The brief
For my degree project I collaborated with Swereco, who is one of the leading manufacturers of ergonomic walking aids. I was tasked to re-design the crutch to be more focused on the everyday experience of its users. Making it easier to ascend stairs, open doors, carry groceries, etc.
Research
I went through a 3 month process of bringing in as much information as I could to base the new design on. User observations, interviews, study of anatomy and testing existing products. I ended up with a lot of data, function lists, flow charts and acquisition criterias from hospitals.
Prototype
Going through a number of different functional prototypes, testing with people from a span of different ages and scenarios. I found that an angled design helped relieve and spread the weight over a bigger area of the arm. This worked as a leaver while walking up and down stairs as well. And flattering the back part made it easier to lean the crutches against a wall.
Presentation model
At this point I wanted a physical version of the crutch design, so I made a 1:1 modell of it. Having a physical model to handle gave me an understanding of the parts that needed more attention, the size and weight of the design. From this design, I found that I needed to slim it down.
Solution
A tilted design to spread the weight over a bigger area. Flattened back for stability. Oval shaped extrusions for the leg, so that it wouldnt miss align while changing length,
