Industrial thesis

TABLE OF CONTENTS Part 1: Exploration of the Problem Area 1.1 Project statement 1.2 Related products, Concepts and Design Trends in the Market 1.3 Related Technologies, Materials, Production Techniques 1.4 Characteristics of the Potential User Group 1.5 Conclusions Part 2: Exploration of the Solution Area 2.1 Project constraints, Objectives and Directives 2.2 Further Research 2.3 Analysis of Potential Design Solutions Part 3: Design Solutions 3.1 Description of Design Solution 3.2 Justification of Design Decisions REFERENCES

FDA Department of Industrial Design

List of Tables and Illustrations Figure 1.2.1 Skyline Lab Snaidero Figure 1.2.2 Snaidero Kitchen Figure 1.2.3 Granberg Kitchen Figure 1.2.4 AKW Accessible Kitchen Figure 1.3.1 Work Surface Figure 1.3.2 Kitchen Sinks Figure 1.3.3 Kitchen Wall Cabinets Figure 1.3.4 Doorways And Hallways Figure 1.3.5 Appliances Figure 1.3.6 Materials Figure 1.4.1 Wheelchair Dimensions Figure 1.4.2 Dimensional Data Of A Wheelchair Figure 1.4.3 Horizontal Forward Reach Figure 1.4.4 Vertical Reaching Zone Figure 1.4.5 Common Reaching Zone Figure 2.1.1 U-Shaped Kitchen Figure 2.1.2 Galley Style Kitchen Figure 2.1.3 L-Shaped Kitchen Figure 2.2.1 Measurements Figure 2.2.2 Storage Figure 2.2.3 Drawers Figure 2.2.4 Sinks Figure 3.1.1 Floor Plan

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 3.1.2 Elevation 1 Figure 3.1.3 Elevation 2 Figure 3.1.4 View 1 Figure 3.1.5 View 2 Figure 3.1.6 View 3

FDA Department of Industrial Design

FDA Department of Industrial Design

FDA Department of Industrial Design Industrial Design Graduation Project 2016

Research Report Divya Chandrashekar

FDA Department of Industrial Design

FDA Department of Industrial Design

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

With this research project coming to an end, I have many people to thank. First and the foremost, I would like to thank the head of industrial department, Olga Litvinova for all her support and encouragement. Then, I would like to thank my family for believing in me and giving me the strength to come here in Florence, all the way from India to study what I really wanted to. I also want to thank our industrial class as they have been extremely helpful to me during feedback sessions. I would also like to thank Juan Gonzales and Mia Nordangard for helping me do this project.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

FDA Department of Industrial Design

PART 1: EXPLORATION OF THE PROBLEM AREA 1.1 Project Statement People with disabilities are among the most marginalized groups in the world. People with disabilities have poorer health outcomes, lower education achievements, less economic participation and higher rates of poverty than people without disabilities. Disability is now understood to be a human rights issue. People are disabled by society, not just by their bodies. These barriers can be overcome, if governments, nongovernmental organizations, professionals and people with disabilities and their families work together.

Therefore, it comes as a responsibility for us to do something about it and hence I decide to design a feasible solution which is solely for people who are paralysed. Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of your body. It happens when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also occur in just one area, or it can be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia.

Paralysis of the arms and legs is quadriplegia.

This project aims to design a kitchen unit which can be used by people who suffer from PARALYSIS. So, that means that the person I am designing for is Wheelchair bound. This kitchen can be installed in their home as well as in a public nursing home.

1.2 Related Products, Concepts and Design Trends in the Market In the past decade, many companies have taken into consideration about the people who are disabled. They have been designing bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens so that their life becomes a little easier. Some of the companies are Adapted kitchen, Accessible Kitchen AKW, Granberg, Snaidreo.

Innovation in design can be as simple as revamping an accepted concept. Take the kitchen, for example. Other than a few tweaks, usually due to space and product, kitchen design is rarely seen as a new frontier for innovation. However, a new kitchen has been designed specifically for people in wheelchairs, changing the layout for simple but stylish convenience. Made by the Italian manufacturer Snaidreo, as shown in figure 1.2.1 and figure 1.2.2, the Skyline Lab

FDA Department of Industrial Design

kitchen doesn't sacrifice form for supreme function. The design not only had to take into consideration that the user could not reach high cabinets (some of us can't do that anyway) but also that very low or very deep drawers don't necessarily work either.

In this kitchen, there are no cabinets underneath the sweeping counter so that the wheels have room to go underneath-- making it easier to get close to the counter. The sink basin is shallow to leave plenty of leg-room.

Under the oven is a pull-out shelf so that the user can pull something out of the oven and quickly set it down while they change directions to bring it somewhere else. The dishwasher is also pullout drawer, which is more common in kitchen design these days, since they can blend in better with the over-all design. Circular shelving is there so that all the contents of the cabinets can be rotated for easy-access, and they are left open so it's easy to see where everything is. And finally, the garbage is on wheels, and there is a roll-out shelf unit that can be also be easily moved out of the way.

