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CHIARA BORTOLI
SEQway Accessible Dock
Individual Project - 2020 - 2 months
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Maya - Substance - Autodesk Fusion
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Adrian Coronado Quispe - Ellie McBain - Harrison Lilwell - Mubaraka Bharmal
Overview
The SEQway Accessible Dock was designed to allow people with spinal cord injuries (SCI's) to safely and comfortably board and dismount kayaks. The product is a modular accessible dock designed to be used in creeks or rivers which can be used independently by people with SCI's. Users can securely store their belongings in lockers and lock their wheel chair to the dock ensuring a sense of security. The dock was also designed to look simple and approachable to encourage use and make users feel more comfortable.
Design Process
// Research
Our team initially conducted extensive user and market research to identify user needs and design opportunities. It was discovered that many existing accessible kayak launchers do not meet the expectations of users. We identified a need for accessible launchers to promote independence for those with little of no leg mobility instead of relying on the assistance of a secondary party.
// Project Management
My primary role in this project was team facilitator. Within this role I managed group objectives through the organisation of team meetings and recording of meeting minutes. I also created a team work board on Monday.com to assign tasks to team members, set due dates, track progress, prioritise tasks and more. This system was integral to the organisation of our team and ensured that we reached our team goals effectivley.
// Product Development
Within the design process of the accessible dock I worked primarily on creating the sliding bench. The bench is integral to the transfer of the user to the kayak, thus it was important to deeply consider the interactions between the bench and the user. Once the user moves off their wheelchair they must be able to complete the rest of the transfer primarily with their arms. Ergonomic data of wheelchair users was analysed to ensure the bench catered to their needs. The bench allows the user to push themselves to the level of the kayak over the sloped surface, pull the sliding board along using the multiple hand holds, then finally entre the kayak using the monkey bars.
// Manufacturing
Each part of the kayak launcher was designed to be manufactured. Within my role I created the technical documentation for the sliding bench and sliding board. I designed the shape of the bench to be manufacturable by sheet metal bending.
Sustainability
Sustainability was a core focus for our team during this project. The plastic components of the launcher are made from recycled polypropylene which doesn't leech toxic chemicals into waterways. The entire launcher is also modular, meaning that if parts need replacement, only small sections have to be removed and replaced.
Learning Outcomes
Designing for accessibility and sports
Collaborative project management and design
Team leadership and facilitation
Outdoor, large scale product design
Designing for maintenance and modularity