Hip Orthosis
Aesthetic design and usability optimization for enhanced comfort
Develop “cool-factor” for brand design language
Stylized yet functional visual appeal adds to user compliance
Intuitive adjustment interfaces assist with efficacy
BlackHägen Design (BH) has proposed a project to Orthomerica Products, Inc. for the styling of a premier hip orthosis system. The goal is to enhance the perceived value of the current mechanical design through aesthetic improvements, aligning with Orthomerica’s brand identity while also optimizing usability. BH will focus on improving the ease of use for patients with limited mobility through ergonomic adjustments. The project will begin with concept exploration in Phase 1, where BH will develop 2-3 design directions and refine one or two concepts for further review. The final deliverable will include renderings and orthographic drawings of a chosen design direction.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: BH will improve the aesthetic design of the hip orthosis to increase its perceived value while aligning with Orthomerica’s brand identity.
• Usability Optimization: Focus on enhancing ease-of-use for patients with limited mobility, incorporating ergonomic details to improve comfort and usability.
• Phase 1 Concept Development: BH will explore multiple design directions, refine concepts, and provide renderings and drawings to select a final design direction for further development.
Corporate Branding and Design Development
• Orthomerica leveraged a rare partnership with Donjoy Orthopedics (DJO) to develop a broad range of cosmetically enhanced orthotic devices
• BH was tasked with developing an overall style guide that unified devices that would be marketed to DJO
• The Hip Orthosis was the first of many designs that created smart structures in plastic molded parts, while creating a sports-like look and feel
• Careful development of part geometries was required to ensure that the assembly would provide the level of support with minimal need of encumbering straps and buckles, thereby simplifying the design and the donning/doffing process, while also reducing COGs and dirt traps
• The successful completion of the Hip Orthosis led to a slew of follow-on designs for head, neck, upper/lower back, knee, ankle and foot orthoses
