Lack of independence and the inability to interact at eye-level are just a few of the complaints of wheelchair users, not even mentioning the health problems related to sitting all day. Tek RMD is a promising prototype of a Robotic Mobilization Device that allows paraplegics to stand-up and move around in an upright position - moving towards the future of mobility for people with lower-body disabilities.

People suffering from paraplegia often find themselves in wheelchairs after catastrophic spinal cord injuries sustained in car accidents or falling off a horse, or congenital conditions such as spina bifida. Following the loss of lower-body mobility, the vast majority of wheelchair users experience significant changes in functionality, levels of independence, employment, financial situation, how they see themselves and how others relate to them. Not surprisingly this avalanche of negative side-effects often leads to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It is about time we raised the bar on improving their quality of living.

Turkish company Matia Robotics is making waves since debuting its Robotic Mobilization Device last year. This modern substitute for a wheelchair looks much like a sleeker Segway. Its base position is standing-up, and allows the user to lift themselves up, or lower themselves to a chair, bed, or the like, with ease, and crucially without assistance, with the help of a suspension system.  The ability to stand allows the user to reach high level shelves at home and in shops. And more profoundly, it allows them to interact with people at eye-level once again. There are significant health benefits too. Wheelchair users are presently bound to a sitting position all day long. This leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pressure sores, among other ailments caused by poor circulation.

Fact file: the top speed is 2mph, and its range is 9miles before needing to be charged. It is only the third of the size of conventional wheelchairs, allowing users to navigate through narrower corridors. And in case you’re worried the user may topple, the device is fitted with a stable centre of gravity, allowing the user to lean in.

It is still early days, but Tek RMD is moving in the right direction.