Figure 1.2.1

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 1.2.2 Similarly, Granberg is a Swedish company which makes accessible kitchens and bathrooms.

DESIGN AND QUALITY FOR THE FUTURE is a good summary of what they are. One of their works is shown in figure 1.2.3.

Figure 1.2.3 The system consists of a manually operated lifting and lowering system for worktops and hook mounting for wall cabinets. The wall mounted worktop is manually adjustable 20 cm in five different height positions. The height is adjusted by loosening the wall bracket’s screws and then moving the worktop to the height position required. If requirements change after installation, Manulift can be simply converted to a motor-driven worktop lift. Hook mounting FDA Department of Industrial Design

for wall cabinets provides manual adjustment in increments of 5.0 cm, 25.0 cm in total. An aluminium rail is screwed onto the wall. Hooks are screwed behind the cabinet. The cabinets are suspended on the aluminium rail at the required height. Adjustable spacers are inserted at the lower edge of the cabinet. (To compensate for the cabinet’s extension at the upper edge).

One more very good example of kitchen design for easy access for disable is by the AKW Accessible Kitchens. The great advantage of an AKW accessible kitchen is that the needs of the individual are integrated into the design process to give an individual or a family a kitchen to suit their exact needs and lifestyle. The kitchen ranges have been designed in conjunction with occupational therapists to meet the needs of whoever is using them. Whether it’s lower fixed height, mixed height or adjustable height the kitchen is guaranteed to be safe, comfortable and easy to use.

Some of the features are as follows and as shown in figure 1.2.4. 

Floor mounted base units make for easy height adjustment and do not require reinforced walls.



Durability and strength with quality 18mm carcass and base with 18mm back panel.



Worktop height can be set at the ideal height using adjustable base unit legs and trimmable plinths.



Raised height recessed plinths provide additional space for wheelchair footplates to pass underneath and for ambulant users to stand closer to the work surface to adopt correct posture.



Raised height plinth means bottom shelf of base units is higher up and easier to access 66mm service void maximises available cupboard space 170° hinges supplied as standard to enable easy access to storage areas.



Wall units set at 350mm above the work surface for increased accessible storage space Tall oven housing provides a more accessible oven position within the kitchen.



Wide range of additional storage solutions available to help utilise every inch of space within the kitchen.

FDA Department of Industrial Design



Selection of shallow depth, insulated bowls provide increased leg room below, low level reach into the bowl and safeguard the users’ legs Carefully selected range of appliances providing accessibility, ease of use and safety to suit all requirements and budgets.



ActivMotion® rise & fall units provide an independently selected, adjustable height work surface to facilitate the ideal posture for the user.

Figure 1.2.4

1.3 Related Technologies, Materials and Production Techniques

Many people find themselves needing accessible homes for themselves or family members.

There are approximately 30 million Americans using wheelchairs and the number of people who need accessible homes will continue to increase as disabled and aging people are finding more ways to remain living in their homes. One important way to increase independent living is making

FDA Department of Industrial Design

a home accessible to an individual’s personal needs. Home modifications can increase safety, accessibility, and independence for people who want to live independently.

There are now more resources to help people stay in their homes living independently. Modifying an individuals home is one of the most important steps to assist someone in remaining in their home if they have physical limitations. One area of the home that is most important to accommodate is the kitchen. The goal of accommodating a kitchen is to create a barrier-free design to give access to all people whether abled or disabled. Some of these solutions are custom ordered items; however, some things can be accomplished by remodelling a kitchen a little differently.

With all the advances in accessible design, a beautiful and efficient kitchen can be designed to be accessible for everyone that lives in a home whether they are disabled. When designing a kitchen for people who use a wheelchair there are several things to consider for easy access.

Kitchens require meticulous planning because every inch counts and appliances and cabinets come in fixed sizes and there may be limited usable space that limit what can be remodelled.

Kitchen design has typically been based on the “work triangle” layout where the sink, fridge and stove have a short walking distance between them. For an accessible kitchen, it’s ideal to have several work areas that can be accessed from a single position. When space is limited choosing options may require a trade-off of the most important accommodations.

Designing or remodelling a kitchen requires balancing the requirements for storage (cabinets), workspace (counters) and appliances. When making a kitchen accessible you must consider these things and put everything within reach.

WORK SURFACE (KITCHEN COUNTERS) 

Typical countertops are positioned at a height of 36”. To make countertops accessible the work surface should be installed at a 34” height.



Accessible counter workspace is 30” wide and countertops should be 28”-34” above the floor.



Adjustable counters should have a range of 28” to 36” in height.



Make sure countertop is not obstructed by base cabinets to allow for knee and toe clearance.

