Strength N' Aid

In this class called Design and Engineering we learned about simple machines, how animals use tools, and how it relates to humans. We also attended some FE's to places like Home Depot and the design lab Beyond Design. These places helped teach us about how tools can be improved from their original design.

The purpose of this Action Project was to have empathy for other people that can't use basic tools. There was this lady named Pattie Moore. What she did was she dressed up as an old woman and gave herself the physical disadvantages of senior citizens. She realized that everyday basic functions are a lot more difficult when you are old. So empathy relates because you have to put yourself in the shoes of someone who can't do these things. What PA and I did was we redesigned a Mattock pick, which is a tool with a pick and a trench on the head. Also what we did was as a class we interviewed someone who gardens. I interviewed my father who has gardened for years and owned a flower shop in the 80s. This is a wedge because the head of the Mattock is not pointed but rather more slanted.This is a wedge because it is sharp at the end and expands in width towards the back. Our design is very economic and cost effective. It is lighter and easier to use for those who can't lift.

In conclusion this project was about putting oneself in another person's shoes and designing something for them. We designed a mattock that is meant for old people to use with ease. The mattock bends and lands on their shoulder and we give them a coat that has metal shoulder blades so it doesn't injure them over time.   

In conclusion this Project was about putting oneself in the other person's shoes and designing something for them. We designed a mattock that is meant for old people to use with ease. The mattock bends and lands on their shoulder and we give them a coat with that has metal shoulder blades so it doesn't injure them over time.