The first design direction we explore was the bike. During the initial interviews, we learned that the case owner is unable to ride a bike, due to the static position it requires. We saw this as an opportunity, and had the idea of a bike that could allow for some kind of upper body movement. As a result, the ‘Rocking Chair Bike’ concept was made.

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When we discussed this with the case owner, however, we learned that even if they were able to bike, they would not really. They live on a big farm that’s located quite far away from all other things, so using the car makes more sense.

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This conversation was a nice opening for us into cars. Similarly to sitting behind a desk, sitting in the car for long stretches is not comfortable for the case owner. Generally, they have to take some breaks in between to move around a little. Because we knew this, we considered a “mobile car seat” that could allow for extra movement. When we discussed this further with the case owner, the issue of safety did come up. Overall, the movements that the case owner can do in their current car seat is alright. Any added movement would be nice, but not if it compromises the safety of the driver.

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As we talked further, the topic of race cars seats arose. Race car seats are fully customised to the driver, meaning they really support the posture of the driver. This could be beneficial for the case owner as well. This also brought up the issue of armrests of current car designs. Armrests, specifically in their own car, are too low to actually be effective. Sitting in a static position and have arms that hang down, meaning there is more force on the shoulders and neck, does not feel good. Having adjustable armrests could therefore be nice, because right now the case owner uses a pillow on their lap.

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The next topic that came up is chair memory. If someone else were to use the car, such as her husband, the chair would need to be positioned differently. It would an added luxury to have chair memory, meaning the chair can remember different positions and quickly assume them when a button is pushed. Overall, the case owner is able to quickly adjust the car seat to their liking, so it is not very necessary. Perhaps applying something similar to the armrest, so automating them and allowing for different memorised positions could be an interesting design approach.