The winner of the James Dyson Award in 2009 was AUTOMIST by Yusuf Muhammad and Paul Thomas.
In recognition of their victory, they have won £10,000 to develop their design. £10,000 will also be awarded to their university department to support the development of future projects by other promising students.
Read about the winning entry, as well as the fifteen international finalists, here.
2009 Finalist
Skylino. Germany
Problem:
Current airline protection systems for infants with parents are expensive, and offer poor protection, especially to young babies. In the event of an accident, evacuating the aeroplane with an infant can be problematic for adults as they hold the child.
Development:
Investigations were conducted to examine the best carrying position of an infant in flight, as well as the required support needed in an accident. Prototypes were built first in cardboard, then out plastic reinforced canvas. These were trialled with various people.
Solution:
By placing young infants into a specially reinforced carrier that is strapped onto the chest of their accompanying adult, Skylino minimises the possibility of a child suffering severe spinal damage in the event of an accident. The adult's arms are also freed, allowing a quick and safe egress from the aircraft with the infant in an emergency.
2009 Finalist - Home Chare