AT-d8sign: methodology to support development of assistive devices focused on user-centered design and 3D technologies

The worldwide growing demand for assistive devices, due to the global trend of population aging and high rates of chronic diseases, creates design opportunities for study, optimization and clinical validation of these products, in search of quality products that promote quality of life and greater autonomy. The high abandonment rates of assistive devices, the low-quality and inefficient performance in many cases, in addition to the scarcity of options and the high prices, indicate possible failures in the initial design phases of these products. This paper presents the elaboration of an adaptive methodology focused on the “Design for Assistive Technology,” considering user-centered design and 3D technologies. The AT-d8sign methodology presents an iterative and dynamic flux, divided into three main phases: (1) design cross-domain; (2) conception spiral; (3) evaluation and refinement. The study is based on three fundamental elements: an analysis of three designs developed in the area by the research group; a case study from one of these designs; a systematic review on the current scenario of the design methodology in this area. The preliminary results from the application of the methodology included: shorter design development time from informational design to clinical testing; effective insertion of the users and health professionals in the decision-making process throughout the conceptual design phase; better communication between the interdisciplinary research group due to the use of design techniques; gradual improvement of the conceptual and technical solutions supported by 3D printing, resulting in the refinement of fundamental attributes of assistive products: comfort, safety and functionality.