From Firefighting AR Glasses To An AI Buddy For Seniors, This Design Award Is Changing The World

VR tech to restore the feeling of lost limbs and exercise therapy that employs AI—we’re living in the future, baby—and the Lexus Design Award is here to showcase and bring to life this world-class tech.

Launched globally by Japanese luxury carmaker Lexus back in 2013, Lexus New Zealand has taken the prestigious award and made it accessible for New Zealand’s young emerging talent. Up-and-coming creators are tasked to push the boundaries of technology and innovation and “design for a better tomorrow”—which is no small feat.

For a fourth consecutive year, Lexus New Zealand has supported the huge pool of local talent by again partnering with students at Auckland University of Technology and the University of Auckland. Here’s a look at what the four Kiwi finalists have conjured up.

Restoring The Feeling Of Lost Limbs For Amputees | MacKenzie Carkeek

The ‘Haptic Patch’ concept is a genius design that uses haptic technology and virtual reality to ease the physical and emotional distress caused by phantom limb sensations. A common experience for amputees, the condition is a complex mix of physical and mental distress—and it doesn’t have an effective treatment. 

Designed by UoA student, MacKenzie, the Haptic Patch attaches to the residual limb and sends pulses that stimulate nerves to provide relief from phantom limb pain. They’re aiming to bridge the emotional gap between the physical and mental—and create a more compassionate and innovative approach to phantom limb care.

Supplying Firefighters Lifesaving Information In Real-Time | Tom Saran And Antoine Helean

These augmented reality glasses—dubbed the ‘Fire Aid’ concept—were designed by AUT students Tom and Antoine to be worn by firefighters and help them make informed decisions when they’re out in the field. 

Inbuilt with thermal imaging, real-time hazard detection and vital situation data, these whip-smart shades feed firefighters the information they need, and level up the efficiency of emergency rescue operations. The glasses have a microdisplay that reflects a micro-computer screen onto tinted glass. This feeds the wearer with vital info about temperature gradients, gas levels, building blueprints, location of civilians and other firefighters—a hugely valuable tool to emergency services facing a rise in natural disasters. 

A Haven For Toddlers With Sensory Overload | Yeaseo Im

A partition that transforms into a tent, ‘Cocoon’ was developed by AUT student Yeaseo Im to create a sensory escape for toddlers aged three to five. A particularly handy tool for neurodivergent children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Cocoon is made solely from organic materials for toddlers who are hypersensitive to coarse fibres. 

Made primarily from wool and based cleverly on origami structures, this tranquil, transformable space offers up soundproofing, temperature regulation, and air-purifying qualities—and can seamlessly pack down for compact storage and transport. 

The AI Health Buddy For Senior Citizens | Fiona Yoon 

An exercise therapy program developed to tackle ailing mental health in older people, ‘ARctive’ uses augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to promote holistic well-being and combat depression.

Programme designer and UoA student Fiona Yoon wanted to develop a resource that would reduce depression rates, increase joy, encourage users to connect with their emotions, and cultivate social connection and mutual support

With three main components guided by an avatar nicknamed Arc, the innovative program includes an AR exercise space for brain training and physical exercise, personalised advice from Arc, and a community support page.

Lexus has made sure to ingrain the philosophy of their Takumi Masters into the judging criteria, leaning into their global rep for setting industry benchmarks. Brand ambassadors and founders of Resident, the globally focused design company, Simon James, Scott Bridgens and Tim Rundle have closely mentored students throughout the submission process and were key contributors as part of the judging panel. Every craftsperson who works on a Lexus vehicle has over 60,000 hours of expertise in their field—and that’s the level of precision, dedication and skill the judges recognised in these four Kiwi finalists.

“Our finalists and winning entries are incredibly diverse, and each take a dive into varied issues facing both New Zealand and the world. It’s safe to say the future designers in Aotearoa are very talented" says Bridgens.

To learn more about the finalists and how Lexus is leading the way in sustainable innovation, check out the full rundown of the design award here.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Lexus and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.

Image: Lexus New Zealand