ONYX MAS
Restoring Freedom of Movement Through Assistive Design
Assistive Technology | Industrial Design | Mechanical Design | CAD & Visualization
ONYX MAS is a mobile arm support concept designed to help individuals with limited shoulder and arm strength perform everyday activities with less physical effort. Using a spring-assisted linkage mechanism, the device supports the weight of the arm while allowing users to move more freely within their available range of motion.
The Challenge
For individuals experiencing upper-limb weakness due to injury, neurological conditions, or muscular disorders, even simple activities such as reaching for a glass or moving an object across a table can become physically demanding.
Traditional arm supports can provide assistance, but achieving a balance between support, freedom of movement, and ease of adjustment presents a significant design challenge.
Our goal was to develop an intuitive mechanical solution that could reduce the effort required to lift and position the arm without unnecessarily restricting its natural movement.
The Solution
ONYX MAS uses a parallel four-bar linkage connected to a padded forearm support. The linkage is designed to allow smooth vertical movement while helping support the weight of the user's arm.
An adjustable spring-tension mechanism at the rear allows the level of vertical assistance to be modified according to the user's needs. The linkage assembly is also mounted on a sliding rail, extending the available reach and allowing movement forward, backward, and from side to side.
Together, these features aim to make everyday arm movements more accessible while maintaining a simple, manually adjustable mechanical system.
Design & Development
The design process focused on integrating mechanical functionality with comfort and ease of use.
Through CAD development and product visualization, we explored how the linkage geometry, adjustable spring system, and sliding rail could work together within a compact structure.
Particular attention was given to the padded arm support, accessibility of the adjustment mechanism, and the overall form of the product.
The resulting design brings these components together into a cohesive assistive device concept.
Outcome
ONYX MAS demonstrates how thoughtful industrial design and mechanical engineering can be combined to address everyday accessibility challenges.
Developed as an independent studio concept, the project resulted in a detailed design and product visualizations illustrating the device's intended operation, mechanical configuration, and user interaction.
The project reflects Misfit's interest in creating practical, human-centered solutions that make physical activities more accessible.