Human augmentation : transference of design approaches from designing for sports to designing for disability

The size of the market for products catering for people with disabilities could be perceived as a reason (or an excuse) for low quality products, and yet many companies can produce high quality products in small niche markets. Consider mainstream commercial consumer products, or products within small niche sporting markets, where people often aspire to acquire such products. A dichotomy exists, therefore, between the disability product market and other product markets. The consequences of this dichotomy are severe for both the disabled population and for the companies attempting to cater for this market. A two-part industrial design project explored the notion of, and possibilities for, augmenting human ability. The first project focused upon sporting goods and the opportunities therein to enhance human performance and safety within a chosen sport. The second, mirroring, translating and applying the learning from the first project, explored the opportunities to enhance human ability of those considered to be elderly or those who have a disability.