Title: JOI: a case study from product development to tests and validation

Authors: Deborah M. Santos; Debora Verniz; Thiago B. Pontes; Joyce F. Frutuôso; Liryan S.S. Pereira; Cristiane M.U. Lopes

Addresses: University Federal of Cariri, Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, Brazil ' University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA ' University Federal of Cariri, Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, Brazil ' University Federal of Cariri, Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, Brazil ' University Federal of Cariri, Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, Brazil ' University Federal of Cariri, Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, Brazil

Abstract: During the COVID-19 pandemic, societies rapidly adapted to minimise SARS-CoV-2 transmission via airborne droplets and by contact with contaminated surfaces. The surge in cases caused a global shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits. In response, the maker community mobilised to design and share innovative PPE models online for digital fabrication. This paper presents the development of a hand device, JOI, to help avoiding COVID-19 contamination by contact. The device was created through an experimental process involving design, modelling and functional analysis, divided into four stages: object research, environment study, prototyping and user evaluation. Four hundred units were distributed, and 71 users completed an optional survey. Results show that the final design enables touch-free interaction with high contact surfaces, such as buttons, switches, doorknobs, windows and faucets without direct contact, enhancing daily safety.

Keywords: COVID-19; digital fabrication; product development; 3D print; good health and well-being; product design; additive manufacture.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPD.2025.149696

International Journal of Product Development, 2025 Vol.29 No.3/4, pp.277 - 298

Received: 16 Oct 2024
Accepted: 25 Jul 2025
Published online: 10 Nov 2025 *

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