Ergonomic Crutches Design for Enhanced Mobility and Comfort

Ergonomic Crutches Design for Enhanced Mobility and Comfort

Business model

Value proposal

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What makes me unique, different, special?
  • Dynamic length adjustment mechanism: The crutches have a mechanical system of length adjustment that can be adapted depending on stair negotiation, thereby making it easier for users of varied needs to navigate in and out of a structure.
  • Ergonomic Design: The utmost comfort is tried to achieve by using padded grips, variable features, and light materials.
  • Durability and personalization: The crutches will be manufactured using high-quality materials, such as carbon fiber or aluminum, to make them more durable and offer customization options in terms of sizes and colors.
  • Cost and Sustainable: It offers the fine line that exists between high functionality at reasonable price tags, KES 2,000, hence making the cut to fall within a wide range of categories among users.

Key resources and partners

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What gives me a strategic advantage? Who supports me?

Key Resources

  • New design and technology: dynamic length-adjusting shaft, ergonomic handles.
  • Lightweight and durable materials: carbon fiber, aluminum.
  • Prototyping and manufacturing: 3D printing, CNC.
  • Intellectual property—patents and know-how.
  • Data from clinical trials and feedback received in real life.

Key Partners

  • Healthcare providers: hospitals, orthopaedic clinics, rehabilitation centers.
  • Manufacturing and supply chain partners.
  • Distribution networks: online retailers, pharmacies.
  • Collaborators of research and development: universities and research institutions.
  • Advocacy groups and NGOs that promote mobility solutions.
  • Marketing and branding partners: a digital agency and influencers.


Potential clients, users and channels

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How will I reach clients and users?

Potential Clients and Users

  • Individuals:


People who are recovering from injuries or surgeries that require temporary mobility aids.
Older individuals or those with chronic mobility disabilities.
Athletes whose rehabilitation requires them to use crutches.

  • Organizations:


Hospitals and rehabilitation facilities for use by patients.
Nursing and assisted living facilities.
Non-profit organizations aiding people with disabilities.
Channels

  • Online:


E-commerce websites, such as Amazon and specialized healthcare websites.
Social media marketing: running targeted ads on Facebook and Instagram.
A dedicated product website with user guides and purchasing options.

  • Offline:


Retail stores: pharmacies, medical equipment suppliers. Healthcare and medical technology trade fairs and exhibitions.
Direct recommendations through partnerships with health care providers. Community Outreach: disability support groups and organizations. Awareness creation through advocacy groups and NGOs.

Relevant documentation for device production and use

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1. Documentation of the Technical Design
CAD drawings and schematics of the components of the crutches.
Materials and size specifications, like an adjustable shaft mechanism with an ergonomic handle.
Flow diagrams for assembly and manufacturing.
2. Regulatory and Compliance Documents
FDA and ISO compliance certification of medical devices.
Safety testing reports and certification.
Provide documentation of adherence to environmental and sustainability standards.
3. User Instructions and Guides
Step-by-step instructions on how to adjust and use the crutches.
Maintenance and care guidelines for prolonged durability.
Troubleshooting Tips for Some Common Issues.
4. Prototyping and Testing Reports
Reports on user testing, feedback, and iterations.
Results of the resistance, durability, and safety tests.
5. Marketing and Distribution Materials
Product brochures highlighting its key features and benefits.
Training materials for healthcare providers recommending the product.
Packaging design and instruction.
6. Legal Documentation
Patents on unique design features and mechanisms.
licensing agreements with manufacturers and distributors.
7. Supply Chain and Cost Analysis
Documentation of raw material sources and agreements from suppliers.
Production, packaging, and distribution cost breakdowns.

Analysis of costs, production, supply chain and services to clients

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Estimated Costs:
Material costs: 700–900 KES through the use of affordable yet durable materials like aluminum.
Manufacturing cost: 500–600 KES with efficient production and bulk processing.
Regulatory and compliance: 100–150 KES across large batches.
Marketing and Distribution: 200-300 KES—preponderantly low-cost digital channels.
Logistics and packaging: 200–250 KES, using light and simple materials.
Total Estimated Cost: 1,700–2,200 KES per unit.

Steps to Achieve KES 2,000 Selling Price
Reduce Material Costs

  • Use affordable and locally available materials.
  • Simplify designs to reduce the number of components required.
  • Optimize Manufacturing
  • Standardize processes to reduce labour and machine time.
  • Take full advantage of bulk production economies of scale.
  • Reduce Marketing and Distribution Costs
  • Rely on affordable digital marketing strategies like social media campaigns.
  • Align with distributors to reduce direct sale expenses. Economical Logistics and Packaging
  • Use lightweight, recyclable packaging to reduce shipping and production costs.


Consolidate to save on transportation. Scale Production Produce large batches to dilute fixed costs, such as compliance and quality testing, across a higher volume. Profit Margin Keeping the base cost around 1,800 KES allows for a selling price of 2,000 KES with a 10% profit margin. Though it is small, this is to ensure competitive pricing of the product and will help set it up for access within hospitals, clinics, and NGOs.

Growth strategy

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How will I make a sustainable impact?

1. Market Expansion
Target high-demand markets for mobility aids in the country and overseas.
Establish partnerships with global distributors and e-commerce platforms.
2. Diversification of Products
Produce specialized versions: e.g., pediatric, heavy-duty, and sports-rehabilitation crutches.
Introduce more accessories: changeable handles, extra padding.
3. Continuous Innovation
Keep designs current with user feedback and in concert with new technological developments.
Understand ecologically friendly materials and manufacturing methods that can potentially reduce environmental impact.
4. Strategic Partnerships
Collaborate with health professionals, NGOs, and rehabilitation centers for endorsements of the services.
Partner with governments or agencies for bulk orders in public health programs.
5. Awareness and Branding
Initiate targeted marketing campaigns that showcase special features and benefits.
Use user testimonials and endorsements from medical professionals.
6. Scalability and Efficiency
Optimize production processes to lower costs while maintaining quality.
Build a solid supply chain to handle increased demand.
7. Social Impact
Offer pricing that can be afforded by the underserved communities. Work with nonprofit organizations to donate crutches to those who cannot afford them.