WHEELCHAIR BRAKEClient: University of Calgary, Motivation Inc.Challenge: The brake system was the result of a five day charrette, hosted by British designer and founder of NGO Motivation, Inc., David Constantine.The challenge was to design a wheelchair brake system for underdeveloped regions where wheelchairs are generally hand-made of wood. The terrain commonly found in such regions consists of uneven paths that often have slopes that prove inaccessible for wheelchair users.The brake system had to be manufacturable with locally available materials and technologies for under 10 USD.Solution: An interdiciplinary academic team consisting of one Architecture, one Community Rehabilitation, one Mechanical Engineering, and one Industrial Design student was put together to come up with a solution.The team came up with a solution that, not only came in under budget (~3USD); but provided a solution ready to be taken to the people in need.The ratcheting effect of the design allows users to reposition their hands on the wheels without minimal loss of forward travel.The simplicity of the design lends to the it's effectiveness. The brake levers are easily accessed and engaged by the wheelchair-bound user. When not in use, the brakes stow securely out of the way of the wheels.The design is currently being manufactured in many developing countries throughout the world.Responsibilities: (Collaboratively with group) Problem Definition, Expert Interviews, Design Development, CAD, Prototyping, Testing
We have worked on other medical products projects from knee braces to dental electronics, from innovative first responder tools to diagnostic devices, we have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to apply our design process to a variety valuable medical products.
PROSTHETIC PATIENT POSITIONERClient: Matter Industrial Design Inc.Challenge:Visualize a viable patient positioning system that allow both prosthetician and patient to fit lower leg prosthetic devices.Solution: Loose concept sketches illustrating scale and necessary components to encourage dialogue between interested parties.
FOLIO - Medical
