COVID Key: A Multifunctional Device to Avoid Touch

COVID-19 is a global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. Although the surfaces pose a low risk of transmission, it is beneficial to use a handheld key-like device to avoid touching the surfaces, especially in public places. The present article reveals a novel design for a multifunctional handheld device, termed the COVID key. The proposed COVID key exhibits ten distinct features, viz. doorknob opener, pushing, pulling, forceps action, sharp edge, key chain, smartphone stand, and a linear and angular scale frequently used in daily life. Theoretical and computational analyses are carried out to check the validity of the design under different loading conditions resembling everyday use. Topological optimization is carried out to achieve the best stiffness-to-weight ratio. The final design is 3D printed in two different materials, ABS (acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene) and PLA (poly-lactic-acid), using fused deposition based additive manufacturing. Testing and validation of the design are carried out with everyday actions. The COVID keys are distributed among a group of ten unbiased users. The user satisfaction score is recorded based on six basic metrics, viz. ease of use, size, strength, appearance, material and ease of carrying. A satisfaction score of 85% is reported, with ABS being the preferred material of choice.