FDA Department of Industrial Design



If you are able to set the countertop height, this should be determined early in the design.

The countertop will dictate location of storage cabinets and appliances.



Ideally you would measure individual comfort ranges for working in the kitchen for whom the kitchen is being accommodated.



Adjustable tables can be used before install or remodel to determine the ideal height to find dimensions that work for each member of the family. Often you need to use the space to see how it will best meet your needs prior to committing to a permanent design.



Pull-out shelves coming out of the countertop is another good way to create easily accessible working space to prepare food.

Figure 1.3.1

KITCHEN SINKS 

Sinks that have open space beneath the sink that provides wheelchair or walker accessibility will allow users to access the sink. Knee clearance for a sink needs to be at least 27” high, 8” deep at the knees or 11” deep for children.

FDA Department of Industrial Design



The drain should be placed in the rear of the sink so the piping underneath will not prevent a person in a wheelchair from rolling underneath. Pipes should be insulated or enclosed to protect legs from hot pipes.



Set water heater to a maximum heat low enough that will prevent burning.



Using a single lever faucet is a lower cost option to making the faucet accessible. There are also touch control faucets that allow the user to turn on and off the faucet with one touch. Also, installing the faucet to the side of the sink may make it more accessible for some people.



Installing sliding drawers on both sides of the sink can provide easy storage of cleaning products or long rather than wide items.

Figure 1.3.2

KITCHEN WALL CABINETS 

For lower cost option, cabinets can be lowered to meet individual users needs.



Although more costly, electric powered adjustable cabinets, which lower and raise the cabinet height with a touch of a button allows the cabinets to become accessible to all users.



Place often used items within reach such as spice rack and cutting boards.

FDA Department of Industrial Design



Use cabinet accessories that make the cabinets more accessible such as pull down shelves, adjustable shelves, drawer dividers, lazy susan cabinet, et cetera.



Use looped cabinet pulls instead of knobs that are operable with a closed fist. With these you do not have to twist, grasp or use pinching motions.



Put most used items in low drawers such as the dishes, pots/pans, glassware, et cetera.



Other useful cabinet hardware may be: full extension drawers, touch-release drawers and doors, swing-up hardware that allow cabinet doors to hinge at top and stay open, et cetera.

Figure 1.3.3

DOORWAYS AND HALLWAYS 

Installing a 36” wide door makes it accessible for a wheelchair or walker user. However, 42” width is more comfortable.



Using swing clear hinges on the door creates a clear opening



Using a lever-style door handle makes it easier for them to be opened.



Clearance for a pass-through kitchen should be 40” wide.



Clearance for a U-shaped kitchen needs to have a width of 60″.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 1.3.4

APPLIANCES 

Install appliances lower. They should be approximately 31” from floor



Electric cooktop with staggered burners with controls on the front will eliminate having to reach across hot burners.



Raising the dishwasher 6” to 8” off the floor and making the dishwasher accessible from either side will increase access.



Appliance controls with a maximum operating force of 5 lbs are standard accessibility requirements.



Side-hinged oven door which opens the door to the side will allow a seated cook to get closer to opening.



Using a bottom-drawer freezer style refrigerator makes the freezer accessible.



If you cannot visit a showroom to test out any of the appliances, find a supplier that will allow you to return the item if it is not a good fit.



Consider which way you want the appliance doors to swing open and make sure you can access the appliance without contorting your body.



A cooktop separate from wall oven is best so they both can be installed at a comfortable height.



Tactile controls such as raised buttons or dials with directional indicators that click into position at each setting can be used to increase safety.



Appliances with touch pad operation are great for people who have limited finger strength and control.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 1.3.5

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER 

Placing electrical outlets lower, but no lower than 15”off the floor.



Glare free lighting and good task lighting to increase visibility and create a safe cooking environment.



Switches & thermostats installed no higher than 48” off the floor will make them accessible to wheelchair users.



Creating several work areas in the kitchen can make it easier to access them from a single position. Suggestions for activity centers may be: baking area, salad counter, children’s snack area or a pass-through between garage and pantry for transferring groceries.



Placing the lighting controls so you never have to navigate in the dark. If you can access the kitchen from multiple points, a multi-pole light switch allow you to turn on and off the kitchen lights when you enter or leave from either entrance/exit.



Using a base cabinet on wheels can be used for transporting hot dishes from countertop to table or creating a moveable workspace area based on the needs of the activity.

MATERIALS Counter top material Easy clean, smooth, surfaces and clean lines throughout the kitchen help the cleaning process, for a healthier kitchen. Engineered stone such as Silestone provides ease of maintenance.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 1.3.6

Flooring material 

Use non-skid flooring and finishes. Wood or non-skid stone or tile floors stand up better in heavy-duty work spaces like the kitchen and are much more sanitary than carpet.



Try cork flooring if you want the cushion and warmth of carpet along with sound-dampening qualities. Cork is also antistatic, fire resistant, and good for the environment since harvesting cork does not kill the tree.



