Woogle Works News

Peekfreak Website Launched

2010-05-19T17:23:00.005+14:00

Peekfreak, a collaboration with Yann Huey to make our own pin-hole camera and photography style is up and running. Visit www.peekfreak.tumblr.com for full details.

2010-03-25T22:49:00.006+14:00

Peek Freak project

2010-01-31T07:17:00.009+14:00

The Peek Freak is a 'hole' project between Wai Lam from Woogle Works and Yann Huey. Although details are kept under wraps, the results of this industrial designer/experimental photographer collaboration will be officialy revealed on April 2010. A video teaser was launched at the recent Design Circus event at the Annexe to provide a sneak preview of what we are up to. The project's located at: www.peekfreak.tumblr.com

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2010-01-29T15:03:00.005+14:00

Design Circus Escapade : Bangkok

2009-10-18T20:07:00.017+14:00

In mid-October, I joined Design Circus' Escapade to Bangkok for 5 days of activity visiting Thai designers, forums, exhibitions and also the Bangkok Design Festival 09. Participants of the trip were related to the design industry and education. We also buried ourselves in dialogues debating a lot on Malaysian design education [while snacking on a healthy dose of Thai food]. The following are the places/people/activity/exhibitions we touched.

The Museum of Siam and it's designer designLAB. [Combining interactive design & interior design to make history accessible and engaging to the public]

Apostrophy'S [Techno architects fusing new media with interiors, concert performances, events, exhibitions and products. Pictured here is Gyrobot from a range of robot insects made from electronic trash recycled from used lifestyle gadgets. ]

Practical Studio ["I am Thai Graphic Designer": A Directory of 1000+ Thai Graphic Designers which took a year to compile]

Design Circus Conversations: Designer Sensibilities [A forum between Malaysian & Thai designers sharing thoughts on design definitions, meanings and influences]

The screening of Objectified [Something I missed. Objectified documents the process and development of some of the most prominent products. The film is also available for DVD purchase online]

Coming soon.... "So who went for the trip?"

Featured here are only a fraction of their diverse works, please visit their respective homepage for a full experience of their portfolio.

Designer Sensibilities

2009-10-17T05:15:00.013+14:00

Photo by Ebee

Woogle Works participated in a design forum hosted by Design Circus entitled "Designer Sensibilities". Located at King Mongkut University of Technology, Bangkok, the speakers comprised of WAWO (Thailand), Anuthin Wongsunkakon (Thailand), Joseph Foo (Malaysia) and myself.

"How designers roles are shifting in society from mere planners and designers to curators, managers, consultants and so forth. What does it mean to be a designer here in SE Asia now in a time of economic recession? And how are creative individuals adding currency to the growing creative economies? What problems might they be trying to solve?" +Design Circus

CONVERSATION DIRECTION

A big chunk of the conversations revolved around why we chose to work in our homeland as opposed to working in overseas design locations. Culture and surprisingly language were the inspiration & barriers. Here is a simplified breakdown of the pros and cons of working overseas as opposed to staying local:

Pros:
+ We provide an alternative way of seeing as a foreigner
+ Access to superior technology
+ Better chance of differentiating ourselves from the crowd
+ Exposure to a more active and dynamic design scene & trends

Cons:
+ Need to learn the local culture, tradition and lifestyle as a foreigner
+ Competing with their local designers who have lived through the above
+ Discrimination [?] Alienated
+ Risk losing touch with our national and cultural identity

A PERSONAL CONCLUSION : WHY AM I STILL IN MALAYSIA?

+ I draw inspiration from my culture, environment and identity to differentiate myself in the international design scene.

+ Malaysia has pretty impressive manufacturing resources of good quality and high technology. We don't really see their products because most of them end up overseas. If I can tap into this, the potential is massive.

+ Small creative collectives nurture each other.

+ I want to brand myself as a Malaysian designer. Working overseas means branding myself as a product of that country.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT TOWARDS THE CREATIVE ECONOMY

Government support towards the design industry is never enough or sometimes non-existant. Many other countries suffer the same problem [in varying degrees]. So why wait for things to happen? Every effort by every designer big or small to execute creative activities will jointly create accumulative change. Lack of funding is merely an excuse because as designers we should utilize our creativity to work around this problem. The design process is flexible enough to manipulate itself around financial, political and social constraints.

Photo by Ebee
Note: The contents of this article do not solely represent the content of the forum. Some were issues I was interested in discussing but did not get a chance to present due to the flow & direction of the dialogue. Many thanks to Design Circus and the Thais for organizing this exchange.

