Beyond beauty: Supporting Veteran Guevara with innovative assistive technology

Navy Veteran Brenda Guevara’s technology journey highlights the importance of self-care and expression. For Guevara, putting on makeup is not just about looking good. It’s a crucial part of her daily routine that boosts her confidence. However, a disability made it challenging for her to hold her brushes steady and apply makeup independently.

“People with disabilities can always keep up, just as anybody else can. You just find a way to adapt,” she shared.

Collaborative innovation

Guevara’s struggle led her to work with Kelly Saleguero, an Office of Advanced Manufacturing (OAM) clinical rehab engineer, to develop a makeup brush holder. Saleguero expressed her passion, saying, “My favorite part about my job is getting to interact with Veterans and seeing my designs come to life.”

The project began as a concept within the Department of Defense and was then expanded by OAM engineers incorporating Guevara’s valuable feedback. The initial design evolved into a practical solution utilizing advanced technology to create a tool that meets her specific needs.

3D Printing: A game changer

The makeup brush holder is crafted using selective laser sintering, an additive manufacturing process. This technique involves binding layers of polymer powder with a high-powered laser, creating a durable and lightweight product. The material used for this device, PA 12 nylon, is ideal for everyday use.

“My experience was great because I felt like my opinion and my feelings really mattered. Everything I said was always taken into consideration,” Guevara said. This collaborative approach ensured that the final product was not only functional but also tailored to her needs.

Innovative design for accessibility

The innovative, round, carousel design of the makeup brush holder allows for better organization and access to brushes. Instead of a standard Lazy Susan-style base, which could spin too quickly, the OAM team developed a slewing bearing mechanism. This design uses cylinders instead of ball bearings, resulting in slower movement that is easier for Guevara to manage.

The holder keeps brushes upright, making them easy to grasp and use, enhancing  her independence in her makeup routine. This iterative process of development involved creating multiple prototypes before arriving at the final product, showcasing OAM’s commitment to perfecting their assistive technology solutions.

Transforming lives, one solution at a time

Guevara is now ready to start her day with her brushes organized and accessible thanks to the innovative work of OAM. The story of her makeup brush holder illustrates how assistive technology can significantly improve the quality of life for Veterans.

If you are a clinician whose patient has unmet needs that can be fulfilled by an assistive technology device, OAM is here to help. You don’t need to navigate this process alone. Send an email message to learn more.

For Veterans who could benefit from assistive technology, please consult your clinician to discover how OAM can assist in finding a tailored solution.