Apply nonslip coatings to existing floors. If you cannot afford to replace the floor, there are products on the market that can be applied to existing tile or stone flooring that will prevent slipping yet will not damage the surface or wear off easily. Ask about these at any good flooring store.



Add a contrasting border to delineate where the floor ends and the wall begins.



Provide visual cues to work spaces by changing the colour of the wood or tile in front of the sink and stove; as part of the overall design of the floor, this can be a nice decorative touch.



A quick and inexpensive way to provide contrast between surfaces is to apply painter’s tape (the blue tape you find in paint stores) to the wall where it meets the floor. Painter’s tape is designed to come off without damaging paint or woodwork, and you can outline doors and cabinet edges with it as well.



Avoid busy patterns in flooring. Solid-coloured linoleum or tile is less visually confusing than patterned or checkerboard styles. Some experts recommend laying tile at an angle. They feel that a diamond pattern points the way, creating more of a visual walkway than multiple

FDA Department of Industrial Design

straight rows of tile. Adjacent carpeted areas should be plain or a simple multicolor (tweed), with a dense weave and low pile (less than one-half inch). 

When installing a carpet next to a bare wood or tiled floor, inset the carpet so that there will be no lip or other tripping hazard between hard and carpeted surfaces.

1.4 Characteristics of the potential user group

The main target here is to design a kitchen for people who are wheelchair based. Paralysis to be precise. Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of your body. It happens when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also occur in just one area, or it can be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia. Paralysis of the arms and legs is quadriplegia.

Most paralysis is due to strokes or injuries such as spinal cord injury or a broken neck. Other causes of paralysis include 

Nerve diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis



Autoimmune diseases such as Guillain-Barre syndrome



Bell's palsy, which affects muscles in the face

Here, the kitchen I am designing for has PARAPLEGIA. That is the lower half of the body is paralyzed. Therefore, optimizing mobility performance in wheelchair court sports (basketball, rugby and tennis) is dependent on a combination of factors associated with the user, the wheelchair and the interfacing between the two. Substantial research has been attributed to the wheelchair athlete yet very little has focused on the role of the wheelchair and the wheelchairuser combination. This article aims to review relevant scientific literature that has investigated the effects of wheelchair configuration on aspects of mobility performance from an ergonomics perspective.

Optimizing

performance

from

an

ergonomics

perspective

requires

a

multidisciplinary approach. This has resulted in laboratory-based investigations incorporating a combination of physiological and biomechanical analyses to assess the efficiency, health/safety and comfort of various wheelchair configurations. To a lesser extent, field-based testing has also been incorporated to determine the effects of wheelchair configuration on aspects of mobility performance specific to the wheelchair court sports. The available literature has demonstrated FDA Department of Industrial Design

that areas of seat positioning, rear wheel camber, wheel size and hand-rim configurations can all influence the ergonomics of wheelchair performance. Certain configurations have been found to elevate the physiological demand of wheelchair propulsion, others have been associated with an increased risk of injury and some have demonstrated favourable performance on court. A consideration of all these factors is required to identify optimal wheelchair configurations.

Unfortunately, a wide variety of different methodologies have immerged between studies, many of which are accompanied by limitations, thus making the identification of optimal configurations problematic. When investigating an area of wheelchair configuration, many studies have failed to adequately standardize other areas, which has prevented reliable cause and effect relationships being established. In addition, a large number of studies have explored the effects of wheelchair configuration in either able-bodied populations or in daily life or racing wheelchairs.

As such, the findings are not specific and transferable to athletes competing in the wheelchair court sports. This review presents evidence about the effects of wheelchair configuration on aspects of mobility performance specific to the wheelchair court sports to better inform athletes, coaches and manufacturers about the consequences of their selections. It also provides researchers with guidance on the design of future investigations into areas of wheelchair configuration, which are essential.

Dimensional data varies from one person to another, and the average dimensions vary from one country to another. The dimensions of the individual human being vary with time. The tables below provide a range of dimensions derived from various studies. The given measurements take into consideration size variation between males and females as well as between different persons of the same sex. Dimensions shown in the figure are of a conventional manual wheelchair. The larger, encircled dimensions refer to electric wheelchairs.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 1.4.1

Figure 1.4.2

Figure 1.4.3

Max. Reach Up

1.85 m - 2.10 m

Oblique Reach Up

1.65 m - 2.00 m

Forward Reach

1.30 m - 1.45 m

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 1.4.4

Figure 1.4.5

FDA Department of Industrial Design

1.5 Conclusion Since, the aim of this research is to design a kitchen including white goods, it is important to raise an awareness towards disability at the same time. If product designers apply universal design principles, with a special focus on accessibility for people with disabilities, and if usability experts routinely include people with a variety of disabilities in usability tests, more products will be accessible to and usable by everyone.