More: Cool Stuff we saw at Bangkok

News

2009-10-16T17:09:00.002+14:00

Recently joined Design Circus on a trip to Bangkok for an exclusive to meet Thai designers. It also coincides with the Bangkok Design Festival, and everyone who went was in the Malaysian design & education scene. An experience rich with visual delight and dialogue, looking forward to the next one. I have only been to three or four countries, and I think I complain too much about things not happening in Malaysia. Government doesn't really endorse it, so waiting for change is a waste of time. I need more self-initiative and persistance. Design Circus is really inspiring because their activities have the potential to create a stir in the Malaysian design scene.

Working on a lamp based on Mooncake Festival Lanterns. I asked around and it seems that most children enjoy seeing the lanterns catch fire more than playing with it as a lantern :)

I'm working with Kelvin to bring this to live. Chinese clogs : They just don't die.

Music Cones Magnetic Ear Phones

2009-02-11T04:25:00.008+14:00

Recently shortlisted entry in "Sound Innovations" headset design competition organized by Designboom.

Pecha Kucha Vol. 5

2008-11-25T03:13:00.003+14:00

Woogle Works gave a brief presentation on 20 minus 1 bizzarre products at the Pecha Kucha (presented by the British Council) in The Apartment Downtown KLCC. Seldom are products designed within a Malaysian context and my objective was to see how people respond to the way I approach this issue. Below are selected slides with explainations.

Slide No.1: Design to Revive Malaysian Craft

This mineral water bottle is shaped after the Labu Sayong. The adaptation of the Labu Sayong form is not purely aesthetic, because the distinct shape keeps water cooler for longer. There is also the popular believe that water from a Labu can cure cough and fever. Perhaps Spritzer or Aquarius can consider a concept like this for their bottled water packaging?

Slide No.2: Design to Reflect Local Contemporary Issues

Young adults are painting on DIY plastic toys as a popular form of expression. I would use this media to reflect contemporary issues: in this case the melamine poisoning scandal widespread in Asia. This vinyl figure is decorated with graphics from the White Rabbit sweet wrapper. White Rabbit sweet, one of my favourite sweets, was one of the first products to be announced as containing excessive melamine content. Melamine is a plastic resin used in the manufacture of high-temperature resistant spoons, plates, bowls and chopsticks. Please put plastic into our toys instead of our food.

Slide No.3: Complimenting Current Tech with Old Tech

In a room that contains you and your electric fan, when is it the hottest? When there is a power failure! The fan blades of this electric fan is removable, to be used as not one, but two hand fans. This is a case of complimenting current technology with old technology in a single product.

Slide No.10: Design to Preserve A Race

These are a pair of stereo music headphones inspired by the long ear lobes of the Penans from Sarawak. Their way of live is slowly disappearing in the name of development. It is my hope that by manifesting their infamous long ear lobes in the form of a 'pop' product, the younger generation will be aware of this problem (and in the long run, take action to protect this heritage).

Slide No. 9: Design for Cultural Identity

This is a foldable keris. One of the characteristics of a keris is the angled hilt. By twisting a pair of angled cylinders (which also function to conceal the blade when folded), the same character is maintained. The angled hilt is meant to provide support to the wrist in a stabbing strike.

Slide No.8: Design for Religion

Since I was young, my mother always have me carry a Chinese Protecting Talisman everywhere I go (including government exams). Until now, I still carry a Talisman in my car for protection against road accidents. Integrating it into my road tax would be convenient and perhaps different versions can be customized for different religions.

Slide No.20: Thank you

The final slide is dedicated to ALL these people who contributed, supported and motivated me for the past 2 years. Artist, writers, publishers, performers, directors, designers, engineers, clients, The British Council, (some) family members and my cats. It's these friends (and felines) who fuel me to keep doing what Woogle Works do. After Pecha Kucha, confidence is high and design direction is clear. But the bussiness model is still vague and network is loose. The day these two elements gel will be the day Woogle Works products make it into (some) peoples' lives. A realistic possibility or impossible fantasy? You tell me.

Bombay Sapphire Project

2008-10-09T05:35:00.022+14:00

Bombay Sapphire is synonymous with art & design collaborations. I was invited to design a martini glass for the Bombay Sapphire Celebrity Glass Exhibition.

The 'Emperor's Drink' is a fusion of east and west, inspired by the drinking bowl of ancient Chinese times. The bowl, representing the eastern element, would be served covered with a lid, keeping the drink pure, never contaminated by external elements. A cone-shaped cup, representing the western element, rests inside the bowl to contain the drink. The lid itself uniquely suspends an olive on the liquid. The entire ritual suggests the consumption of the beverage as a quality valuable experience.

