8 weeks
Individual Project
Fall 2020
Individual Project
Fall 2020
Collaboration: Reto Togni
(innovative wheelchair system developer)
(innovative wheelchair system developer)
Many adaptive sports exist in the Paralympic Games, yet figure skating is not one of them due to the limitations of current wheelchair designs on ice. This project explored how to design a wheelchair that enables athletes with physical disabilities to perform figure skating movements with improved control, speed, and elegance on the ice rink.
How can we implement a mechanism that allows wheelchair users to glide and maneuver effectively on ice to enhance performance in figure skating?
Methods:
Research into wheelchair sports and ice-skating mechanics
Study of movement patterns and turning radii on ice
Prototyping and CAD modelling for structural innovation
Ergonomics and aesthetics development to balance performance and style
Solution
Ic’lhouette is a lightweight, sporty wheelchair designed specifically for ice skating. Key features include:
Innovative gliding mechanism adapted from Reto Togni’s wheelchair system for smoother, more controlled sliding on ice.
Lightweight, aerodynamic frame for agility and reduced resistance.
Sport-inspired aesthetics for a sleek, competitive look that aligns with figure skating’s elegance.
Impact
Introduced a new adaptive sports concept for non-Paralympic activities.
Expanded the potential of existing wheelchair innovations into new recreational and competitive contexts.
Improved performance possibilities for adaptive athletes in figure skating arenas.
This project allowed me to merge inclusive design principles with sports innovation, pushing the boundaries of adaptive equipment design. It also taught me how to translate mechanical systems from one context into a completely different use case, while keeping user experience central.
