Helen Hamlyn Design Awards 2011
Joint Winner
Patrick Hyland: RCA Innovation Design Engineering
Synergise
A hand-operated mechanical system that allows wheelchair users to negotiate angled and cambered surfaces, which adversely affect wheelchair propulsion, with greater ease and control. Synergise uses a simple ratchet system and can be retrofitted inexpensively to many existing wheelchairs.
Judge's comment:
“An elegant and eminently practical analysis and solution to a much neglected problem." Prof James Goodwin, Age UK
Joint Winner
Samuel Jewell: RCA Innovation Design Engineering
AudioWeb
Online we exploit colour, images, video and animations to communicate, often excluding people with low vision. Instead they are limited to a single voice reading the page from top to bottom. AudioWeb uses different voices and sound effects to make their experience of the internet as easy, fun and meaningful as it is for the sighted.
Judge's comment:
“This addresses an issue of increasing importance in an ageing population - it enables the visually impaired community to handle everyday life more easily." Prof James Goodwin, Age UK
Age UK
Age UK works to improve later life for everyone by providing life-enhancing services and vital support. It was established in April 2009 through the merger of Age Concern England and Help the Aged.
