Tandem seated surfboard for disabled use (Assistive Device)
- Submitting institution
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University of Wales Trinity Saint David / Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant
- Unit of assessment
- 32 - Art and Design: History, Practice and Theory
- Output identifier
- 32-RH3
- Type
- P - Devices and products
- Location
- Surfability UK; Wave Project; Mae Murray Foundation
- Manufacturer
- -
- Open access status
- Exception within 3 months of publication
- Month of production
- October
- Year of production
- 2015
- URL
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- Supplementary information
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- Request cross-referral to
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- Output has been delayed by COVID-19
- No
- COVID-19 affected output statement
- -
- Forensic science
- No
- Criminology
- No
- Interdisciplinary
- No
- Number of additional authors
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- Research group(s)
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- Proposed double-weighted
- No
- Reserve for an output with double weighting
- No
- Additional information
- Research developed the design of an assistive device which would allow wheelchair-bound users to participate in surf sports, bringing proven benefits for inclusion, physical and mental health and wellbeing. Specific issues addressed: a) Understanding requirements of disabled water users with limited mobility and brain conditions where balance and postural control are problematic in use of regular and available equipment. b) Development of a new surfboard design that allow safe participation in surf-sports. Research was undertaken with specialist Surfboard shapers and Surfability UK, utilising behavioural, physiological and bio-mechanical data with subjective self-reported measures. Prototype designs were produced and tested for a tandem surfboard which included a supportive seat for the disabled water user and space on the back for an experienced surfer to steer the board. Research into the manufacturing process demonstrated that it was critical that the board was made using regular surfboard components and known techniques to avoid the need for re-tooling and manufacturing, yet had to withstand significantly higher forces, be safer and regulated. Existing components were re-purposed and a variety of composite materials were employed to give strength where needed and save weight in other areas. Research insights: The original design, development and manufacture of a tandem surf board with a supportive bucket seat that can be used by disabled children whilst being controlled by a trained surf instructor. The seat is attached via an adjustable laser-cut aluminium wedge which allows the seat location and angle to be customised for each user. A set of detailed instructions and safety guidelines were developed alongside the testing which inform best surfing practice. Client Dissemination. Adopted for use by Surfability UK (October 2015), Mae Murray Foundation (April 2016), Wave Project (July 2017), Sean’s Club (May 2018). Media Dissemination: Cerebra (October 2015).
- Author contribution statement
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- Non-English
- No
- English abstract
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