PART II: EXPLORATION OF THE SOLUTION AREA 2.1 Project constraints, Objectives and Directives In order to design the most efficient kitchen for disabled, especially wheelchair users, there are some factors which should be taken into consideration. They will also help to identify the requirements of the kitchen. Initially, efficient design can be considered as one of them. It begins with the general planning issues, such as the location of the kitchen within the house. As an example, the distance of the kitchen to the other functions such as dining, entrance. In addition, does it makes their life easier with its design?

Traditionally, kitchen designers have focussed on a compact work triangle, which is formed by the sink, stove and refrigerator. We must expand the triangle to include all work areas as well as garbage disposal and the dishwasher. If the ability of the client to move around the kitchen while carrying things is limited. It is even more important to consider these additional elements within the traditional work triangle. In this case, since the main target user is wheelchair users, this factor plays much more significance.

A person using a wheelchair generally requires comfortable manoeuvring space of approximately 1500mm diameter, but this depends on the size and type of wheelchair. For circulation space, L shaped or U shaped kitchen layouts are preferable. If you are going to be pulling up to the worktop with your thighs going under the worktop, then it is essential to accurately measure your actual thigh height when seated and then allow approximately 2cm for comfort. 700-850mm high is the usual range.

Sometimes it is essential to reassess the wheelchair style and fittings, for example the type of footplates, or type of control of a powered wheelchair in conjunction with the kitchen design. The

FDA Department of Industrial Design

NHS wheelchair managers group have a complete list of all wheelchair services, they may be able to help with reassessments.

If you are the main user of the kitchen you may be able to decide on an optimum fixed worktop height before considering more expensive fittings such as adjustable height kitchen cupboards, worktops or sinks. If you share, you could consider either adapting a section of the kitchen for your use or install a rise and fall unit which allows the sink unit or worktop area to be raised or lowered to suit the user at the time.

If you have reduced reach, height adjustable overhead cupboards could be helpful if you want to make the most of the height above the worktop.

Designing an efficient kitchen also involves keeping the work triangle compact. Logical, sequential, routine movements will define the way your family use the kitchen and will help you design a kitchen with a work triangle that meets your needs.

A U-shaped kitchen may be the most convenient layout for one or two people working in a kitchen, but having a work area that is accessible from outside the “U� is also advisable.

Figure 2.1.1 A galley-style kitchen requires less space and sometimes provides people with more than one entry and exit point (see Figure 2). However, a galley-style kitchen usually limits a person using

FDA Department of Industrial Design

a wheelchair to a side approach to counters and appliances and can limit the amount of turning space.

Figure 2.1.2 An L-shaped kitchen, with or without an island, provides several work surfaces, including some outside the primary work triangle, which means people can work without bumping into each other.

Figure 2.1.3

FDA Department of Industrial Design

All kitchens have various routes, some that everyone uses and others that are only occasionally used. Primary throughways should be designed outside the expanded work triangle. Remember that dishwasher and refrigerator doors may be open when the family is racing through the kitchen.

An island creates alternate work areas. A sink and an electrical outlet in the island can maximize usability and convenience for everyone.

Appropriate size and location of both garbage bins and recycle bins in the kitchen is appreciated by everyone and reduces clutter. Consider using a system that can be contained within a cabinet (i.e., under the sink) to maximize usage of space.

For people with limited agility or mobility, a wheeled trolley can be useful for carrying food from the kitchen to the dining area.

Also, remember to consider window height. People should be able to see through windows when sitting and there should be easy access to window controls.

It is a good idea to reduce the number of doorways that open into a kitchen. If a door is necessary, it should provide at least 810 mm (32 in.) of clear passage width when it is open, but a clear space of at least 860 mm (34 in.) is better. Installing a 915 mm (36 in.) wide door will usually provide the recommended clear passage width.

2.2 Further Research Designing for minimal effort is an important principle of universal kitchen design. Planning for efficiency considers the location and relationship of all major elements within the kitchen. This will result in the placement of similar or related items in the same location within the kitchen.

Emptying the dishwasher is easier if the dishes and glasses are stored nearby. Baking is easier if baking supplies are close to a work surface and the oven. Meal clean-up is easier if the table is located close to sink, dishwasher and garbage.

Flexibility and efficiency of effort can be achieved through such design considerations as providing storage options at a variety of heights.

Planning for efficiency of effort and ease of use incorporates features such as more lighting, a place to sit down to work, a lower workstation, and storing materials where they can be easily seen and reached.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Other kitchen design components that increase usability include: 

Continuous countertops that allow pots, dishes and so on to slide along



Hands-free faucets



Wall-mounted oven at countertop height



Countertop convection/microwave oven



Open shelving rather than cupboards with doors



Space for using a wheeled trolley, and



Resilient flooring rather than a hard surface.

