Active Handrest (IMAGE) University of Utah Caption A prototype of the Active Handrest is shown here with a person using it to manipulate a stylus for writing or drawing. It was developed by University of Utah mechanical engineers as a way to let surgeons, machinists, artists and others precisely control scalpels, tools, brushes and other objects over a wider workspace than normally is possible. The person using the device places an elbow on an elbow rest and the hand on a motorized handrest equipped with a force sensor. The handrest can move any direction within a horizontal plane in response to pressure exerted by the user. A study of the device shows it allows better control of tools than other support devices, and with less fatigue. Motors controlling the device protrude from the lower left and lower right. Credit University of Utah. Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.