Final year project
Encouraging an active behaviour change amongst older people through balance and… [Read more]
Balance
Exercise can have huge benefits for older people; both physically and mentally. An increase in movement can reduce the risk of falling, boost memory and raise moods. Balance aims to encourage older people to move more by embedding exercise into their daily routine. Focusing on balance and coordination exercises in particular; with the main target of improving confidence and maintaining independence throughout their day to day life.
Balance: the internals
Yesterday's date and schedule are displayed until the user disconnects the band from the base, triggering their exercises to be displayed on the screen and prompting them to exercise. To update the date the user must return the band; causing the gears to rotate and the current date to be highlighted.
Balance: exercise band
The exercise band uses a stretch sensor to track how well the user is completing their exercises and to calculate their progress. The shape and the resistance of the band is adjustable.
Balance: breathing lights
The exercises can be chosen by the user themselves or by a family member, friend or doctor, using the product app or website. The back light pulses to help the user control their breathing throughout each exercise; when the band is being stretched and the user should be breathing in, the light pulses red; when the band is being released and the user should be breathing out, the light pulses blue.
Balance: support bar
If the user chooses to mount their product on the wall, the optional balance bar can be slotted into the main frame to provide extra support if required.
AeroPress coffee machine
A collaborative project to design and build a functional electromechanical coffee machine prototype, using C-programming and a range of mechanical systems.
Plonk
Plonk reconnects families by bringing traditional games and technology together; encouraging everyone to put their phones away for some real ‘family time.’ The product can be used with physical board games but also has a range of virtual
boards to select from, which are displayed using the projector.
Sarah Everett
I am passionate about design and creating solutions; focusing on the functional and technical details.
In all my work I have tried to think 'outside the box' and enjoyed getting hands on with the project in the workshops. Throughout this course and my year in industry I have gained a range of design skills in 3D prototyping, CAD, app design, electronics and mechanics. I am a conscientious worker with a strong attention to detail. I am excited to start a career in design; building solutions to real problems.
Final year project
Encouraging an active behaviour change amongst older people through balance and coordination exercises
Awards
'20 Diploma in Professional Studies
Placements
July 2018 - July 2019
Design Engineer Intern, SharkNinja