Abstract

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a motor-neurone disease that is predominantly known for its physical toll on the body. What is under-recognised, and affects quality of life the most, is the impacts it has on mental health. Common non-motor symptoms commonly seen in Parkinson’s are depression, anxiety, and social isolation, which traditional therapy treatments don’t specifically address. 

This dissertation is a documentation of the design process for the development of the Ripple Bike, a recumbent style bike intended to improve mental health in Parkinson’s Disease sufferers. Many existing products and therapies focus on the physical motor symptoms of the disease, and don’t recognise the importance of the mental wellbeing of this demographic. This research paper examines three primary areas of research: social activity, exercise, and gamification. A series of research questions were generated from an intensive literature review, and explored through design-led research, such as interviews, prototyping, and modelling.

Design criteria was generated through the analysis of research question findings which was used to measure the effectiveness and appropriateness of the final design. The iterative design process involved a series of physical and computer models and renderings to calculate ergonomics and materiality. Combined with a sophisticated UI design, the Ripple Bike builds a physical bridge between different types of treatment plans as a core driver of mental illness solutions in Parkinson’s Disease.

Design Intent

The purpose of this project and intended research is to examine how a product system can be utilised to develop an alternative form of treatment for non-motor symptoms of PD to maintain or improve the quality of life for those living with PD by improving their mental state. Additional intentions of this study are to investigate how product design solutions can establish a positive social image and support development and maintenance of community networks and sustainable habits. 

This project aims to provide a platform to develop sustainable behaviours that encourage the betterment of mental health in the Parkinson’s community through addressing mental health in a motor-neurone disease and providing a platform for social connection. Intentions for this design are to create a therapy treatment that works without social stigma surrounding disabilities and builds confidence within the user group.

Bio

Sam Goodridge is a Design Honours graduate who prides himself in his ability to think and design innovatively while maintaining a strong orientation towards ethical design. His approach to design is heavily focused on user interaction and the user experience, whether this is communicated through interaction or the design aesthetic. He has a growing interest in 3D visualisation, which he expresses through digital CAD renderings; this has developed from a passion for photography.

 His future focus in design is to produce meaningful work that functions invisibly to the user. He would like to produce work that has direct impact for those who may experience less fortunate circumstances, as illustrated in his work designing for those who experience disability.  

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