Problem
Can you design an innovative pottery wheel that does not require the use of feet?
A call for mechanical and mechatronics engineers, specialists, and entrepreneurs to create modern designs that allow wheelchair users to use their artistic skills in pottery making for a chance to win 20,000 Egyptian pounds offered by the British Council (Inclusive and Creative Economy Development Program) to implement the solution in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Solidarity through the Forsa program.
This challenge aims to create impactful economic opportunities for people with disabilities and preserve this traditional craft from disappearing. Please read the following for more details!
Challenge background
The pottery wheel is a machine used in the process of shaping ceramic and pottery ware. This machine not only requires the use of legs but also needs perfect coordination between hands and feet to work efficiently. This coordination is a challenge for people with paraplegia (wheelchair users) because the wheel’s movement mainly depends on the potter’s legs. This reliance prevents many creative people with paraplegia from using the pottery wheel to express their art and create their masterpieces. Meanwhile, wheelchair users have an extraordinary ability to maintain a seated position for a long time, which enables them to create complex forms and become more productive than non-wheelchair users.
The Sandan Academy trains the visually impaired in basket and bead weaving. People with hearing impairment are taught carpet and rug weaving and leather goods manufacturing, and they look forward to engaging wheelchair users in creative industries based on the success of solving this challenge.
Requirements and Constraints
Designing and manufacturing an innovative pottery wheel that does not require the use of legs to make it easier for wheelchair users to operate. The production process must be adapted to suit their needs, provide a more productive and accessible working environment, increase the income of wheelchair users, and ensure the continuity of this traditional craft. The proposed design must include the following criteria:
Eliminating the need to use the foot in the production process
Reducing physical effort and muscular strain
Can be transported using handcarts
Uses locally available and/or locally manufactured materials
Does not require intensive maintenance
Safe to operate
Expected Deliverables
The solution must meet the above-mentioned criteria.
The solution must be delivered as a preliminary design that validates the concept.
The solution must include a clear work plan, including implementation phases, timeline, required tools/materials, estimated budget, and required technical support (if any).
Preference will be given to machines that rely more on locally available components.
The machine’s functionality and efficiency will be tested by the solution provider before final approval and delivery.
The innovator/solution owner is committed to providing technical assistance to address any issues that may arise during the first 3 months after delivering the machine.
The proposed solution must include a user instruction manual and a plan to train workers on how to use the machine.
Deadline & Reward
Ends
All submissions must be completed by Monday, November 25, 2019 at 12:00 AM. Late entries may not be considered.
The winner will receive a reward of 20,000 Egyptian pounds granted by the British Council – Inclusive and Creative Economy Development Program to implement the solution, in cooperation with the Forsa program of the Ministry of Social Solidarity. The rewards will be granted in installments (tranches), according to the milestones set by the innovators.