The Emperor's Drink was exhibited with five glasses by:
Eugene Low (Bombshelter Studios), DJ Goldfish, Marion Rose Caunter (Channel [V] VJ, Khoon Hooi (fashion designer) and Karim Rashid.

Photos from the exhibition launch:

The exhibition space.

The first prototype of the Emperor's Drink.

Entry by DJ Goldfish, (Celebrity DJ) & Eugene Low, Bombshelter Studios, (design house).

Entry from Khoon Hooi (Fashion Designer) & Marion Rose Caunter, Channel (V) VJ.

Free-flow Bombay Sapphire (how many glasses can you take?)

Thanks to Eugene and Amir for this eye-opening collaboration.

Inclusive Design Challenge 2008

2008-09-09T05:40:00.000+14:00

I was fortunate enough to be granted the opportunity to travel to the 2008 Inclusive Design Challenge in Hong Kong (thanks to British Council Malaysia). This is a design competition whereby designers from different countries are put together to form 6 teams. Every team was paired with a design partner who is also a disabled user. The brief was to design a creative solution (not limited to products, it could even be a graphic campaign) based on the theme “Independant Urban Lives”. All within 48 hours. The team which collected the most votes at the end of a public presentation wins.

Click here for for the full diary of IDC Hong Kong 08

Click here for the final product design

Infiniti Design Diary

2008-09-08T22:33:00.017+14:00

The people behind the Infiniti, Team 5: Matt Wright (design mentor) , Wang Tsunho, Shin Yoo-kyung, Ransome Chua, Wong Wai Lam (myself), Chung Ji Hyun, Holly Yu and Darren D'Cruz.
Thank you all for a wonderful experience. Your signatures on my certificate will be the most treasured souvenir from Hong Kong.

After that, it was party time at the home of Ruth Gee, Director of British Council Hong Kong, sipping red wine while overlooking one of the most beautiful view of Hong Kong.
Then, it was showtime! Click here to view the slideshow of our presentation.

Darren and Ransome rehearsing for the public presentation...

The final design on the user.

(Almost) 48 sleepless hours. Starbucks coffee fueled us throughout the challenge.
Shin, thinking hard.... working hard....

The final design. Above is the design detail which allowed ambient sound to enter even when the speaker is in use.

Occasionally, we had language barriers to overcome, but drawings like these helped communicate ideas across.

The final design direction... inspired by a twisting form which wraps around the user. Wrapping is a symbol of care and protection.

... after which we agreed on one design direction: a voice activated blue-tooth accessory which provides audio navigation and content. GPS maps and lifestyle content are already available on existing mobile phone services, this is just changing the media from visual text and graphics to audio information. The team agreed on using a bluetooth headset, however, the challenge was how to enable ambient sound from the environment to reach Jason and Tam while the information is being relayed.

The next morning started with a war of ideas... this is Chung pitching her idea for children education to raise awareness and instill better treatment to the visual impaired. (Above) Check the the three-legged cane sketch I did. It was a dumb idea, but we all had a good laugh!

Back at the studio at 5pm, and it was brainstorm time.

Tam had a hard time looking for directions to the toilet in the mall. Meanwhile, Jason was equally helpless when dealing with the ignorant waitress at Mcdonalds. However, he was able to navigate to the eatery, guided by the smell of french fries!

We joined Jason and Tam on a field trip to the streets of Hong Kong to observe how they navigated around. Taking notes, videos and photos of their movement, behaviour and surroundings.
Jason is almost 100% visually impaired and Tam has blurred centre vision. When he was a child, he had a habit of staring into bright light sources, causing his sight to deteriorate.
Our Design Partners Tam and Jason who are visually impaired.

I was fortunate enough to be granted the opportunity to travel to the 2008 Inclusive Design Challenge in Hong Kong (thanks to British Council Malaysia). This is a design competition whereby designers from different countries are put together to form 6 teams. Every team was paired with a design partner who is also a disabled user. The brief was to design a creative solution (not limited to products, it could even be a graphic campaign) based on the theme “Independant Urban Lives”. All within 48 hours. The team which collected the most votes at the end of a public presentation wins.

*Some images have been reproduced to aid explaination of events

Designing in a local context

2008-08-13T04:40:00.013+14:00

Made in Malaysia. Malaysian design. This has been implemented successfully in the area of architecture with buildings by Ken Yeang seemingly growing in natural harmony to co-exist with the local environment. But can the same be said in the area of local product design? In doing so, what are the questions I need to ask myself? What is Malaysian?

.Malaysian environment?
.Malaysian people?
.Malaysian geography?

In a more abstract context:
.Malaysian politics?
.Malaysian history?
.Malaysian economy?

