Alexander Phillip Duff
User Centred Design
I am a User Centred Design student with an interest in ergonomics, anthropometrics within medical design.
Final year project
A Product to Detect the Early Stages of Scoliosis in Children
Understanding Scoliosis Informational App
Understanding Scoliosis is a product based system that will allow for the widespread screening for scoliosis within the school population. Screening has been proven to massively reduce severe cases of scoliosis, however, the current screening techniques are slow and inaccurate.
Therefore, Understanding Scoliosis was created to not only screen the 10-year-old cohort but to educate parents about scoliosis and how to identify the common symptoms. This system was designed with the aim of reducing the need for invasive corrective surgery to a minimum as this surgery can have future ramifications.
Scoliosis Detecting Device
This device will be run up and down the child's back and the detection plate will deviate with any abnormal spinal curvature to create a digital map of the child's back that can be analysed for scoliosis. The results of this test will be available within the Understanding Scoliosis app.
External Oxygen
External oxygen is a project aimed at removing the stigma surrounding those who depend on external oxygen sources during their day to day life. The Design direction removes all aspects of medical design and follows the trend of high-end luggage. The user will wear a smart wristband that will measure their pulse and adjust the flow of oxygen accordingly. This will conserve oxygen and increase the user's standard of living.
External Oxygen Handle
The handle boasts an ergonomic design with a lipped top so that pulling the trolley is easier and requires less grip strength. The screen will display how much oxygen the user has left in hours and minutes, rather than PSI, making the device much more user friendly.
Removable Backpack
The main body of the device can be removed from the trolley to take the form of a backpack, this allows the user to traverse uneven terrain far easier, giving the user more freedom than other products do.
Alexander Phillip Duff
Final year project
A Product to Detect the Early Stages of Scoliosis in Children
Work Experience
During my placement year, I created my own business. MacDuff Design manufactured and distributed high quality handmade wooden goods. These products include chopping boards, coasters, and carved wooden hearts. Working with other local businesses I was able to sell my products in three different high street shops and sell directly to the private catering market. Over this year my design for manufacturing techniques improved hugely alongside my ability to market myself to a wide audience.