Third Year | Semester 2

HealStrap

I enhanced a knee brace with electronic technology to help athletes recover from sports-related injuries through more informed and engaging rehabilitation.

Black+and+White+Minimalist+Creative+Portfolio+Presentation+%2812%29.png
ACL-tear-1.jpg

I chose to focus on an ACL knee brace because ACL injuries are common and serious, particularly in high-impact and pivoting sports. Recovery can be long and challenging, so I wanted to explore how existing knee braces could be improved by better integrating electronics to support athletes during rehabilitation and their return to sport.

  • Sketch

    Going through the user journey and using research to identify key pain points and features to integrate into the brace.

  • Prototype

    Prototyping allowed me to explore the ergonomics and effectiveness of the design, helping me refine its fit and functionality.

  • Testing

    For the testing stage, I used fabric prototypes to test the design and gathered feedback from classmates, people with ACL injuries, and medical professionals.

  • Final

    For the final design, I integrated all the internal electronics, ensuring the wiring was protected while allowing the components to be easily removed for washing.

Final Design

  • Adjustable vibration sensors - positioned over the ACL area to provide targeted vibration intended to support recovery.

  • User-controlled activation - a button allows the user to switch the vibration feedback on when needed.

  • Pressure monitoring - maintains consistent pressure around the knee and detects when the brace becomes too loose.

  • Warning light - alerts the user when the brace loses the required pressure or fit.

    Locking side supports - hinged sides can lock at set positions to control knee bending and encourage more conscious movement.

  • Washable electronics - internal components can be removed, allowing the fabric brace to be washed.

  • Protected wiring - all wiring is concealed within the brace for comfort and safety.