AssetID: 53839739
Headline: British Student Designs Magnetic Walking Stick
Caption: British Student Designs Magnetic Walking Stick. A British student has designed a magnetic walking stick. 22-year-old Nottingham Trent University student Sean Guyett was inspired by his partner who has multiple sclerosis (MS) after seeing her struggle while using a standard stick.. Guyett had noticed how standard walking sticks often fell to the floor while their owner did other tasks. He created the Ida walking stick which uses magnets to secure it to a person’s hip so they can use both their hands freely in everyday situations. Removable magnetic pads, which attach to clothing, mean the stick can be secured without being held. Guyett said his aim was to support people who found themselves "designed out" of the wider world. There are three different designs of handles – each with a magnet inside – that are interchangeable and intended for different uses. There are also three different bases available which are also interchangeable depending on the types of surfaces it will be needed for. The pole is made from aluminium tubing which is lightweight, sturdy and available in a selection of colours to suit individual tastes. The stick is named Ida after the mountain on which magnets were first discovered according to the Greek myth.
Keywords: Disability innovation,Walking stick design,Mobility aid,Nottingham Trent University,NTU student showcase,Sean Guyett,Inclusive design,Assistive technology,Multiple sclerosis,Neodymium magnets,Product design,Urban environment challenges,Disabled employment,Everyday accessibility,Interchangeable walking stick parts,Aluminium walking stick,Personal confidence for disabled people,Ergonomic design,Graduating design talent,NTU School of Architecture,Design and the Built Environment
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