These 6 categories can be further expanded into:
.Malaysian environment: weather, humidity, temperature, air quality
.Malaysian people: race, religion, physical attributes
.Malaysian geography: soil, terrain, urban, rural and natural landscape, natural materials
.Malaysian politics: expression and limitation
.Malaysian history: culture, social origin, legends and folklore, food culture

These individual points are very general, quite obviously reflected in Malaysian architecture, interior design and graphic design. However, I find them opening a new perspective when they are to be considered when designing a product. Are we using the products we use because it fulfills the 6 categories or is it because it is the global trend to use them? As conflicting as it may sound, although design needs freedom to be creative, it needs restrictions to localize it. Otherwise, I may end up adding to the already-saturated market of globalized products.

Pointing Stick

2008-02-16T20:17:00.000+14:00

Pointing cane 3d realization. This is a follow up from the 'Cane for the Blind' project.
There are actually different categories of cane:

+ Long cane
+ Kiddie cane
+ Support cane
+ Identification cane

The pointing cane belongs to the Long Cane category, designed primarily as a mobility tool used to feel for obstacles.
It is an extension of the user's hand/finger, so rather than having a round nylon tip, how about a 'pointing finger'.

Here is a brainstorm sketch for the cane. The handle is angled so that there is less stress on the user's wrist. The tip of the cane is interchangeable: with a "pointing finger" or a "feeling hand".

This is a project involving the design of a cane for the blind navigator. Look out for details.

How it went at Love and Money

2007-06-28T23:00:00.000+14:00

The talk at Love and Money [for me] went "OK". The presentation started with about 10 people, but by the end of my presentation the place was full [much to my surprise]. I was surprised to see former classmates, met new faces and established some much useful contacts. Hope to get the opportunity to speak more about my work and meet more people in events like these. I really have Sunitha and Patriana from the British Council to thank for. Preparation was more work than I anticipated but it was a good chance to reflect on my past projects.

I also managed to sit in the talks by Stephen Lau and Morag Myerscough [which was very inspirational]. They reminded me that I am not the only designer struggling to balance making a living and doing what I want. But the results they produce really makes me wanna go back to the studio and pour more effort and really make the projects happen. Pity I couldn't join Pecha Kucha [a chit-chat between designers] because I had something on with my wife that night.

Woogle Works will be at Love & Money

2007-06-08T04:03:00.001+14:00

I have been invited by the British Council to give a short talk on the topic Love & Money.
The talk will be a simple experience into my diary of design activities from my day job at IRIS to my nights spent on Woogle Works.

Rapid Prototype process

2007-04-02T21:08:00.000+14:00

Attached below is a video courtesy of Motorola explaining the Rapid Prototyping process. A process similarly used in the fabrication of the first mouth artist prototype. There are specialized workshops providing similar services in Malaysia. Oh yeah, and Woogle has a logo too!

Educational puppets

2007-04-02T10:00:00.000+14:00

These are 3 characters I am developing for a special puppet project.

From top: The blind, the deaf and the wheelchair user.

The puppets could be used to educate children with disabilities to demonstrate skills they could learn to become more dependant ang to teach them regarding the dangers and obstacles around the environment. It could also function as a medium of story telling for children to express themselves.

The blind character is especially challenging! How could I enable blind children to communicate with him?

Mouth Artist 2 : 3d detail

2007-03-02T13:00:00.000+14:00

Mouth Artist 3d development.... the holder is spring loaded, biting it aligns the holes from the two cyclindrical structures to release the brush; releasing your bite will prompt the spring to push the smaller cylinder back up, clipping the brush in between.

Mouth Artist 2 : 3d part 2

2007-03-02T12:00:00.000+14:00

Mouth Artist development in 3d.

Mouth Artist 2

2007-03-02T11:00:00.000+14:00

This sketch is a preliminary idea to solve a problem posed by Fahmi regarding the versatility of the Mouth Artist: How does the user (without hands) change drawing tools? The solution has a mouth operated holder, which releases the pen, pencil, etc. when pressed/bitten. The holder is located at the side of the mouth piece for more convenient access because the previous location would be too awkward to reach by mouth. The pen, pencil, brush, etc. is angled so that the tip of the pen, pencil, brush, etc. is not offset too far from the users' mouth.

Single Hand Cycling: Hooked

2007-02-02T19:53:00.000+14:00

More views of the product. I call it Hooked. Hoping to inspire people with limb disabilities to get hooked on the sport of cycling. Also because of the hanging hook accessory and hook-shaped handlebar.

Single Hand Cycling Concept

2007-02-02T14:00:00.000+14:00

How it would look like on a bicycle.

