2026-27 Design Projects

Adaptive Grasping Aid

Many people with symbrachydactyly have difficulty grasping items. Pam and Anuja have asked us to develop a device that helps Anuja's son grasp a ski pole and other objects. It should hold items securely but release them when he falls or wants to let go.

Hybrid Wheelchair Attachments

Current joystick systems for the Yamaha NaviGo don't offer flexible, user-friendly ways to switch sides. Paige needs a dual-side joystick mount and possible armrest adaptations for her daughter's hybrid wheelchair, so the controls can easily move between the right side for community use and the left side for targeted therapy. Develop an adaptable arm extension and mounting system that allows quick transfer between right- and left-hand use.

Sensory Sleeve

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that limits motor control and can cause abnormal posture and involuntary, repetitive muscle contractions. Marcella from Transform Pediatrics wants us to create a sensory sleeve that uses vibration to help relax stiff muscles. The design should be lightweight, adjustable, and child-friendly, ideally using soft, expandable materials that grow with the child.

Prosthetic Attachment + O2 Bag

Current rollators lack maneuverability and comfort for users with prosthetic arms or limited shoulder mobility. Allison's father, an amputee who uses a prosthetic arm and a portable oxygen tank, experiences strain and difficulty steering his rollator. Develop an armrest and oxygen backpack attachment that improves comfort, balance, and accessibility while reducing shoulder pressure. It must allow one-arm operation and store oxygen securely without compromising mobility or posture.

Adapted Water Bottle Cap

Hands-free drinking solutions for wheelchair users are often expensive, fragile, and hard to maintain. Kenny from the Here and Now Project reached out looking for a better option. Develop an affordable, reliable, open-source cap that connects a Hydro Flask to a flexible gooseneck straw (e.g., Loc-Line), allowing independent drinking across different environments.

Power Soccer Adapted Footplates

Power soccer athletes need guards that secure their feet to their wheelchairs. Partnering with Jelena from the UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, we will design safer, custom-fit footplates for athletes using wheelchair guards during practice and gameplay. The design must be adaptable, secure, and safe.