SEOUL DESIGN AWARD

Solopatch is an intuitive assistive tool made from thin, lightweight fabric enhanced with embossing and special adhesive technology. Simply attaching it to a surface can help improve grip and stability, distributing force evenly so that tasks like opening a bottle with one hand, holding a pen, or securing lightweight objects become much easier.

Unlike most bulky assistive devices prevalent in the market, Solopatch blends seamlessly into daily life without altering the shape of everyday items. Production costs remain low, with unit prices estimated between $2–5, making mass production and distribution highly feasible. User testing has confirmed its effectiveness: opening times for bottle caps were reduced by 85%, and the force required decreased by 70%. For elderly individuals, people with disabilities, or those recovering from injuries, this translates into the ability to perform everyday activities independently, enabling autonomy and confidence.

Participation and collaboration were key to transforming a simple idea into a socially trusted assistive tool. The development process included usability testing with 30 participants in real-life scenarios, with occupational therapists involved to verify safety and functionality. Feedback from these trials was incorporated into design improvements, ensuring the product became a genuinely helpful solution.

More than just a household aid, Solopatch represents a model of inclusive design that is affordable and universally accessible. It can be applied in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and educational institutions, and has the potential to expand into the mass market through collaboration with consumer product brands. Thanks to its simple structure and low production cost, Solopatch is poised for rapid scaling and global adoption as a practical and influential design solution.