Single Hand Cycling

2007-02-02T13:00:00.000+14:00

A C-shaped extension is used. The left open end enable easy mounting of components like brake levers, hand grips and gear shifters. A hook is added as an optional accessory, for hanging groceries, etc.

Single Hand Cycling Concept

2007-02-02T12:00:00.000+14:00

Instead of redesigning the entire bicycle, I worked on developing only a new steering system to solve the problem.

Preliminary sketch: hand grip is moved to the centre for better balance.

Exploration of single L-shaped extension to enable easy mounting of brake levers. Gear mounting/use will be difficult because most systems are right/left hand specific for operation of front and rear derailleurs/gears: eg. right hand operates rear gears & left hand operates rear gears. Possible solutions include using a gear hub which works like an automatic transmission.

Cycling with one hand

2007-02-02T11:00:00.000+14:00

This project I am experimenting on involves innovating a solution to enable safe single-hand cycling. Difficulties in doing so on existing bicycles: Difficult to get on/mount (at correct saddle height), lost of balance in bumpy terrain, lost of balance during high speed cornering).

Design for Disability Competition

2007-01-11T23:43:00.000+14:00

I'm currently trying to organize a design competition to promote better product design for people with disabilities. Hope this will be a catalyst to get more designers interested in this challenging area. All the mentioned judges are confirmed! They are industry leaders in their respective field which makes it all the more exciting. In the process of preparing a full proposal to seek a co-organizer and.or sponsor for the event. Plans are also hatching to include an exhibition to showcase winning and selected entries. This will also be a platform for designers to mingle and exchange ideas.

Please be reminded that this is still WORK-IN-PROGRESS.

Sand Box

2007-01-03T13:00:00.000+14:00

A box which listens? ...

Sand Box

2007-01-03T12:00:00.000+14:00

...the box opens to reveal a patch of sand! This product is a simple (or ancient) solution to enable people with speaking difficulties to communicate with others. Sand was chosen as a medium because it is reusable; just scribble what you want to say in the sand with the stylus; show it to the intended person; bury the text with more sand then scribble again.

Sand Box

2007-01-03T11:00:00.000+14:00

...the back view. Pocket-sized of course, for convenience & portability.

L-Shirt series: It's only natural

2007-01-02T12:00:00.000+14:00

The second instalment of the "L-series" is composed of the wearer's stump growing into a fictional tree. Don't stare at amputees; they might look different from us, but they are all natural. So, don't discriminate; instead, appreciate.

L-Shirt series: Animal Cruelty

2007-01-02T11:00:00.000+14:00

This is the first of a range of shirts; not T-shirts but L-shirts since it only has one sleeve. It is designed for amputees, with the graphics carrying messages that matter. The graphics merge with the amputated limb (stump) of the wearer to form an image. It can be controversial, like this one, with the stump of the wearer being part of the bleeding panda with its arm cut off and still bleeding to bring impact to the message opposing animal cruelty.

Mouth Artist prototype: Testing

2006-08-03T12:00:00.000+14:00

I am unsure of the safety of the material, so I wrapped the mouth piece with Glad-Wrap before inserting it into my mouth for testing. It works! I have sourced for a prototype fabricator who can produce this in food-grade material, so hopefully I will be able to get some kind sponsor to fund the second prototype to be tested by a real mouth artist.

Mouth Artist prototype: Changing drawing tools

2006-08-03T11:00:00.000+14:00

The grip of the turn-lock was good. And the diameter of the insertion was big enough to accomodate a wide range of penils, pens and brushes. Just turn/loosen the turn-lock to change tools.

Mouth Artist prototype

2006-08-03T10:00:00.000+14:00

Nick Lee was ever so kind to contribute by fabricating this prototype all the way from Minnesota, U.S. Many many many many many thanks Nick! It looks wonderful and the lock is perfect. Nick was also the engineer who worked out the details of the locking.

Final Mouth Art Tool (F I N)

2006-08-02T10:04:00.000+14:00

I made some refinements to the tool to have a more secure (brush/pen/pencil/etc.) holder. The mouth piece has also been angled for better ergonomics. For the time being, injection molded Polypropylene will be used. May need to use a better (but more $) material because I'm sure it's a good idea to mold the lock ring thread in PP. Many thanks to David Skinlo for material knowledge. David is a mechanical engineer in the medical device industry. Other materials suggested include PEEBAX, PEEK and PFA.

The product has been named "Fin"; due to its orca-like fish tail form.

Click on image to enlarge

Mouth Art Tool detail

2006-08-02T10:03:00.000+14:00

...more details of the art tool. An aluminium sleeve is used where the brush/pen/pencil contacts the adapter to enhance durability. On the right is the drawing compass which inspired the locking concept.

