Search launched for product design ideas which push back the limits of arthritis

Arthritis Research UK is once again partnering with the Design Council to find innovative product design ideas that offer practical solutions to the challenges of living with arthritis.Design Council Spark is a support programme and fund designed to help people turn their idea into a commercially successful product. We're specifically looking for applications from people with a good idea that will help people with arthritis live better.Successful designers will receive£15,000 for initial product development, as well as a place on the Design Council 16-week programme providing expertise and one-to-one mentoring.Following the initial intensive programme, the entrants who can demonstrate a clear commercial solution that will help people living with arthritis, will be given the opportunity to pitch their idea for a further£50,000 with ongoing support. A maximum of three shortlisted projects will be funded by us, with at least one project receiving a share of up to£50,000.This year's winners In 2016, Handy-Fasteners, the brain-child of three Sheffield University graduates won this category (demonstrated in the image above by co-designer Matthew Barrett). The magnetic clothes fasteners can be retrofitted to existing garments, replacing fiddly buttons, and will make getting dressed independently much easier. The team of designers will now receive funding to bring their product to life, with a view to getting it on the shelves soon.Ezi-Plug, a fresh take on the dome...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news