovState) professors Maryleen Jones and Shukmei Oh.
“What began as a simple connection quickly grew into our most ambitious 3D printing project to date, bringing together faculty, students, and resources across multiple departments,” said Oh, University Lecturer in the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS).
Jones, Assistant Professor in Physical Therapy (PT), initiated this collaboration when inspiration hit as she was planning materials for her spring lab course and a day of service at Devices for the Disabled (D4D). D4D is a non-profit charity that provides assistive technology and devices to people in need.
“Toddler wheelchairs are a specialty item, so in alignment with GovState’s “Better Together” philosophy, I thought it would be a unique experience if I could somehow get one of these chairs printed, and during our course, the students could assemble the chair and we could deliver it to D4D,” said Jones.
She cited the motto of GovState’s College of Health and Human Services (CHHS), “Better Together,” which embodies the belief that the University’s strength lies in collaboration, shared purpose, and a commitment to student success, excellence, and community engagement. This mindset led her to seek support across campus to bring her idea to life.
As Faculty Advisor of the Innovation Club at GovState, a 3D printing and robotics club, Oh recruited her team of students to work together and offer their assistance with their 3D printer. Jones found files for printing toddler wheelchairs on the Make Good charity website and, with CAS Professor Dr. Jianwei Hao's guidance, provided some supplies, including filaments and nozzles.
“Turning that design into reality requires skill and teamwork,” said Oh. “Printing the parts for a single wheelchair requires at least sixteen days of continuous printing.”
Julio Glavan, Innovation Club member and intern for the Division of Science, Mathematics, and Technology, dedicated many hours to keep the printing process moving. Innovation Club President Sai Tumukunta and Vice-President Harshavardhan Datla helped with troubleshooting and repairs.
After days and nights of work, the parts for the first toddler wheelchair are ready.
“Now that the parts are printed, the PT students will work on filing the parts down and assembling them,” said Jones, adding that the completed wheelchair will be delivered to D4D, where students will work with the community member who will be using the wheelchair.
While the project is still ongoing, Jones and Oh are grateful for the support they’ve received across campus throughout this project. From faculty to deans, many have donated 3D printers and supplies to support the group’s efforts.
“This project represents more than just a technical achievement,” said Oh. “It highlights the power of collaboration, innovation, and student-driven impact, demonstrating how emerging technologies like 3D printing can directly benefit our community.”