Mouth Brush into Mouth Brush, Pen, Pencil ?

2006-08-02T10:01:00.000+14:00

Instead of having a range of drawing/painting tools for the mouth artist, I've developed an adapter using a locking concept similar to my old school circle compass. This is cheaper and more varieties of tools can be used. The 'V' shaped plate is where the artist holds the tool in his/her mouth.

Click on image to enlarge

Mouth Painting Brush

2006-08-02T10:00:00.000+14:00

My next project was to design a brush for mouth painters. With an oblong section, the user has firmer grip/bite, and with side cheek supports, better control of the brush. The project was inspired by expanding my activities from functional products to products designed for disabilities involving more abstract areas like art and culture.

Click on image to enlarge

LIME Cycle wheelchair mode

2006-07-02T10:53:00.000+14:00

The LIME Cycle in the basic wheelchair mode. The seat slides up-rear to provide the user with a more comfortable position to operate the rails on the wheels.

For this product, optional foot rest can be added for users with other types of walking disabilities.

Click on image to enlarge

LIME Cycle final 3d

2006-07-02T10:52:00.000+14:00

Here are the final images of the LIME Cycle. The green transport is meant for commuters with walking disabilities (amputees). The concept is to have a basic wheelchair used for indoor or short distance movement & with the help of a front attachment, be able to travel as a handcycle to medium distances. The seat is adjustable (for-aft) to achieve the most comfortable position in wheelchair-mode and handcycle-mode.

Basic specs:
+ Mesh seat on polypropylene shell
+ Rubber/polymer belt instead of a chain (cleaner)
+ Gripshift operated gear hub
+ Optional foot rest for non-amputees users
+ Cable operated disc brake

Click on images to enlarge

Lime Cycle 3d

2006-07-02T10:51:00.001+14:00

With the design finalised, it's on to 3d modelling. I should complete this by next week.

Wheelchair Tourer (Project name: LIME Cycle)

2006-07-02T10:51:00.000+14:00

In addition to the electric powered attachment, I also developed a human powered one by replacing the electric motor with a hand-cycle. The hand-cycle would use a rubber belt instead of a bicycle chain because it is cleaner (which would be more ideal since your hands are placed so near the drivetrain). Main frame structure has been simplified to reduce manufacturing cost.

Pictured here is the vehicle in its wheelchair mode (below) and wheelchair + hand cycle mode (above).

Click on image to enlarge

Wheelchair 1+1

2006-07-02T10:50:00.000+14:00

As a result, I developed a modular slip-on concept whereby the basic unit is a wheelchair. This wheelchair would transform it's geometry (to position the user at a lower centre of gravity for safety and stability); then attach to a motorized front section. This solution relieves the user from having to dismount and shift himself/herself from wheelchair into the vehicle.

Click on image to enlarge

Wheelchair Tourer

2006-07-02T10:01:00.000+14:00

Early sketches suggest a three-wheeler with rear-wheel powered drive train. A transparent canopy is integrated into the structure to provide shelter from wind and rain.

I decided that the product needed to be lighter and more versatile. Ease of entry into the vehicle is also of concern.

Click on image to enlarge

Medium-Distance Tourer

2006-07-02T10:00:00.000+14:00

I always had a thrill for speed and travel, it provides an excitement and a sense of freedom unlike any other. My next project involves developing a medium-distance tourer for people with lower limb disabilities. It will involve lightweight-structural technology (hydroformed thin-wall aluminium and carbon fibre are some possibilities) as well as the convenience of a rechargeable electric motor so flexible, it can be charged at any household 3-pin socket. As evident in the bicycle industry, low labour cost in China has led to very affordable carbon fibre products. So, to produce a strong, light weight equipment for the affordable is not a distant dream anymore.

It is important to provide efficient transportation solutions to people with disabilities. Not just for convenience, but to provide the freedom to go as far as they are able to both physically and psychologically. I leave it to you to intepret what this freedom of movement means to them./us.

Bling Bunny Usage + (How To?)

2006-06-02T10:12:00.000+14:00

Bling Bling Bunny Variations

2006-06-02T10:08:00.000+14:00

Bottle Aid is conquered by the Bling!

2006-06-02T10:07:00.000+14:00

Sin Yee designed this very'bling' character to wrap around the Bottle Aid mechanicals. I added some refinements to make it even more Bling. In the end, it became so bling! I named it Bling Bling Bunny. The point of this aesthetic direction is to blur the boundary between products for us and products for people with disabilities; to raise the awareness that we are equal.