Adaptability Adaptability can be achieved by: 

installing adjustable-height counters



buying a refrigerator with a left-right-hinged reversible door



installing adjustable shelving in cupboards, and



installing drawers for storage rather than under-counter cabinets.

Ease of Cleaning When making decisions about new appliances, floors and countertops, remember to consider surface finishes. For example, glass cooktops tend to be easier to clean whereas stainless steel appliances show fingerprints and may require specialized cleaning products. Some countertop surfaces need yearly maintenance with a sealer to protect them from staining and harbouring bacteria.

Kitchen cleaning products should be stored in easy-to-reach locations, preferably in drawers or baskets that slide out. If family members include children, people with Alzheimer’s, people who are very forgetful or who have developmental disabilities, give careful thought to the storage and security of these products.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Audibility Special thought should be given to the ways that people who are hard of hearing or deaf will be alerted to timer buzzers and smoke alarms. Appliances that provide information in two different formats (visual and audio signals for example) are widely available.

Efforts should be made to limit sources of noise, especially when the kitchen is used by people who are hard of hearing. Soft, absorbent surfaces such as cork flooring can reduce noise in the kitchen. Also, consider creating a quiet work area outside the main kitchen as it may be helpful for people with learning disabilities or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and may reduce the busyness of the kitchen.

Safety Safety considerations in the kitchen deserve the highest consideration. Small rugs and mats in the kitchen should be avoided because they are a tripping hazard and an obstacle for many people who use mobility devices.

There are situations where it is safest to limit access to appliances in the home, for example, when a member of the household has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. If this is the case, consider installing an override switch that must be activated before using an appliance or outlet in the kitchen. Install the switch in a place that is inaccessible to those who might be at risk of injuring themselves.

Consider providing wall space in the kitchen for a notice board. Although a notice board is a useful feature for everyone, it is of particular benefit to people whose cognitive abilities are changing or who are losing their memory. Post reminders and safety notes on the board.

Plan for easy access to water, a fire extinguisher and the gas shut-off valve in case of emergency.

Design Elements The major design elements of a universal kitchen are: 

Countertops

FDA Department of Industrial Design



Cupboards, drawers and pantries



Sinks and clean-up areas



Food preparation areas



Switches and controls



Flooring materials



Lighting

Countertops Countertops are traditionally 920 mm (36 in.) high, but a countertop 860 mm (34 in.) high is more convenient for children, shorter people and people who use a wheelchair. If the person who uses the wheelchair is a child or a shorter person, they may appreciate 730 mm (29 in.) high counter and work areas.

Installing counters at a variety of heights (see Figure 4) is a universally accessible approach to meeting the needs of people of different heights and reach abilities, but remember, a traditional dishwasher requires a minimum counter height of 920 mm (36 in.) so the height of the counter should be carefully considered in that location. Adaptability can also be achieved by installing counters with electrically adjustable heights, which are available from a number of innovative kitchen designers.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 2.2.1 A toe space of 100 mm (4 in.) under cabinets will enable a person who uses a mobility device to approach the counter more closely. A high toe space has the added benefit of raising the height of the bottom shelf in the lower cabinet or drawer, reducing the reach range.

Clear counter space should be provided beside all major appliances for food or dishes as they are taken out of the refrigerator, oven or cupboard.

There should be multiple work surfaces in the kitchen, at least one with a minimum size of 800 mm (31 in.) wide x 600 mm (24 in.) deep, at a height of 730 – 860 mm (29 – 34 in.), with a minimum footprint in front of 750 x 1,200 mm (30 x 47 in.) to accommodate someone who is seated.

People with reduced vision should avoid countertop surfaces with busy patterns and many prefer a solid colour that will provide some contrast with their appliances and dishes. Some people select contrasting edging on the countertop to help in identifying the edge. A backsplash in a contrasting colour can also help people with low vision better identify the extent and configuration of the counters. Rounded or bull-nose edges on counters increase safety by eliminating the danger of sharp corners.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 2.2.2 Storing related things in the same cupboard where they are easy to find is especially important for people with limited mobility and a visual impairment.

A large pantry with swing-out doors or large drawers allows food and condiments to be stored where they can be easily reached at a variety of heights (see Figure 6).

Upper cupboards should be installed with the bottom edge 410 mm (16 in.) above the countertop, instead of the more traditional 460 mm (18 in.), to ensure that the lower shelf is within reach of someone seated. Cupboards should not be installed less than 410 mm (16 in.) above the counter, as this reduces storage space for appliances on the counter.

Upper cupboard systems are available that can be electrically raised or lowered. In addition, there are shelving and rack systems that can be installed in existing cupboards, which enable the entire rack to be pulled out and down, increasing the usability of the upper cupboards for everyone .

