‘Segons’ is a collection of products enabling individuals with cerebral palsy to eat liquid and semi-liquid foods independently through suction, with thermochromatic ink indicating the temperature of the contents.
Define the problem/need you are solving or addressing with your project. How does it address the Open Call criteria, such as environmental impact, social engagement, circularity, user experience, resource efficiency, and community-driven solutions?
Named after my cousin Julià, who has cerebral palsy due to oxygen deprivation at birth, ‘Segons’ aims to provide enhanced autonomy in feeding for those with severe movement limitations. By engaging directly with Julià throughout the design process, the project prioritizes user experience to create a solution tailored to his specific needs while reflecting the challenges faced by many others in similar situations. The innovation lies in addressing a gap in adaptive feeding products, focusing on enabling individuals who lack controlled movement to eat liquid and semi-liquid foods independently, thus making a significant impact on their daily lives.
Please describe your project, reflecting on the concept, inspiration, materials, technical aspects, methods and process(es).
The journey of developing ‘Segons’ encompassed various phases, beginning with simple mock-ups made from household items to advanced prototyping and 3D printing of the final collection. My research also explored thermochromatic inks, creating a visual cue for users about the food’s temperature. Throughout the design process, Julià actively participated in testing each prototype, ensuring that the final product met his specific needs and enhanced usability for individuals with similarly severe disabilities. This collaborative method not only informed the design but also fostered a deeper understanding of the real-life challenges faced by users, resulting in a product that empowers autonomy while prioritizing safety and comfort.
What do you think makes your project innovative compared to the existing efforts and ideas in the field it addresses?
While several products exist to assist individuals with cerebral palsy in feeding, most are designed for those who retain some movement capability. In contrast, the Segons collection is specifically tailored for users who cannot perform any controlled movements, utilizing suction for self-feeding. This approach represents a significant advancement in the field, making independence accessible for users with profound disabilities. Additionally, the integration of a thermochromatic graphic system provides real-time feedback on food temperature, enhancing safety and user understanding of the eating process. By addressing the specific limitations of this demographic and offering a design that fosters autonomy, Segons sets itself apart from existing solutions, making it truly innovative in promoting independence and dignity for users.
Does it impact or reflect young people need(s) and how?
The Segons collection is designed for all ages, particularly emphasizing its role in empowering young individuals with severe motor disabilities. By providing them with the means to feed themselves, the collection fosters a sense of autonomy and independence, counteracting the limitations imposed by their conditions. This empowerment helps young users realize their capabilities, reinforcing their self-esteem and motivation to engage with their surroundings. As they gain the power to perform a fundamental activity like eating independently, they experience a boost in confidence, ultimately fostering resilience and a sense of normalcy in their lives.
