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
SQUEASE. UK
Problem:
In the United Kingdom, 135,000 five to sixteen year olds have been diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These individuals are conscientious and able, but their sensitivity to anxiety makes every day activities very difficult. There is a need for non-medical products that can calm and provide a sense of protection for individuals with ASD.
Development:
Interviews with psychologists, teachers, therapists, special needs assistants and with families, children and adults with ASD heavily influenced the design. The development prototype was also trialled with two teenagers with ASD.
Solution:
SQUEASE is a garment that allows the wearer to apply deep pressure to their body in order to create a calming effect and reduce anxiety. It has integrated headphones that reduce the sound level of high frequency noises that cause discomfort to people with hypersensitive hearing.
2009 Finalist - PeeposGPS