Click on image to enlarge

Bottle Aid Mechanical Concept

2006-06-02T10:06:00.000+14:00

Here is the concept for the mechanical design.

1. Places the device over the bottle cap, then clamp it by twisting the handle below. (the lower cylinders are hollow.

2. Press the top dome repeatedly. The gear will turn the clamp with every press.

3. To close the bottle, flip the switch at the top to the opposite direction, and repeat step 2. The gear will turn the clamp in the opposite direction.

Click on image to enlarge

Bottle Aid (Character development)

2006-06-02T10:05:00.000+14:00

....Character development for the bottle aid...

...input and proposals welcome from engineers on the design of the push-twist mechanism into this package...

...also welcome ideas on designing a character to suit the context of this product,

Please e-mail ideas and sketches to wailamwong@gmail.com

Click on image to enlarge

Bottle Aid Concept Generation

2006-06-02T10:04:00.000+14:00

The "Palm + Gear = Bottle Opener" solution has developed into the Bottle Aid. The device clamps to the bottle and the cap. Pressed with the palm, the upper and lower clamp twist in a contra-rotating movement to open the cap. A spiral/helix thread produces a simultaneous turning and lifting motion. The function of the device is to loosen the bottle cap to an acceptable level where it can already be removed single-handedly.

Project done in collaboration with:
Mechanical Solution: Tham Ming Yoong (Bachelor of Engineering- University of Birmingham)
Additional Character Development: Tan Sin Yee (Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia)

Click on image to enlarge...

Project: Bottle Aid

2006-06-02T10:03:00.000+14:00

After rounds of concept generations, the solution has been simplified to reduce cost and complexity.

Single-Handed Bottle opener (Solution)

2006-06-02T10:02:00.000+14:00

Here is a mindmap of a proposed solution: basically pumping air, then using it to drive a simple mechanism to twist open / close the bottle cap. The final design will be posted in a week or two. The solution was inspired by the once popular Reebok Pump shoes.

Single-Handed Bottle opener

2006-06-02T10:01:00.000+14:00

CALLING FOR IDEAS! If you are in a one-handed physical condition, how would you device something to open a mineral water bottle? Or how would you want to open it?

E-mail responses to: wailamwong@gmail.com

Rocking Crutch

2006-05-02T10:05:00.000+14:00

This concept adapts a curved sole to produce a rocking movement when used. More surface contacts the ground to increase stability and grip. The curve also eases the task of going up and down stairs. Another major feature is the X-shaped underarm support designed to increase stiffness. The "Rocking Crutch" was designed with the image of modern sports equipment; to suggest it as a tool to enhance human physical ability. This is to break away from the stereotype impression that people with disabilities are lesser than abled people.

Comments welcomed: especially from crutch users.

Project done in collaboration with Tham Ming Yoong (Bachelor of Engineering- University of Birmingham)

Tranzition

2006-05-02T10:03:00.000+14:00

The curved sole acts as a pivot, but at the same time increasing more contact per movement/stroke. Perhaps this will improve stability without hindering freedom on movement (especially when moving up/down stairs)? Markers on the main frame eases handle and base adjustment.

Nike Cross

2006-05-02T10:02:00.000+14:00

This image of feet morphed into the crutch has been on my mind since the project started. The shoe-like feet will provide added stability and the articulated pivot would enhance movement. Another major feature is the Cross Brace built into the underarm support to add stiffness to the structure.

Click on image to enlarge

Crutches: ...an Invitation to all visitors

2006-05-02T10:01:00.000+14:00

Inviting designers, engineers, research scientist, doctors, artist, and all who is interested to participate in a collaboration project titled CRUTCHES.

Since antiquity humans have fashioned support devices to hold themselves up when they became sick or injured. Evidence of such devices dates to 2830 B.C. A carving on the entrance of an Egyptian tomb depicts a figure leaning on a crutchlike staff.
Crutch design has evolved from the basic "T" used by Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol, to aluminum braces with ice-gripping tips or energy-storing tips that function as shock absorbers—kind of like Air Jordans for the injured.
For lower-limb injuries, crutches remain useful today to decrease discomfort, reduce recovery time, and assist walking.

"Any ideas on how to design one that will benefit the user in a unique way?"

The initial step of the project involves establishing a network of interested people from across different disciplines. Then, applying each individuals skill and knowledge to produce a contribution to the project. A brainstorm will be mapped based on these and published; then will be developed into concepts. If you are interested please e-mail me your profile/background at:

wailamwong@gmail.com

Moon Walker Final (Stroke Victim Walking Aid)

2006-04-28T22:07:00.000+14:00

Here is the final design of the walker. The lower two renderings depict the folding process.
So, basically the product is used by stroke victims with mobility problems. The user would be strapped into the leg guides first, then hooked onto the main support body. The frame supports the user in a standing position, whilst the hinged leg guides allow leg movement (supported to prevent injury). Wide wheels enhance stability while assisting the user in moving from one place to another.
The system is similar to a baby walker, the difference being having details integrated to prevent injury while learning to walk again.

