IIT Madras Develops Customisable Electric Standing Wheelchair Enhancing Accessibility

IIT Madras has developed 'NeoStand,' the most adaptable Electric Standing Wheelchair in India. This innovative wheelchair is designed to serve the diverse needs of users, offering various applications for patient benefit. Know details here 

IIT Madras Develops Customisable Electric Standing Wheelchair Enhancing Accessibility

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched the 'NeoStand,' the most adaptable Electric Standing Wheelchair in India, developed with indigenous technology to enhance the lives of wheelchair users. Featuring a compact design, the NeoStand is equipped with a user-friendly motorized mechanism that allows for easy transition from sitting to standing at the push of a button. 

This capability empowers users to participate in conversations at eye level, reach for objects on higher shelves, or enjoy a cup of coffee while standing at a counter, significantly enhancing their quality of life. This innovation was introduced on campus in an event graced by Prof. V. Kamakoti, the Director of IIT Madras, along with guests, contributors to the project, faculty members, researchers, and users of these rehabilitation aids. 

NeoStand

NeoStand transforms the wheelchair experience through its design focused on the user. It offers individuals the ability to sit for extended periods and comfortably stand when necessary, mitigating the risk of secondary health issues. The smooth shift from sitting to standing, with the flexibility to stop at any point, highlights its innovative strategy to enhance the quality of life and social engagement for users. 

Highlighting the benefits of this innovation, Dr. Henry Prakash, Associate Medical Superintendent, Christian Medical College and Professor, at the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Christian Medical College, Vellore, said, “Today as we navigate the complexities of accessibility, affordability, and societal attitudes, let us keep in mind that the advancements in this field of assistive technology is not a technological imperative, but a moral one too.”

The development of NeoStand from an initial idea to a product was made possible through a collective effort. Tata Elxsi backed the project as part of its corporate social responsibility commitment. The lead on design and development was taken by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, alongside NeoMotion, which played a pivotal role in introducing this innovation to the market.

Highlighting the vision behind this project, Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan, faculty in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras, said, “Integrating standing function in a wheelchair provides health benefits as well as functional and psychological benefits to the user. Our first standing wheelchair was Arise, a low-cost mechanical design, especially designed for rural users, enabling standing and outdoor mobility for short distances.”

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