Calla and I are working on this together!
Brainstorming:
- Buckles on straps for easy release (in case of crutches, etc)
- Straps built into the fabric of the chair
- Short legs for easy access
- Light
- Cross connection/scissor chair
- Handle straps in folding chair for backpack use and help getting up
- Heavily padded and shaped to general torso
Research:
- We begun our research by looking at beach chairs
- We found a type of folding chair that involved two pieces of foam and a metal “kick stand” to prop up the back. It has a strap.
- (http://www.crazycreek.com/)
- We found a low-to-ground chair that folds up and comes with a small messenger bag.
- (http://travelchair.com/products/larry-chair-model-169)
- Backpack AND chair (storage space!!!)
- (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Stalwart-Folding-Stool-and-Backpack-Combo-in-Blue-80-4001B/205470284?cm_mmc=Shopping%7cTHD%7cG%7c0%7cG-BASE-PLA-D28I-InsideGardenOther%7c&gclid=CIuhxf7fpc8CFUNZhgod8PsOnQ&gclsrc=aw.ds)
- Foam chair with handles and backpacks
- (http://www.rakuten.com/prod/portable-reclining-seat-padded-cushion-camping-chair-backpack-beach/284864392.html?listingId=434967392&sclid=pla_google_BestChoiceProducts&adid=29963&gclid=CIuejoHnpc8CFcZbhgodBGsPVQ)
- (http://www.rakuten.com/prod/portable-reclining-seat-padded-cushion-camping-chair-backpack-beach/284864392.html?listingId=434967392&sclid=pla_google_BestChoiceProducts&adid=29963&gclid=CIuejoHnpc8CFcZbhgodBGsPVQ)
- We found a type of folding chair that involved two pieces of foam and a metal “kick stand” to prop up the back. It has a strap.
Post-Research Brainstorming:
- All made of fabric, with rigid frame for structure
- Keep the seat light, save the heaviness for the legs
- Thinking about all foam seat-portion (for weight and comfort)
- Secure latch for back of chair so that it won’t fall/ be unreliable
- Airplane seatbelt model for limited hand flexibility (one push release)
- If we can’t have built in straps, we could design a chair that becomes very compact and provide a bag to hold it
- Having the chair fold around a storage space (the backpack)
- Backpack with chair folding out from back
- Telescopic adjustment (also, using the metal push button and hole method for latching)
Main Points:
- Light
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Backpack sized
- Easy to carry
- Reliable legs
Key Questions:
- Where will we get the material/how much will it cost?
- How many features can we include in our design with it still functioning/staying true to our main points?
Questions for Priscilla:
- How often will this chair be with you? Hours/minutes? Or all day?
- What is the most important feature?
Responses:
- Must stay on body, very secure, no slipping
- Pouch for storing!!!!
- For activities like taking a walk, going to sporting events, etc (should be comfortable for hours)
- Airport seatbelt release is important, Priscilla would like to see that in a design
I think your idea for airplane-style straps is super cool! You might also want to think about how important back support is for the client (and if it is important how to keep the back of the seat upright).
I also like the airplane straps idea, and was wondering if these straps could be used for wearing the chair as a backpack. And would for the chair legs, how would you create a desired height for universal usage?
I also really like the airplane style buckle idea. Also, I like the idea of it being a backpack, since not only could it be convenient, but it also adds to the sporty look. Something to consider is how to design something that is also easy to get up from, especially since we are looking at a sit to stand chair design too. This could be a consideration in how solid/supportive the seat is.
I agree with Shivani about the buckle idea! It was such a great idea out of box that i never even considered! I like how it would reduce the amount of time the user has to spend putting it on and taking it off. I would only consider the effect of short legs on the users. It counterattack against the goal of conserving the users energy so maybe see if there’s a way to combine some of your ideas with Angela and Alex’s sit-to-stand device?
You have a lot of good details here (the foam seat, the buckle, the backpack) I think those are important and would be what sets apart your design from other chairs. The telescopic button thing, though, I know I have difficulties with them as I have really weak hands. I wonder if there is a more accessible method to adjust the size and length.