How Did Oscar Pistorius Get Track Spikes For His Legs?

For those watching the Track and Field events at the London Olympics, you may have heard of Oscar Pistorius, the South African runner in the 400m event who has the distinction of being the first amputee to compete in the Olympics for Track. After protesting for years to be given the opportunity to compete for his country for years, he successfully got permission to do just that. More info after the jump.

Why Powerchairs Don't Use Escalators

This video was shown on the news earlier this week and has been released by the Boston Transportation Service, or MBTA, as an advisory to powerchair users as to why it is not a good idea to use the escalator to go up a floor. As you can see in the above clip, this can result in some disastrous results.  Enjoy the clip and, for all the powerchair and scooter users, be sure to use the elevator. 

Che-Yu Lu's Wheelcare Concept

Che-Yu Lu's Wheelcare Concept is for a wheelchair that is designed to be ergonomically designed to be not only comfortable for the user but also easily-adjustable for the caregiver. The handles, footrests, and other aspects of the wheelchair are designed to be easily adjusted by the caregiver to provide as much comfort and safety to the user while minimizing strain by the caregiver. This chair was inherently  designed to reduce the caregiver's effort and reduce the likelihood of injury while caring for the user.  More images after the jump.

Blindsquare Uses Foursquare To Guide Blind

MIPSoft has developed an app for the iPhone and iPad called Blindsquare.  Utilizing GPS and compass data along with information gathered by the popular Foursquare app, Blindsquare allows the blind to see where they are by having the app dictate where they are located. This allows the user to determine where they are and also get verbal directions to their destination.  Blindsquare users can even get enhanced control with special accessories such as bone conduction headphones and a remote control so the user can have complete function while keeping their phone hidden.  Since the app does use Foursquare, Blindsquare users can also use the app to check in to locations on Foursquare.

The app is available now on iTunes for $14.99.  Enjoy!

Cindy Sjöblom's Cursum Stroller Concept For Wheelchair Users

Industrial Design student Cindy Sjöblom has developed a concept called the Carsum Stroller to address an issue that is difficult yet never quite been resolved:  transporting a baby. Most, if not all, strollers are designed with an able-bodied person in mind.  Trying to push a stroller and care for a baby when you are in a wheelchair is quite challenging with current strollers:  the Carsum Stroller aims to make life a little easier.  More info, images, and video after the jump.