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Man creates a device to help his visually impaired wife to learn ski and snowboard

Shared by Elise Thioliere on 2017-06-05 14:43

About the solution

John’s wife is visually impaired. Despite of her disability, John wanted to share his passion for winter sport with his wife. In 1996, he sketched a design for an adaptive tool on a paper napkin, and he decided to create a new device called Sno-Wing.

“I had few ideas that there would be so many benefits for so many challenged users--including my wife.”, he recalled. This is why, in 1998, the Sno-Wing was patented.

The Sno-Wing is an adaptive training device designed to allow a guide maximum control of their participant’s movements whilst snowboarding. It looks like a lightweight elliptical frame with a padded harness.To hold, the harness is attached at the pivot point of the disabled person’s hip.

To stabilise the Sno-Wing, there are several connection points. Connecting straps provide adjustability to suit a variety of sizes and needs.

The Sno-Wing can be used for both snowboarding and skiing.

Since receiving the patent, the Sno-Wing has been supplied to winter sport schools around the globe.

More info : http://www.sno-wing.com/index.htm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxMDzpTSs9I

This solution shall not include mention to the use of drugs, chemicals or biologicals (including food); invasive devices; offensive, commercial or inherently dangerous content. This solution was not medically validated. Proceed with caution! If you have any doubts, please consult with a health professional.

DISCLAIMER: This story was written by someone who is not the author of the solution, therefore please be advised that, although it was written with the utmost respect for the innovation and the innovator, there can be some incorrect statements. If you find any errors please contact the patient Innovation team via info@patient-innovation.com

About the author

John Stark was born in United States. John has been a winter-sports enthusiast for over 30 years. He married a woman with visual disturbances. In 1998, he created Sno-Wing, a device which allows blind people to make their first experience of winter sports safely and enjoyable.

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