Phoenix
EMPOWERING THE PARAPLEGICS
Why is disability always looked down upon? Why aren't mobility aids designed to make its user feel good instead of making the user feel powerless? Why is it that having to live with a disability is seen as abnormal and disgraceful? These are a few problems we tried to solve when we started designing Phoenix. The Phoenix bird has always been a symbol of rebirth characterised by rising from the ashes. But we envision Phoenix to be a symbol of celebrating and embracing one's weaknesses in order to rise beyond the limitations. This form of Phoenix highlights and glorifies the weakness (legs) at the same time help to overcome it.
THE IDEA
The device has been designed specifically for paraplegic users and so it can also be used by those who haven't lost all lower body control but experience weakening of muscles. Being a manual device, Phoenix helps its users be active and fit. Lower body movement is necessary and beneficial for paraplegic patients to avoid muscle degeneration due to lack of usage.
Using mobility devices that are mainly used in a sitting position don't allow independence and freedom of movement that is medically or socially required for a healthy and independent lifestyle. Phoenix envisages overcoming this shortcoming as well. Phoenix is a lifestyle change. By designing Phoenix, we envision to actualise the possibility of an enhanced lifestyle and a changed approach towards life for those who are impaired.
The abled people often look down upon the disabled population and even they themselves give up on life due to their affliction. But we want to uplift them, uplift their lifestyle to bring them at par with the abled population. Phoenix enables them to be independent, elevating their self-esteem, letting them be proud of who they are. They would no longer be looked down upon (literally and figuratively). Phoenix is the most convenient and versatile way for people to commute. People no longer have to change their way of life due to their disability. Foldable, modular and customisable, Phoenix fits perfectly into the user’s present lifestyle with no changes required.