Project done in collaboration with Tham Ming Yoong (Bachelor of Engineering- University of Birmingham)

Moon Walker folding

2006-04-28T10:04:00.000+14:00

The main system folds for easy storage.

Moon Walker Assembly

2006-04-28T10:02:00.000+14:00

2006-04-28T10:01:00.000+14:00

...The view on the left is disassembled to reveal the adjusting mechanism.

Moon Walker Adjustability

2006-04-27T22:03:00.000+14:00

Moon Walker (3d development of leg guides)

2006-04-27T10:02:00.000+14:00

...more development on the leg guides. These act to guide the legs through the correct walking motion. The guides are adjustable to adapt to people with different leg lengths. The mechanism is hidden behind the lining.

Moon Walker 3d development

2006-04-27T10:01:00.000+14:00

....still have the leg support to work out.

Moon Walker 250406

2006-04-25T23:02:00.000+14:00

Development of the overall concept and leg guides/harness.

Moonwalker Brainstorm

2006-04-25T16:29:00.000+14:00

Here is the proposed design. Primarily to increase comfort, ergonomics and safety. The pictures reference how certain technology will be adapted as solutions.

Moon Walker

2006-04-25T14:29:00.000+14:00

This is a project I am working on with a fellow Mechanical Engineer on a walker to help stroke patients improve mobility. Here is the original product which were part of a study of currently available solutions.

Big Foot wheelchair

2006-02-02T11:03:00.000+14:00

Big Foot Wheelchair

2006-02-02T11:02:00.000+14:00

BIG FOOT wheelchair. Hehe.

Enjoy your wheel-CHAIR

2006-02-02T11:01:00.000+14:00

An experimental project on studying the potential market of better designed wheelchair. The wheelchair is in a way similar to a shoe; both help us move our limbs around. Can a disabled consumer enjoy the luxury of using a cool wheelchair the same way I enjoy my pair of Nikes?
Can it function and look like a natural extension of the human body rather a chaos of metal clinging to the body?

Bling Bunny Anatomy + Anti-slip mat

2006-01-07T11:11:00.000+14:00

This diagram illustrates how the anti-slip mat is used with the Bling Bunny. The same internal mechanism apply.

Click on image to enlarge

Bling Bunny Reflections

2006-01-07T11:10:00.000+14:00

The reflections are cute, especially when the user's image/face is distorted and capped with bunny ears.
The reflections are not me...but the handsome guy at the top is Tham. Eve at the bottom is my colleague at office.
It was very tempting to put Sin Yee's reflection since she is the original designer of Bling Bunny but I think I'll eat her fist if I distort her face :P

Bling Bunny in 3d (and Chrome+plated)

2006-01-07T11:09:00.000+14:00

The final Bling Bunny has been chrome-plated! The idea is to use the reflection of the user and surrounding environment as a way of implanting individuality/customization to the product each time it is used.

The tail (clamp handle) has been reshaped to be more ergonomic. TPE molded over ABS is used for the top palm-opeated button and ears to give it a softer touch and grip. Use of light colour in these parts is easy to detect when the product is dirty and needs cleaning. The ears are extensions of the the flip-switch. Pushing it left or right determines whether the bottle cap is opened or closed. (Kindly refer to technical diagrams of past posts for detail functional explaination).

13 Jan 06

2005-12-02T11:01:00.000+14:00

Been working based on an idea spun from the visual of a 'Snail' sitting on a desktop with it's 'receptacles' functioning as an extendable mic. Then refining the form to be hand held (adding a small folded up lip at the edge).

Refined the details (buttons, LCD and icons). The icons were important as I try to have less text based objects to enable the product to be marketed across different languages. Disposed of the santoprene overmolding as it disturbs the form. Left it pure (fine textured titanium finish)

Friends of Woogle Works

2005-11-23T17:27:00.010+14:00

Made in Malaysia:

Design Circus (Norman & Patricia)
BombShelter Studios
L.F.S.S.
Closet Crafty
Norman Teh
BLAM
Kelvin Long
V.A.W.
Pop Collective
3nity
Alexdrina

Over the sea:

Tunya (Art4D)
Lufdesign
Matter
Yoo Kyung Shin
Chung Ji Hyun
Holly Yu
Ransome Chua
Ebee

....and growing