Installing lower cabinet drawers that pull out fully to display their contents for easy retrieval is an excellent approach. Another strategy for providing accessible storage is using a series of small and large drawers instead of cupboards. Cupboards and drawers should have “D�-type pull handles, which are easier for people with reduced mobility or agility to use. Touch-and-release drawers and cupboards are universally accessible to everyone, including people with limited dexterity.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

People with reduced vision may prefer handle colours that contrast with the background colour.

A contrasting colour for the interior of drawers and cupboards may also increase visibility for people with limited vision.

A drawer or shelf that pulls out beneath a wall oven or microwave with a side opening door can be used as a heat-resistant surface. This reduces the necessity of carrying hot pans and can provide a place for hot items to cool before they are moved. These drawers or shelves can also provide additional work surface in smaller kitchens (see Figure 9).

Pantry cupboards with doors that open fully, using 180-degree hinges, allow everyone to easily see the contents and to reach the shelves. In addition, internal lighting adds greater visibility for people searching for items in pantries and cupboards.

Household members with food sensitivities should have dedicated pantry and work areas for their preferred foods.

Consider using open-shelf storage or cupboards with glass doors if someone in the household is experiencing changes in cognitive ability or memory loss. The ability to see the contents of the shelves and cupboards can make the kitchen easier to use for many.

Figure 2.2.3

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Sinks and Clean-up Areas Two sink areas should be considered in busy kitchens and in kitchens where there are people working at various heights.

Locating an accessible sink in a corner location is not recommended as it restricts access to the surrounding area and limits the usability of the counter areas.

When a sink will be used from a seated position, a shallow sink with the drain offset to the rear is recommended. This will allow sufficient knee space and will result in the drainage pipes being out of the way, eliminating the hazard of someone burning their legs. Alternately, the drainage pipes can be insulated rather than offset.

The visual continuity of the kitchen cupboards can be maintained with cupboard doors under the sink. The doors can be opened and slid back under the counter to create adequate knee space.

An accessible sink should provide knee space clearance — 750 mm (30 in.) high, 800 mm (31 in.) wide and 600 mm (24 in.) deep — to allow someone using a wheelchair to wheel under the sink.

A faucet controlled by a single lever or a motion detector is the most convenient. A lever faucet and a pull-out hose with a spray nozzle provides convenience for everyone, especially if there is a soap dispenser incorporated into the faucet design. This provides flexibility and ease of use for all family members. It is a good idea to avoid gooseneck faucets as they can splash excessively.

Figure 2.2.4

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Food Preparation Workstations An accessible workstation integrated into the design of a kitchen is most advantageous for people who work from a seated position. A workstation where someone can prepare food and have easy access to accessories in that same area is efficient and convenient. An accessible workstation is equally appreciated by a child who wants to participate in kitchen activities.

The workstation should have at least one accessible counter or pull-out shelf, accessible storage within easy reach, as well as an electrical outlet and sink.

There should also be task lighting if this is going to be a primary work area.

Switches and Controls Electrical outlets should be strategically located at the front of counters within the reach of someone seated and others with a limited reach range. However, careful consideration should be given to locating outlets out of the reach of children. For added safety you could consider installing an override switch.

Other controls and switches, including the switch for the vent hood over the cooktop, should be located at a maximum height of 1,200 mm (47 in.) from the floor.

Switches and controls should be easy to operate. Try to avoid controls that require the use of two different motions to operate in order to accommodate people who have the use of only one hand; whether they are wheeling a wheelchair, carrying a baby, using a cane for support or have only one arm.

Flooring Materials Durability, ease of cleaning, comfort and a safe, non-slip surface are some of the prime considerations when selecting flooring. Slip resistant flooring should be assessed both dry and wet.

Avoid marble or waxed floors as they are slippery, especially when wet. Cork provides an interesting alternative as it is resilient, comfortable and easy to wheel on. Vinyl flooring is available in sheets and tiles and is low maintenance. However, it must be installed on a plywood surface, and as a result, there will be some emissions from the glue, vinyl and plywood. Lowemission glues are now available.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

A ceramic tile floor is a harder surface, but it is easy to clean and wheel on.

If someone in your house is prone to dropping things or falling, be sure to choose a resilient flooring material, such as cushioned vinyl or cork.

Whatever type of flooring material is selected, ensure the flooring is installed so that it is level with adjacent flooring to avoid having a lip or rise where the different flooring materials meet.

Lighting Ambient lighting creates an even level of illumination throughout the kitchen. Fluorescent lighting offers the most diffused light and reduces glare. Lighting levels should be adjustable, supplemented by task lighting in key work areas and for specific workstations and islands.

It should be noted that people over the age of 60 typically require two to three times as much light for reading compared to people 20 years old. People with visual impairments may require even more light. Installing lighting inside the pantry and cupboards and task lighting beneath the upper cabinets will help everyone, but particularly people with limited vision.

Where possible, take advantage of opportunities to maximize natural lighting, but be careful to avoid glare. Glare-free surface treatments and a matt paint finish are preferred by many people with visual impairments as these finishes reduce glare and complement illumination levels.

