Certificate for Best Paper Award of the 11th International Conference on Design, User Experience and Usability
The award has been conferred to
Inês Lopes, Ernesto Filgueiras, Alexandre Guerreiro and João Monteiro
(University of Beira Interior, Portugal)
for the paper entitled
"Inclusive Design: Furniture Design for Autism Parents Support"
Presented in the context of
HCI International 2022
26 June—1 July 2022
Paper Abstract
"Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain and is frequently associated with problems related to feelings, thoughts, language, as well as difficulties in social interactions. The goal of this project is to develop therapeutic home furniture, focused on children with ASD in the age group of 2 to 6 years old, the one with the highest prevalence of diagnostics and where the best results are likely to be achieved if therapy is started early. Five product proposals have been developed: bed, sensory pouf, tent, ball pool and swivel chair. The products were designed following interviews and questionnaires with occupational therapists and parents/caregivers, with a key characteristic targeted being the fostering of the child’s interactivity with other persons. Each product has the possibility of applying sensory maps as well as extra textures and shapes, with neutral and calm colors being used in accordance with the research done. A natural fabric called Burel was abundantly used in the products due to its many advantageous properties that can be used to bring benefits in the sensory and cognitive development of children with ASD. Applying the fabric beyond the usual, for tactile and kinesthetic properties."
The full paper is available through SpringerLink, provided that you have proper access rights.