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CHIARA BORTOLI
THE WOBBLEX
Group Project - 2020 - 2 months
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Maya - Autodesk Fusion
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Amy Thomason - Meghan Cummins
Overview
The Wobblex was designed to improve balance and cognition for people with down syndrome through exercise and play. The basis of the Wobblex is a customisable wobble board which has 3 interchangeable roller attachments, adjusting stability of the board to account for different skill levels. The board is paired with a VR game where users are given different, fun positions to get in while exercising on the wobble board. Their movements are tracked and recognised in the game with 2 motion tracking wristbands. This information can be accessed by physicians track progress and customise the users experience to suit their specific health requirements.
Design Process
// Research
This design was based off extensive user and market research to identify important design opportunities. Research revealed that both virtual reality and wobble boards can be successful in improving balance of people with Down Syndrome. Additionally, the importance of play in encouraging exercise for people with Down Syndrome was identified. We also developed an expansive business proposal for the product, outlining market gaps, existing products and user journeys along with developing a business plan for the Wobblex with value canvases, a 5 year plan and more.
// Product Development and Prototyping
The Wobblex was designed to look bright and fun while making the complex nature of VR seem more approachable. To ensure the sustainability of the board the Wobblex system includes a maintenance teams. During scheduled visits to health care practitioners the board will be assessed for damages and maintained if needed. Once the board has reach the end of its life it will be sent back to Wobblex to be refurbished or recycled with parts repurposed. For our final presentation we produced a physical model of the Wobblex using foam.
Learning Outcomes
Designing for Down Syndrome
Designing for exercise and play
Development of business plan with marketing and product lifespan strategies
Unique integration of traditional design and emerging technologies