2022 Award Winner!
Andrew Liu
I have always been a more visual person, passionate about cars, bikes, and sketching since childhood. I pursued art and graphic design in an attempt to further this interest, but after a certain point, I felt that something wasn’t connecting. During that time, I also discovered how much I enjoy being able to help others and improve their experiences. That’s when I was introduced to industrial design, where I could put my passion and skills to practice. Whether it’s designing a vehicle, a handheld device, or just helping someone else with their design, I’ve found an outlet to make a difference on those around me.
The Four Essential Pillars for Design Excellence
The four essential pillars encompass human-centric design approach and the understanding of full-bodied, three dimensional physical interaction of user, product and environment. The projects generate innovative solutions using research-driven, evidence-based designs which focus on the user experience.
Enhancement of Human Lifestyle
Vigilo uses a new armour panel system that gives first responders and paramedics quicker access to injuries, while the smart technology enhances the officer’s experience.
A blind-spot sensor helps when an officer is alone or a suspect’s location is unknown, and live-tracking of user vitals can show who needs support.
Human-Interaction & User-Centric Design
Vigilo makes use of the advancements in smart technology and new ways to interact with one’s environment.
The Communication Hub device centralizes many key pieces of utility, and the use of smart fabrics in the gloves create a more integrated system of equipment and streamlines interactions.
Ergonomics & Human Factors Design
Vigilo employs a shoulder-harness system to support the duty belt, and the main outer vest uses a hook and loop fastening system which grants more adjustability within specific size groups, as well as providing more flexibility for female users to fit the vest to their body.
Sustainability & Social Responsibility
Vigilo tackles sustainability in its removable armour panel system.
When a panel is damaged or worn-down, it can be replaced individually, rather than replacing an entire vest. In less exposed parts, more eco-friendly fabrics can be used as alternatives to the typical polyester and nylon.
Vigilo - Police Communication & Safety Gear
Project Summary
Law enforcement can be a very dangerous line of work, with over hundreds of officer injuries and fatalities each year in North America. According to FBI statistics, many casualties are the result of firearms- and traffic-related incidents, with many more being accidental. Some trends indicate rising gun violence as a cause, with others citing militarization as a precursor. Public perception is also mixed, with many cases of improper use-of-force. Through research, video user observations, and advisor interviews, a better understanding was gained on law enforcement and their experiences in high-stress scenarios. Law enforcement officers perform a crucial role in helping to keep communities safe and respond to criminal activity, and Vigilo aims to enhance the officer’s ability to perform their duty in dangerous situations.
Thesis Summary Motion Presentation
Vigilo is a new approach to law enforcement safety that aims to enhance an officer's abilities on the job.
Thesis Visual Presentation
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Thesis Development Process
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3D Design Development & Modeling
CAD Modeling Video
Overview of SolidWorks CAD model for the main device and Illustrator flat patterns used for the wearable.
Physical Model Video
Process of making Vigilo into a 1:1 scale physical prototype model, utilizing 3D printed parts and manually-sewn fabric.
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