We wanted to work on a prototype to solve the problem as soon as possible but we were worried that we might make some mistakes. Hence, we consulted our teachers, parents and even grandparents to gather constructive feedback and insightful analysis on our product. Additionally, we created a visual representation of what we wanted to achieve for our final prototype.
The visual representation of our final idea: the base on the bottom is large and that there is a adjustable height for the walking cane.
As for the handles, the idea was that it should be adjustable from a folded position to a open position for the elderly to hold onto
After numerous trials of discussing about the cane design, we finalized on one that seemed good.
Thereafter, we headed to Maker's Academy and put on our thinking caps on to make our prototype. First, we listed out the different parts required to make the cane. Then, we divided ourselves into smaller groups and started to work on the specific parts.
Some of us also brought materials from home to Maker's Academy to add on to the prototype.
During the making of our prototype, we faced many challenges.
1. As for the handles, we initially had three designs that we tried to make work, however, the idea of a fold-able handle that could retract and support an elderly's weight was difficult to make. Therefore, we had to change our handle design to a rotating one where the handles can rotate to form a two-handle position.
2. As for the retractable rod, it was successful as we bought it from Daiso Japan to avoid complications making it.
3. As for the base, we only managed to find out that there weren't tools available to bend the acrylic base to a more 3D look, hence we had to look for alternatives such as rubber to make our base more stable.
Furthermore, many segments of the cane were falling apart when we tried to assemble them together. This was because the glue was not strong enough and inaccurate measurements and hence, we had to re-make them. This was very disheartening but we tried our best to make it work. Instead of just putting it off and leaving it as it is, we looked for alternatives in our materials to fix the issue.
Additionally, our team formed two groups and each group made a handle and a base for our product. Through intensive discussions and analysis, we have chosen one of each and came to an agreement for our product's parts. A fun fact about our base is it can be detached and switched to other bases simply by screwing and unscrewing.
Eventually, we succeeded and produced the ideal prototype we wanted.
This prototype consists of a large stable base with rotating handles to make the cane two handed, they are joined by a retractable rod that adjusts the height of the walking cane. Topping it off is a squishy stress ball that helps elderly with muscle tension.
With our prototype done, we now move on to our improvement phase, where we will test it with the people in the community.
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