Mano Amica

Part 1: Drawing key lessons

Some of the noteworthy tweaks in the final design include the following:

1. Adjustable height to cater to users with different heights. This is a very useful feature which allows the user to customize the height of the umbrella based on the user height. For instance, taller users will not have to constantly bend forward to check the front view and experience blocked view if the height of the umbrella can be adjusted.

2. Turning mechanism to adjust the arm and store the umbrella properly. This is especially useful because it avoids the hassle of the user having to constantly remove and reattach the umbrella to the arm whenever the umbrella is not in use or in use. It serves as a storage umbrella holder for mobility devices.

Since the prototype comprises small components such as pins and screws to hold the joints together, it would be nice if a small compartment can be incorporated to the design to hold these small components. Alternatively, the team can consider attaching one end of a string around each small component and attach the other end to the arm so that the user does not lose them easily. The size of the pins, screws and holes can also be made larger so that it is easier for the elderly to see and insert the pins and screws into the holes.

Part 2: Exploring Possibilities

Happy umbrella holder

https://www.thegoldenconcepts.com/products/umbrella-holder

Brella buddy

https://www.newdisability.com/wheelchairumbrella.htm

The team can consider different environmental conditions such as during night time when visibility is poor. Perhaps incorporating a torch light to the arm may help improve visibility at night. Another possible direction could be introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the arm to alert the user in advance whether there is an incoming rain cloud heading their direction and/or advise the user on the latest weather conditions. This is to provide sufficient lead time for the user to deploy the umbrella.