KevlarCare is a stretcher designed for bariatric patients utilising kevlar from old police uniforms. the prototype featured is a sample panel to demonstrate the closed loop structure that provides the strength in the stretcher. A full size completed stretcher would include four panels.
KevlarCare features a closed loop structure which provide even and strong weight distribution.
The handles and kevlar panels that make up the panels are interslotted and stretched together multiple times.
Ergonomically designed handles sit comfortably in the hand without collapsing on the fingers, allowing for safer and more comfortable lifting.
Brief:
The NZ police came to our class with a problem: the Kevlar from old uniforms was going straight into landfill and creating tonnes of unnecessary waste. They asked our class to create solutions to disposing the Kevlar into landfill.
As Kevlar is non-reactive, waterproof and strong, I chose to explore the medical field. I spoke with a paramedic at Wellington Ambulance who informed me that the current stretchers they were using were ripping at the handles when carrying bariatric patients, meaning that the fire brigade were needed to remove an individual from their home. I wanted to remove this step, and restore dignity back into patients.
