Auxetic Suit

Auxetic Suit

Dignified ergonomic fall protective wear for seniors

Dignified ergonomic fall protective wear for seniors

As we age, falls become increasingly dangerous due to loss of muscle mass and reduced ability to absorb impact. The challenge was to design a protective system that could safeguard the body holistically, without relying on rigid, bulky gear that often carries social stigma. The aim was to create a material that could intelligently adapt to different areas of the body, that can seamlessly integrate into their daily lives. Auxetic materials, when indented or impacted, densify under the point of contact, contracting rather than dispersing the applied force to the sides. This densification makes the material locally harder and superior for energy absorption and dissipation, making them highly effective in shock-absorbing applications. By concentrating density around danger points like hips, shoulders, and spine, the Auxetic Suit distributes force across its surface while remaining lightweight and form-fitting. A serendipitous print error shifted the design from a 3D lattice to a flatter, 2D-to-3D gradient, unlocking new flexibility, comfort, and efficiency that redefined the design approach. Outcome: Through iterative prototyping, the project demonstrated how accidents and failures can spark innovation. Future directions include integrating shape-memory polymers to adapt fit over time, testing varied auxetic patterns for improved flexibility, and conducting targeted fall-impact studies to validate performance. The project highlights how emergent material behaviors can drive design beyond digital precision, shaping the future of wearable protection.

As we age, falls become increasingly dangerous due to loss of muscle mass and reduced ability to absorb impact. The challenge was to design a protective system that could safeguard the body holistically, without relying on rigid, bulky gear that often carries social stigma. The aim was to create a material that could intelligently adapt to different areas of the body, that can seamlessly integrate into their daily lives. Auxetic materials, when indented or impacted, densify under the point of contact, contracting rather than dispersing the applied force to the sides. This densification makes the material locally harder and superior for energy absorption and dissipation, making them highly effective in shock-absorbing applications. By concentrating density around danger points like hips, shoulders, and spine, the Auxetic Suit distributes force across its surface while remaining lightweight and form-fitting. A serendipitous print error shifted the design from a 3D lattice to a flatter, 2D-to-3D gradient, unlocking new flexibility, comfort, and efficiency that redefined the design approach. Outcome: Through iterative prototyping, the project demonstrated how accidents and failures can spark innovation. Future directions include integrating shape-memory polymers to adapt fit over time, testing varied auxetic patterns for improved flexibility, and conducting targeted fall-impact studies to validate performance. The project highlights how emergent material behaviors can drive design beyond digital precision, shaping the future of wearable protection.

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