HT_4 Accessible Toilet Concept Design
In essence the toilet is a chair … with a very specific function other than for just sitting. Unlike most other chairs, a toilet is not exactly the most comfortable thing to sit back on. In addition, they’re not always easy for people with disabilities to get on and off from. So how about an accessible toilet that combines more comfort features of a chair. Mexican industrial designer Cesar Estrada Lopez Negrete has done this with his HT_4 toilet concept design.
Political correctness note here, the HT stands for “Handicapped Toilet”. The word “handicapped” has a negative connotation because it’s origin comes from people with disabilities having their caps handy to beg for money. So many people with disabilities are uncomfortable with the term. A better alternative would be AT_4 or Accessible Toilet. Not to be confused with the AT-AT from Star Wars!
Moving on the HT_4 has some very nice features to it. The first thing you’ll notice are the armrests that sweep up along the sides. Which can be used to help stand up from the toilet. The armrests are hinged at their base and can swing out of the way. Depending on the strength of the armrests and their hinges, they could be used when transferring from a wheelchair. A front or angled approach would put less stress on the armrests than a side approach.
A nice comfort feature of the HT_4 is the contoured seat back. Giving a bit more comfort when sitting back than your traditional toilet. Although this is still the bottom of the toilet lid so you might want to make sure it’s clean before sitting back.
Adding to the HT_4’s accessibility is that it’s height is adjustable. A few inches below the seat level is a break where the seat can be raised or lowered. How this is exactly done is not explained but it could be done electronically, with hydraulics, and/or locking mechanisms. To see more of Cesar Estrada Lopez Negrete’s portfolio and his resume, visit this website.
