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Abstract

Walkers are a great help for elderly or temporarily gait-impaired people. However, if the forces are overestimated, the E-Volator from the Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences can lower a stand plate, the person can climb on and then drive electrically and power-saving to their destination.

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Background

The times are changing: walkers used to be an unpopular aid used during illness or to compensate for mobility impairment associated with age. Acceptance of walkers has increased; they have been incorporated into everyday life, and users are satisfied with them.

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Images & Videos

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Solution

An invention from the Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences introduces an electric walker equipped with a base plate that can be extended to the ground for the user to stand on. The plate is then raised until there is enough clearance for the walker to move (also electric). The advantage is that even if the user overestimates energy and undertakes too long a walk, the e-walker will bring safely to destination. This security gives the user additional motivation to move independently at own pace.

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Advantages

• extends range
• increases mobility
• enhances convenience
• improves usability

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Scope of application

There are more than two million walkers in Germany today. Experts estimate that soon there will be around 500,000 more per year. And the trend is towards premium and lifestyle walkers in the top price segment (more than 1,000 euros). Much like the e-bike, which has become a major trend, e-walkers can sustainably improve user satisfaction and short-range mobility.

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Service

A prototype has been created and initial function tests performed on it. It has been registered with the German Patent and Trade Mark Office, as well as an European patent. We are offering interested companies the opportunity to license and refine the technology in collaboration with the inventors and the Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences.