[Overview]
A typical sink in a laboratory is difficult to access from the front in a seated position, such as in a wheelchair. This product has a clearance at the bottom of the sink and a prototype design with a short depth to accommodate the short reach of a seated user. Furthermore, because the height of the sink varies depending on the user, and because people also use it in a standing position, an electric elevation function was installed. Through testing of the prototype, we discovered a new need for wheelchair users to place their weight on the sink, so the front of the sink was smoothed to prevent pain when weight was placed on it. In addition, the front edge of the sink has a return structure that allows the user to hold on to the sink in response to the need to hold on. The width of the sink was widened to allow two people to work at the same time. This sink is sold by Yamato Scientific Corporation, which commercialized the product (LSSB-L189TZ).
[Recommendation Comment]
To create an accessible sink, an inclusive design approach was used. This approach involved the participation of persons with disabilities in all stages of design, as well as designers and experts in physical and chemical equipment. The sink was developed through a joint research effort by the University of Tokyo’s Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology Inclusive Design Laboratory, Yamato Scientific Corporation, and GK Design Cooperation.
Recommender: Shigehiro Namiki