2.3 Analysis of Potential Design Solution “The design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.�

The concept is an evolving design philosophy.

Principle 1: Equitable Use This principle focuses on providing equitable access for everyone in an integrated and dignified manner. It implies that the design is appealing to everyone and provides an equal level of safety for all users.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Principle 2: Flexibility in Use This principle implies that the design of the house or product has been developed considering a wide range of individual preferences and abilities throughout the life cycle of the occupants.

Principle 3: Simple and Intuitive The layout and design of the home and devices should be easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience or cognitive ability. This principle requires that design elements be simple and work intuitively.

Principle 4: Perceptible Information The provision of information using a combination of different modes, whether using visual, audible or tactile methods, will ensure that everyone is able to use the elements of the home safely and effectively. Principle 4 encourages the provision of information through all of our senses — sight, hearing and touch — when interacting with our home environment.

Principle 5: Tolerance for Error This principle incorporates a tolerance for error, minimizing the potential for unintended results.

This implies design considerations that include fail-safe features and gives thought to how all users may use the space or product safely.

Principle 6: Low Physical Effort This principle deals with limiting the strength, stamina and dexterity required to access spaces or use controls and products.

Principle 7: Size and Space for Approach and Use This principle focuses on the amount of room needed to access space, equipment and controls.

This includes designing for the appropriate size and space so that all family members and visitors can safely reach, see and operate all elements of the home.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

PART III: EXPLORATION OF THE SOLUTION AREA 3.1 Description of Design Solution Keeping in mind all the safety measures and convenience for a person in wheelchair, I have come up with a kitchen design which can be considered comfortable for a disabled person. It’s a basic straight kitchen with a kitchen island which has the stove. I have designed the kitchen keeping in mind that sometimes even normal people will be using it. As you can see in figure 3.1.1, the fridge, the oven and the microwave share the same area. The washbasin and the stove are exactly opposite to each other so that it’s easier to manoeuvre both while cooking.

Also, the stove area and the washing area is empty below as you can see in figure 3.1.2 and 3.1.3. That’s because of the wheelchair. It will be easier for the person to be comfortable and wash dishes as well as cook food. This kitchen also follows the triangle rule of the kitchen separating the refrigerator, washing area and the stove.

Besides the stove area is the storage place. The top part of it is wood and the storage is in hard plastic. When you open it, there are two shelves inside which can rotate. This makes it possible for the person on wheelchair to get things from it without him to move to the other side. All the storage places have a side opening door. The refrigerator is also the French door style fridge.

Also the oven opens two ways. This makes it very easy for the user.

The material mostly used for storage is wood and the kitchen slab is made from marble.

3.2 Justification of Design Decisions In terms of the justification of design solutions, it can be said that all of my decisions are made keeping in mind the comfort of the target user. It is also functional and aesthetically good kitchen.

While designing this kitchen, I wanted to keep it as simple as I could but at the same time I wanted it to look contemporary. I wanted the target user to feel as normal while using this kitchen and not make them feel like they need special technologies and methods for them to use the kitchen. The distance between the kitchen slab and the kitchen island is 150 cm, which is perfect for the wheelchair to rotate and turn without any hassle. All the storage places have sliding doors. Regarding the whitegoods, they are placed according to the work triangle and the eye level of a sitting person.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

In terms of materials, countertops are designed in stone, for the ease of cleaning. For the flooring, I have used ceramic because it is easy to clean and the wheelchair can be easily used on it. I wanted to colour the walls of the kitchen yellow to make it a happy place to make food and for the target user to feel happy and energetic about cooking. The storage places are made out of wood because it then gives a warm feeling to the kitchen and aesthetically looks good.

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 3.1.1

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 3.1.2

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 3.1.3

FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 3.1.4

Figure 3.1.5 FDA Department of Industrial Design

Figure 3.1.6

FDA Department of Industrial Design

REFERENCES http://www.cookingmanager.com/tipscooking-disability-injury/ http://www.thekitchn.com/accessible-kitchen-design-in-t-77041 http://www.thekitchn.com/cooking-with-a-physical-disability-171416 http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/paralysis/Pages/Causes.aspx http://www.eastersealstech.com/2014/06/04/accessiblekitchendesign/ https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/acho/acho_004.cfm http://www.gruppodeltongo.com/en/best-solution/ http://accessiblelifestyle.com/services/kitchens http://www.livingmadeeasy.org.uk/house%20and%20home/kitchen-and-household-2266/ http://www.akw-ltd.co.uk/categories/kitchens/ https://www.sharecare.com/health/physical-disabilities/what-flooring-make-kitchen-accessible http://www.geappliances.com/ge/ada-compliant/ http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/enable/designm/AD5-02.htm https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23315754

FDA Department of Industrial Design

FDA Department of Industrial Design