BME 350 Design Project
Jared Stephenson
Project Timeline
Jan 2025 - Apr-2025
OVERVIEW
This project focused on designing and building an accessible disc golf launcher that mounts directly to a wheelchair, enabling wheelchair users to participate in physical education disc golf activities independently. The objective was to create a safe, reliable, and easy-to-operate device that could consistently launch a disc while allowing adjustable control over launch angle and performance.
The system uses a motor-driven wheel to propel the disc along a curved track, with a manually adjustable sliding mechanism to modify the pitch angle of the launcher. The design prioritized inclusivity, mechanical simplicity, safety, and ease of use.
HighlightS
- Designed a fully functional, wheelchair-mounted launching system capable of consistent and repeatable disc propulsion.
- Developed a manually adjustable sliding track mechanism to control launch angle without adding unnecessary mechanical complexity.
- Modelled mechanical components and assemblies in SolidWorks, incorporating design iterations based on testing feedback.
- Participated in fabrication, assembly, and hands-on prototyping to refine structural stability and alignment.
- Conducted performance testing to evaluate launch distance, consistency, and user interaction.
- Balanced accessibility requirements with mechanical efficiency and safety constraints.
SKILLS
SolidWorksMechanism designHuman-centred and inclusive design principlesMechanical system integrationIterative prototypingPerformance testing and refinementTroubleshooting mechanical alignment and stability issuesTeam-based engineering designDesign reviews and technical communication
ADDITIONAL CONTENTS
Jared Stephenson
Biomedical Engineering Student & Designer
I'm a Biomedical Engineering student at the University of Victoria with hands-on experience in CAD design, laboratory procedures, and programming. I've worked on innovative projects including wheelchair-accessible disc golf launchers and prosthetic hand assembly. My technical foundation spans SolidWorks, Python, Java, and advanced laboratory techniques including cell culture and polymer engineering. I'm driven to apply engineering principles to create meaningful healthcare solutions.
I'm a Biomedical Engineering student at the University of Victoria with hands-on experience in CAD design, laboratory procedures, and programming. I've worked on innovative projects including wheelchair-accessible disc golf launchers and prosthetic hand assembly. My technical foundation spans SolidWorks, Python, Java, and advanced laboratory techniques including cell culture and polymer engineering. I'm driven to apply engineering principles to create meaningful healthcare solutions.