#042- Scaling Adaptive Equipment Manufacturing and Collaborating with Consumers featuring Greg Vanderbeek

In this episode, Brendan and Greg Vanderbeek from the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado discuss the design and development of adaptive bikes in collaboration with local organizations in Boulder. The program aims to create lightweight, accessible bikes for individuals with disabilities, fostering a user-centered design process and meaningful collaboration with athletes to ensure the bikes meet their specific needs. The university's partnership with companies like SRAM and 3D Systems has been instrumental in supporting the project, as the future of 3D printing holds great potential for assistive technology and prosthetics, allowing for rapid prototyping and mold creation. The project not only creates tangible products but also fosters a shift in students' mindset towards accessibility and inclusion.

Brendan and Greg discuss how collaboration between universities and organizations benefits both parties and provides valuable learning experiences for students, exploring the intersection between normative education and tangible experience. Greg also shares his motivation and the rewarding aspect of donating bikes to families, exploring the hierarchy of function, aesthetics, and affordability from a socioeconomic standpoint.

To learn more about Greg’s work with the College of Engineering and Applied Science at Colorado, visit their website here: https://www.colorado.edu/mechanical/greg-vanderbeek

Episode 42 Takeaways

• The design and development of adaptive bicycles involves user-centered approaches and collaboration with athletes to meet their specific needs.
• Partnerships with companies like SRAM and 3D Systems have been instrumental in supporting and sustaining the project.
• Assignments that have real-world impact foster a shift in students' mindset towards accessibility and inclusion.
• Universities can effectively collaborate with organizations by reaching out and offering their resources and expertise. Collaboration and innovation are crucial in the design process for adaptive equipment.
• Donating bikes to families through the Adaptive Sports Center is a rewarding aspect of the project.
• Patents might not be a priority, as the goal is to make designs accessible and open source.
• The hierarchy of function, aesthetics, and affordability varies depending on the specific project.

Episode 42 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:41 - Designing an Adaptive Bicycle

07:01 - Design Process and User-Centered Approach

10:51 - Accessibility and Scalability

14:19 - Impact on Students' Mindset

20:07 - Future of 3D Printing and Accessibility

25:40 - Safety Factors and Testing

28:22 - Collaboration and Innovation

30:11 - The First Prototype and Initial Success

32:18 - Donating Bikes to Families

33:41 - Collaboration with Other Engineering Departments

34:55 - Patent Protection and Open Source Design

40:06 - Hierarchy of Function, Aesthetics, and Affordability

41:50 - Advice for Students Interested in Engineering for Adaptive Equipment

43:49 - Reflecting on Past Work and Discovering the Adaptive Market

46:38 - Raising Awareness and Making Small Changes