Final year project
Navigational support for visually impaired users in unfamiliar environments [Read more]
Dot is a navigational support for visually impaired users in unfamiliar environments
For most visually impaired users, finding their way around familiar environments is almost second nature. The real challenge is trying to navigate unfamiliar environments. The device is designed not to replace current navigational aids, but to provide users with more information about their surroundings. It uses a series of dynamic pins to inform the user of what directions they need to take to reach their intended destination.
Dot provides users with turn by turn navigation
A product that provides visually impaired users with turn by turn navigation, through a syntax based on a series of dots that move up and down creating a variation of symbols, allowing the user to safely navigate from point A to point B. Furthermore, not only will the device provide turn by turn navigation, it will also indicate to the user any potential hazards on their journey, through haptic feedback and the pin system.
Internal mechanism
Dynamic pins convey information by creating paths for users to trace with their finger and follow, guiding them toward their destination. Haptics inform users of dangers whilst navigating. The device connects to the user’s smart phone and converts the information provided by ‘maps’ into tactile information, rather than listening to instructions, users can feel direction.
Groom
A product needs to exist that allows the user to maintain their physical appearance through personal grooming whilst reducing the tools required to perform the task. There is an opportunity to provide users with a single grooming tool to allow them to maintain a clean and healthy lifestyle whilst keeping the product small and compact making it easier for users to pack their wash-bags for travel.
Pick and replace
Research showed that users did not like having to constantly replace batteries or carry around various cables for different devices, especially users who travel frequently and need to carry all their grooming essentials.
The majority of users want to be able to take all their grooming appliances with them, but have to compromise due to a lack of space. The razor and toothbrush heads are both replaceable making for a more sustainable design, allowing for users to swap components without needing to discard the entire mod.
Brush, shave and trim with one device
Users can swap and change modules to complete their grooming plan. Users can pick from a toothbrush head, a razor blade for a clean shave and a trimmer module.
NHS Direct
Building on what has already been established by the NHS as the 111 number, this app seeks to reduce the number of unnecessary appointments received by General Practitioners, through the incorporation and restructure of the current Computer Decision Support System (CDSS). The app and device will reduce the number of visits by providing users with reassurance, constant updates and direct users to receive the correct care when possible.
The application
The app boasts several features that allow all of the NHS services to come together, by putting the users' needs first. Furthermore the app also keeps track of all the patients' data such as; Family History, Medical History and Social History which will only improve the diagnosis process. In addition to the application being able to diagnose patients, its most significant feature is directing users to other sectors of the NHS whenever possible, by limiting users' choices by only providing them with certain actions based on their symptoms and vital scans.
Aakif Imthiyaz
I'm always looking for multiple solutions to the same problem. I am a very ambitious person who explores ideas through a wide range of mediums and always looking to solve problems through the use of unorthodox methods.
Over the years I have enjoyed watching how much the world revolves around design. It's something that exists everywhere, it exists in everything and is at the forefront of how we interact with the world. As a designer I pride myself in my ability to work well in a team and take control of a situation when it's required and come up with interesting ideas, that result in the right solution.
Final year project
Navigational support for visually impaired users in unfamiliar environments
Awards
In 2017 I received the highest grade in Saudi Arabia in Art and Design and received an Outstanding Pearsons Learners Award.
In addition I also finished as runner up at the Toastmasters International Speech Contest.
Experience
Mig Gems and Jewellery Showroom, Riyadh (2015-2017)
This job involved coming up with quick sketches for clients to give them a rough idea of the jewellery they were getting made. It also involved cleaning showcase displays and learning how to polish and clean gem stones, giving me vast knowledge of the jewellery and gem stone industry. From this job roll I learnt the importance of client interaction which helped me develop transferable skills of customer orientation and improve my quality of communication.