BeaconBand® : A Clothing Modification for Cognitive and Visual Deficits
Opportunity
Available for License, Collaboration, and Funding
IP Status
Trademark
Copyright
Inventors
Haleigh Chwirka
At A Glance
An occupational therapist at Colorado State University working with diverse populations has developed BeaconBand® – a novel and unique clothing modification that provides universal support to individuals with dressing deficits. The discrete placement of BeaconBand® allows consumers to apply it freely without concern that the appearance of their clothing will be altered. It is offered in several different variations including high-contrast colors for visual difficulties, textured or smooth fabrics for sensory needs, material printed with numbers or font to aid in sequencing/spatial awareness, and patterns for various cognitive difficulties.
BeaconBand® is the first in adaptive clothing to offer rehabilitation support to adults striving to regain independence, and for children who demonstrate challenges with the dressing process.
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Background
Adaptive clothing is a specific type of apparel for those with varying disabilities. Most adaptations are focused on differing shapes, sizes, holes, buttons, and Velcro found within clothing articles and are directed to specific conditions. Currently, adaptations are not focused on the rehabilitation of adult populations’ suffering to regain their independence.
Having discreet rehabilitation tools for adults is a crucial, yet often-overlooked issue. Accessibility is critical for all people; tools that allow various populations “direct access” to everyday routines benefit everyone.
Technology Overview
BeaconBand® is a continuous strip of fabric with an iron-on adhesive attached to one side. The material itself is sewn to prevent raveling and the selected adhesive is long-lasting and can withstand continuous washes. Furthermore, variations of BeaconBand® offer flexibility in regard to color, texture, shape (e.g. numbers, font, etc.), length and placement. In applying BeaconBand®, the individual or caregiver would identify what kind of dressing difficulty exists (sequencing of arms and then head, low contrast of leg holes, etc.), measure the appropriate amount of material, and then iron the strip to the inseam of the clothing.
In the figures to the left, Beaconband® has been applied to the left and right arms of the inside of a tee shirt (respectively) to provide an individual with the ability to readily see and distinguish between left and right arm holes.
The BeaconBand® Logos (left) are registered Trademarks
Benefits
- Increases accessibility of clothing for those having visual difficulties, sensory needs, and sequencing/spatial challenges
- Rehabilitates adult populations’ having deficits with dressing to regain their independence
- Accommodates a wide spectrum of individuals with disabilities or cognitive and visual deficits
- High-contrast colors for visual difficulties; textured or smooth fabrics for sensory needs; material printed with numbers or font to aid in sequencing/spatial awareness; patterns for various cognitive difficulties
- Withstands washing
- Can be applied discreetly to any location to aid in success (e.g. arm holes, leg holes, braces, etc.)
Applications
- Hospitals and clinics
- Therapy companies
- Clothing lines interested in becoming more accessible
- Medical suppliers
- Home environments
Last updated: August 2020