Below are the prototypes constructed by the team of our Top 6 Concepts.
Cleaning Pack
- The cleaning pack prototype consists of a bin strapped to a belt
- This prototype was sufficient when performing many of the concepts intended uses, as seen in the photo Adrienne utilized the basket when cleaning off a surface
- The Cleaning Pack is a wearable tool that assists users with picking items up, by giving them a stable and convenient place to store them
- The cleaning pack allows them to maintain full mobility as it can be adjusted to any spot on the waist so it does not obstruct reach
- The basket is made of flexible material with enough rigidness to stand items up and hold them in place (unlike a bag) but is not so rigid that items will break – as seen with the candle in the right picture
EZ-Lift
This concept was developed to help users with the use of only one hand to lift and move heavy objects while accomplishing daily cleaning tasks. This concept was designed to complete this task by utilizing a platform that could tilt to load objects, a supporting stand that can easily elevate and decent objects, and wheels that can mobilize the platform and lock to stabilize the platform during loading. In this prototype, we tried to display two of the three features of this concept; an adjustable height platform support and wheels that can mobilize the platform. Thus, as shown in Figure 1 below, cardboard was used to construct a platform and wheelbase, wire reels were used to fabricate wheels, and PCV tubes were used as axles. Lastly, aluminum connecting rods were used to build an adjustable height stand for the platform (shown in Figure 2).
Figure 1
Figure 2
Velvet S-Hook Hangers
This concept was developed to help users hang clothes with only one hand. The S-Hook comes in different sizes to accommodate different clothing articles [pants, shirts, sweatshirts, dress shirts]. The simple design allowed us to quickly test, improve, and iterate the size of each hook. The functional prototype were metal hooks shaped to fit articles on either end, or hang the other end up on a closet. Fabricating this product would require applying velvet coatings to the hangers, standardizing the sizes for appropriate articles, and applying user feedback on other preferred features that a one handed user may want from this product.
Velcro Tape Applicator
This concept was developed to help users fasten their clothes quickly with one hand. This applicator allows users to attach velcro tape to their clothes with a product that fits in their hand. The tape would sit inside of the applicator, and whenever they’d like to attach the velcro to their shirt, they’d first have to push the bottom of the applicator to “reveal” the tape (see Figure 1).
Figure 1
While the applicator is held in one hand, they can roll the velcro down their shirt and once they’re finished they can rip the tape of the applicator with the “tape cutter” at the top of the applicator.
Figure 2
To ensure that the applicator rests comfortably in a user’s hand, the prototype was created cylindrical and small enough so that it fits in a person’s hand. In order for the user to grip the applicator, the actual product can be indented in the center or even created with grooves (see Figure 3). Additionally, to emphasize “comfort” this prototype was created with a much smoother cardboard.
Figure 3
Detachable Table Drawer
Figure 1
This concept was developed to help users easily relocate and clear surfaces while cleaning. We thought a detachable drawer would help user accomplish this goal and allow them to store their items simultaneously.
This drawer can be purchased separately from a table which can save users on costs. Also, since the table is adjustable, it can be extended to fit the width of a reasonable sized coffee table or surface.
Figure 2
Ideally, the drawer would rest on “holders” that can be attached to the legs of a table. These “holders” are shown in white in Figure 1. As mentioned above, the drawer itself can be extended and to visualize this, the base of the prototype consists of various paper tubes (Figure 2) that can be “telescoped” together to create a smaller drawer.
In order for a user to be able to adjust the drawer with one hand, there should be tags attached to the base of the drawer that can be pulled, that allow the user to adjust the drawer however they’d like.
Stabilized Step Ladder
Figure 1
This concept was developed to allows the user to see how they this new step ladder will benefit them with their handicap of having 1 arm. When you step on to the ladder you will be able to lean further to reach deeper into hard to clean freezers, fridges, or cabinets. The piece across the top of the step ladder is placed their to show how when stepping on the step they can lean forward allowing that piece to catch them and stretch the further they lean.
Cleaning Mouse
This concept was created to aid users in cleaning surfaces in a much quicker, more achievable manner. The prototype pictured below is a cleaning mouse. It functions as a handheld tool that allows a user to spray a surface and wipe in an easy motion, minimizing the time spent struggling with paper towels.
Figure 1
It was developed with 3 key components in mind. The top portion depicts an ergonomic mouse-like container that would store and mechanically spray cleaning solution on a counter. The center white-foam like material would be the surface that adheres the mouse to the custom surface wipe. The blue rag mimics the attachment to the mouse that would clean the surface. Because the surface wipe is detachable, a user could have different attachments of various textures that can be adjusted to suit their chosen surface the most.
Figure 2
Figure 3