Bio-inspired walking canes and walking chairs

[Past Projects]

Dr. Henry Astley and Colleen Unsworth


Many people, especially the elderly, rely on assistive devices such as canes and wheelchairs to achieve mobility in their daily lives.  However, these devices can only function in a limited range of terrain, making it difficult or impossible for individuals who rely on them to access certain areas.  Hiking trails are particularly difficult due to the unpredictable, unstructured, and complex terrain.  In this project, you will work with Natraverse founder & Biomimicry Fellow Colleen Unsworth and Dr. Henry Astley to develop assistive devices (a cane and mobile chair) which use inspiration from nature to improve access to complex terrain.

Benefits:

  • Learn principles of biomechanics and terrestrial locomotion
  • Learn 3D Printing
  • Learn about motor actuation and control
  • Develop new technology to help people
  • Learn about the biomimicry entrepreneurship process

Click here to learn more about the Astley Lab