DBA Inclusive Design Challenge 2006
Highly Commended
Caddy / Wood&Wood Design
An affordable mainstream lifestyle product that combines the benefits of ‘granny trolleys’, mobility aids and roller suitcases without the aesthetic stigma of the first two.
Background
Nine percent of adults in the UK own some form of mobility aid but despite the large number available and the popularity of ‘granny trolleys’ among the elderly, few take into account the aspirations of younger consumers who might benefit from their functional qualities but are repelled by their attached stigma. Their potential in such new markets as the large numbers of people who work on the move remains unexplored.
How Does it Work?
The Caddy is a mobile case that can be pulled with one hand, or pushed with two and provides storage, support and seating, enabling use by people of all abilities. It has a rigid polymer outer shell, with all features and fixing points moulded in. A removable fabric case sits within the shell to form the storage compartment, and is accessible through the top from both front and back.
The pivoting rear leg frame and lockable castors allow the user to easily switch between the two and four-wheel modes. Large diameter wheels with integral axels and moulded rubber tyres help negotiate uneven terrain and small kerbs. They help reduce jarring and do not add extra weight.
Compression brakes engage when the user is in a seated position, avoiding the need for lever brakes, which are difficult for people with reduced grip.
A large curved handle allows different gripping and leaning options, with adjustment levers integrated into the form.
Made from a durable fabric laminate, the textile design of the internal case can be selected to suit personal tastes. The case has an expansion gusset to increase volume, and various internal compartments can be created for different needs. The seat platform rotates upwards to reveal a small compartment for personal items, and locks in place to secure the internal case within the outer shell.
User Input
The prototype was developed and tested with regular travellers of different ages with mobility impairments.
Results
Interest in the design concept has been shown by a major international luggage manufacturer.
Judge’s Comments
A stylish and practical new generation product with clever inclusive features that directly addresses the needs and aspirations of the younger market - disabled or otherwise. Caddy resolves one of the biggest issues for disabled people - the social acceptability of key items of equipment. The panel loved the depth of the research behind it and were unanimous in asking ‘Where can I buy one?’