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Segfree - a more fun wheelchair for different activities

Shared by Ana Duarte on 2015-12-22 16:23

About the solution

Mario thought up the idea of a Segway wheelchair, a technology that combines motorised wheelchairs with capabilities far beyond the conventional wheelchair. But the couple found out that these products were not only limited to customised measurements per individual, but also carried exorbitant price tags and equally high import costs.

Mario and Tharina met Mathys Roets at the Rademeyers Restaurant in Pretoria, where a group of wheelchair users, known as the Klofies, get together on Tuesdays. Mathys and Mario shared a passion for all things gadgets. They started having ideas.

“With a background in engineering and steel fabrication, we were able to design a product that not only succeeded in achieving the results we had set out to meet, but far surpassed it in build quality, stability, ease of use, affordability and most of all, FUN.
Mathys test drove the first prototype Segfree in May 2013. It was a series of consultations with people in the paraplegic community which led to the balance and comfort required for an effortless glide movement. Our unit is unique in the sense that we have mounted an electrically driven, remote controlled actuator under the seat-pan. This allows the user to smoothly adjust their centre of gravity while riding, in order to be more agile and perform emergency stops”, it says on their website.

They founded their company in 2014, with the purpose of creating products that are cheap by comparison, and give the user access to freedom, laughter and adventure.

More info: http://www.segfree.co.za/

Adapted from: http://www.segfree.co.za/our-story.htm

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This solution shall not include mention to the use of drugs, chemicals or biologicals (including food); invasive devices; offensive, commercial or inherently dangerous content. This solution was not medically validated. Proceed with caution! If you have any doubts, please consult with a health professional.

DISCLAIMER: This story was written by someone who is not the author of the solution, therefore please be advised that, although it was written with the utmost respect for the innovation and the innovator, there can be some incorrect statements. If you find any errors please contact the patient Innovation team via info@patient-innovation.com

About the author

Mario’s wife, Tharina, from South Africa, had an accident that left her with a T4-5 complete spinal cord injury. He and Mathy Roets built Segree, an adaptation that allows a person to ride the Segway while seated. It is suited to the elderly, amputees, paraplegics or anyone with limited leg function, and allows its user to do more activities while in the chair.

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