'JustDry' was developed during a six-week project focused on creating an inclusive hair drying experience, thoughtfully designed to support users living with rheumatoid arthritis.
The Problem
Users with Rheumatoid arthritis suffer from constant pain and stiffness in their joints, and can cause problems when doing common activities like drying hair.
Observational tasks:
Autoethnography revealed hair drying postures at maximal joint range of motion, highlighting the discomfort and accessibility challenges posed by traditional hairdryers.
Disability Simulation:
To replicate the challenges faced by the user, buttons were affixed to finger joints while wearing nitrile gloves with baby powder to reduce dexterity. A Velcro strap extending from the elbow to the back was applied and a tennis ball in the elbow joint, to make it challenging to lift the elbows over the head.
Persona Development
Disassembly Analysis
Careful consideration of these components and features facilitated the creation of a well-designed and efficient hairdryer that met the needs of users while prioritizing safety and performance.
