Final year project
Assisting in long sitting for children with disabilities whilst enabling social… [Read more]
Providing support for children with physical disabilities
A design was created which would allow the child the best opportunity for long sitting. A product design specification was developed to ensure the design would meet the needs of the user.
Collapsing the design
One vital aspect of the design was that it could collapse for easy transportation and storage. Several mechanisms were considered including a cable release and snap fits, but a index clamp as found to be most suitable. This would allow for the seat to recline, putting the child in a more comfortable position, as well as fold down completely.
User testing
One stage of the user testing involved the use of SAMMIE CAD. This allowed for the geometry of the design to be tested without the need for human participants. While further user testing will be needed in later iterations of the design, this was a useful intermediate step.
User experience
As part of a user experience project, an app was developed that would encourage student's donations to food banks by giving them an option to donate within their budget. The design was tested with the target user and improved upon.
Rebecca Dunn
I have focussed on postural supportive equipment to enhance a child's early life.
Disabilities such as cerebral palsy cause misread messages between muscles and the brain, meaning muscles contract repeatedly. Long sitting is where a person is sat on the floor with the legs abducted and the pelvis tilted forwards. This encourages the muscles to relax and reduce the chance of them becoming spastic. The aim of this project is to develop equipment which can position the child whilst enabling the child to interact with others.
Enhancing the opportunities of others stands firmly in the centre of my beliefs. This project allowed for the continuation of skills developed through the year in industry at Jenx Ltd.
Final year project
Assisting in long sitting for children with disabilities whilst enabling social interaction and play
Awards
'20 Diploma in Professional Studies
Placements
September 2018 - September 2019
Design Engineer Placement Student, Jenx Ltd