CATHETER FASTENING DEVICE
product design
H15 x W50 x D60
3D-printed PLA plastic
Estonian Academy of Arts
Collaboration with Linda-Maria Varris & Henry Markus Gregory
Mentor: Mihkel-Emil Mikk
Client: Daniel Kotsjuba
Estonia 2022
task
Create a solution that would help people in wheelchairs with urinary catheters easily open and close it's flow, while keeping in mind the limited mobility of the user.
value
The catheter fastening device requires only minimal pressure and no detailed movements to operate, therefore allowing a user with less mobility use it with ease while reducing the user's dependence on other people. Regulating the flow in the catheter is a big step towards restoring the bladder’s regular function.
awards
Grand Prix: Life Changing Design - Estonian Design Awards 2022
BRUNO: Best Engineering Product - Estonian Design Awards 2022
CONTEXT
Many wheelchair users who are paralyzed from the waist down rely on urinary catheters. The catheter's flow needs to be regulated in order to have the best possibility in restoring the bladders function. This requires using a "switch" on the catheter. Currently existing switches, however, are difficult to operate - especially for those with limited hand mobility. They are often flimsy, cumbersome, and not designed with accessibility in mind.
This challenge sparked the idea of creating a switch that requires only minimal pressure and no detailed movements to function, allowing wheelchair users to be in independent in operating the catheter.
DESIGN
The switch clips onto the catheter and closes easily while pressed on with a fist or palm. The "tunnel" for the catheter holds it in place even when the switch is open to let the fluid flow through. This means that there is no way for the switch to come loose and get lost between clothes. The height of the switch allows users to easily locate the pressing point visually or by touch, while not being too visible to others.
MATERIALS AND BUILD
The device is made from three parts, all of which are 3D-printed. This makes the design easily accessible to a wide audience, while also being very precise and quickly assembled. Printing the button creates very little waste, which can also be reused. 3D-printing also minimizes production costs.
AWARDS
Grand Prix: Life Changing Design - Estonian Design Awards 2022
BRUNO: Best Engineering Product - Estonian Design Awards 2022
