Johanna Kayumba Katshilumba

University of Nottingham > Engineering > Departments > Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering > PDM Exhibitions > 2025 > BEng students > Johanna Kayumba Katshilumba

A wheelchair aiding car seat transfers for elderly reduced-mobility individuals and caregivers

Hello, my name is Johanna!

I chose to study Product Design and Manufacture because it perfectly blends my passion for design and engineering. My favourite subjects at school were mathematics, design & technology and visual arts. By enrolling in this course, I wanted to express my creativity while exploring how advanced technology and engineering are applied in design innovation.

Throughout my studies, I have had the opportunity to develop my design and engineering skills by working on complex design solutions. I have gained experience in computer-aided design (CAD) and rendering, allowing me to produce detailed models. Additionally, I have deepened my understanding of materials selection, manufacturing processes and sustainability.

My major design project was a rewarding experience, allowing me to apply the full range of skills I have gained throughout my course and deliver a refined final solution. From research and concept development to 3D modelling, prototyping and renders, this project allowed me to engage deeply with every stage of the design process. Furthermore, it reinforced the importance of iterative improvement, attention to detail and time management.

Following the completion of my studies, I am interested in exploring a diverse range of opportunities across sectors such as medical devices, automotive engineering, advanced manufacturing and sustainable design innovation. I look forward to working in an environment where I can apply my skills and continue learning!

Johanna Kayumba Katshilumba, BEng Product Design and Manufacture

Transiva

For my major design project, I decided to merge my interest in medical devices and the automotive industry. After engaging in discussions with relatives, lecturers and healthcare professionals, I identified a significant gap in the market: the safe and comfortable transfer of elderly individuals into and out of vehicles. This issue is particularly challenging for caregivers, who frequently manage such transfers as part of their daily responsibilities. This process is physically demanding, which often leads to musculoskeletal disorders within the workforce. In addition to causing skin damage, such as cuts and bruises for elderly people. Furthermore, it often invades the personal space and dignity of care home residents, as some may feel uncomfortable with close physical contact.

Over a period of 16 weeks, I focused on developing a wheelchair solution that enhances both the safety and comfort of car seat transfers for elderly individuals and their caregivers. This project involved a multidisciplinary approach including mechanical design, systems integration and human factors. I carefully considered anthropometrics to ensure my design is suitable for both users and adaptable to a wide range of cars. I integrated a forklift mechanism to facilitate the insertion and removal of the detachable wheelchair seat into and from the car. Additionally, I incorporated a hydraulic pump lifting system to accommodate different vehicle heights.

A wheelchair aiding car seat transfers for elderly reduced-mobility individuals and caregivers

I designed my seat using four layers of materials: polypropylene for the outer casing, plywood for structural reinforcement, foam for comfort and fabric for aesthetic appeal. Through the use of CES Edupack, I carefully evaluated material choices based on density, cost and sustainability to ensure an optimal balance between performance, affordability and environmental impact. Lastly, I selected manufacturing processes that support scalability and efficiency, such as injection moulding for polypropylene components.