The National Centre for Research and Development

  Project title

Wheelstair – an innovative device for people using manual wheelchairs to traverse stairs and cross architectural barriers on their own.

  Name of Beneficiary/Beneficiaries

Wheelstair Sp. z o.o.

  Name of programme

Smart Growth Operational Programme 

  Competition

Measure 1.3.1 Support for pre-seed research & development projects by proof of concept funds – BRIdge Alfa

  Project value

PLN 2,343,848

  Funding value

PLN 1,840,000

  Project delivery period

01 August 2018 – 31 July 2019

Meet our team

View the results of our work

The effects of our work are presented on the website www.wheelstair.com

What problem is addressed by the project? 

Whenever, wherever – this was the guiding idea of WHEELSTAIR Sp. z o.o. designers, responsible for creating an affordable device that will considerably improve the comfort of living for wheelchair users. Wheelstair® is a global innovation that allows wheelchair users to traverse stairs on their own www.wheelstair.com. “On their own” means not requiring any assistance from other people, unlike with competitive products. The add-on we have developed is a breakthrough when it comes to aids for disabled individuals who wish to be as independent as possible. It is simple, reliable and universal, as well as much cheaper than comparable solutions available on the market. It is globally unique, as confirmed by the patents we have secured.

Our product is compatible with most manual wheelchairs, including both the conventional, folding wheelchairs and light, long-distance wheelchairs. Wheelstair® does not only allow wheelchair users to traverse stairs on their own, but also transforms their wheelchairs into electric wheelchairs to make long distances no longer an issue. Almost any wheelchair can be adapted to work with Wheelstair® very easily. After only two non-invasive upgrades to the wheelchair, any user can enjoy more freedom and independence!

Aware of the demand for its product, WHEELSTAIR Sp. z o. o. is determined to launch its mass production and bring it to the market. This is expected to be achieved in 2022, although much will depend on whether or not the necessary funding is available.

Who uses the project results? 

According to WHO estimates, approx. 1% of global population are wheelchair users, albeit this percentage is higher in developed countries with a higher age median. 

Wheelstair is addressed to the following groups of manual wheelchair users:

1. MOBILITY-DEPENDENT PEOPLE, who use wheelchairs and require mobility assistance from their helpers. Wheelchair will unburden their helpers. 
2. ACTIVE WHEELCHAIR USERS, who live independently, will gain even more independence thanks to Wheelstair. 
3. TEMPORARILY DISABLED
   These are mainly people with temporary health issues after an accident or surgery, or who are waiting for a procedure that will bring their mobility back. 
4. INSTITUTIONS

• Owners of buildings protected by heritage conservators
• Small communes with 2-3 residents using wheelchairs
• Schools, universities, nursing homes purchasing our product for specific individuals

What was the greatest challenge during project implementation?

To meet the expectations of end users expressed during numerous project meetings and workshops while taking into account the diversity of wheelchair types and models available on the market.

Our advice for other applicants

“Plan without action is a daydream
Action without plan is a nightmare”