<aside> ⭐ DP4 focused on aiding a member of the community, specifically a client suffering from progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) who has difficulty applying earring backings. Our team created a device to solve this issue and provide independence as there currently is no device on the market to combat this issue.
</aside>
The BackingBuddy project successfully addresses the need of an individual client by improving mobility to aid a user in holding, applying, and removing ear backings comfortably. BackingBuddy provides individuals with independence and security through a low-cost safe solution.
This design project required us to help a member of the community suffering from progressive multiple sclerosis. From the start of this project, we wanted to work closely with our clients to make the best possible device that they would actually want to use.
Initial brainstorming took a significant portion of the time allotted for this project and involved coming up with all sorts of ideas to achieve the desired objectives. We explored various solutions including a mechanism that would pinch the earing around the ear.
Initial ‘pinching’ concept to attach earing
Initial handle design and design to hold backer
<aside> <img src="/icons/checkmark-line_green.svg" alt="/icons/checkmark-line_green.svg" width="40px" /> Multiple components including the material choice and ergonomic handle carried through to the final design
</aside>
<aside> <img src="/icons/close_red.svg" alt="/icons/close_red.svg" width="40px" /> The pinching mechanism was dangerous and could lead to accidental punctures, so safer alternatives were pursued
</aside>
Upon reflection, alternative safer mechanisms to hold and dispense the earring backer were proposed.
Handle ergonomic considerations
Earring holder and handle concept
<aside> <img src="/icons/checkmark-line_green.svg" alt="/icons/checkmark-line_green.svg" width="40px" /> The handle is ergonomic, functions well, properly maintains the backing pressure, and is easy to use
</aside>
<aside> <img src="/icons/close_red.svg" alt="/icons/close_red.svg" width="40px" /> The location of the button was still in question. The ergonomics of the device could cause the earring backing to come out too early if the button is accidentally pressed
</aside>
After deciding on a final concept, we began prototyping preliminary concepts to test the feasibility of our design. Initial prototypes involved testing the scales of handles with materials available to us like toothbrushes and cardboard