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Content warning: Mention of self-harm
Problem
Problem
There are a variety of methods advised by mental health workers to help redirect self-injurious behavior. This might include snapping a rubber band against one's skin, holding an ice cube, punching a pillow, or scribbling on paper. However, these methods are either transient or not as intense. There must be a way to safely redirect behavior like scratching or digging one’s nails into their skin.
Method
Method
I primarily used the "design by analogy" method in creating what would be called the "shedder."
This butter, cheese, or condiment spreader tool has small serrations on one side of its blade. While the design works great for picking up condiments, it isn’t the safest for skin. The serrated edge causes a poking sensation but has a risk of injury due to its metal composition.
Process
Process
The profile of a quarter of the shape is all that is needed to make the form. Here it is drawn in FreeCAD.
I made the shedder 3in long to fit in my palm, but a parametric design could accommodate any hand size.
Future research must be done to find what point radius would be safe while still causing a poking sensation. However, because of how soft PLA is, the points smooth over after use.
Outcome
Outcome
Reflection
Reflection
While the shedder was named for its ability to "shed" urges to self-harm (sh), it probably needs a different name. It sounds too close to either cheddar or shredder.
The device was a success, and at one point I carried two of them everywhere I went. My friends also found it useful.
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