Project Info
Adaptive Stilts for Construction Work
Yangming Shi
yangming.shi@mines.edu
Xiaoli Zhang
xlzhang@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
onstruction workers, particularly painters and drywall installers, often require elevation to perform tasks on walls and ceilings. Traditional solutions, such as ladders and fixed-height stilts, pose limitations in terms of mobility, safety, and ergonomic adaptability. This project focuses on designing and prototyping adaptive stilts—a height-adjustable, stable, and ergonomic wearable system that enhances worker efficiency and safety in construction activities like wall painting and drywall installation.
The proposed adaptive stilts will integrate adjustable height mechanisms, shock-absorbing components, and stability enhancements to reduce the risk of falls and fatigue. The design will incorporate lightweight yet durable materials to maintain mobility while ensuring structural integrity. A user-centered approach will guide the development, including input from construction professionals to optimize functionality. The prototype will undergo testing for ergonomics, weight capacity, ease of use, and safety compliance.
By improving mobility and reducing strain on workers, adaptive stilts have the potential to enhance productivity and workplace safety in construction and maintenance tasks. This innovation aligns with industry needs for ergonomic and adaptive solutions in construction equipment, contributing to improved work conditions and efficiency.
The team will work in a collaborative environment with clearly defined roles and shared goals. Weekly meetings will facilitate progress updates, technical discussions, and coordination. Cross-disciplinary collaboration will be encouraged, with team members from engineering, human factors, and design contributing their expertise. The undergraduate student will be mentored by the faculty advisor and graduate students, while also engaging in hands-on tasks and peer learning. Communication will be supported through shared digital tools and an open, inclusive atmosphere that values idea-sharing and continuous improvement.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery.
N/A
Primary Contacts:
Yangming Shi, yangming.shi@mines.edu
Xiaoli Zhang, xlzhang@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
As an undergraduate research assistant, the student will actively contribute to the design, prototyping, and testing of adaptive stilts for construction work. The student will engage in engineering design, material selection, fabrication, and performance evaluation while considering industry safety standards and user ergonomics. Responsibilities include:
Conducting literature reviews on existing stilts, height-adjustment mechanisms, and ergonomic considerations.
Assisting in CAD modeling and simulation to develop conceptual designs.
Performing material selection based on strength, weight, and durability requirements.
Participating in prototype fabrication using 3D printing, metalworking, or composite materials.
Conducting load testing, stability analysis, and user trials to evaluate performance.
Collaborating with construction professionals to gather user feedback and refine the design.
Documenting findings, presenting results, and contributing to a final project report or potential publication.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
3 to 5 hours
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
The student will assist in designing, prototyping, and testing adaptive stilts for construction work. Responsibilities include:
Conducting literature reviews on existing designs and safety standards.
Assisting in CAD modeling, material selection, and fabrication.
Performing load testing, stability analysis, and user trials.
Gathering feedback from construction professionals to refine the design.
Documenting findings and presenting results.
MENTORING PLAN
The undergraduate student will receive close mentorship through weekly meetings with the faculty advisor to review progress and address challenges. They will be trained in CAD modeling, material selection, prototyping, and safety protocols early in the project. The student will work alongside graduate students, promoting peer learning and collaboration, and will be guided in conducting literature reviews, documenting research, and preparing presentations. Regular feedback will be provided to support both technical skill development and professional growth, with opportunities to present at undergraduate research events.
Preferred Student Status
Junior
Senior