Avanti K1

description

The K1 is a complete redesign of the manual rigid framed wheelchair done in collaboration with Dean Bennett. Together we are Avanti Mobility.

A brief survey of contemporary wheelchair design will reveal significant engineering advancements that have primarily addressed the physiological ergonomic requirements of users with minimal consideration of social aspirations. Outside of the sport aesthetic users have been provided little choice of chairs to suit the conditions of their changing environment. The K1 is inspired by the emotional and aspirational needs of an active user in a range of social situations.

User research established firm functional criteria and was the starting point for our design phase. Our aesthetic vision sprung from furniture design, and its tradition of design for context. By harmonizing design and engineering we’ve created a chair that has the potential to meet the deeper needs of the user.

Aesthetic exploration and experimentation has been employed to design for the social dimension of ergonomics. The K1 pushes wheelchair design further into the realm of the social model of disability.

This wheelchair is designed for the socially active urban user. Someone who takes pride in how they dress, enjoys a night out, and embraces independence in all areas of their life.

The K1 was done throughout the fall semester. Dean and I are currently working on the K2 which is a refined design constructed out of structural materials.