Milestone 1.1 - Customers
DriveFree is designed for individuals and organizations seeking an innovative, cost-effective solution for adaptive driving. Our primary customer base includes:
Amputees and Individuals with Limb Differences: Those with upper-limb amputations, whether from injury, medical conditions, or congenital limb differences.
Rehabilitation & Healthcare Providers: Occupational therapists, prosthetists, and rehabilitation centers looking for accessible prosthetic solutions for patients who wish to retain their independence and ability to drive.
Veteran and Disability Support Organizations: Groups who assist injured veterans and individuals with disabilities in regaining mobility and autonomy.
Adaptive Driving Programs & Automotive Industry: Driving schools, assistive technology firms, and mobility solution providers interested in more cost-effective and accessible solutions.
Milestone 1.2 - Needs
Functionality & Performance:
Must offer a secure grip and control over the steering wheel.
Simple to wear without additional tools or assistance.
Allow for safe and precise steering operations.
Comfort & Fit:
Offer comfortable fit and adjustable sizing for different users.
Designed for prolonged use without causing fatigue.
Ergonomic hand and finger positioning for reduced strain and fatigue.
Durability:
Strong and durable construction for withstanding daily use.
Fail-safe mechanisms to prevent loosening or detachment while driving.
Cost Effectiveness:
More cost-effective than vehicle modifications or other prosthetics available in the market.
Will require no vehicle modifications, "plug and play" concept.
Potential for reimbursement or assistance programs through healthcare.
User Independence:
No license restrictions required.
Universal use across all vehicles makes and models.
Offers users confidence and autonomy in their mobility.
Milestone 1.3 - Requirements
The prosthetic must have a high-friction, non-slip gripping surface to maintain a firm hold on the steering wheel.
The device must be easy to put on and take off within 30 seconds, with a simple locking mechanism.
The hand should allow for articulation to allow controlled steering movement without excessive force.
The prosthetic must have interchangeable or adjustable components to fit various limb sizes.
The total weight must be under 1.5 lbs to prevent fatigue during extended use.
The design should provide natural wrist alignment to prevent strain over long periods of driving.
A secondary locking mechanism should prevent accidental detachment while in use.
The total cost should be at least 25-50% cheaper than common vehicle modification solutions.
The prosthetic must be compatible with standard steering wheels without requiring additional modifications.
The design should comply with medical device classifications to qualify for insurance coverage.
The device should allow users to meet state and federal driving requirements without needing a restricted license.
The prosthetic must be compatible with at least 90% of commercially available vehicles.
Milestone 1.4 - Needs/Requirements Mapping