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Fig. 1 Final Design
Fig. 2 Prototype Usage
Due to Kimberly’s impaired vision, it is difficult for her to identify objects. Despite her independence she faces significant challenges in daily activities. Current assistive tools like her hearing aids and smartphone apps give distracting or inconsistent feedback, leading to difficulties in object identification and environmental awareness. A solution is needed that can guide her non-disruptively and improve her quality of life.
As part of the IMPACT (Interdisciplinary, Mentorship, Practice, Applied, Community, Transformative) Initiative Project, our team was tasked with helping Kimberley, a 59 year old woman affected by Usher Syndrome. Because of her condition, she has 90% hearing loss and is partially blind, making her navigating her day to day challenging. In particular, she struggles with both hands being occupied by her assistive aids. To help her, we designed a solution that held her phone for her, freeing up her hands.
Our Design Goals:
Lightweight
Cost Effective
Stable
Convenient
Comfortable
Portable
| Constraints | Functions |
|---|---|
| Must be cheaper than $100 | Holds a phone securely hands free |
| Must weigh less than 1 kg | One handed operation to insert and remove phone |
| Must be compatible with all devices | Adjustable |
| Comfortable to wear |
At a price of $59.00 (after tax ;) the final design (Fig. 1) includes features such as: