Para qué sirve
Free Walk tackles traditional crutch issues: restricted hands, limited movement, and dual-leg pain from extended use. Our design, featuring an crank system is stable, hands-free walking, help for more comfortable daily life.
Qué te inspiró
When I injured my ankle, I had to use crutches. It was a really painful experience. I felt pain in my armpits and forearms whenever I used them, and walking was difficult. The injured area also hurt every time it touched the ground. I carefully noted all the discomforts I felt, and this led me to think about improvements. That's how I came up with the idea for Free Walk. I thought deeply about how to walk more comfortably without irritating the injured area. To find a better solution, I studied ergonomics and built up a strong knowledge base. This personal struggle and my research directly inspired the design of Free Walk.
Cómo funciona
The core of Free Walk is its crank. This crank has a ratchet structure, allowing it to rotate based on tension. Free Walk operates in two main ways: 1. When stationary, and 2. When moving. When you wear Free Walk and step on the ground, the upward force pushes down on the connection point at the calf. This causes a Y-shaped structure to extend as it receives the downward pressure. At this moment, the crank is pushed inward, compressing a spring. As the spring gets compressed, its tension becomes stronger. When you step down, this increased tension prevents the ratchet from rotating.
Proceso de diseño
To bring our ideas to life, we conducted various experiments and created prototypes. The development process followed these steps: Workflow: Brainstorming: We explored initial concepts and various possibilities. Structural Analysis: We designed the basic framework and operational mechanism of the product. Human Body Analysis: We thoroughly analyzed human anatomy to find the most comfortable and efficient wearing method, collecting and applying extensive ergonomic data. 3D Modeling: We precisely materialized our designs and structures on computers. Human CAD: We applied the 3D models to virtual human models to identify and fix potential issues before physical production. 3D Print Output: We produced initial prototypes by transforming virtual models into physical forms. Human Wear Test: We tested the prototypes on real users to identify problems and find areas for improvement.
Qué lo hace diferente
We developed Free Walk by focusing on a unique differentiator in our crank system. A key advantage of Free Walk is its use of the rear thigh as the main pivot point, allowing for angle adjustment based on knee movement. This design ensures users feel very comfortable and experience no joint pain, which is a significant benefit. Our originality has been recognized, leading to a patent application in South Korea. While some similar concepts exist in the market, most were either not released or were crutches requiring users to bend their knees, causing discomfort. Free Walk stands out significantly from these existing products by prioritizing user comfort and functionality.
Planes para el futuro
1. Technology & Optimization: We'll enhance prototype comfort, stability, and durability using user feedback, boosting crank mechanism precision and strength. 2. Clinical Testing: We'll conduct tests for medical device certification, proving Free Walk's safety and effectiveness to build trust. 3. Design & User Experience: We're developing an aesthetic, user-friendly design for comfortable daily wear, with lightweight materials a key focus. 4. Market Entry & Marketing: We'll analyze global markets to plan effective entry strategies and promote Free Walk's innovation and value through diverse channels.
Premios
1. Silver Prize (Commissioner of KIPO Award): Korea Invention Patent Exhibition 2. Idea Prize: International Busan Design Award 3. Special Prize: Creative Idea Invention & Design Competition 4. Finalist: PIN UP Concept Design Award 5. Patent Registration: Patent No. 10-2496198
Compartir esta página en