DBA Inclusive Design Challenge 2010
Move is a transitional surface 'futures' concept utilizing new and emerging morphing, material and power technologies to help shape the way we use and interact with our surroundings.
How it works
Surfaces play an integral part in all our lives. How can we make these surfaces more helpful and adaptive to our needs? MOVE is an adaptive surface for eating, socialising, travelling, working and independent living. The top surface uses morphing and shape identification technology to recognise the shapes of objects placed on it, changing shape around them for grip, way-finding and stability. This function is inspired by emerging technologies where small particles or liquid crystals can be manipulated or moved to change shape using electrical current, heat or light.
The bottom of MOVE uses nano-fibre technology where millions of minute fibres when charged with current, become rigid and stick to anything. When the current is removed, the nano fibres relax and MOVE is freed and ready for the next application. The surface is powered by a wireless hub located in close proximity, which sends a power signal to individual or multiple units without the need for constant charging and the clutter of power cables.
As the core technologies become commercialised, low-cost, low-weight versions of MOVE could be available for medical settings, domestic surfaces, and commercial applications within ten to fifteen years.
User input
What the designer said:
‘We aspired to create an experience, which stretches across multiple scenarios working as well for travellers and parents as it does for those with dexterity issues or other impairments. With mentoring from the HHC, access to user groups and Sanctuary Care schemes, we observed first hand how surfaces could be unforgiving and frustrating. Our research inspired lateral thinking about how we could create an adaptive surface that 'helped'. Further research visits enabled us to verify concept developments through iterative and interactive sessions with residents. The brief challenged us to think seriously about issues which impact all our lives - often commercial briefs don't allow us to think through the entire spectrum of solutions, generally requiring you to 'solve' only a specific problem. The whole team has thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Additionally the PR activities coordinated by the HHC and DBA, concerning 'active aging', are engaging with the design community in a creative and inclusive way, fostering open forums for inter agency conversations - again, something rare in our industry.'
What the judges said:
‘A bold first step from assistive to adaptive technology and an imaginative exploration of how new technology has the potential to work within the care home context but also go beyond that to everyday applications. Move presented an alternative vision of how basic problems could be eradicated through shape recognition technology and gestural control thereby promoting autonomy, reducing frustration and maintaining dignity and for those with dexterity issues.'
