Design a Carrying Device for People Using Crutches
People on crutches have their hands occupied, making it a challenge to carry books and items they need.Copyright 2013 Thomas Oliva, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Students are given a biomedical engineering challenge, which they solve while following the steps of the engineering design process. In a design lab environment, student groups design, create and test prototype devices that help people using crutches carry things, such as books and school supplies. The assistive devices must meet a list of constraints, including a device weight limit and minimum load capacity. Students use various hand and power tools to fabricate the devices. They test the practicality of their designs by loading them with objects and then using the modified crutches in the school hallways and classrooms.
Engineers continually solve problems and devise creative solutions during the course of their careers. What kinds of problems? Are they the people who design smartphones, flat screen televisions and electric engines for automobiles? Yes—all that and more! For example, people are living more productive and longer lives today because of the work of biomedical engineers who develop assistive technologies, such as wheelchairs, contact lenses, eye surgery laser equipment, replacement limbs, diagnostic testing equipment, medicines and all sorts of new medical technologies.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Solve an open-ended design problem.
- Use the engineering design process to solve a problem.
- Develop multiple solutions to a design problem.