Hannah Kurien
I’m a user-centred designer guided by research and human factors. With a strong attention to detail, I develop thoughtful, intuitive solutions that address user needs and enhance the overall experience
Up to 68% of individuals with Parkinson’s Disease experience falls each year, making it the most severe symptom.
Freezing of gait is the leading cause of falls. Noa is a wearable device which provides rhythmic vibrations to help those with Parkinson’s walk with confidence. The vibrations act like a beat that helps guide each step, making it easier for the user to start walking and maintain a steady rhythm. Noa uses cueing, a technique practised by physiotherapists to reduce movement difficulties.
The rhythmic vibrations form a pattern which improve stride length and gait rhythm, reducing fall risk.
Vibration speed, intensity and tempo can be adjusted to suit user needs. Their movement data is privately stored in the companion app.
Noa’s compact, transportable charging case is thoughtfully designed to support seamless integration into users’ daily routines, whether at home or on the go.
Developing electronics and fabric prototypes to explore function and test interaction with users.
Through iterative testing with the Parkinson’s community, physiotherapists and other designers, I have developed a design catered to the needs of it’s users.
The paired companion app allows the user to track progress, manage controls and share data. Users can control the vibration speed, intensity and tempo using the Noa App.
How might we better protect sensitive coastal environments?
Reef Guard protects and revives coral reefs by combining pH technology and alkaline enhancement. The product uses live pH monitoring to stimulate the instant dispersal of alkaline substance, which strengthens coral.
Studio Stallinga, Product Design Intern, Amsterdam
For six months, I worked as a Product Design Intern at Studio Stallinga, Amsterdam. I was involved in projects which explored prototyping, creating graphics, installation construction and used Solidworks for site plans and 3D models. I created an exhibition booth for Dutch Design Week ’23 where I created graphics, floor maps, CAD models and built the booth in Eindhoven.
Student Success Peer Mentor, Loughborough University
Providing guidance to second-year Industrial Design BA students by offering advice on placement preparation and applications, effective deadline management, and maintaining a healthy balance between coursework and extracurricular commitments.
Article 25, Work Experience, Canary Wharf
One week work experience. I tackled a design task during the week. The design brief concerned making improvements to my school which led to the creation of a new art department building. The use of sketches, site plans, Dezeen and Google Sketch-Up allowed the gradual development of my designs. My work experience at Article 25 was inspiring and insightful. I learnt from many accomplished architects who guided me through the process and listened to my ideas.