Initial Ideation Phase
Based on the results found during the initial interview and the diary the co-designer used to track her daily struggles, different concept directions were established. To help her walk longer distances the idea of a walking stick/chair was ideated and a shoe with springs in the sole to help her lift her foot . Multiple versions of an adapted bike pedal were designed to address the issue of her foot slipping of the bike pedal. Joanne also mentioned issues regarding precise tasks with her fingertips, for example putting on a belt or a keyboard mat which could help her typing on a laptop.
Codesign Results
The second and third interview were mainly co-design sessions.
In interview two, Joanne was asked to evaluate the primary concept directions that were set up. She was the most interested in the three concepts that addressed her struggles related to walking, mobility and independence. She provided useful comments and ideas that were incorporated in the three chosen concept directions. These concepts will be discussed next.
Concept directions
Umbrella cane
The first concept consist of a cane, which can be transformed into a stool to provide a resting opportunity when on a walk. Out of the different idea alterations this was the most preferred design of the stick/chair by Joanne, because it appears more as an umbrella than a mobility aided product. Although she noted that her preference would be for the seat to be higher, so she can be more on eye-level with other people while sitting.
While finding a solution for the mechanism it was important that it would secure the poles in place, while used as a cane. This will be achieved with the mechanism shown on the left. It consist of a button on the bottom (3), which will move the tapered part (2) up when pushed . This will allow the pin (4) to move inward, so the pole (attached with a bolt) moves in its place. Directly after the pins spring back in position and the poles are locked in place. As of now the stool is folded up and can continue as a cane.
Chosen Concept
The walking cane was chosen as the best concept, because Joanne showed the most affection with it, the design is feasible to make and it fits the list of requirements the best.
During the co-design session some feedback was received to further improve during the concept development phase:
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Different types of handlebars should be considered, Joanne prefers a more vertical stance, because it looks less like it is made for the elderly.
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A moving handle should be considered.
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The handle should look modern and active. Again, it should be a subtle design.
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The cane should have a height between the 100 and 105 cm. This is the height of her current cane and is perfect, according to Joanne.
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The seating height should be no less than the normal height of a dining chair, approximately 50-60 cm.
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The materials and colours of the product should be natural and blend into the environment; colours just as green and brown, and wooden materials should be used.
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In the design of the feet for the cane, the unstable forest floor should be considered.
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A system for adjustability of the height of the cane and seat should be considered.​