The Universal Stool Attachment

Easyback

Project Brief

Many art students worldwide endure back pain in their studios, and the blame often falls on those hard, unforgiving stools. When chairs are scarce, students are left with little choice but to suffer. That’s why I’m on a mission to design a universal, portable attachment that adds a backrest to any stool, giving art students the support they need to create comfortably and pain-free.

5 Weeks

Meet ID28

UCID 28 is home to a multitude of talented students who possess the ability to conquer any challenge they encounter. However, there is one common experience shared by DAAP and design students worldwide that they cannot seem to escape: the infamous backless stools.

Of students in art and design disciplines report back pain from prolonged use of stools without lumbar support.

Increase of spinal pressure due to a lack of back support. Leading to long-term discomfort and spinal issues.

On average, this is the amount of time that mild to severe back pain sets in due to backless stools.

On average, is the amount of time that an art student spends in a studio setting in 1 school year

Side Effects

Lumbar Support

Backless stools lack lumbar support, leading to poor posture and spine strain, especially during prolonged sitting.

Without back support, core muscles strain, leading to fatigue and discomfort, stunting working efficiency.

Muscular Fatigue

Backless stools lack adjustability, leading to discomfort if they don't match the student's height or preferences.

Spinal Pressure

Prolonged use of backless stools can worsen spinal issues or pre-existing conditions like scoliosis if posture isn't maintained.

Health Concerns

Aesthetic Inspiration

Ergonomic

Distinct

User Friendly

Form

EasyBack draws significant inspiration from bleacher seats. The project's overall design was shaped by the straightforward folding and unfolding mechanism, emphasizing simplicity and functionality, but with a complete uniform profile when folded.

The core mechanism of the EasyBack features a dial, similar to those found on high-end bike helmets, allowing for quick and efficient loosening, tightening, locking, and quick release. A sturdy hook at the end of the wire enables it to attach securely to any stool with a footrest.