Iterative Design Process
Low-Fidelity Prototype
Problem Space
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Individual's with lower body paralysis often struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they do not receive a sufficient amount of aerobic exercise as they are confined to their wheelchairs. This can cause heart issues and muscle deconditioning.
Situation Impact Statement​
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There is a need to design a product to be used by individuals with lower body paralysis to increase one’s weekly aerobic exercise by keeping it engaging and affordable, while meeting the World Health Organization’s standards and recommendations on exercise for those with lower body paralysis.
Exercise Equipment for Paraplegic Individuals
Solution
Swimming is an engaging form of aerobic exercise. The solution developed allows paraplegic individuals to swim independently to improve their weekly aerobic exercise.
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The waistband has a foam material around to support the user's waist and keep them in an upright position
The leg straps connect to the waistband to provide support and connect the inflatable device to the user's legs.
Supports the individual’s legs to keep them in a horizontal position. When the safety mechanism is pulled the person to a vertical position.
Process
Requirements & Constraints
Personas
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QFD
Functions & Means
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Design concepts + selection
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Prototype
Engineering Analysis
Testing
Low-Fidelity Prototype
Testing
14 people wore the prototype and tested the adjustability of the product. The following pie chart indicates how many people felt that the product was comfortable.
