IKEA has released a set of furniture hacks that anyone can download and 3D-print to make their products more usable by people with disabilities.
Bigger light switches, easier-to-grab handles and extenders for couch legs are among the designs produced so far in the ThisAbles project, an initiative of IKEA Israel and non-profits Milbat and Access Israel.
Curtain Gripper tackles the issue of slippery shower curtains
The add-ons are meant to "bridge some of the gaps between existing IKEA products and the special needs of people belonging to these populations [who live with some form of disability]", according to the ThisAbles website.
IKEA says the project fits with its vision to "create a better everyday life for as many people as possible". Each add-on is designed to fit at least one popular IKEA product, and its file can be accessed for free from anywhere in the world. Mega Switch can be added to the Ranarp lamp to make it easier to turn on and off
The idea is that they can then 3D-print it at home or at a local maker-space.
Among the 13 ThisAble designs that can be downloaded from the website are items that make furniture more grabable ? including a Friendly Zipper to attach to bags or quilt covers, an Easy Handle that allows Pax cupboard doors to be opened with the forearm, and a Curtain Gripper to tackle slippery shower curtains.
Cane By Me allows items such as walking stick to be stowed at the user's bedside
Others address mobility, with Couch Lift l...