Refining and Designing a Postural Support Chair for Children with Disabilities in Tanzania

This report presents the development of a postural support device/system designed specifically for children with disabilities in Tanzania. Our project emerged from a pressing need to support young individuals with disabilities, particularly those affected by cerebral palsy (CP), in regions where stigma, limited resources, and insufficient support structures pose significant challenges. Through a blend of engineering and ethical considerations, we aimed to deliver a solution that not only meets functional requirements but also enriches the lives of its users and their families. Our collaboration with Kyaro Assistive Technology, an NGO based in Tanzania, was instrumental in shaping our understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by children with CP in the region. This partnership guided our design process, ensuring that our solution was grounded in real-world applicability and cultural relevance. The result is a two-part system comprising a child carrier and seat support, meticulously designed to maintain proper posture for children while seated or being carried. Ethical engineering practices were at the heart of our project. We navigated the intricacies of designing for a culture different from our own, with a strong commitment to creating a product that is affordable, locally manufacturable, and culturally acceptable. Incorporating traditional Tanzanian fabrics and considering the system’s aesthetic integration into daily life were key elements in fulfilling this commitment. Our approach to the engineering analysis and testing phases was thorough and methodical. We conducted a series of tests, including material strength, wood load capacity, vibration, and user experience tests, to ensure the system’s safety, durability, and effectiveness. Through Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and User and Engineering requirements, we systematically identified and addressed potential failure modes, refining our design to meet the highest standards of reliability. This report details our design process, from initial concept to final testing, highlighting the challenges we faced and the innovative solutions we developed. Our project stands as a testament to the power of engineering to address global health challenges and underscores our belief in the potential to improve lives through thoughtful, well-engineered solutions. We are proud to contribute to the betterment of the lives of children with CP in Tanzania and hopeful for the positive impact our postural support system will have on their daily lives and long-term well-being.