Showcase 2025 Student Spotlight: Abbie Williams
Student Spotlight featuring BSc (Hons) Product Design student Abbie Williams and her project 'Dance prosthetic foot Plantar flex'.
By Jon Duckworth | Published on 10 April 2025
Categories: Student Showcase;
The Project
The project explores how a prosthetic foot can be adapted for the unique requirements of dance. By examining a range of dance styles, the design is adaptable to suit different user needs. It is designed to attach to and be interchangeable with the user's current prosthetic, reducing costs and making it more accessible.
The inspiration behind the project
Abbie's design was originally inspired by hearing a ballet dancer speak about their struggle progressing onto pointe and the limited equipment available on the market. After conducting thorough market research, it became clear that no comparable solution currently exists. This gap led Abbie to the development of the project. She explains: "Dance has always been a very inclusive sport, and this design aims to further increase that inclusivity."
The prosthetic is designed to attach to and be interchangeable with the user’s current prosthetic.
The project experience
Abbie says that the project has been a steep learning curve, as she hadn't designed anything similar before. "It has been incredibly valuable to collaborate with various industry experts and explore multiple areas of design. The project has made me better at both technical details and creativity. Engaging with potential users throughout the process also provided valuable feedback and challenges that helped shape the final design."
Being part of NTU
Abbie says: "When starting at NTU, I hadn’t had any experience in any technical aspects of design as I have an art background. The BSc course is structured to allow all students to develop their skills from the very basics to now be at a stage where I can confidently understand manufacturing, mechanics and electronics. Also working on live projects with a range of different clients has dramatically improved my presentation and communication skills, which will support the transition into industry easier."
The design aims to ensure dance is inclusive for participants who use prosthetic feet.
For Abbie, the most memorable moment while studying at NTU has been the Design Exchange event held within the final year of studies. "This gives students the opportunity to present their work to peers and industry experts. For myself it was a great opportunity to show people what I have been working on and show others my progress. It shows how everyone’s skills have developed over the last three years and gives an indication to our own design style and branding."
Closing remarks
Abbie advises prospective Product Design students to think about what they want to get out of the course.
"Personally, I wanted to understand the design industry and explore what kind of designer I want to become - and NTU gave me both the freedom and support to do that. I'd also encourage prospective students to explore the world around them and find a focus they're passionate about - whether that’s inclusive design, sustainability, or something else. Having a strong purpose will help shape your career and support your growth as a designer."