Jonathan W.

About Jonathan

Jonathan is a professional animator who conceptualized an ergonomic bathing fixture following personal health challenges. After undergoing hip replacement surgery during the lockdown period, severe joint pain left him unable to lean forward and adjust traditional sink-style bath taps while seated, inspiring him to design an accessible alternative.

The Pitch & Development

Jonathan pitched the Foot Tap, a foot-operated bath control system styled similarly to a vehicle pedal or a guitar wah-wah pedal. The design allows bathers—particularly elderly individuals, those with physical disabilities, or anyone seeking greater comfort—to regulate water flow and temperature using their feet. Jonathan stated he had registered the design and spent four to five years attempting to commercialize the idea. While assisted bathing companies showed interest in ordering units, Jonathan lacked a manufacturing partner and commercial capital to fulfill production.

Investor Feedback & Outcome

The investors questioned Jonathan's slow development pace, pointing out that engaging only one manufacturer across nearly five years demonstrated limited progress. They highlighted that the bathroom fixture sector is dominated by entrenched legacy brands capable of modifying designs to bypass registered patents. Ibby Aslam asked whether Jonathan had surveyed local retailers or prospective domestic buyers, questioning whether an entire household would accept a permanent pedal fixture. The bench suggested re-engineering the device as a temporary add-on attachment rather than a full replacement, advising Jonathan to lobby occupational therapists, councils, and hospitals. Because Jonathan presented only design illustrations without a manufactured prototype, clear unit economics, or secured manufacturing, both investors passed on backing the concept.